Bottom Line
The Marmot PreCip Eco Rain Pant (men’s / women’s) stands tall in the backcountry, boasting a stellar mix of eco-consciousness and performance. For the price, you get impressive waterproofing, breathability, and a sustainable design that shows nature some love. These pants don’t just perform—they do so with style and responsibility.
Lightweight and packable, they’re perfect for anything from day hikes to fast-and-light treks. The elastic waist with adjustable drawcord provides a secure fit, while the ankle zippers make it easy to slip them over boots, especially after a wet scramble. We love that Marmot went the extra mile with eco-friendly materials without compromising on performance. Plus, they’re built tough enough to hold up against trail debris and errant branches, making them reliable partners in all weather.
The fit tends to run slightly big, so consider sizing down. At a price point that won’t break the bank, the PreCip Eco pants are a top contender on our guide to the best rain pants.
How We Tested
CleverHiker gear analyst Steve Johnson got the short straw when it came to gear testing and got stuck with rain pants. Thankfully, they all did a great job keeping him dry while testing them in fall and winter precip in the Colorado Rockies on hikes, bike commutes, and farm chores.
Quick Specs
Marmot PreCip Eco
Best Eco-Conscious Rain Pants
CleverHiker Rating: 4.4/5.0
Price: $100
Weight: 8 oz. / 7 oz.(men’s / women’s)
Zipper Length: Ankle
Pros
- Price
- Comfortable material
- Articulated knees
- Ankle zips
- Excellent ventilation
- Flexible
- Comfortable
- Easy on / off with footwear
- 3 zippered pockets
Cons
- Noisy fabric
- A bit bulky
- Velcro adjustments at waist are clunky
- Not as durable as some
- No ankle cuff adjustments
Comfort & Mobility
The Marmot PreCip Eco Rain Pants are designed to keep you moving in wet conditions, but if you had to, you could stand in the rain just as well.
The lightweight fabric allows for a full range of motion, making them ideal for hiking, scrambling, or fast-paced treks. While the fit is relaxed, it provides enough room for layering without feeling restrictive.
The articulated knees enhance flexibility, helping you move naturally through various terrains without limitations. The elastic waist with an adjustable drawcord ensures a secure and comfortable fit, while the smooth interior fabric feels soft against the skin, even on longer outings.
Getting in and out of these pants is effortless, thanks to the convenient ankle zippers that allow for quick adjustments over boots. The adjustable cuffs further add to the fit, cinching tightly around your ankles to keep rain out and ensure a snug feel during your movements.
Weather Resistance
The Marmot PreCip Eco Rain Pants offer reliable weather resistance, providing solid protection from rain and wind without the high price tag. Built with Marmot’s trusted NanoPro® waterproof technology, these pants keep you dry during heavy showers, while still allowing breathability to prevent overheating.
During testing, we noticed the fully seam-sealed construction didn’t let water seep in at the joints. The lightweight fabric makes them ideal for unpredictable weather, offering coverage without being cumbersome, and the durable water repellent (DWR) finish enhances their water-resistance for long-lasting performance.
Ventilation
We appreciated the ventilation options on these rain pants. Clammy rain pants are kind of the worst, and these do their very best to ensure comfort during high-energy activities in wet conditions. While they don’t feature zippered vents, the lightweight and breathable fabric offers natural airflow, helping to prevent overheating in mild to moderate weather conditions.
The NanoPro® fabric allows moisture and excess heat to escape, keeping you cool and dry even during intense hikes or strenuous climbs. Though not as breathable as some higher-end options with advanced ventilation features, the PreCip Eco pants do a solid job of balancing waterproofing and breathability for most outdoor adventures.
The adjustable cuffs and ankle-length zippers also contribute to ventilation by allowing easy adjustment for airflow when needed. Overall, while they might not offer full ventilation customization, these pants provide sufficient breathability to keep you comfortable on most outings, making them a great option for moderate-weather conditions where keeping cool and dry matters.
Weight
The Marmot PreCip Eco Rain Pants strike a solid balance between durability and weight at a respectable 11 ounces for men and 10 ounces for women. They won’t weigh you down during long treks, and they are easy to stow in your pack without taking up much space.
While not the absolute lightest rain pants on the market, the PreCip Eco pants provide an ideal weight-to-performance ratio, ensuring you stay dry without sacrificing comfort or mobility. Their lightweight fabric allows for quick movement, and they pack down small for easy storage in a daypack or larger backpack.
Durability
These rain pants are designed to withstand the demands of outdoor adventures without being overly heavy. The fabric, made from eco-friendly materials, is tough enough to hold up against rough terrain and frequent use while still maintaining a lightweight feel.
While not as indestructible as premium rain pants made from heavier materials, the PreCip Eco pants are durable enough for regular hiking, backpacking, and other outdoor activities. The fully seam-sealed construction ensures that water won’t seep in at the joints, providing long-lasting waterproofing.
The pants are reinforced to handle wear and tear from trail debris, but they do require a bit more care to avoid punctures or abrasions compared to heavier-duty rain pants. For those seeking a solid, budget-friendly option that will hold up well over time in moderate conditions, the PreCip Eco pants offer a durable, eco-conscious choice that can take on a variety of adventures.
Should You Buy the Marmot PreCip Eco Rain Pants?
The Marmot PreCip Eco Rain Pants are an excellent choice for eco-conscious adventurers who need reliable rain protection without breaking the bank. Made from recycled materials, these pants offer solid waterproofing with Marmot’s NanoPro® technology, making them a great option for hiking, backpacking, and casual outdoor use. The breathable fabric ensures comfort during moderate activity, and the ankle-length zippers and adjustable cuffs enhance ease of use and fit.
They perform well in typical rainy conditions but may not be the best choice for extreme weather or extended exposure to heavy rain. While they don’t offer some premium features like advanced ventilation or ultra-durable fabric, they provide excellent value for the price.
For adventurers seeking dependable, sustainable rain pants without the premium cost, the PreCip Eco pants are a solid buy. Just note that they may not be as durable as higher-end options.
What Other Rain Pants Should You Consider?
See what other rain pants made our wet outings less of a downer below or head back to our best rain pants gear guide for our other top recommendations.
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Review: The Torrentshell 3L is a little more premium, with better weather resistance and a comfortable fit, but it comes at a higher price.
Outdoor Research Foray Review: Ideal for those looking for high-performance rain gear, the Foray pants offer waterproof protection with GORE-TEX® fabric. They feature full-length side zippers for easy ventilation and layering, making them perfect for both mild and heavy rain conditions. These pants are a bit pricier but provide top-tier durability and weather protection.
REI Co-op Rainier Review: A budget-friendly option that delivers solid waterproofing and breathability, the REI Rainier pants are lightweight and durable for moderate outdoor use. With adjustable cuffs and an elastic waist, they offer a comfortable fit for casual hikers.
