Bottom Line
The Black Diamond Fineline Stretch (men’s / women’s) is a versatile and reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts who require performance and comfort in wet conditions. Constructed with BD.dry technology that is both waterproof and breathable, the Fineline features a durable yet flexible stretch fabric, that keeps you dry without restricting movement. After repeated use, it is one of our top rain jackets.
With a more trim fit, the Fineline Stretch is a great jacket for active pursuits. It is breathable and has moderately large pit zips to help keep you cool. A helmet-compatible hood, waterproof front zipper, and reversible right pocket for packability are all great features that make it a perfect jacket for backcountry adventures.
The Fineline is a favorite of ours and continues to perform. Its combination of weather resistance, sleek profile, and simple features make it perfect for anyone looking for a dependable jacket for backcountry adventures.
How We Tested
Tested in Alaska’s rain, sleet, and snow, the Black Diamond Fineline Stretch has undergone rigorous field testing on several hikes in the wettest conditions.
Quick Specs
Black Diamond Fineline Stretch
Lightweight & Affordable Rain Jacket
CleverHiker Rating: 79.3/100
Price: $180
Listed Weight: 11.3 oz. / 9.5 oz.(men’s / women’s)
Pros
- Less expensive
- Lightweight
- Packs small into its own pocket
- High-quality construction
- Internal collar
- Pit zips
- Tons of colorways
Cons
- High collar & helmet compatible hood isn't for everyone
- No chest pocket
Comfort & Mobility
The Black Diamond Fineline Stretch offers excellent comfort and mobility, making it a go-to choice for outdoor activities in wet weather. Its stretch-woven fabric ensures a full range of motion, allowing for unhindered climbing, hiking, or scrambling. Underarm gussets enhance further enhance flexibility.
While the slim fit is great for thinner torsos or those who like a more athletic cut, it can make it difficult to layer under in cooler temperatures. We tested this jacket in an early winter rain and had a hard time getting over anything larger than medium-pile fleece. This makes it a great option for active outings or a summertime rain jacket.
Weather Resistance
The Fineline Stretch has great weather resistance, making it a dependable choice for staying dry in wet conditions. Featuring BD.dry waterproof/breathable technology and fully taped seams, the jacket provides a reliable barrier against rain and wind. The fully waterproof front zipper is a great touch to keep moisture from penetrating a common weak point. The Fineline Streche’s durable water-repellent (DWR) finish ensures that water beads off the surface, enhancing its ability to withstand prolonged exposure to moisture. The helmet-compatible hood offers excellent coverage, and the adjustable hem and cuffs help seal out the elements.
During our testing in an Alaskan rainstorm, we found this to be an excellent choice for backcountry adventures. Its 2.5-layer construction provides more than enough protection for most conditions.
Ventilation
In the constant battle between ventilation and weather resistance, the Fineline Stretch carefully toes the line while leaning slightly in favor of weather resistance. The pit zips are large enough that they extend down the side of the torso, moving warmth and sweat out of the jacket.
The internal face fabric is not plasticky like basic two-layer jackets. This helped it feel more comfortable on the skin while sweating. Though it’s not the most breathable jacket we tested, the Fineline balances weatherproofing and ventilation effectively for most outdoor adventures.
Durability
Throughout our testing, the Fineline Stretch has continued to perform. We’ve noticed no decrease in its weather resistance. There has been no delamination and all zippers continue to function even with their smaller teeth. While the Fineline Stretch is noticeably thinner than other jackets we’ve reviewed, the integrity of the fabric has held up with no scratches or tears.
Weight
We are impressed with the Fineline Stretch’s weight. Thanks to its trimmer fit and relatively thin materials, it is competitively light. It tipped our scales at 10.1 ounces (men’s medium), so we’d reach for it often on backcountry adventures where weight is paramount. It also packs down small into its right pocket making it great for shoving into a small accessible pocket of your pack.
Should You Buy the Black Diamond Fineline Stretch?
This jacket is a purpose-built piece designed for the backcountry. With its low weight, packability, and high weather resistance, it is an excellent option for taking along on backpacking trips and backcountry outings in inclement weather.
Its trimmer fit makes it best suited for those with slender torsos or hikers who want a streamlined fit. While this jacket lacks some of the features of others like a chest pocket, it is focused on lightweight performance and weather resistance. With a price tag under two hundred dollars, it is a great performer at a reasonable price for backcountry enthusiasts who demand a strong and reliable rain jacket.
What Other Rain Jackets Should You Consider?
If you want to check out our complete list, you can see all of our recommendations in our guide to the best rain jackets. If you like some things about the Fineline but still want to explore, here are some similar models we recommend.
Arc’teryx Beta Review: The Beta has similar features to the Fineline Stretch including a waterproof front zipper but a thicker fabric and higher weather resistance make it a superior jacket for some of the most inclement weather.
Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Review: Another jacket with an emphasis on stretch, the Stretch Ozonic is more flexible and lighter than the Fineline Stretch.
Montbell Versalite Review: If you loved the lighter weight and packability of the Fineline Stretch, the Versalite is our lightest and most packable rain jacket making it perfect for trail runners or ultralight backpackers.
