Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake II Rain Jacket - Packable Waterproof own

In this review of the Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake II Rain Jacket, the bottom line is simple: this is a lightweight, packable rain shell for someone who wants reliable wind and light-rain protection with minimal bulk. It excels as a travel and everyday layer thanks to its waterproof nylon shell and the clever pack-into-chest-pocket design, and it earns points for useful details like an adjustable hem and zippered hand pockets. For those expecting heavy downpour performance or technical mountaineering waterproofing, results may vary, but for casual hiking, commuting, and vacation packing this jacket stands out.

Key Features

• Waterproof nylon shell: Provides a protective outer layer that sheds drizzle and light rain while remaining breathable enough for active use.
• Packable protection: The jacket folds into its own chest pocket so it can be stashed in a daypack or suitcase without taking up room.
• Stow-away hood: A hood that tucks into the collar gives on-demand coverage without the bulk when you do not need it.
• Handy pockets and cuffs: Zippered hand pockets and elastic cuffs keep small items secure and help seal out wind and moisture.
• Adjustable hem: The hem can be cinched to reduce drafts and improve fit in windy conditions.
• Durable construction: Solid stitching and quality materials mean the jacket is built to last through seasons of use.

Who It's For

This jacket is ideal for men who need a lightweight, easily packable weather layer for travel, city commuting, trail walks, or casual outdoor activities. Its combination of a waterproof nylon shell and a stow-away hood makes it a convenient choice for anyone who wants quick protection from unexpected showers without a heavy coat.

It is less suited to those who require fully seam-taped, high-performance waterproofing for prolonged exposure in heavy rain or technical alpine use. Buyers who need technical breathability ratings or insulated warmth should look at more specialized shells or layered systems.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lightweight and packable for easy travel and storage.
• Useful stow-away hood and zippered hand pockets for practical protection.
• Adjustable hem and elastic cuffs help keep wind and light moisture out.
• Good overall value and solid construction for regular use.

Cons

• Waterproof performance is mixed in customer reports and may not match heavy-duty rain shells for extended downpours.
• Fit is reported as generous by some customers, so sizing down may be needed for a closer fit.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Model	Glennaker Lake II Rain Jacket
Shell material	Waterproof nylon
Packability	Folds into chest pocket
Hood	Stow-away hood (tucks into collar)
Pockets	Zippered hand pockets
Adjustability	Elastic cuffs and adjustable hem

Our Verdict

The Columbia Glennaker Lake II is a smart choice for travelers and casual outdoor users who want a lightweight, packable rain jacket with practical features and durable construction. It represents solid value for anyone needing everyday wind and light-rain protection, though buyers seeking heavy-duty waterproofing should consider higher-performance alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this jacket fully waterproof?
The shell is waterproof and handles drizzle and light rain well, but customer feedback on heavy rain performance is mixed, so it may not match technical, fully seam-taped shells in prolonged downpours.

Can it be packed small for travel?
Yes, the jacket folds into its own chest pocket for compact transport, making it convenient for packing in a suitcase or daypack.

How does the fit run?
Several customers reported a generous fit, so consider sizing down if you prefer a closer cut or plan to layer underneath.