Columbia Girls' Arcadia II Jacket - Waterproof Lightweight Rainwear

In this review the Columbia Girls' Arcadia II Jacket is evaluated as a practical, weather-ready option for active kids who need reliable rain protection without extra bulk. The bottom line: it is a lightweight, fully seam sealed rain jacket that keeps children dry while staying comfortable for everyday wear. Reviewers praise the build quality and color choices, and the jacket's combination of Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable construction and an attached adjustable hood make it a smart pick for school, light hikes, and wet commutes.

Key Features

• Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable: Provides rain protection while allowing moisture vapor to escape so the jacket does not feel clammy during activity.
• Fully seam sealed: Ensures water does not enter at stitch lines, which increases confidence in wet conditions.
• Mesh lined: Adds a layer of comfort and helps with airflow so the jacket feels lighter when worn for longer periods.
• Attached, adjustable hood: Offers easy, secure coverage that can be tightened for wind and rain without adding bulk.
• Zip-closed pockets: Keep small items and hands protected and dry, useful for school passes or small snacks.
• Reflective detail: Improves visibility in low light, a helpful safety feature for early mornings or rainy afternoons.

Who It's For

The Arcadia II is best for parents seeking a dependable rain jacket for girls who spend time outdoors in wet weather but prefer a lightweight layer. It works well for school days, playground time, and short hikes where waterproofing and breathability matter more than heavy insulation.

Those who need heavy winter insulation, snow-specific bibs, or a very loose layering fit should look elsewhere; this jacket is optimized for rain and mild cool weather rather than deep cold or bulky layering systems.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lightweight construction makes it easy for kids to wear all day without feeling weighed down.
• Quality materials and seam sealing give trustworthy water protection compared with cheaper alternatives.
• Adjustable hood and sleeve cuffs provide a better fit and improved weather sealing around openings.
• Reflective accents and zip pockets add practical safety and storage for daily use.

Cons

• Fit and moisture resistance received mixed feedback from some customers, so sizing and expectations for heavy exposure should be checked before long outings.
• Not intended as a snow jacket or heavy insulated coat for very cold winter use.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Model	Girls' Arcadia II Jacket
Waterproofing	Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable, fully seam sealed
Lining	Mesh lined
Hood	Attached, adjustable hood
Pockets	Zip-closed pockets
Additional features	Adjustable sleeve cuffs, reflective detail

Our Verdict

The Columbia Girls' Arcadia II Jacket is a sensible, value-minded rain jacket for children who need dependable waterproofing without bulk. Its lightweight feel, seam-sealed construction and practical details make it a good choice for everyday wet-weather wear, though families seeking heavy insulation for winter sports should consider a dedicated snow coat instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this jacket fully waterproof?
Yes, the jacket uses Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable construction and fully seam sealed seams to keep out most rain.

Will this jacket keep a child warm in winter?
No, it is designed primarily for rain protection and breathability; additional insulation is needed for cold winter conditions.

Does the hood stay secure in wind?
The attached adjustable hood can be tightened for a snug fit, which helps it stay on in blustery conditions.