Rohan Aira Jacket Review – Ultra Lightweight, Waterproof and Packable. Does the Aira have you covered?
Extremely lightweight, fast-drying, and packable – the Rohan Aira Jacket looks great on paper. But with a launch price of £300, is it really worth the investment? We delve into it…
What we like about the Rohan Aira Jacket: Ultra Lightweight (250 grams), packable, waterproof, breathable; It does what it was designed for
What we don’t like about the Rohan Aira Jacket: The price tag; No chest pocket; Slight fabric rustle
We’ve reviewed a range of Rohan clothing over the years, and have found that it consistently delivers on performance. The gear is practical, comfortable, and built with real purpose in mind. The quality speaks for itself — though the price can sometimes be on the high side!
But you do get what you pay for – Rohan prides itself on five key principles: protection, lightweight design, packability, easy care, and versatility. Great design principles for practicality, comfort and longevity. With these in mind, we put the brand-new Rohan Aira Jacket to the test to see if it lives up to the company ideals.
Now, I’ll admit I might be a little biased here. I love to travel light, rely on layering, and always prioritize practicality when choosing gear. So, when a jacket like the Rohan Aira arrives through the door, claiming to be ultra-lightweight, waterproof, windproof, easily packable and fast drying, it certainly piques my interest. In fact, I found myself hoping for rain and bad weather just to put it through its paces.
Here’s what I discovered…
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Mens Aira In Green
Womens Aira In Black
Womens Aira In Orange
Design and Key Features of Rohan Aira Jacket
The Aira jacket has been designed by Rohan for walking and hiking under various weather conditions to help keep you protected no matter what. It has also deliberately been made with packability in mind, as Rohan state that the Aira jacket packs down to 600ml in size and has a weight of just 260 grams – that’s lighter than a can of Coke and only a little more than an average smartphone.
For a waterproof jacket, that’s seriously impressive weight, especially when many alternatives tip the scales at over 400g. It means you can pack the Aira away without a second thought and barely notice it in your bag — perfect for travel or changeable weather.
I’ve broken down the essential features of a waterproof jacket in another article, so please check that out if you’re new to outdoor clothing.
Comfort, Fit and Feel
Wearing the Rohan Aira jacket feels very comfortable when you put it on. It’s actually so lightweight that it’s easy to forget you’re wearing it – probably the ultimate compliment for a waterproof shell. The fabric has a smooth texture with a slight rustle, which is typical for this type of material (e.g. similar to Gore-Tex). Despite that, it doesn’t feel restrictive and moves well with the body.
The fit is true to size, leaving enough room for a few layers of clothing underneath. For example, I am female and wear a size 12 top and with a medium sized Rohan Aira jacket I managed to fit a base layer, one or two midlayers, a fleece and a lightweight down jacket.
Waterproof & Breathable
In a jacket of this type, waterproofing is the top priority so that the weather does not ruin your trip. I did a bit of digging to find out what Rohan uses to make such a lightweight jacket with a secure waterproof promise. This is my take on the blurb from Rohan.
Rohan’s Barricade fabric is designed to offer serious waterproof protection, exceeding British standards by a factor of ten. With a Hydrostatic Head rating of 20,000mm and a Moisture Vapour Transmission rate of 20,000 g/m²/24h, it strikes a balance between keeping rain out and allowing moisture to escape, making it both waterproof and breathable. Just to be clear, these are exceptional specifications – probably the best you can get on the market from any brand.
The fabric itself is built with a water-repellent outer layer bonded to a polyurethane (PU) hydrophilic membrane, creating a barrier against rain while still allowing body heat and perspiration to escape. Inside, a lining protects the membrane, enhancing durability and comfort. To further improve water resistance, the outer layer is treated with a Durable Water-repellent (DWR) finish, which causes water to bead up and roll off rather than soak in.
According to Rohan, before their products hit the market, Barricade fabric undergoes extensive field testing to ensure it performs in real-world conditions. It is built to take on a downpour or face prolonged exposure to wet conditions, it’s engineered to provide reliable protection without compromising breathability.
In addition to all of that tech there are other features to help keep the water out…
Taped Seams
Even the best waterproof fabric is ineffective if water seeps through the stitching. Taped seams reinforce these vulnerable areas by sealing needle holes, preventing leaks, and ensuring full protection against rain. This added barrier keeps moisture out, making the jacket reliable in harsh weather conditions.
Taped Zips
Standard zippers create weak points where water can penetrate, compromising your dryness. Taped zips feature a protective seal that blocks moisture, stopping leaks through the teeth and stitching. This essential design upgrade enhances waterproofing, keeping you dry even in heavy downpours.
Mens Rohan Aira Jacket Womens Rohan Aira Jacket Packable (650ml pack size)
Even more impressive is its ultra-packable design, compressing down to just 600ml (women’s) and 650ml (men’s), it takes up virtually no space in your pack – roughly equivalent to a water bottle. Whether you’re layering up for a mountain trail or stashing it just in case, the Aira Jacket proves that minimalist design doesn’t mean minimal performance.
What makes the Aira Jacket stand out even further is its day-to-day practicality. It’s not just built for the outdoors, its clean, low-profile look and compact packability make it perfect for travel, city breaks, commuting, or even just keeping in a handbag or glovebox for rainy days. When the weather turns, it’s ready in seconds, then out of the way just as fast.
Packet Into Pocket
The Rohan Aira jacket can be conveniently folded into its own pocket, though a little caution is needed. Don’t zip it fully closed, as the zip isn’t double-sided and can get stuck if pulled too far. This storage trick isn’t officially recommended by Rohan, but it’s a handy little tip if you’re after a quick and compact way to temporarily store your jacket.
Packed Into Hood
The Rohan Aira jacket can also be rolled up into its own hood for quick, compact storage. Just keep in mind, this method isn’t recommended for long-term storage, as scrunching jackets like this for too long can affect their performance. It’s a handy trick for short-term packing, but be sure to give it a proper storage spot when you’re done.
Fast drying (dries in around 5 hours)
Getting caught in the rain is part of the deal when you spend time outdoors or even just out and about. What matters is how quickly your gear bounces back. The Aira is designed to dry fast, needing only around 5 hours to be ready for action again.
On a weekend walk in Shropshire, I ducked into a local pub after a downpour. With the coat hung on the back of a chair, it dried in no time — ready to be packed away again after I finished my lunch. Whether it’s after a rainy hike or a quick wipe down before your next trip, the Aira’s quick-drying design means less hassle and more freedom to just get on with things.
Mens Rohan Aira Jacket Womens Rohan Aira Jacket Pockets and Storage
The Aira jacket includes two hip-height pockets that are ideal if you prefer walking with your hands tucked in. These pockets are generously sized, easily fitting items such as an Ordnance Survey map, even in the women’s version.
While there isn’t a chest pocket or internal pocket, the left-hand pocket includes a small loop for attaching a key ring or similar item.
The backs of the pockets are mesh-lined, which allows for ventilation when the zips are left open, helping reduce internal moisture buildup.
View Inside Pocket
This is a view of the inside of one of the jacket’s inner pockets, you can clearly see it holding a full-size Ordnance Survey map. Not only does that show off the generous size of the pocket, but it also proves it’s genuinely practical and not just for show. And yes, this is from the women’s version of the jacket, which often gets short-changed on pocket space. Not this time.
View Through Rear Of Pocket
From the back of the same pocket, a mesh panel lets you peek inside, and you can clearly make out the full-sized Ordnance Survey map. This angle really shows just how roomy that pocket is, and again, this is on the women’s version. It’s a big win for practical design. Despite having only two pockets, they’re surprisingly spacious, perfect for essentials like maps, gloves, or snacks.
Adjustable Toggles on the Aira
The Aira jacket includes several adjustable elements that allow the wearer to fine-tune the fit and performance:
- Hem Adjustment: A pull cord and toggle at the bottom hem help seal out wind and improve fit around the waist.
- Toggle Placement: All toggles are easy to locate and adjust, offering a better experience than some jackets where the toggles can be difficult to find.
- Hood Brim: The brim features a wire insert that can be shaped for better visibility and protection from the elements.
Adjustable Cuffs
The jacket features adjustable Velcro cuffs, allowing you to adapt to changing weather. Secure them tightly in heavy rain to keep water out, or loosen them in drier conditions to improve airflow and promote quicker drying.
Adjustable Hood
Designed for a precise fit, the fully adjustable hood features three toggles for enhanced comfort. A rear toggle reduces excess space at the back, while two front toggles tighten around the face, minimizing exposure and improving protection against wind and rain.
Care and Maintenance
The Rohan Aira is machine washable at 30°C, making it easy to care for. While it includes a hanging loop on the back for convenience, it’s recommended to hang the jacket on a coat hanger whenever possible. This helps maintain its shape and prolongs the effectiveness of the waterproof coating that can deteriorate like any other waterproof jacket with too much scrunching over time. For more tips on caring for your waterproof jacket
Technical Specification
- Waterproof
- Windproof
- Breathabe
- Lightweight 250g (women's), 260g (men's)
- Packable 600ml (women's), 650ml (men's)
- 3 layer Barricade Fabric
- PFC free Durable Water Repellency Finish
- Fully taped seams
- Waterproof rating of 20,000mm water column
- Available in men's and Womens
- Sports Fit
- 2 Zipped Pockets
- 3 Point Adjustable Hood
- Adjustable velcro cuffs
- Elastic drawcord hem adjustment
- Adjustable Wired Hood Peak
- Attachment Loop Inside Left Pocket
- Hanging Loop
- Fast Drying Time
- Weight for mens approx 260 grams
Mens Rohan Aira Jacket Womens Rohan Aira Jacket The Aira In Use
Ironically, we received our jackets during a mini heat wave in the UK, and for several weeks we were itching for rain – this isn’t something that is a common experience to be honest – we normally pray for sunshine! However, eventually the Midlands area we live in reverted to type and grey skies appeared and the drizzle started to descend.
My husband Marc and I packed our trusty daypacks with some sandwiches, a flask of coffee, and our Aira jackets, not quite trusting the skies above. We’d planned a walk near Church Stretton in Shropshire, aiming for the summit of Caer Caradoc—a favourite of ours for its rugged beauty and sweeping views.
As we set off along the trail, the weather turned true to British form. One moment we were enjoying crisp air and birdsong, the next, the heavens opened. Out came the Aira jackets for their first test in proper rain. In all honesty they’d barely made a dent in our packs due to their light weights, and once on, they kept the rain out admirably.
The climb up Caer Caradoc is steep in places, with a few scrambly sections, but I never felt restricted. The jacket’s lightness was a real bonus—no bulk, no faff, just solid protection. That said, I did notice a bit of a rustle with each step, especially when the wind picked up. Nothing too annoying, but it gave us away when we were trying to quietly admire the sheep!
By the time we reached the top, we were still warm and dry, despite the weather’s best efforts. We found a sheltered spot, cracked open the coffee, and shared our slightly squashed sandwiches, looking out over the rain-softened hills. All in all, the Aira jackets proved themselves—light, reliable, and definitely worth having in the bag for days like these.
Conclusion: Is the Rohan Aira Jacket Worth It?
We’ve been using the Rohan Aira Jacket for several months now and have put it through its paces in all sorts of British weather – so would I recommend it? Well yes I definitely would, but perhaps with a very small caveat – the price. It’s fairly high, but not outrageous when you consider the specifications on offer – however, if you’re a beginner to outdoor life it may be better to try a more budget waterproof shell.
There’s no denying that £300 is a serious investment for a waterproof jacket. But if you’re the kind of person who values reliability, lightweight material, and proper performance whether for hiking, travelling, commuting, or just having something dependable in your pack “just in case”, then the Aira really delivers. It’s comfortable, thoughtfully designed, and genuinely easy to live with day to day.
I love how it disappears into my bag when I’m not using it and then saves the day when the skies open up. The fact that it dries fast, feels breathable, and doesn’t weigh me down makes it a strong go-to piece in my outdoor kit.
For me, it’s a keeper. And my husband, while maybe he has different requirements in jackets as I do, he agreed it was one of the more comfortable and better-fitting options he’s tried. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your waterproof and practicality ranks higher than catwalk fashion for you, the Rohan Aira might just be worth a spot in your kit.
FAQs
Here are some FAQs for the Rohan Aira Waterproof Jacket:
1. Is the Rohan Aira Jacket actually waterproof?
Yes, very much so. It uses Rohan’s Barricade fabric with a 20,000mm waterproof rating and fully taped seams and zips. It’s designed to withstand serious downpours without letting water in. It certainly has so far, but only time will tell how long this lasts.
2. How breathable is the jacket?
Impressively breathable for a waterproof layer. With a Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate of 20,000 g/m²/24h, it allows sweat and moisture to escape, helping you stay comfortable even on the move. It does keep you dry. Having hiked over from Castleton and then up Mam Tor on a warm but drizzly day, I can say this with confidence.
3. How much does the Rohan Aira Jacket weigh?
It weighs just 250 grams, which is ultra-light for a waterproof hiking jacket. It’s one of the lightest options around that still offers full waterproof protection. The bigger men’s sizes carry a little more weight. The XL was around 270 grams.
4. Can it really pack down to 300ml?
Yes! It compresses down into a tiny package, about the size of a large mug, making it perfect to stuff in your daypack or even a handbag.
5. Does it come in both men’s and women’s fits?
It does. Rohan offers both men’s and women’s versions, each with slightly different colour options to suit different preferences.
6. How fast does it dry after getting wet?
If it is absolutely dripping wet, it dries in around 5 hours (or much faster in warm conditions). That’s a big plus if you’re on a multi-day hike or need to wash it and get back out quickly. It means that taking only one jacket is enough in a lot of scenarios.
7. What’s missing from the jacket?
There’s no chest or internal pocket, which some people might miss. The two hip pockets are roomy, though and big enough to hold an Ordanace Survey map.
8. Is the jacket comfortable to wear for long periods?
Yes. It’s light, non-restrictive, and moves well with the body. The fabric has a slight rustle but feels smooth and doesn’t get in the way.
9. Can I adjust the hood and cuffs?
Definitely. The hood is fully adjustable with three toggles and a wired peak, and the cuffs are Velcro-adjustable for a snug fit in bad weather.
10. Is it worth the £300 price tag?
That depends on your priorities. If you value performance, weight, packability, and all-weather protection, it delivers. It’s not cheap but it’s built to last and perform well in a variety of real-world conditions.
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