ProView – Beringia Dragonfly Jacket Review

The Beringia Dragonfly Waterproof Jacket is a minimalist rain shell built for moving fast in the backcountry. Weighing next to nothing and packing down smaller than my favorite breakfast burrito, it’s designed for people who want protection without the bulk. I tested it in the foothills of Colorado and the mountains of Guatemala. The jacket is fully waterproof, windproof, and breathable.

Performance/Features

This jacket quickly became my go-to layer for unpredictable Colorado weather—light enough to live in the bottom of my pack, but reliable enough to throw on when the clouds roll in. I’ve been hiking in Colorado for over ten years and have learned to make friends with the sudden alpine showers by always being prepared for them. This jacket even traveled with me to Guatemala – the afternoon rolling rains were oddly reminiscent of Colorado’s weather patterns, despite the distance between the two. 

The Dragonfly doesn’t try to be anything it’s not: no pit zips (though it does have vents), no excessive pockets (just chest), no bulk. Just straightforward protection and freedom of movement. The zippers are smooth and waterproof, and the minimalist design is what keeps it feeling featherlight.

Durability/Construction

Despite its low weight, the Dragonfly feels tough. The fabric has handled abrasion from pack straps, travel wear, and trail grit without issue, and the waterproofing has remained consistent through months of testing. The zippers are particularly well-made—a detail that often separates good rain gear from great. This jacket takes tons of abuse being stuffed down in my pack, and I’m happy to report it’s still kickin’.

Weight/Packability

This is where the Dragonfly shines. It packs down into any pocket or backpack, taking up less space than a water bottle. It’s always with me in my hiking pack, travel bag, or tucked behind a car seat. It’s so light (5.8oz for a size medium) there’s no reason to leave it behind. I love that it’s modeled after the Anisoptera wing (dragonfly are in this suborder), which inspired the jacket’s light weight.

Fit/Comfort

The fit runs large and feels more tailored toward men. I had to size down two full sizes instead of the one it suggests on the site, but I do appreciate that it layers easily over whatever I’m wearing. It’s comfortable in motion and never restrictive, though don’t expect a contoured, fashion-forward cut—it’s built for moving, not posing.

What Sets the Product Apart

What makes the Beringia Dragonfly unique is its commitment to being exactly what it is – the lightest weight rain jacket that is extremely waterproof. Beringia has stripped away unnecessary extras—pit zips, bulky pockets, stiff hoods—to create something ultralight and reliable. It’s the jacket you always have room for. Unlike many technical shells, it feels almost invisible when packed or worn, proving that minimalist doesn’t have to mean underperforming.

Who Is the Product For

The Dragonfly is made for people who spend long days outdoors and want quick, easy weather protection without the weight penalty. It’s perfect for hikers, travelers, runners, and fast-moving adventurers who value simplicity and efficiency. If you’re the type who wants a just-in-case shell that’s always in your pack “just in case,” this is it. However, if you prefer tons of pockets or plan to weather prolonged downpours, you may want something burlier.

The Final Word

The Beringia Dragonfly Waterproof Jacket is the ultimate “just-in-case” layer—simple, light, and always ready. It’s perfect for hikers, travelers, and anyone who needs a no-fuss waterproof shell that disappears into a pack. It’s not built for gear junkies who want every feature under the sun, but for fast movers and minimalist adventurers, it’s a constant companion.

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