Leupold Storm Warden Rain System

Leupold & Stevens recently released their new rain system, the Storm Warden Jacket and Pant. While I have not yet put them through a full wet hunting season, a tall ladder and a hose provided enough real-world testing to form some early opinions.

I thought it was both bold and considerate for an Oregon-based company to send its new rain gear to the arid Southwest for testing. Western hunters, especially those in the Pacific Northwest, always need to factor rainfall into their plans; no mystery there. For those of us in the Southwest, however, we have a different set of considerations, and the Storm Warden Jacket and Pant hit the nail on the head.

Waterproof

First and foremost, I will save you the time of wondering how well this system keeps you dry. It works. Any rain gear of this caliber must have sealed seams, protected vents, and a quality fabric with a durable, water-repellent finish. After being sprayed down with an intense hose for more than ten minutes, far beyond what most natural storms would deliver, I was completely dry underneath. The Storm Warden system checks every box on this fundamental requirement, which is easier said than done.

Breathability

I have not yet hiked or hunted in this gear, but on an 80-degree day in Arizona, I was comfortable moving around in it for more than twenty minutes while testing fit and flexibility. The balance between waterproofing and breathability is impressive and is further enhanced by the jacket’s pit zips, full-length leg zippers, and breathable materials.

Fit

Fit was one of the first qualities that stood out to me. With both the jacket and pants on, I felt no restriction or unnecessary bulk, which has not been my experience with many rain systems in the past. The jacket and pant lengths provide full coverage in all the areas where water typically finds a way in. I genuinely feel like I could hike all day in this gear without feeling like I was wrapped in a plastic bag. The cuff, hem, and waist adjustments strike a great balance between comfort and keeping things watertight. I also appreciate the depth and adjustability of the hood. Too many jackets come with shallow hoods that fail to provide full coverage. That is not the case with the Storm Warden.

Weight and Bulk

One of the most important factors for me, and for many hunters, is how lightweight and compact rain gear is when packed down. This is especially true in Arizona, where rain gear spends most of its life riding in a pack. Both the Storm Warden Jacket and Pant are very light and compress down to a negligible size, making them easy to carry in a just-in-case role without adding noticeable bulk.

Nice Touches

The Storm Warden Jacket includes a waterproof chest pocket that is ideal for a phone or other essentials you want quick access to. The pant features a deep, waterproof thigh pocket for the same reason. The jacket pockets are pass-through zippered, allowing access to midlayers underneath for warming hands or reaching gear stored below. I also really like the boot hooks at the cuffs of the pant legs, which help keep water and vegetation from working their way up your legs.

If you are the type of hunter who throws on rain gear and keeps moving rather than waiting out the weather, I highly recommend checking out the new Leupold Storm Warden system.

Check them out on Leupold.com: Storm Warden Jacket, Storm Warden Pant