REI Co-op Teris GTX Rain Jacket Review
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
2-layer Gore-Tex ePE
Weight
1 lb. 8 oz.
Fabric
Polyester
Vents
Pit zips
Packable
No
Pros
Cons
REI Co-op Teris GTX
For this season's top shells, see our guide to the Best Rain Jackets.
In a sea of 2.5- and 3-layer rain jackets, the REI Co-op Teris GTX stands out for using a 2-layer construction that’s anything but entry-level. Built more like a ski shell than a minimalist rain jacket, it pairs a Gore-Tex ePE membrane with fully taped seams, a thick face fabric, and a longer cut for robust protection in wet and wintry conditions. We tested the Teris GTX in everything from steady rain to heavy, wet snow while snowshoeing in Bend, Oregon. The jacket shed moisture impressively well—no water soaked into the shell, and I stayed completely dry underneath. It felt like a fortress: no drafts, no flimsy fabric, and solid resistance against wind. The Gore-Tex membrane lived up to its reputation, offering reliable protection without any signs of leaking or saturation.
Design details add to the jacket’s weather-ready nature. The drop-tail hem offers excellent coverage, and the tall collar protects well when zipped up, extending above the chin and creating a natural barrier for tucking in your face during gusts. The hood includes a stiff brim and adjusts easily for a secure fit, while the cuffs and hem cinch down to seal out the elements. It’s worth noting the Teris includes a PFAS-free DWR, which requires more upkeep and maintenance to retain its water-shedding properties. You have to wash it more than you think to avoid degradation, and putting the jacket in the dryer helps replenish the finish.
Overall, while the REI Co-op Teris GTX is heavier and bulkier than most rain jackets, it excels in cold, wet environments. It’s well-suited for daily wear in harsh weather, snowshoeing, and even resort skiing—any scenario where weather protection matters significantly more than packability.
The REI Teris GTX isn’t built with comfort and mobility as its top priorites. It’s thick, rigid, and relatively heavy, with no stretch and only moderate range of motion. While it's perfectly functional for daily wear, light hiking, and snowshoeing, it feels constricting during more dynamic activities and wouldn’t be a good fit for backpacking, climbing, or any situation that demands mobility. The lack of flexibility can be fatiguing over time, and if you tend to dislike bulky or restrictive outerwear (like me) this rain jacket may not be a great match.
That said, the interior lining is a bright spot. The polyester fabric is softer than what’s found in most 2- or 2.5-layer shells, slides easily over layers, and has a noticeably more comfortable next-to-skin feel. The collar is also well-executed, staying soft and non-irritating even when fully zipped. In terms of overall feel, the Teris lands closer to a lightweight ski jacket than a typical rain shell—REI’s own First Chair GTX, for example, uses the same Gore-Tex ePE membrane and is only about 5 ounces heavier. It’s an unusual comparison, but the Teris’s substantial build and added protection make it feel viable for crossover use in cold-weather resort settings.
The Teris GTX is one of the least breathable rain jackets we’ve tested. Its thick 2-layer construction and burly outer fabric trap heat quickly during uphill movement or high-output activity. After a couple of hours snowshoeing, the interior was noticeably clammy—even with just a base layer underneath. While pit zips are included (a plus), the jacket’s stiffness made them difficult to operate one-handed and limited how easily I could dump heat on the go.
This level of breathability is fine for around-town wear or short, flatter hikes in cooler weather, but it’s a poor match for backpacking or steep climbs. REI promotes the Teris as suitable for backpacking, but that feels like a stretch. However, its crossover appeal for skiing is legitimate—especially for lift-access days where breathability is less critical. In that context, the jacket’s heavier build and lack of airflow make more sense. But for warm-weather hiking or extended aerobic efforts, the REI Co-op Teris GTX will likely run too hot for comfort.
The Teris GTX isn’t trying to compete in the lightweight or compact shell category—and it shows. At 1 pound 4.5 ounces for the women’s version (1 lb. 8 oz. for men’s), it’s heavier than most rain jackets by a considerable margin. The thick shell fabric and 2-layer construction give it a bulky, almost winter-jacket-like feel. By comparison, the Arc’teryx Beta—my go-to shell lately—weighs just 10.6 oz (13.2 oz. for the men’s). Even heavier budget options like the Cotopaxi Cielo or Outdoor Research Foray stay closer to 1 pound, making the Teris feel overbuilt for anything but cold, wet environments.
There’s no stuff sack or self-stowing pocket, though you can roll the jacket into its hood for a makeshift packed shape—about the size of two Nalgenes stacked end to end. This isn’t a shell you’ll toss into a pack "just in case," and it’s certainly not suited for backpacking or ultralight travel. Where it does shine is in cold-weather day hikes, everyday use, and even resort skiing—scenarios where protection matters more than packability. REI lists backpacking among its intended uses, but in practice, the Teris is far better suited to more stationary or gear-tolerant activities.
Built with an impressively thick Gore-Tex shell, this jacket feels more like a ski or urban piece than a traditional rain jacket. While REI doesn’t disclose the fabric’s denier, the outer material is easily the burliest of any rain jacket I’ve used. It holds up well against abrasion, blocks wind with authority, and shows no signs of wear after repeated use. The zippers glide smoothly, and the hardware and stitching throughout feel solid and confidence-inspiring.
If there’s a weak point, it might be the thin interior liner, which could be more vulnerable to long-term wear. So far, however, it’s held up well with no issues. At $249, the value depends on what you’re looking for: while lighter jackets like the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L ($189) offer similar waterproofing at a lower price and weight, they don’t match the Teris’s ruggedness or ski-ready feel. If you need a durable shell for cold-weather hiking, stormy commutes, or occasional skiing, the Teris brings serious longevity to the table at a reasonable Gore-Tex price point.
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Longevity
Choosing durable outdoor gear and keeping it in use for longer is one of the best ways to reduce environmental impact. Our proprietary longevity rating assesses factors like overall build quality, materials, fabric denier, component durability, and real-world performance. A green check indicates that we expect the product to be long-lasting relative to its peers, a yellow check mark indicates average longevity, and a red X indicates a product that may have a limited lifespan.
PFAS-Free DWR
Durable water-repellent (DWR) finishes can contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These highly persistent “forever chemicals” are used in outdoor gear for their strong resistance to water, oil, and heat, but are linked to environmental contamination and a range of health concerns. A green check mark indicates the product uses a PFAS-free DWR, while a red X means the DWR contains PFAS.
PFAS-Free Waterproof Membrane
The membranes used in waterproof products such as rain jackets, ski jackets, and shoes can contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These highly persistent “forever chemicals” are valued for their resistance to water, oil, and heat, but are linked to environmental contamination and a range of health concerns. A green check mark indicates the product’s waterproof membrane is PFAS-free, while a red X means it contains PFAS.
Recycled Materials
Recycled materials are prevalent in outdoor gear, with nylon, polyester, wool, and down among the most common, but the composition varies widely. A green check mark indicates the product is made with a substantial amount of recycled materials (100% recycled or the core fabric that makes up most of the product is recycled), a yellow check means it contains a moderate to small amount of recycled materials, while a red X means there are no recycled materials in the product.
Bluesign Approved
Bluesign Technologies, based in Switzerland, operates a third-party textile management system that ensures materials are manufactured to strict environmental, chemical, and worker safety standards. A green check mark indicates a product is either a Bluesign Product (contains at least 90% Bluesign-approved fabrics and 20-30% Bluesign-approved accessories) or features a significant amount of Bluesign-approved materials. A yellow check mark means it uses some Bluesign-approved materials but less than the aforementioned category, and a red X means there are no Bluesign-approved materials in the product.
Responsible Manufacturing
This criterion evaluates a brand’s commitment to fair wages, safe working conditions, and reducing environmental impact through certifications and programs like Fair Trade Certified, Fair Wear Foundation, Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP), and the Fair Labor Association, while also recognizing brands that manufacture primarily in the U.S. or Europe under strict labor and environmental regulations. A green check mark indicates a brand meets our responsible manufacturing criteria, while a red X means it does not.
Recycled and/or Reduced Packaging
Packaging can add significant waste to outdoor gear purchases, so many brands work to reduce its impact by using recycled materials, incorporating Forest Stewardship Council-certified paper products, and minimizing plastic and paper use. A green check mark indicates a brand uses recycled or reduced materials across all of its packaging, a yellow check indicates moderate or limited use of recycled or reduced packaging, and a red X indicates the brand does not make either of these efforts.
Repair Services
Repair services extend the lifespan of outdoor gear and reduce overall consumption, though programs vary widely. Some brands offer comprehensive repairs for a range of issues, while others provide limited or no repair support. A green check mark indicates a robust repair program, a yellow check mark indicates limited repair services, and a red X indicates the brand does not offer repair services.
Resale and/or Recycling Services
Resale and recycling programs help keep outdoor gear in circulation longer and out of landfills, ranging from trade-in resale platforms that offer store credit to take-back initiatives that recycle products at the end of their usable life. A green check mark indicates a brand offers both resale and recycling programs, a yellow check mark indicates it offers one or the two, and a red X indicates it offers neither.
Carbon Footprint Tracking
This criterion evaluates whether a brand measures, reports, and works to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions using established frameworks such as the Higg Index, Greenhouse Gas Protocol, or The Change Climate Project. A green check mark indicates a brand publicly reports greenhouse gas emissions data, sets clearly defined reduction targets, and uses established tracking frameworks such as Higg or The Change Climate Project. A yellow check mark indicates the brand tracks emissions and outlines reduction goals but provides limited data, lacks science-based verification, or does not clearly report progress. A red X indicates the brand does not appear to track greenhouse gas emissions or provides so little information that its efforts cannot be verified.
Annual Impact Report
Annual impact reports provide transparency and accountability by outlining a brand’s sustainability efforts across areas such as material sourcing, greenhouse gas emissions, waste, water use, supply chains, and packaging. A green check mark indicates a brand publishes a detailed, brand-specific impact report that closely aligns with our sustainability criteria and leaves little room for ambiguity. A yellow check indicates a brand provides some relevant sustainability reporting but lacks detail in key areas or is covered only briefly within a parent company report. A red X indicates a brand does not regularly publish an impact report.
Hood
The hood is generously sized and helmet-compatible, with a three-point adjustment system that includes a rear cinch and dual elastic cords at the front. It’s easy to dial in a snug, secure fit whether you’re wearing a hat, helmet, or going bare-headed. That said, the large volume can lead to some bunching along the sides when worn without a helmet. A stiff front brim adds structure and helps shield your face from rain and snow. Overall, the hood is a highlight of the design—protective, adjustable, and well-executed for variable conditions.
Storage
The Teris GTX includes a standard trio of external pockets: two average-sized hand pockets and a smaller zippered chest pocket on the upper left side. All are protected with fabric flaps for added water resistance, and they function well for small essentials like snacks, keys, or a phone. While the pocket layout is perfectly serviceable, it’s nothing standout—given the jacket’s weight and bulk, an internal pocket (such as a stretchy dump-style pocket often found on ski shells) would have been a welcome addition.
I typically wear an XL to 2X, and for the REI Co-op Teris GTX, I opted for a 1XL. Overall, the fit worked well—length and back coverage were solid, and the sleeves hit just the right point without running too long or short. Shoulder width was slightly snug, though not restrictive, but if I wanted to layer a bulkier insulated piece underneath, I’d likely size up. As-is, it works best with slimmer midlayers like a fleece or lightweight synthetic jacket.
The cut is best described as a regular fit—neither particularly trim nor overly roomy. However, due to the jacket’s stiff and structured build, it doesn’t accommodate bulky layering as well as softer or more flexible shells. If you plan to wear it primarily for cold-weather activities where insulation is key, consider sizing up. Otherwise, it offers a functional and fairly true-to-size fit for day hikes, snowshoeing, or everyday wear in cool and wet conditions.
Outdoor Research Aspire 3L ($249): Lighter, More Breathable, More Versatile
Though it shares the same $249 price tag as the REI Teris GTX, the Outdoor Research Aspire 3L (men's Foray 3L) offers a clear performance edge as a rain jacket. With a premium 3-layer AscentShell membrane and a total weight of around 14 ounces (roughly 6 ounces lighter than the Teris), the Aspire is significantly more breathable, less bulky, and more comfortable for high-output activities or backpacking. That said, the Teris holds an advantage in crossover use—it’s far burlier and better suited for cold-weather outings or as an occasional ski shell. If you want a true rain jacket, go Aspire. If you want one that doubles for winter use, the Teris might fit the bill. For more, read our Aspire 3L review.
REI Co-op First Chair GTX ($319): Ski-Specific, but Less Versatile
We don’t often compare gear across categories, but in the case of the REI Teris GTX, the line between rain and ski jacket gets blurry. Both it and the First Chair GTX use the same 2-layer Gore-Tex ePE membrane, but the First Chair adds ski-specific features like a powder skirt, helmet-compatible hood, and ample internal storage—all at a higher $319 price point. If downhill skiing is your main focus, the First Chair is the better tool. But the Teris holds its own for light ski days, shoulder-season hikes, and even around-town wear. It’s a rare crossover shell that looks and feels appropriate in multiple settings. For more, read our review of the REI Co-op First Chair GTX.
The thick and burly Teris GTX is listed as a multi-sport jacket, bridging the gap between rain and snow. As an occasional rain jacket and especially when not working up a sweat, it’s a fine option. But it’s far too heavy to be a viable backcountry piece in non-winter-like conditions.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
A recent revamp to an old classic, the new Foray features OR’s 3-layer AscentShell Dry construction and Nikwax Direct.Dry DWR. But while it offers reliable protection against wet weather, it’s pricier than alternatives and has a fairly clunky design that lacks a premium feel.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
The Beta is Arc’teryx’s premium 3-layer Gore-Tex rain jacket for frontcountry and light backcountry use. The lack of pit zips and a helmet-compatible hood limits its versatility (and $400 is a lot to spend on a fairly simple rain shell), but it's a long-lasting choice with a low weight.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Is the Teris GTX for You?
If you’re looking for a rugged rain jacket that borders on a ski jacket in feel and function, the Teris GTX could be a great fit. It’s overbuilt for traditional hiking or backpacking, but its burly construction, full Gore-Tex protection, and longer cut make it ideal for cold-weather day hikes, snowy commutes, and even resort skiing. You’ll give up breathability and packability, but if you value durability, weather protection, and crossover appeal in a single jacket, the REI Co-op Teris GTX checks a lot of boxes—just not the ultralight ones.
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