Columbia Ampli-Dry II Waterproof Shell Walking Jacket review: an upgraded classic fends off the elements for rainy day hikes and rambles

Columbia Ampli-Dry II Waterproof Shell Walking Jacket: first impressions 

While some adventures call for a sturdy hardshell, most of the time a lightweight, packable jacket will do – but it still needs to seal out the rain and let sweat escape. With the Ampli-Dry II, Columbia has built on the success of its bestselling waterproof jacket and emerged with a more effective barrier against the rain, and a more planet-friendly design.

This is a lightweight, comfortable rain jacket that's comfortable and protective for day hikes and packs down small enough that you won't be able to find any excuse not to throw it in your backpack even when the skies are clear at the trailhead.

Four-way stretch and a super soft face fabric make sure you're always comfortable even when you're scrambling or meet with a steep slope, and underarm vents let you quickly dump heat when you're moving fast. The hood has been reimagined for a snug, protective fit that doesn't blow down in a gale or obscure your vision.

Though it has a casual, active fit, the drop tail adds extra protection when it gets blustery out, as do the hook-and-loop fastenings at the wrists and adjustable hem. There might not be any inner pockets for your map, but with two deep hand-warming pockets and chest pocket, there's plenty of storage for gloves and phones.

Our only real grip is that the Omni Tech membrane does stick against some fabrics, which can make it slightly awkward to pull this on in a hurry if the heavens open on a walk. However, it's an extremely functional rain jacket otherwise and with the removal of forever chemicals, we consider this an upgrade.

Columbia Ampli-Dry II Waterproof Shell Walking Jacket: in the field 

I tested out the original Columbia Ampli-Dry jacket in Scotland and the Lake District last winter and though I liked it for its weight and easy performance, I found a few flaws with it, so I was keen to try the updated model. I received this jacket to test on a hut trip to the Swiss Alps this fall, which didn't bring any rain, but I've since worn it on several hikes in rainy highland Scotland to see how it holds up against wet weather.

Here’s how it performed:

Sizing and fit 

I tested a small, which is my usual size, and while I often find Columbia gear runs large, but like the previous model, this fits true to size. It has a reasonably slim fit, but I’ve been able to layer it over a fleece jacket no problem and without any extra material flapping around. I do feel like there's a little more fabric in the front than is necessary, but I only notice it when I sit down and it bulges a but.

It’s got a much longer drop tail than the last version, which means it covers my bum and that always helps for windy and wet days and sitting down on wet grass.

Waterproofing and breathability 

After a few false starts where I wore this out only to find blue skies on the trail, I got to wear this during a long 16 km day hike where the heavens opened halfway and am pleased to report that it held up to the wet weather. The Omni Tech waterproof technology is part of it, but the design also helps and by that, I largely mean the redesigned hood. This hood cinches neatly around my head with a peak that isn't too stiff as to disrupt the jacket's packability but keeps the water out of my eyes and doesn't obscure my vision.

I had some issues with the breathability of the last version, and I must say that I've worn this in some quite mild weather this year and really not noticed much moisture building up. There are pit zips if you get sweaty, but I haven't needed them once.

Of course, any jacket will wet out eventually and if it's waterproof, a jacket won't be totally breathable but I've had no problems on either front over multiple hikes in different conditions.

Weight and packability

This isn't the lightest waterproof jacket I've tested (that's the Kathmandu Trail Stretch 2.5) but it's really light and rolls up smaller than my water bottle so there's no way I'd hesitate over bringing it along on a hike.

Comfort and storage 

This jacket is stretchy and super soft so it feels great on and isn't particularly swishy. I find the hood and chinguard really comfortable.

For stashing gear, a zipped chest pocket means I can keep my phone handy (and protected) while I'm wearing a backpack, and the two hand-warming pockets are really roomy. The main thing that's missing is an inner pocket, which means that my map needs to go in my backpack.

Value

You can find a cheaper Columbia waterproof jacket than this and you can find pricier ones and both will reflect a different level of performance. I'd say this one is still reasonably budget-friendly and gives great value as a lightweight and versatile jacket that will keep you dry on a rainy hike.

Columbia Ampli-Dry II Waterproof Shell Walking Jacket: the bottom line 

Like its predecessor, this is a reliable, comfortable waterproof jacket for those on a budget, and will protect you on the hiking trail or on your way to the grocery store. The upgrades have added about 10 more grams on the scale and 10 more dollars to the price tag, but we think it's worth it for the PFAS-free design and improved hood. If you're still shopping around for a lightweight waterproof jacket and have a little more to spend, compare it with the Montane Phase Lite.

• How Advnture tests products