Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something through one of our links, we may earn commission.
Why do we like this deal?
REI’s 4th of July Deals Sale goes live with thousands of new deals on cycling, camping, and hiking gear. Unlike Amazon Prime Day, you won’t see half-off sales on items from brands you’ve never heard of. Instead, you’ll see more rare discounts on premium gear from other labels like Yeti, Osprey, and Coleman. One of the best deals from this sale comes on one of REI’s own hiking jackets. It’s a beast in bad weather, and now, it’s 40% off.
The price of the REI Co-op Activator Soft-Shell Hoodie is reduced to $100 during this sale – in both colors – 40% off its normal price. The Activator is a style that REI has been making for a while, and its buyers are loving it. In fact, this most recent version of the jacket has already earned the “Top Rated” badge.
REI Co-op Activator Soft-Shell Hoodie, $100 at REI (was $169)
Courtesy of REI
What shoppers need to know
- available sizes: Small to 3XL
- Material: 63% Nylon, 26% Polyester, 11% Spandex
- Notable Design Options: Laminated brim hood, hook-and-loop sleeves, zip-cord hem and high side pockets
- Weather Resistance: wind and rain
- Best use case: This is a rain jacket designed for people who need protection from the weather while wearing a pack.
This jacket protects against rain and wind with a DWR-ready blend of nylon, polyester, and BlueSign-approved spandex. Velcro-style hook-and-loop tabs around the cuffs and a zip cord at the waist hem help prevent wind and fog from blowing inside the jacket while remaining comfortable to wear.
Of course, the big highlight of this kind of jacket should be the hood. The strong, laminated edge of the activator stays strong instead of fraying down. This provides additional overhang, almost like an awning for your face, while also giving the wearer a naturally larger and freer range of vision.
The Activator is available in six sizes, ranging from small to 3XL, and in three colors that create a deep, earthy feel. With solid colors and no insignia other than the REI Co-op logo, the Activator should style easily with most hiking pants and boots.
RELATED: Merrell’s Well-Made Waterproof Tactical Hiking Boots Are Nearly 60% Off Right Now
what shoppers are saying
There are no written reviews for this jacket yet, but buyers had a lot to say about the previous version. Much of the discussion revolved around the placement of the side pockets. Unlike the bottom pockets present in most jackets and hoodies, the Activator’s pockets are located just below the midpoint of the jacket.
This pocket placement offers a unique experience, but it can be divisive. As someone says, “I like how high the pockets are so I can use them even when wearing a pack.” Another shopper, not using his pocket, found the situation awkward. If you frequently strap a pack to your front, it’s an excellent pack. If you don’t expect to do this then look for more traditional rain jacket deals.
The REI Co-op Activator Soft-Shell Hoodie is discounted to $69 during the sale, which runs through July 6. Get your favorite size and color combination whenever possible.
buy more deals
- Mountain Hardwear Glacial Trail Full-Zip Jacket, $80 (was $130) at REI.
- REI Co-op ZeroCloud 3L Rain Jacket, starting at $100 at REI (was $189)
- Osprey Transporter Panel Loader Pack, $90 at REI (was $165).
