REVIEW: Outdoor Research Men's Foray 3L Jacket
After years of struggling with cheap and ill-fitting plus size waterproofs, walker and cyclist Chris Gill purchased the Outdoor Research Foray 3L men's waterproof jacket in spring 2025 for an upcoming cycling expedition. He shares his thoughts after giving it a road test during May and June 2025.
"I love my Foray 3l Jacket. It’s the first off-the-peg waterproof that really fits me."
What prompted the purchase?
After years of making do, I now try to buy fewer but good quality clothing that is multi-functional so that it can be used day to day as well as for walking and cycling, including getting around town on a bike or for longer distance cycle touring.
My Outdoor Research Foray 3L Jacket was used during the Edinburgh Marathon Festival in May 2025 and during my pedal of the John Muir Way over 3 days in June 2025.
What features did you like?
The Foray 3L Jacket fits the brief very well. It is well made; the hood is probably the best fitting I have had as it can be cinched down over my head or expanded to fit over a cycling helmet and still leave adequate side vision. The ventilation is outstanding, and the back is long enough to cover the whole of my back when I’m cycle touring.
How was the fit?
The fit is outstanding. Tailors describe my physique as short portly and the Foray 3L jacket is an excellent fit on me with the 3XL true to size.
How was the performance?
The stretch and drape of the fabric is excellent and the waterproofing and wind resistance outstanding. The weather in Musselburgh during this year’s Edinburgh Marathon festival was a blend of wind, rain, hail and glorious sunshine but I was always comfortable in the Foray 3L Jacket.
The first day of my John Muir Way ride saw pouring rain in Helensburgh and the jacket remained waterproof. As the rain eased, I was able to open the side vents to cool down until glorious sunshine later in the day meant that I no longer needed the jacket on.
The fabric has been durable so far and the jacket is well made. Details like the hanging loop, hood adjustability, Velcro cuff straps, shaped cuffs, zips and excellent ventilation, stitched logos and taped seams are much appreciated by me and justify the price.
Overall impression?
I love my Foray 3l Jacket. It’s the first off-the-peg waterproof that really fits me. I feel comfortable wearing it, indeed dare I say that I feel normal and the jacket has performed well in multiple situations and will accompany me on all my travels and adventures.
Over the years I’ve had several cheap waterproofs bought on the assumption that Id soon be shrinking and would then buy a better-quality jacket. I did manage to buy a 3XL commuting cycling jacket which I “wore to death!” but it wasn’t suitable for multiple activities. Following its demise I reverted to buying inexpensive waterproofs which were a lousy fit and not waterproof – a waste of money.
Having made do with ill-fitting or no suitable waterproof apparel for too long I decided to invest in a good quality, properly fitting waterproof that has multiple applications. The Foray 3L Jacket fits the bill perfectly and has enabled me to do so much more.
Buy the Outdoor Research Foray 3L Men's Waterproof in 2XL and 3XL sizes here