Outdoor Research Helium Rain Pants Review

Bottom Line

Among our top-performing rain pants, the Outdoor Research Heliums (men’s / women’s) excel in being low weight, waterproof, and packable, making them ideal for backpacking adventurers and emergency rain protection.

Thanks to Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse fabric, they’re durable for their weight and suitable for hiking, backpacking, and other activities where space and weight are critical.

However, the design lacks features like full-length zippers for easier on/off or additional ventilation, and the fit may feel restrictive for some, especially when layering. The pants excelled hiking in steady Minnesota spring drizzle, but they’re not the best choice for prolonged, heavy rain or for users seeking maximum durability in rough conditions.

At their price point, they offer good value for ultralight enthusiasts prioritizing weight savings and packability.

How We Tested

Over a 60-day period, we tested the Heliums in soggy winter rains, frigid temps, and afternoon storms along Colorado’s Front Range as well as in Minnesota.

Comfort & Mobility

The Outdoor Research Heliums offer solid comfort and mobility for rain gear, striking a balance between functionality and practicality. They’re barely noticeable when worn or packed, a bonus for our tester’s overnights on drizzly Minnesota hikes. The elastic waistband with a Velcro closure ensures a customizable fit, and a tapered design reduces bulk without feeling restrictive.

The pants are comfortable enough for moderate activity, with soft materials that prevent chafing during long hikes. However, mobility is slightly limited due to the absence of full-length or larger ankle zippers, which can make donning and doffing the pants over boots inconvenient. Additionally, the slim fit may feel snug when layering over bulkier clothing, potentially restricting movement for some users.

While the breathability could be improved, the Helium Pants remain comfortable for short to moderate wear in wet conditions. They excel in scenarios where weight savings outweigh the need for extensive ventilation or heavy-duty durability. For outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize packability and portability over maximum freedom of movement, these pants offer a reliable, comfortable option for staying dry on the trail.

Weather Resistance

When it comes to weather resistance, these pants are solid performers. They did a great job of keeping our testers dry in moderate rain in surprise downpours or navigating foggy mountain trails. The Pertex Shield fabric is impressively waterproof for how lightweight it is, and the addition of lace loops at the ankle cuffs helps keep water from sneaking in at the bottom.

That said, these pants aren’t built for the heaviest storms or all-day exposure to driving rain. The thin material can eventually wet out under prolonged or intense conditions, and the limited breathability means you might get a little damp from condensation if you’re wearing them for hours or generating a lot of sweat.

Still, for most hiking and backpacking trips, these pants strike a great balance.

Ventilation

No one wants to sweat in rain pants, but sometimes it has to happen. When it comes to the Outdoor Research Heliums, they are a bit of a mixed bag for venting.

The short ankle zippers make it tricky to get extra airflow, especially when you’re on the move. If you’re hiking hard or wearing them for a long time, you’ll probably notice some condensation building up inside. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to keep in mind, especially in humid conditions or during high-output activities.

That said, for shorter outings, leisure paced walks, in camp, or as emergency rain protection, the lack of extensive ventilation isn’t a huge issue. They’re more about keeping you dry than keeping you cool, and for the price and weight, that’s a fair trade. If breathability is a top priority, though, you might want to look at rain pants with longer zippers or dedicated vents.

Weight

What happened OR?! These used to be an ultralight rain pant that any gram-skimping trail monger could appreciate. Outdoor Research just about doubled the weight of these pants in this version, so it is hard to let that go.

If we forget about the past, you’re still geting a great quality rain pant at a respectable weight of 11.3 oz. Ankle zippers, gusseted crotch, a grippy waistband system, and quality materials justify the weight increase.

Durability

For rain pants, the Heliums are surprisingly durable. The latest version uses Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse fabric, which holds up better against tears and abrasions compared to many other ultralight options. Whether you’re scrambling over rocky terrain or bushwhacking through overgrown trails, these pants can take more abuse than you’d expect for their weight.

That said, they’re not designed for long-term, heavy-duty use in harsh conditions. Frequent exposure to rugged environments will eventually wear them down. If you need pants for tough, daily use, you might want to consider heavier-duty alternatives.

For the weight and price, though, the Helium Rain Pants offer impressive durability, making them a great choice for hikers and backpackers who prioritize lightweight gear but don’t want to sacrifice too much on toughness. They’re a reliable option for occasional use or as part of a minimalist kit.

Should You Buy the Outdoor Research Rain Pants?

If you’re a hiker or backpacker looking for reliable, packable rain protection without adding excessive weight or bulk to your kit, these pants are a solid choice.

With their compact design and lightweight fabric, they pack down small and take up minimal space in your pack, so there’s no excuse for leaving out this emergency layer.

However, if you need rain pants for heavy, all-day downpours or intense durability in rough conditions, these might not be the best fit. While they perform well in moderate rain, they won’t hold up to prolonged storms or demanding environments like thicker, more robust rain gear.

Overall, these pants offer great value for weight-conscious adventurers on a budget, making them an excellent pick for casual hiking and backpacking trips.

What Other Rain Pants Should You Consider?

When considering the Outdoor Research Helium pants, some of our other top picks from our rain pants gear guide might appeal to you as well.

Patagonia Men’s Torrentshell 3L Pants Review: Similar in weight and packability, the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Pants are another solid option, but offer superior breathability and better weather protection.

Marmot PreCip Eco Pants Review: Similar lightweight and packable features but with a more affordable price point. They offer a slightly roomier fit and more breathable materials, making them a better option if you prefer more ventilation during intense hikes.

.Outdoor Research Foray Pants Review: If you love the Outdoor Research brand but are looking for something more heavy-duty for extended use in wet weather, the Foray pants offer an excellent balance between weight, durability, and breathability.