Columbia Storm Surge Waterproof Pants - Review 2023

Construction and Design

Columbia Storm Surge Waterproof Pants come with a relaxed fit to accommodate base layers. It’s crafted with a nylon shell and polyester lining to ensure that you stay dry and warm without clamminess building up. Even though there’s good breathability (more on that later), don’t expect that much stretchiness from the nylon material. 4ucycling, MIER, and Rdruko Waterproof Pants are great examples if you need something for mobility. They have a 4-way stretch fabric for more freedom of movement.

These women’s waterproof pants have an elastic waistband with a drawcord for on the fly adjustment. It offers a snug fit to keep up with your movements, whether you’re active skiing or harrowing downpours to your workplace. You’ll also notice a secret pocket inside along the waistband that you can use to keep any small items secure and close to your body.

See 4ucycling Waterproof Pants and TBMPOY Waterproof Pants if you need more pockets. They both have zipped side pockets for extra room for keys, mints, and change.

Now, the Storm Surge has Velcro tabs at the ankles. It gives you the option to customize how you would like it to fit. These waterproof pants also sit well over ski boots without any hassle. Hem adjustment is a feature that other models lack, making adjustments impossible. You’ll also find different designs like drawcord (see Trailside Supply Co.) or snaps (see Columbia Bugaboo II).

Storm Surge vs. Trailside Supply Co. Vs. Bugaboo II

Overall, Columbia Storm Surge Waterproof Pants has an excellent construction that can withstand time. The relaxed fit and simplicity of its design make it lightweight rain gear. But if you want feature-jammed waterproof pants, this might not be the best choice for you.

Waterproofness and Breathability

Under the nylon shell, these waterproof pants have Columbia’s Omni-Tech Membrane. It’s the magic behind Storm Surge’s capacity to keep out water while providing breathability at the same time.

It’s got 10,000 mm waterproofness which translates to high water resistance against heavy downpours and snow. But keep in mind that with enough pressure and prolonged exposure, your waterproof pants might start soaking up moisture.

If you need to run errands or do chores while it rains, you can count that Storm Surge will keep you dry. It’s also a great option if you’re one of us who find beauty in monsoon cloudburst and capture it from different angles.

They have a profile that’s minimal enough to be a permanent fixture in your bag without taking up too much space. This comes in handy, in particular in the PNW rain belt, when rain clouds converge with little or no warning.

The Storm Surge waterproof pants serve with a 10,000 g/m2/24 hr. rating for breathability. It means it still allows water vapor to pass through from the inside to avoid making you muggy while allowing enough air to penetrate through. It’s the ideal option for skiing without going out of the trail, plus the polyester lining offers additional warmth and breathability with a base layer underneath.

Overall, Columbia Storm Surge Waterproof Pants performs with balanced waterproofness and breathability. It’s not for hardcore torrential storms. But for urban daily use? They’ll pass the test with flying colors.

GORE-TEX waterproof pants are better alternatives if you want a workhorse that can go head-on with unforgiving downpours. Maybe you’re working on the field, camping, or hiking. Check out Marmot Men’s Minimalists and its Paclite technology with around 28,000 mm waterproof rating and 15-25,000 g/m2/24 hr. breathability.

Still indecisive? See our complete guide to the best waterproof pants for more options and comparisons.

Ease of Use

These Columbia waterproof pants offer a practical design. Although there’s nothing special about them, Storm Surge is easy to use and adjust, which we appreciate. You can move enough since there’s a bit of spare room with its relaxed fit. Some customers complain about how Storm Surge has a weird fit, but we didn’t have that trouble so far. The only thing we would like added is side zippers from the hem upwards, so there’s no need to take your shoes off to remove them.

Having these side zips also aids in ventilation when the weather is way too unpredictable- one minute it’s raining heavily, and the sun’s out again in another. It’s a valuable feature we loved in Marmot Men’s Minimalist and 5Oaks Waterproof Pants. It’s convenient, especially when you’re out in tropical environments. Columbia’s Silver Ridge took it to another level. You can literally unzip and detach the entire length from above the knee down to dump accumulated heat.

But when it comes to no-BS effortless rain protection from unexpected rain, Storm Surge waterproof pants are ready for a quick snatch and pull.

Can’t make up your mind? Check out these waterproof pants and decide which one is the best. 

Summary

Columbia Storm Surge Waterproof Pants is a reasonably priced reliable rain gear for at least $50. It serves with solid construction and a straightforward design, making it super easy to use.

It’s not the best of the rest, but these waterproof pants can deal with anything from drizzles to downpours and everything in-between as long as you avoid prolonged exposure. Storm Surge is a practical option for the daily urban warrior and outdoor enthusiasts short on funds.

Not satisfied with its performance? Take a look at more waterproof pants here!

Buy these waterproof pants if:

• Want a pair of waterproof pants worth its price
• Only need them for everyday use, i.e., commute to work, school, run errands
• Looking for reliable waterproof pants that are not too heavy and bulky