When heading outdoors, one of the most important pieces of gear is a good rain jacket. Getting caught in a downpour without proper protection can quickly turn an enjoyable hike or climb into a cold, wet, miserable experience.
Two popular options for quality rain protection are the Columbia Arcadia and the Columbia Switchback jackets.
But with similar features and capabilities, how do you choose between them? This comprehensive guide examines the key differences, pros and cons of each jacket to help you select the best option for your needs and budget.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Arcadia II | Switchback III |
| Fabric | Omni-Tech (coated nylon) | Omni-Shield (advanced repellency) |
| Waterproof Rating | 10,000mm | 15,000mm |
| Breathability Rating | 5,000 g/m2/24 hrs | 15,000 g/m2/24 hrs |
| Fit | Regular, roomy | Athletic, tapered |
| Ventilation | None | Pit zips |
| Hood | Drawcord adjustable | Stow away, non-adjustable when stowed |
| Pockets | Zippered side pockets | Zippered hand pockets, no pockets with stowed hood |
| Cuffs | Velcro | Adjustable tab |
| Hem | Drawcord adjustable | Drawcord adjustable |
| Packability | Packs into pocket | Packs into pocket |
| Weight | 12.4 oz | 11 oz |
Overview Of The Columbia Arcadia II Jacket
The Columbia Arcadia II is a versatile and affordable rain jacket that provides good waterproof and breathable performance. This is a great option for general outdoor use like day hiking, climbing, camping, and urban use.
Some key features and specs:
- Made with Columbia’s Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable fabric
- Fully seam sealed construction
- Drawcord adjustable hood
- Velcro cuff closures
- Zippered side pockets
- Drawcord adjustable hem
- Packs into hand pocket
The Arcadia II is made with Columbia’s proprietary Omni-Tech fabric which consists of a nylon outer shell with a polyurethane coating and inner laminate.
It’s waterproof rating is around 10,000mm and the breathability rating is around 5,000 g/m2/24 hrs. This level of waterproof/breathable performance is suitable for most casual outdoor activities in wet conditions.
The jacket comes with a range of adjustment options allowing you to dial in the fit. This includes velcro cuffs, a drawcord adjustable hood and hem, and a partially elasticated waist.
The regular fit is roomy enough to layer underneath while still avoiding a bulky feel. At just 12.4 oz, the Arcadia II is lightweight and easily packs down into its own pocket.
Pros of the Columbia Arcadia II:
- Affordable price point
- Quality Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable fabric
- Fully seam sealed
- Lightweight and packs down small
- Roomier regular fit allows layering
- Good range of adjustability options
Cons of the Columbia Arcadia II:
- Not as durable or high-performing as premium options
- Only comes in basic colors
- No pit zips for ventilation
- Slightly boxy fit
- Can feel clammy in high exertion
The Arcadia II provides a nice balance of key features for a budget-friendly price. It’s a great choice for people seeking a versatile, everyday rain jacket that can handle most casual outdoor activities.
Also Read: Comparison Between Little Donkey Andy and Columbia
Overview Of The Columbia Switchback III Jacket
If you’re seeking more performance and technical features, the Columbia Switchback III is a good step up from the Arcadia II. Designed with trail use in mind, this jacket provides enhanced waterproofing and breathability along with handy details for hiking and backpacking.
Some key specs and features:
- Made with Columbia’s Omni-Shield advanced repellency fabric
- Fully seam sealed
- Waterproof rating around 15,000mm
- Breathability rating around 15,000g/m2/24 hrs
- Pit zips for ventilation
- Zippered hand pockets
- Stow away hood
- Adjustable cuff tabs
- Drawcord adjustable hem
- Regular fit allows room for layering
With its Omni-Shield fabric, the Switchback III has a waterproof rating that’s 50% higher than the Arcadia II.
It also uses a more advanced laminate construction for improved breathability, making it better suited to aerobic activities. The jacket has a nice athletic cut with longer hem length and pit zips to dump excess heat. It’s lighter than the Arcadia II at just 11 oz and still packs down into its own pocket.
Pros of the Columbia Switchback III:
- Enhanced waterproof and breathable performance
- Lighter weight and more athletic fit
- Pit zips add ventilation
- Stow away hood saves space
- More technical features for trail use
- Durable and abrasion resistant face fabric
Cons of the Columbia Switchback III:
- More expensive than the Arcadia II
- Fewer color options
- Hood is non-adjustable when stowed
- No hand pockets when hood is stowed
- Still not a premium level jacket
With its bump in performance and technical details, the Switchback III is ideal for hikers, backpackers, and anyone seeking better wet weather protection during active pursuits like climbing, skiing or trail running. It offers an affordable step up over entry-level options like the Arcadia II.
Also watch the review video!
Direct Comparison Of Key Features And Performance
To summarize the key differences:
- Waterproofing: The Switchback III has a 50% higher waterproof rating of 15,000mm versus 10,000mm on the Arcadia II.
- Breathability: The Switchback III also has over 2x the breathability rating at 15,000 g/m2/24hrs compared to 5,000 g/m2/24 hrs on the Arcadia II.
- Fit and features: The Switchback has a more athletic tapered fit along with useful details like pit zips, stow away hood, and cuff tabs. The Arcadia has a roomier regular fit with basic velcro cuffs and no venting options.
- Weight: The Switchback III is slightly lighter at 11 oz Vs. 12.4 oz on the Arcadia II.
- Packability: Both jackets pack down into their own pocket for easy transport.
- Price: The Switchback III retails around $120 while the Arcadia II costs around $60-80. The Switchback commands a 50-100% price premium.
Which Option Is Best Suited To Your Needs?
When choosing between these two rain jackets, consider your intended use cases, budget, and desired features.
For more casual use like light hiking, camping, travel, and urban use, the Columbia Arcadia II provides great value. It’s affordably priced with good everyday waterproof/breathable performance.
For more active pursuits like hiking, backpacking, climbing, and skiing, the Columbia Switchback III is worth the extra cost. Its enhanced waterproofing, breathability, and technical features make it better suited to aerobic activity in wet conditions.
Also Read: Choose Between Cotopaxi Fuego And Patagonia Down Sweater.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A switchback jacket is a lightweight rain jacket designed specifically with trail use in mind. Key features include enhanced breathability, pit zips for ventilation, athletic fit, and packability. The Columbia Switchback III is a prime example.
Yes, the Arcadia II is fully waterproof thanks to its Omni-Tech coated nylon fabric. Its seams are sealed and the waterproof rating is 10,000mm, meaning it can withstand moderate rainfall and wet conditions. However, it’s not quite as waterproof as premium options.
The main difference is that the Watertight jacket uses a more advanced 3-layer Omni-Tech fabric for improved waterproofing and breathability. The Watertight has a 20,000mm waterproof rating Vs. 10,000mm on the Arcadia. The Watertight also has a more athletic, trim fit. However, it’s priced significantly higher than the Arcadia.
No Columbia jacket with Omni-Tech fabric is 100% waterproof, but they do provide varying degrees of waterproofness:
Omni-Tech basic: 5,000mm rating
Omni-Tech standard: 10,000mm rating
Omni-Tech advanced: 20,000mm rating
So while not completely waterproof, Omni-Tech jackets can withstand moderate to heavy rainfall reasonably well for thr intended use. But extended downpours may lead to some leakage over time.
Conclusion
When shopping for a versatile outdoor rain jacket, Columbia’s Arcadia and Switchback models are two excellent options to consider. While the affordable Arcadia II meets most casual user needs, the Switchback III is ideal for anyone doing more active pursuits in wet environments.
Assess your budget, features wish list, and primary use cases to decide if paying extra for the Switchback’s enhancements is warranted. With either choice, you gain a quality rain jacket that will keep you drier on your adventures.