Gear Review: Columbia Saudan Pro 3L Shell

When talking about rain jackets, you might have a grab-and-go one for the morning commute, and maybe even one for your outdoor adventures… but when you’re seriously spending time in the middle of nowhere, a three layer shell is a must have. This year Columbia has risen to the challenge with their new Saudan Pro 3L Shell and it does not disappoint especially during downpours.

Three layer jackets are just that, three layers bonded together to act as a single layer that prevents the water from seeping through. The mark of a good three layer jacket is not only keeping you dry, but still allowing your body to breathe (it’s no good if your jacket is trapping all of your sweat and making you feel wet and clammy).

The three layers feature an outer fabric that sheds rain, a waterproof‑breathable membrane underneath, and a built‑in inner lining that protects the membrane and enhances durability. Columbia’s Omni-Tech Pro does a wonderful job here.

From the wettest portages to the rainiest backpacking trips, this jacket features a 30k/30k breathability rating. This means it can handle 30,000 mm of rain before it leaks through (which is a significant downpour) and allow 30,000 g/m² of water vapour to pass through it which relates to some excellent breathability. This jacket is incredibly durable yet soft to the touch with a bit of stretch for added comfort. Best of all, it does indeed breathe well when you’re exerting yourself along the trail. To top it off there are no PFA chemicals in the production process of this jacket.

The Columbia Saudan Pro 3L Shell is a thoughtfully designed waterproof jacket that balances weather protection with all-day comfort and mobility. Its 3-layer construction is complemented by lengthy pit zips that provide welcome ventilation during high-output activities, helping to dump excess heat when you're working hard on the trail. Weather resistance is enhanced by PU-coated zippers that seal out moisture and a wire-brimmed hood that maintains visibility in rain and wind. The attached hood features a hidden cord-lock system, allowing it to be cinched securely to the shape of your head for a customized fit.

Practical details such as an adjustable hem and cuffs, articulated elbows for unrestricted movement, and a bonded interior zip pocket add to the jacket's functionality. Even the longer backside of the jacket is a welcome feature when wearing a backpack in the rain.

Altogether, the Saudan Pro feels like a well-equipped shell designed for hikers, paddlers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need dependable protection in challenging conditions without sacrificing comfort or mobility.

My only complaint is that the TPU molded cuff tabs are somewhat easy to catch on things but in turn are also easy to adjust even while wearing gloves on colder days. The excellent TPU coating is also on the main pull-zipper and it’s oversized coating is easy to grab and adjust while walking. A medium size of this jacket weighs 446 grams/15.73 ounces.

Stay connected with Columbia by following them on Facebook and Instagram.