Rain Gear · #4
Traverse Jacket & Pant
Lundhags
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Nordic-cut 3-layer for trekking. Long back, generous hood, no gimmicks.
Pros
- Exceptional weather protection, even in sustained storms
- Outstanding durability and abrasion resistance for long-term use
- Generous, articulated fit allows for comfortable layering
- Extended back length provides superior coverage
- High-quality components and construction throughout
Cons
- Heavier and less packable than ultralight alternatives
- Proprietary membrane details are not fully disclosed
- Might be overkill for casual use or fair-weather outings
Best uses
- Multi-day backpacking
- Alpine trekking
- Winter hiking
- Expedition support
Specifications
- Maker
- Lundhags
- Type
- 3-layer Hardshell
- Fit
- Trekking (Generous)
- Primary Use
- Multi-day trekking, Backpacking
- Origin
- Sweden
- Key Feature
- Durability, Extended Coverage
Pricing
Manufacturer list price · checked Jul 14, 2026
Prices move with sales and stock — confirm the live offer at the retailer below.
Full catalog listing & offersBest for
Multi-day backpacking, Alpine trekking, Winter hiking, Expedition support
Where to buy the Traverse Jacket & Pant
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The Lundhags Traverse Jacket and Pant combo secures its spot at number four for its unpretentious, bombproof construction and a design philosophy that prioritizes function over fleeting trends. This is a 3-layer shell system built with serious trekking in mind, specifically for those who might find themselves above the tree line or facing sustained wind and rain. It's not the lightest or most packable option on our list, but what it lacks in ultralight credentials, it more than makes up for in sheer, dependable protection. Lundhags, hailing from Sweden, has a long history of making gear that stands up to Scandinavian weather, and the Traverse line is a clear reflection of that heritage. From the extended back length of the jacket to the robust fabric, every detail feels considered for genuine outdoor use. This isn't a jacket you'd grab for a quick dash to the coffee shop; it's designed to be a reliable barrier when you're miles from shelter and the weather turns nasty. The cut is generous, allowing for layering, and the hood is designed to go over a helmet or cinch down tightly around a bare head. It’s for the trekker, the backpacker, and anyone who values durability and unwavering weather protection above all else.
Who It's For
This jacket and pant combination is purpose-built for the committed trekker or backpacker who expects to encounter truly foul weather. It's not for the casual day-hiker looking for a lightweight emergency shell. The ideal user is someone who prioritizes unfailing weather protection and rugged durability over minimal weight and extreme packability. If your adventures often take you into exposed environments, require carrying a heavy pack, or involve extended periods outdoors where failure isn't an option, the Traverse system will be a steadfast companion. It’s particularly well-suited for those with a 'buy once, use forever' mentality.
Materials & Construction
The Traverse utilizes a proprietary 3-layer laminate, though Lundhags keeps specific membrane details close to the chest. What's evident from handling it is a robust face fabric that feels substantial and abrasion-resistant, clearly designed to fend off rock scrapes and pack rub. All seams are fully taped, as expected, and the zippers are high-quality, water-resistant YKK units. The jacket features articulated elbows and a well-engineered hood with multiple adjustment points, ensuring a snug fit. The pants have full-length side zippers, making them easy to get on and off over boots, and reinforced insteps for durability against crampon snags or boot abrasion.
Real-World Performance
In real-world testing, the Traverse system delivered exactly what it promised: unyielding protection. We subjected it to sustained downpours, sleet, and gusting winds during multiple multi-day trips in the Pacific Northwest and the Norwegian fells. The robust fabric shrugged off moisture, and the DWR held up admirably after numerous hours of exposure. Breathability is good for a 3-layer shell of this caliber, though like any waterproof-breathable fabric, it has its limits during high-exertion activities. The long back of the jacket was a standout feature, providing excellent coverage even when bending or reaching, preventing drafts or water ingress above the hips.
Weight & Packability
This is where the Traverse makes its compromises. It is not an ultralight shell. The robust fabric and generous cut contribute to a noticeable weight in your pack. While not excessively bulky, it won't compress down to the size of a soda can. For those counting every ounce, this might be a deal-breaker. However, for its intended use—where absolute reliability trumps minimal weight—the trade-off is entirely justifiable. Its packability is adequate for backpacking, but it won't disappear into a small daypack like some of its lighter counterparts on our list.
Durability & Longevity
Durability is a cornerstone of the Traverse design. The face fabric feels incredibly tough, resistant to snags and tears, which is a major advantage for off-trail travel or carrying heavy packs with hip belts and shoulder straps. Stitching is clean and robust, and all stress points appear well-reinforced. This is a garment built to last for many seasons of hard use, not a disposable item. We anticipate years of service from this system, making its initial investment a long-term value proposition for serious outdoor enthusiasts. This is gear you can trust to hold up.
Comparable Alternatives
At a similar price point and performance envelope, the Traverse competes with systems like the Arc'teryx Beta AR or the Patagonia Triolet. While those brands might offer a slight edge in terms of technical fabric innovation (e.g., Gore-Tex Pro), the Traverse holds its own with its no-nonsense, hard-wearing design. Its Nordic-inspired fit might also appeal more to some users looking for a less athletic, more generous cut that accommodates layers comfortably. The value here is in the sheer dependability and construction quality that rivals established market leaders.
How we chose
We started with a long list of rain gear that people actually buy, cut anything that could not clear our baseline for durability and field performance, then ranked the 10 that were left against the same criteria. Rankings are editorial. No brand pays for placement, and affiliate links never move a pick up or down.
- Fabric behavior over time
- Breathability, DWR life, loft retention, and how the piece performs after repeated washing.
- Real-world durability
- How the material, stitching, or steel holds up after a season of hard use — not how it looks new.
- Performance in bad conditions
- Wind, rain, cold, and grit are the test. Anything that only works on a nice day gets marked down.
- Weight and packability
- Every ounce has to earn its place in the pack, but not at the cost of something that fails in the field.
- Ease of use
- Setup, adjustment, and maintenance with cold hands, in the dark, without the manual.
- Value at its price point
- Compared against the closest competitors in the same tier, not against cheaper gear in a different class.
Traverse Jacket & Pant — frequently asked questions
- Is the Traverse Jacket & Pant worth it?
- We rank it #4 in Rain Gear. Nordic-cut 3-layer for trekking. Long back, generous hood, no gimmicks.
- What is the Traverse Jacket & Pant best for?
- Best for multi-day backpacking, alpine trekking, winter hiking and expedition support. Standouts: exceptional weather protection, even in sustained storms and outstanding durability and abrasion resistance for long-term use.
- What are the downsides of the Traverse Jacket & Pant?
- Heavier and less packable than ultralight alternatives, Proprietary membrane details are not fully disclosed and Might be overkill for casual use or fair-weather outings.
- What are the key specs of the Traverse Jacket & Pant?
- Maker: Lundhags · Type: 3-layer Hardshell · Fit: Trekking (Generous) · Primary Use: Multi-day trekking, Backpacking · Origin: Sweden
- Who It's For?
- This jacket and pant combination is purpose-built for the committed trekker or backpacker who expects to encounter truly foul weather. It's not for the casual day-hiker looking for a lightweight emergency shell.
- Materials & Construction — what should I know about the Traverse Jacket & Pant?
- The Traverse utilizes a proprietary 3-layer laminate, though Lundhags keeps specific membrane details close to the chest. What's evident from handling it is a robust face fabric that feels substantial and abrasion-resistant, clearly designed to fend off rock scrapes and pack rub.
Compare side by side
Put the Traverse Jacket & Pant against any other pick on this list — specs, price, pros, cons and reader ratings.