best light weight travel rain jacket

15 Best Lightweight Rain Jackets for Travelers

By Rachel Chang and Meaghan Kenny

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Nothing ruins your day like getting caught in the rain without the shield of a trusty rain jacket. As travelers, it's not always convenient to halt plans when a downpour strikes—a lightweight rain jacket can make all the difference the next time your afternoon hike or day of museum hopping gets interrupted by an expected shower. The best rain jackets for travelers are completely waterproof, windproof, and packable (bonus points if it stashes down into one of its own pockets). To help narrow your search, we rounded up 15 versatile and durable lightweight rain jackets to bring on your next adventure, whether you're anticipating some less-than-perfect weather or want something compact just in case.

Keep scrolling for our top lightweight rain jackets to wear this spring and beyond, from trusted brands like Patagonia, Columbia, Lululemon, and more. But first, let's answer some commonly asked questions you might be wondering while shopping for your new jacket.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

How do I wash a rain jacket?

While most rain jackets can be thrown in the washing machine on a gentle setting, always check the brand's website or the jacket's tag for any specific cleaning instructions. If you are machine washing, prevent ripping or damaging the waterproof coating by choosing a delicate cycle and limiting it to a quick wash if possible.

Are packable rain jackets worth it?

Jackets can be heavy, bulky, and take up a lot of precious packing space. Travelers will benefit from buying a lightweight, packable rain jacket that can be folded up tightly to fit inside a carry-on . Some options below can even be packed into their own pocket, like the Columbia Arcadia II and the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L rain jacket.

How should a rain jacket fit?

It's a safe bet to buy your true size in a rain jacket, or slightly larger to accommodate layers. Ideally, your rain jacket should be fitted and snug enough to keep you warm and protected on its own, but roomy enough to wear a sweater underneath it on chilly nights.

Our top picks:

• Best everyday rain jacket: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L rain jacket
• Best packable rain jacket: REI Co-op Rainier rain jacket
• Best for warm weather: FP Movement Singin' In The Rain packable jacket
• Best hiking rain jacket: Arc'teryx Beta LT Jacket
• Best budget-friendly rain jacket: Columbia Glennaker rain jacket

Whether you're exploring a new city or heading into the office, the Torrentshell rain jacket is equally practical and polished. It features a two-way-adjustable hood and a micro-fleece-lined neck to deliver a comfortable waterproof yet breathable barrier. It packs up to fit in its front pocket, so you can easily toss it in your carry-on or weekender bag last minute. This bestseller is available in men's and women's sizes and various colors, including white, black, mauve, blue, green, and more.

The Columbia Arcadia II rain jacket has just the right dose of everything. Its Omni-Tech nylon fabric is sturdy enough to make you feel protected, but its breathable mesh lining prioritizes comfort whether you're on the trails or riding a bike—and the adjustable velcro cuffs and collar allow you to quickly make adjustments on the go. Plus, the whole thing zips into a pouch in one of the hand pockets.

This waterproof and wind-resistant jacket from FP Movement has got you covered on all of your outdoor adventures this spring and summer. Designed with breathable fabric and a sweat-wicking interior, this extra-long jacket keeps you cool and protected on warm yet rainy days spent hiking or camping. Our favorite thing about this oversized jacket (besides how good it looks) is that it packs down into its back pocket.

Available in both women's and men's sizes, the Rainier rain jacket is made for an adventurous day on the trails. At under 10 ounces, its plenty lightweight and yet can handle winds up to 60 MPH. Its made with recycled ripstop nylon and a durable water repellent finish that keeps you dry while still feeling breathable. It features two zippered hand pockets and two internal drop-in pockets so you can keep small essentials with you without needing to carry a bag. When it's time to throw it in your backpack at the end of the day, simply pack it down into its own pocket.

This packable men's half-zip is versatile enough to wear year-round and to wherever your travel itinerary takes you. It's an Amazon bestseller—racking up on average rating of 4.6 stars and mostly all positive reviews. It features a large front pocket, elastic cuffs, and a wind- and water-resistant coating. It shows off Champion's signature logo for a more athletic look and can be packed into its front pocket and easily tucked away. Plus, at under $50, it's affordable while still being a well-made, packable, and functional rain jacket.

I'm eyeing this lightweight zip-up for spring days spent playing pickleball or tennis. Made from mostly recycled materials, the Willow jacket features a heat-dissipating mesh and a durable water repellent finish to keep you dry and cool during active, rainy days. This sleek, water-resistant jacket also comes with welt pockets, a storm flap, and a drawcord that lets you adjust the hood.

A sturdy and reliable option loved by outdoorsy travelers, the Carharrt Rain Defender features a water-repellent coating that keeps you dry on rainy days. It's insulated and quilted to keep you warm without being too bulky to pack and it's great for layering over a sweater come winter. It features an adjustable hood, drawcord drop-tail hem for extra coverage, and a zippered storage pocket for stashing your phone or wallet.

If you're looking for a mid-thigh length jacket that offers plenty of coverage during rainy days outdoors, this waterproof and windproof option from Lands' End might just be the one for you. It features elastic cuffs to keep rain out, an adjustable hood, and a draw cord that cinches the waist for a flattering fit. And like all the best rain jackets for travelers, this one packs down into its pocket.

The best-selling Glennaker rain jacket is ultra-lightweight and packs down into its chest pocket, making it a great option to toss in your suitcase (you know, just in case). Made of waterproof nylon, it features a stowaway hood, zippered front pockets, and adjustable sleeve cuffs. It will certainly keep you protected and warm during a downpour, but it's versatile enough to not look out of place while hiking, biking, or sightseeing.

This sleek option from Lululemon proves rain jackets can be just as stylish as they are functional. Not only does this one look good, but it’s made with a windproof and waterproof exterior, and a sweat-wicking liner, making it a perfect year-round jacket. It has a classic fit and hits right at the thigh, offering more coverage than your average rain jacket. There are also several zippered pockets, a hidden phone sleeve, and a cinchable waist and hood to help ensure the perfect fit.

Ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities, this top-rated rain jacket features a WaterTight front zipper that prevents moisture from slipping through the cracks. Its snug fit blocks cold air from hitting your back and the sleeves are designed to offer a full range of motion. This waterproof and windproof jacket also features an adjustable hood and several zippered pockets.

Finding durability in a lightweight rain jacket can feel like an oxymoron, but Coalatree has found the secret in its self-healing HiloTech fabric. The Whistler Windbreaker shows off this magic: whether you've got a puncture or tear, just rub your fingers over the rip and the heat and friction will cause it to mend on its own. Even better, the unisex jacket is still DWR (durable water repellent) coated and weighs just seven ounces.

Danish brand Rains designed this rain jacket for an active lifestyle. The two-way waterproof zipper ensures all-around wind and rain protection, while the cap and adjustable hood and hem offer flexibility to cater to any condition. The neutral color options—black, navy, olive, or gray—will blend in with any outfit.

With a 100 percent recycled polyester shell, the Vuori Oahu rain jacket delivers seam-sealed waterproof protection. This jacket offers a power mesh lining, duckbill hood, and a durable exterior designed to withstand heavy rain. And not only is this packable jacket so sleek, it's ethically made, too.

This one is best for those extra chilly days or nights. Made from 100 percent recycled fabrics, the Antora jacket features a waterproof, windproof, and seam-sealed shell to keep you dry. It comes with an adjustable three-piece hood, elastic-bound cuffs, a drop-tail hem, and plenty of zippered pockets to hold keys, AirPods, or other small essentials.

Table of contents

10 Best Rain Jackets of 2024

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A quality rain jacket is a staple for any outdoor adventure: it will shield you from rain, wind, and cold, keeping you dry, warm, and comfortable. Our team of seasoned backpackers and dedicated gear buffs doesn’t just compare specs – we researched 80 models and have trail-tested more than 40 rain jackets over the past ten years from brands like Patagonia, Arc’teryx, REI, and Outdoor Research to see how they perform in real-world conditions.

From the rain forests of Oregon and the summer monsoons of the Rocky Mountains to the swampy and soggy Appalachians, we’ve put over 500 days of downpour to good use and whittled this list to the best of the best when it comes to rain protection.

If you prefer ponchos or umbrellas on trail, we’ve also picked out our top choices for each. And if you’ll be in really wet conditions, we recommend taking a look at our list of the top rain pants available. And if chilly days and nights are in the forecast, you’ll definitely want to layer up with one of our favorite fleeces or down jackets .

Quick Picks for Rain Jackets

Take a look at this quick list of our favorite rain jackets or continue reading to see our full list with in-depth reviews.

Best rain jacket overall: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L – Men’s / Women’s ($179)

Best rain jacket for ventilation: Outdoor Research Foray II – Men’s / Aspire II – Women’s ($225)

Best budget rain jacket: REI Rainier – Men’s / Women’s ($100)

Super comfortable rain jacket : Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic – Men’s / Women’s ($230)

Best ultralight rain jacket: Montbell Versalite – Men’s / Women’s ($260)

Most protective rain jacket for wet conditions: Arc’teryx Beta – Men’s / Women’s ($400)

Breathable ultralight rain jacket: Zpacks Vertice – Men’s / Women’s ($299)

Lightweight & affordable rain jacket: Black Diamond StormLine Stretch – Men’s / Women’s ($180)

High value rain jacket: REI Flash Stretch – Men’s / Women’s ($169)

Most affordable ultralight rain jacket: Outdoor Research Helium – Men’s ($170) / Women’s ($180)

Affordable & versatile rain jacket: Marmot Precip Eco – Men’s / Women’s ($120)

After many drizzly desert mornings and massive mountain thunderstorms, we’ve updated our list:

• The Outdoor Research Foray II ( men’s ) / Aspire II ( women’s ) are top contenders for their unrivaled ventilation, quality construction, and cool colorways.
• The Arc’teryx Beta ( men’s / women’s ) earns a spot thanks to its durable and quiet fabric and an excellent hood design.
• We added the brand new and super comfy REI Flash Stretch Jacket ( men’s / women’s ), a great choice for 3-season hiking thanks to an oversized fit and quick-drying fabrics.
• The affordable and practical Marmot Precip Eco ( men’s / women’s ) gets the nod as a less expensive comfortable rain jacket.
• We added suggestions for ponchos for hiking based on comfort, versatility, and packed size as well as our picks for the best umbrellas for hiking .

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L

Best rain jacket overall

Price: $179

Weight: 14.1 oz. (men’s) / 12.4 oz. (women’s)

• Durable materials
• High-quality construction
• Deep pockets
• Stylish fit
• Strong hem & sleeve ties
• Packs small into its own pocket
• Hood rolls up
• Tons of colorways
• A bit heavy/bulky for extended backcountry trips
• A bit baggy in sleeves
• No external chest pocket

The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L ( men’s / women’s ) has been at the top of our list for many years, and for good reason. It’s one of our go-to rain jackets and all-time favorites. From 150-day thru-hikes of the CDT including torrential downpours, high-alpine blizzards, and drizzly fall weather, to trips skiing, camping, and hiking the local trails, this jacket is a durable, affordable workhorse.

The Torrentshell features laminated triple-layer construction that makes it protective in sustained rain, but still feels impressively lightweight on your body. The hood is adjustable and features a large visor to keep the rain out of your eyes and off your face, but it also rolls away easily with a cord and hook when not in use.

For a rain jacket, the Torrentshell is cozy. A soft microfleece lining at the neck adds a soft-to-the-touch feel and wicks away moisture with ease. This jacket has two hand warmer pockets as well as storm flaps – overlapping material that covers the main zipper and pit zips to help you stay dry.

Even though it’s a bit bulky, the Torrentshell still packs down small into the left hand warmer pocket and comes with a convenient carabiner loop so you can keep it easily accessible when the skies open up.

The only major complaint we have about the Torrentshell is its weight. At 14.1 ounces for the men’s version and 12.4 ounces for the women’s, there are other jackets on this list that are better suited for long-distance trips where shaving pack weight is important. So if you’re considering the Torrentshell exclusively for backpacking, we’d recommend other options on this list.

Though it’s not as airy or compressible as some, we highly recommend it for adventures when stormy conditions are inevitable. The Torrentshell is a versatile, reasonably affordable, and very durable jacket that we recommend for all-around use.

Outdoor Research Foray II / Aspire II

Best rain jacket for ventilation

Price: $225

Weight: 11.9 oz. (men’s) / 11.7 oz. (women’s)

• Extra-long pit zips for unrivaled ventilation
• Deep handwarmer pockets
• External chest pocket
• Supple, flexible material
• Many colorways
• A little pricey
• A bit tight for those with wide shoulders

Thanks to excellent ventilation and smart design details, the Outdoor Research Foray II ( men’s ) / Aspire II ( women’s ) earns a spot at the top of our list. This jacket offers some of the best ventilation on the market, top-tier wind and rain resistance, and a stylish cut. CleverHiker Managing Editor, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, has used the Foray II on dozens of day hikes from the iron skies of Michigan to the rugged high alpine of the Colorado Rockies, it’s one of his go-tos for wet weather, and it continues to perform season after season.

If you’re looking for a jacket with breathability, the Foray and Aspire take ventilation to the next level. We love rain jackets with large pit zips for their breathability, but these Outdoor Research models have zippers that extend from the armpit all the way to the bottom hem. This versatile design allows you to completely unzip the jacket down your torso for extreme, poncho-style ventilation, or very precisely control how much airflow you want to keep your entire upper body cool.

Details matter when it comes to performance gear, and the Foray and Aspire are no exception. A simple hood drawcord is well placed and easy to reach, and large hem drawstrings make micro-adjustments a breeze while on the move. We love that the Foray and Aspire’s cuffs offer both elastic and large Velcro tabs for use with bulky gloves.

We found the fit is a bit tight through the shoulders, so if you’ve got a broad or wide build, you’ll want to double-check sizing. And though this jacket is a little pricey, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better value for a relatively lightweight, super-breathable option. When the weather begins to turn and the skies open up, this jacket is a stellar option for staying both dry and well-ventilated. 

REI Rainier

Best budget rain jacket

Price: $100

Weight: 11.3 oz. (men’s) / 9.9 oz. (women’s)

• Lightweight
• Button at bottom of zipper flaps keeps rain out
• Lots of colorways
• Deep zippered handwarmer pockets
• Packs into itself
• Oversized hood
• Less durable than others
• A bit challenging to pack into stash pocket

The REI Rainier rain jacket ( men’s / women’s ) has been a favorite of hikers, backpackers, and our team at CleverHiker for a long time. For only $100, this jacket offers a stellar value: it’s well-designed and balances light weight and weather protection. The Rainier has been one of our favorite jackets as a team over thousands of miles on trail, from day hikes in the Cascades to weeks at a time in the Colorado Rockies, and it has performed extremely well.

The Rainier covers all the basics and adds small details we love. Articulated elbows offer a better range of motion with layers on, there are two internal drop pockets – unlike many jackets, which have one (or none) – and the hood is adjustable with a large Velcro tab that’s easy to manipulate even when your hands are wet and cold. Plus, it has pit zips and a practical drawstring hem.

The Rainier offers a slim but modern style, so it doesn’t look out of place whether you’re headed to the local brewery after walking the dog under dreary skies or backpacking on a stormy weekend. We appreciate that the newest version is a bit quieter thanks to a refreshed nylon blend, and the Rainier comes in an array of colorways, from brighter to muted and mellow for every style.

The cons of the Rainier are few. At its price point, it’s a little less durable than burlier models but we have gotten several seasons of use from different versions. It’s also a bit cumbersome to stash into its own pocket, although it makes for a fairly compact package once all the material is collapsed.

The Marmot PreCip Eco is almost identical to the Rainier. Both are great budget jackets, but we slightly prefer the Rainier for its wider availability, quieter fabric, slimmer fit, and better price point.

When you’re heading into drizzly and damp conditions, exploring a new route with friends, or knocking out a few dozen miles of backcountry trail, the Rainier is an excellent rain jacket at a stellar price.

Arc’teryx Beta

Most protective rain jacket for wet conditions

Price: $400

Weight: 10.6 oz. (men’s) / 9.5 oz. (women’s)

• Highest quality build
• Smart hood design
• Hipbelt compatible pockets
• Quieter fabric
• Excellent in downpours
• Very expensive
• No storm flaps over zippers
• Slim fit isn't for everyone

The Arc’teryx Beta ( men’s / women’s ) is a top choice for its superior waterproofing. From the rigors of everyday on-off wear to keeping you dry in the gnarliest, wettest rainstorms (or even alpine blizzards), this is the only shell you’ll need for staying dry in nasty weather.

If you’re undeterred by extreme wet conditions, the Beta jacket is for you. This model’s three-layer Gore-Tex fabric sheds water easily and feels durable in heavy rain, sideways sleet, and whipping snow – and the newly redesigned Beta is now produced without PFAS, which translates to less pollution during production and a more mindfully-made jacket. The drop hem at the back effectively directs and sheds water away from your body as you move. We also appreciate the ergonomic, oversized zippers that are easy to grasp even with bulky gloves on.

The Beta stands out for its dialed-in design: the fabric feels impenetrable, but the fit is roomy enough at the shoulders and elbows to move naturally with you. We find this athletic construction performs admirably on the toughest alpine days where every detail matters. CleverHiker Gear Analyst, Ian Krammer, has used this jacket as his go-to shell to climb hundreds of 13,000-foot Colorado peaks in frigid winter conditions and has also used it in soaking July thunderstorms while climbing in the Rocky Mountains. 

We also love the hood design of the Beta. Its high internal collar blocks wind and rain by locking in snugly under the chin, and helps retain a bit of extra warmth in cold, pressing wind. The overlapping hood adjustments fit precisely and snugly around your face, and the wide visor keeps even driving, sideways rain at bay. The hood is helmet-compatible, but it doesn’t feel floppy on its own.

The biggest downside of the Beta is its price tag. This is one of the most expensive jackets we’ve ever tested. The Beta is also bulky compared to other options on this list – it doesn’t pack down well, and this model certainly isn’t the lightest out there. 

That said, heft is a small con in the face of serious storms, and this is the jacket our team trusts most in severe rain and snow conditions. And if your use case is a little different, the Beta also comes in an insulated version ( men’s / women’s )  and lightweight version ( men’s / women’s ) . 

The Beta is worth the investment for those who need a rain jacket that will last season after season of hard use in wet weather. If you’re on the hunt for a technical rain jacket that can truly do it all, this is the one.

Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic

Super comfortable rain jacket

Price: $230

Weight: 10.7 oz. (men’s) / 9.9 oz. (women’s)

• Stretchy & comfortable
• Large chest pocket
• Large pit zips
• 2 adjustable hem cords
• Packs small into itself
• Hood visor isn’t as wide or long as some
• Velcro cuffs are thin & less sticky

If comfort is your top priority, you’ll love the Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Rain Jacket ( men’s / women’s ). This versatile coat offers soft-to-the-touch fabric, practical pockets, and excellent waterproofing for trekking rugged trails.

The Ozonic continues to be one of the most comfortable jackets on our list – that’s why it stays near the top. CleverHiker Gear Analyst, Heather Eldridge, has worn this jacket on hundreds of day hikes because the stretchy fabric is soft to the touch and gives a relaxed, unrestricted feel that’s easy to move in. And thanks to the breathable fabric, the material is impressively quiet – you can actually hear what your friends are saying with the hood up!

The Ozonic has all the key elements we look for in a rain jacket: hand pockets, two-way hood adjustment, and pit zips, so it’s great for just about any activity. We also love its low weight. At 10.7 ounces for a men’s medium, the Ozonic is near the front of the pack, making it easy to carry, wear, and stuff away.

That said, this Mountain Hardwear classic has a couple of quirks. We find the fit is a bit unusual: it’s baggy through the torso and the sleeves are on the shorter side. However, the major advantage of this looser fit is that it’s great for layering. If you love cooler-weather adventures where rocking a fleece and puffy is vital for comfort, you’ll have no trouble fitting warm layers underneath the Ozonic.

More than anything, we reach for the Ozonic because of its outstanding comfort, trendy profile, and trusty waterproofing. This jacket will shield you from windy, misty mountain summits and downpours alike.

Montbell Versalite

Best ultralight rain jacket

Price: $260

Weight: 6.4 oz. (men’s) / 5.8 oz. (women’s)

• Packs very small
• Highly adjustable hood
• Excellent feature set
• Stretchy & Velcro cuffs
• Hipbelt-compatible pockets
• No chest pocket
• Delicate material

When it comes to water resistance, the Montbell Versalite ( men’s / women’s ) is one of our all-time favorites for thru-hiking and ultralight adventures. This is CleverHiker Founder, Dave Collins’ go-to ultralight shell for backpacking and he’s used it for thousands of miles, from the Grand Sawtooth Loop in Idaho to the Glacier Peak wilderness. Gear Analyst, Casey Handley, also loves the Versalite, and it kept her dry and well-ventilated on a very soggy 273-mile thru hike of the Long Trail in Vermont.

If you’re looking for a truly airy shell to stay dry in short summer storms, this is the one. The men’s Versalite weighs a jaw-dropping 6.4 ounces, and the women’s is only 5.8 ounces. For perspective, that’s approximately the weight of two protein bars. And, it packs down to a very small package – about 3 by 3 by 5 inches – so this model easily slips into any pack without taking up much space.

Despite its incredibly low weight, the Versalite is as feature-rich as any jacket on this list. We love the three-way, super-adjustable hood and tall neck, the combination elastic and Velcro cuffs, and the extra long pit zips for dialed-in ventilation. The oversized hand pockets are higher up on the body to give unrivaled accessibility to pockets while wearing a climbing harness or thick backpack hipbelt, so you won’t have to unclip your backpack while walking to reach your chapstick or phone.

As with most ultralight gear, the Versalite sacrifices durability. It’s made with thin, featherlight materials, so you’ll have to be more careful with it than you would with a burlier jacket. It is also a little more crinkly and noisy than others. That said, we’ve been using this jacket for years without any notable issues and we think the dramatic weight savings makes it one of the best choices for long-distance backpacking.

While it’s on the spendy side, the Versalite is a very competitive price for a premium ultralight jacket. We highly recommend the Versalite to anyone who is looking for a minimalist layer with maximum functionality for a very low weight.

Zpacks Vertice

Breathable ultralight jacket

Price: $299

Weight: 5.75 oz. (men’s) / 5.7 oz. (women’s)

• Adjustable sleeves, hem & hood
• Hood rolls away
• Fit accommodates layers well
• Excellent coverage
• No handwarmer pockets
• Oversized hood works best with hat
• Less durable

The Zpacks Vertice ( men’s / women’s ) is one of the lightest rain jackets available. Despite its featherweight status, this shell performs: it provides excellent protection in pouring rain, but remains impressively breathable. CleverHiker Senior Gear Analyst, Casey Handley, hiked the first 400 miles of the Colorado Trail in one of the wettest springs in the last decade and appreciated its long length and durability.

At about six ounces, the Vertice is in a league with the Montbell Versalite and the Outdoor Research Helium  for ultralight jackets. Like the others, this one packs up incredibly small, so it’s ideal for long day hikes and thru-hikes where space and weight are the top priority.

The length of the Vertice is what sets it apart: this model is long enough to cover your bum, which is convenient when taking breaks on wet rocks or logs. It also means the seat of your shorts or pants won’t bear the brunt of the runoff from your jacket, so you’ll stay a little warmer when it’s wet out, and hopefully dry a bit faster.

The Vertice doesn’t skimp on any details either: ZPacks includes long pit zips, simple drawcords on the wrists, hem, and hood, and a handy mechanism for rolling up the hood when storms pass. The Vertice is also one of the most breathable jackets on our list, so it won’t cause you to overheat immediately when backpacking through the early afternoon rain.

That said, the Vertice is built for function in the backcountry, not fashion in the city. It has a baggier fit, so it’s best for larger body types and those who like a longer jacket. We also miss not having handwarmer pockets and the hood is a little floppy.

Like most ultralight gear, the Vertice is also on the spendy side, but if you want the best balance of low weight, crazy packability, and excellent coverage – this one is hard to beat. As long as you give it the care and attention it needs, the Vertice will last for thousands of miles.

Full review: Zpacks Vertice

Black Diamond Stormline Stretch

Lightweight & affordable rain jacket

Price: $180

Weight: 11.3 oz. (men’s) / 9.5 oz. (women’s)

• Less expensive
• Internal collar
• High collar & helmet compatible hood isn't for everyone

The Black Diamond StormLine Stretch jacket ( men’s / women’s ) hits the nail on the head for a great balance of affordability, high-quality construction, and useful features. If you’re looking for a savvy all-around jacket for backcountry hiking, the StormLine is up for the task.

It’s full of simple details that give it exceptional value. The long pit zips help with ventilation and the stretchy Velcro cuffs make the jacket easy to use with gloves on. The helmet-compatible hood is simple to adjust, and the tall collar is excellent at keeping out drafts and drips. We also love the wide variety of colorways available for the StormLine – whether your vibe is neon, pastel, or more muted, there’s probably a color for you.

The StormLine’s material and fit are our favorite things about it. This model offers a regular-to-slim fit, with just enough stretch and gusseted armpits for mostly unrestricted big movements. The StormLine’s aesthetic is sleek enough to wear out to dinner on a stormy summer night, or for keeping you dry while setting up your tent in a misty frontcountry site.

However, this jacket is a bit further down the list largely because of its pocket design. We found the handwarmer pockets are a bit shallow, and positioned too low to access with a backpack or harness on. This model also doesn’t include a chest pocket.

Overall, the StormLine is a highly functional and attractive jacket that packs easily into an impressively small package for portability. Because of the thoughtful design and the affordable price point, the StormLine is one of the most well-rounded rain jackets on the market.

REI Flash Stretch

High value rain jacket

Price: $169

Weight: 17 oz. (men’s) / 14.5 oz. (women’s)

• Excellent stretch
• Easy to layer
• Chest zipper
• Long pit zips
• High zippers compatible with harness
• Baggy / oversized fit
• Short visor on hood
• Long sleeves
• Heavy / bulky for extended trips

The REI Flash Stretch Rain Jacket ( men’s / women’s ) is an ultra stretchy and feature-forward jacket with a stellar balance of affordability and quality.

REI doesn’t skimp on any of our favorite features with the Flash Stretch: pit zips are plenty long enough to dump heat when you’re out of breath and moving through an afternoon rainstorm, and the hood offers three-way adjustments for a nuanced fit even while wearing a hat or helmet. It includes high-position handwarmer pockets for easy access while using a backpack, plus a large chest pocket for small storage. We also like that all the zippers have wide rain flaps to block the rain from dripping in.

We find the Flash Stretch is as cozy as rain jackets get. The polyester and spandex blend feels soft against the skin, and brushed polyester patches at the collar and chin are a nice touch when the hood is up and chilly wind is blasting. This jacket quickly became one of our go-tos for protection on short day hikes simply because it’s so comfortable. 

The fit is baggier compared to other jackets, so it’s best for those who prefer a relaxed fit. However, the Flash Stretch is a perfect candidate for adding insulation layers – there’s plenty of room for a puffy or mid-layer underneath, and you won’t sacrifice a bit of extra mobility for that added warmth. 

One drawback is that this jacket is one of the heaviest and bulkiest we tested. A smidge over a pound for the men’s Large makes the Flash Stretch one of our last picks for multi-day backpacking trips. That said, this REI model is a great option for daily wear and day hikes where weight isn’t a huge concern. 

However, between the soft material, durable build, and excellent waterproofing, the Flash Stretch is a great option for everyday wear, whether you’re at an outdoor concert or heading into a rainy weekend of camping.

Outdoor Research Helium

Most affordable ultralight rain jacket

Price: $170 (men’s) / $180 (women’s)

Weight: 6.2 oz. (men’s) / 6.3 oz. (women’s)

• Packs down very small
• Key clip in hand pocket
• Angled chest pocket
• Handwarmer pockets in women’s version
• Adjustable hood
• No pit zips
• No hand pockets in men’s version
• No cuff tightening systems

When it comes to ultralight jackets, the Outdoor Research Helium ( men’s / women’s ) is one of the most practical options on the market. While it weighs almost the same as the ZPacks Vertice and the Montbell Versalite – just over six ounces – it’s less expensive and offers many of the same features. 

CleverHiker Managing Editor, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, hiked the 3,000-mile Continental Divide Trail in this jacket and it held up well in most storms with plenty of room underneath for a lightweight down puffy. CH Gear Analyst, Heather Eldridge, also spent a week backpacking in Glacier National Park with this jacket and had no complaints – it kept both of them dry, comfortable enough, and it took up little space.

The Helium has a large chest pocket that makes access to small items easy and fast. This pocket is also the carrying case for the Helium, and it packs down into one of the smallest, most efficient packages on this list, perfect for backpacking and fastpacking.

This jacket is fairly thin and will wet out faster than others in really heavy rain, especially where backpack straps sit. Also, the men’s version doesn’t have handwarmer pockets, which we’ve found inconvenient on and off trail. This isn’t a dealbreaker for us, but we’d prefer the extra storage like the women’s version – instead, we bring waterproof gloves on cold, wet trips.

All-in-all, you cannot beat the price-to-weight ratio of the Helium. If keeping your overall pack weight low on long summer hikes is important to you, or you need a basic layer for cloudbursts and occasional summer storms, the ultra-packable Helium offers a stellar bang for your buck.

Full review: Outdoor Research Helium

Marmot Precip Eco

Affordable & versatile rain jacket

Price: $120

Weight: 11 oz. (men’s) / 9 oz. (women’s)

• Stowable hood
• Storm flaps over zipper help keep moisture out
• Higher pockets for hipbelt
• Internal laminate lining is less durable
• Hood isn’t as adjustable
• Zipper pulls are small
• Wets out faster than more durable options

If you’re looking for a less expensive jacket for summer storms, the Marmot Precip Eco ( men’s / women’s ) offers a practical design, reliable water protection, and stylish colorways.

This Marmot model has plenty of features we look for in a quality rain jacket. The wide storm flap over the zipper helps keep moisture out. The internal collar is tall, and the wrap-around hood design offers a bit of extra protection when wind and rain are picking up. The hood rolls up and stows away and like other jackets on this list, it packs up into itself.

Some jackets are simply too technical-looking to transition easily into everyday life, but not the Precip Eco. This stylish jacket fits right in on the sidelines of your kids’ soccer game or a morning coffee date, but still lends an efficient, water-resistant layer when storms are moving through. We love the retro colorways Marmot offers, but the Precip also comes in neons, solids, and muted shades to compliment any style.

It performs well in light and medium rain, which makes it ideal for three-season storms. CH Gear Analyst, Casey Handley, used the Precip on her thru-hike of the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail and it saw a ton of use. She stayed reliably dry for the first 1,000 miles and then began to wet out faster than other jackets on this list.

The cons of the Precip mostly come down to long-term durability. We find the fabric of this Marmot model is a bit noisy, the laminate lining begins to crack and flake after a few seasons, and reapplications of DWR are needed sooner than later. That said, for only $120, this Marmot classic is wallet-friendly and still gets the job done on trail.

If you’re looking for a functional, no-frills rain jacket to stay relatively dry in summer storms around town and your local woods, the Precip Eco is a fine choice. We highly recommend it for those whose top priorities are saving weight, space, and money.

Product Comparison Table

What’s most important to you in a rain jacket.

If you spend a lot of time outdoors in wet conditions, paying a bit more for a rain jacket with an accurate, cozy fit and high-quality materials is well worth the cost. That said, there are many wallet-friendly jackets that will keep you dry and comfortable in most wet conditions. Below, we recommend rain jackets at a variety of price points to suit every budget.

Best value rain jackets

• Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Men’s / Women’s
• Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Men’s / Women’s
• Montbell Versalite Men’s / Women’s
• REI Flash Stretch Men’s / Women’s
• Black Diamond StormLine Stretch Men’s / Women’s

Best budget rain jackets

• REI Rainier Men’s / Women’s
• Marmot PreCip Eco Men’s / Women’s
• Outdoor Research Helium Men’s / Women’s

Best high-end rain jackets

• Arc’teryx Beta Men’s / Women’s
• ZPacks Vertice Men’s / Women’s

You don’t have to settle for an uncomfortable, restrictive, or plastic-feeling rain jacket. There are so many great options that are designed with fit, movement, layering, and next-to-skin comfort in mind. We highly recommend trying on as many rain jackets as you’re able to to find the right balance of comfort and functionality for you.

Most comfortable rain jackets

• REI Flash Stretch Men’s / Women’s  

WEIGHT & PACKABILITY

When you’re hiking, it’s a good idea to carry a rain jacket even if the weather looks clear, especially when venturing into remote areas. In fair-weather conditions, an ultralight jacket that hardly takes up any room in your pack is all you need to provide emergency, “just-enough” protection. If the forecast calls for sustained rain or afternoon storms, and you’ll likely be wearing your jacket for much of the trip, a light- to mid-weight jacket can be worth the extra bulk and weight for peace of mind.

Best ultralight rain jackets

• Zpacks Vertice Men’s / Women’s

Best lightweight rain jackets

• Outdoor Research Foray II – Men’s / Aspire II – Women’s

Best midweight rain jackets

If low bulk and keeping your overall pack weight to minimum is your number one priority, ultralight rain jackets are the way to go. However, they tend to be more delicate than heavier options. Though durability, comfort, and bomb-proof weather protection come with a bigger weight penalty, a heavier-duty jacket may be more important when it comes to everyday wear or when you’re headed into particularly rugged backcountry terrain.

Most durable rain jackets

BREATHABILITY

Many rain jackets advertise that they’ve got the latest most “breathable” vapor barrier on the market, but the truth is, you’ll get hot and sweaty if you do vigorous exercise in any of them. That’s why we choose rain jackets with features that allow for excellent ventilation, like large pit zips and hem drawcords when we want a surefire way to release moisture and heat while staying cool on trail.

Best rain jackets with pit zips

• Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Women’s
• Marmot Precip Eco Men’s / Women’s

Marmot Bantamweight – Photo Credit: Dave Collins (CleverHiker.com)

Black Diamond Stormline Stretch – Photo Credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)

REI Rainier – Photo Credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)

Photo Credit: Dave Collins (CleverHiker.com)

Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic – Photo Credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)

Montbell Versalite – Photo Credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)

Montbell Versalite – Photo Credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com)

REI XeroDry GTX – Photo Credit: Dave Collins (CleverHiker.com)

Critical Rain Jacket Considerations

Number of layers.

The number of layers in a rain jacket correlates to price and long-term efficacy. Here is what you can expect with each layer:

2-layer jackets are the most common and affordable. They’re typically constructed with an outer shell coated in a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) combined with a breathable liner.

2.5-layer jackets are usually the lightest rain jackets and are made with the same DWR-coated outer as 2-layer options. The inner layer of a 2.5-layer jacket is typically a thin polyurethane coating that helps keep sweat and dirt from clogging the breathable pores of the jacket from the inside.

3-layer jackets are the most effective in heavy moisture and they incorporate all of these elements: they have a DWR-coated outer shell, a breathable and waterproof mid-layer, and a polyurethane lining for the innermost layer. They also tend to be the heaviest.

Zippered openings at the armpits, aka pit zips, are great for letting excess heat escape if you get too warm while hiking uphill or being active. It’s always nice to have the option for more airflow when you’re sweating through a tough ascent in a deluge or feeling a bit too warm during a misty afternoon on trail.

CONDENSATION

If you’re wearing a rain jacket on a cold, rainy day, condensation will almost certainly form on the inside fabric. This leads many people to think that their rain gear is failing, even though it’s still waterproof and very much doing its job. If your jacket is new or has been well-maintained over its life, don’t worry too much if you feel wetness forming inside your jacket. The chances are very high it’s just trapped condensation, and it will evaporate with your body heat as long as you’re wearing appropriate wicking layers underneath and you maximize the ventilation.

How To Stay Cool & Dry In A Rain Jacket

Getting hot and sweating when you’re working hard in a rain jacket is inevitable, and condensation build-up in chilly conditions is very normal and to be expected. Here are our top tips for staying cool and dry in your new rain jacket:

• Start cold – We recommend a single base layer under your rain jacket, especially if you hike quickly, or will be heading uphill right out of the gate. Using your go-to lightweight wool / synthetic t-shirt or base layer top under your rain jacket will feel cold at first, but you’ll find that it takes just a few minutes of movement before you start to warm up.
• Ventilate – You can quickly and easily dump heat through the pit zips, bottom hem, wrist cuffs, and front zipper. Finding the right amount of breathability is key, so consider taking a bit of time while hiking to make the micro-adjustments that will keep you cool and comfortable.
• Slow down – Moderating your pace will slow your heart rate and reduce sweating. If you find yourself a bit too warm or your jacket beginning to “wet out”, consider slowing your steps.
• Drink water – Drinking cold water regularly will cool you from the inside out. Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you don’t need to hydrate, so be sure to drink up while you trudge through that tempest.
• Shed layers – When you’re hiking, temperature regulation is simply a layering game. If you find yourself overheating – or getting too cold – consider taking off or putting on a hat and gloves or a wicking mid-layer.
• Use rain pants – No waterproof clothing system is truly complete without quality rain pants. Check out our guide to the Best Rain Pants for our favorites.
• Waterproof footwear – For wet days and soggy hiking adventures, you’ll want to be waterproof from head to toe. Consider picking up a pair of waterproof hiking boots ( Men’s / Women’s ), hiking shoes ( Men’s / Women’s ), or rain boots ( Men’s / Women’s ) to keep your feet dry.
• Umbrella – Consider using a hiking umbrella not as a replacement for a jacket, but in addition. This is a great way to mitigate how wet your outer layers become, helps direct unrelenting rain away from you while moving, and offers unrivaled breathability on moist, warm, and hot days.

Honorable Mentions

You never know if this diamond in the rough might be perfect rain jacket for you:

Frogg Toggs Xtreme Lite ( Men’s / Women’s )

The Frogg Toggs Xtreme Lite jacket is inexpensive and serviceable. As thru-hikers, backpackers, and peak baggers, our team of gearheads knows that sometimes the lightest, cheapest gear really is enough – and that’s the space where this jacket lives.

For only $60, the Xtreme Lite offers the core features we want in our top hiking rain jackets: handwarmer pockets, and adjustable wrists, hem, and hood. On top of that, this model packs into itself and weighs only 10 ounces. CleverHiker Gear Analyst, Casey Handley, carried Frogg Toggs as her outer shell for the northern 500 miles of the Arizona Trail. The Xtreme Lite functioned as a windbreaker in the cold wind, and a just-in-case layer for a rare desert downpour, and it was fine for both uses.

Though The Xtreme Lite is simply not as durable, breathable, waterproof, well-fitting, or feature-rich compared to the jackets above, it has its place. If you’re looking for an inexpensive jacket for mild conditions and arid places with occasional cloud bursts, Frogg Toggs are a solid option.

Best Ponchos

If your top priorities are full coverage and low weight, a poncho can be a great piece of gear. They are perfect when light or occasional rain is the norm. Though they can fall short when it comes to warmth and durability, a poncho might just be the right pick for you.

Outdoor Products Multipurpose Poncho

The Outdoor Products Multipurpose Poncho does everything we want a poncho to do. A simple drawstring hood cinches around your face, and a waterproof, seam-sealed, billowy body keeps your head and torso dry while offering plenty of breathability and freedom of movement for your arms. We like that the Multipurpose Poncho weighs nine ounces, folds down super small, and comes with a mesh zippered carrying case.

It’s fast to deploy and offers just enough coverage for your body when a downpour hits. Because this poncho is so lightweight, it also dries fast. For only $35, it’s a small and durable investment for the next time you’re caught in a brief rain shower or need a bit of extra coverage while setting up camp in the backcountry.

Packa Poncho

The Packa Poncho is a hybrid jacket, pack cover, and poncho. The Packa is a regular poncho – featuring a simple hood with the same extended material in front – but it adds a large, articulated back to also cover your backpack. For distance backpackers and thru-hikers dreaming of an all-in-one rain cover when rain storms hit, the Packa might just be what you’re after. 

Several impressive, unique details solve many common poncho problems: massive sleeves slip on easily over other layers (and feature massive 20-inch pit zips to throw heat), and the hem and wrists have drawstrings to prevent billowing material. We’re especially smitten with the fact that you can put on the entire poncho in less than 30 seconds without taking off our packs.

Though it’s a bit heavy and bulky to store – between 13 and 18 ounces, depending on the fabric you choose, and it’s a bit pricey for a poncho, it is a unique and dynamic product, that’s worth every penny.

Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape Poncho

For ultralight hikers who want the ultimate 2-in-1, the Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape Poncho doubles as a shelter. This model is both a solid, reliable tarp that uses guy lines and a hiking pole for nights on the trail where protection is key, and a serviceable poncho for when summer rain storms start building and you’ve got miles to go.

However, combination gear always involves trade-offs. The Gatewood is made of a thin sil-nylon that’s prone to ripping and tearing, so you’ll need to be extra careful when wearing it near underbrush or places where it can snag. While we love the weight savings of the Gatewood Cape’s dual functionality, we learned the hard way that it is only a pro until you’re trying to set it up as a shelter while it’s raining. And, the Gatewood takes some practice to pitch, so you’ll want to have it down ahead of time.

We’ve seen the ultra-versatile Gatewood gaining traction out on the trails more and more over the last few years, and for good reason – when it comes to a rainproof option and lightweight shelter for a low price, the Gatewood Cape Poncho is tough to beat.

Best umbrellas

An umbrella is one of the most overlooked pieces of rain gear on the trail. Though it’s not a replacement for a quality rain jacket, it can be a real game changer when combined with one. Staying dry (and therefore warm) is essential to your well-being, and for a small weight penalty, you get incredible versatility from umbrellas like the ones below.

Though umbrellas fall short in high winds and lightning, they are a very worthwhile addition in both scorching desert heat and pouring rain.

Gossamer Gear Lightrek Umbrella

The Gossamer Gear Lightrek Umbrella is a robust ultralight umbrella with a shiny, sun-shielding exterior. CleverHiker Managing Editor, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, used the Lightrek on his thru-hike of the 3,000-mile Continental Divide Trail as a complement to his rain jacket and it was an absolute game-changer. It was a vital piece of gear not only for all-day protection from the sun but in the early season snow, heavy rain, and hail of the high Rockies.

We’re big fans of the Lightrek’s chromatic outer layer, which keeps intense UV rays and mid-day desert heat away from the user, and it can even help lower the temperature underneath. This umbrella also has pack attachment straps (sold separately) and stores narrow (but long) in your pack.

We’ve found the Lightrek excels in all conditions except for sustained high winds – but to be fair, it’s plenty durable for a 6.3-ounce umbrella. This thing will last for years if you take proper care of it, and we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it for long adventures in rain or shine. For only $39, the Lightrek is a bargain.

Six Moon Designs Rain Walker Umbrella

At 5.5 ounces, the Rain Walker Umbrella is a low-bulk and efficient ultralight umbrella. If you’re looking for serious coverage at the lowest weight possible, the Rain Walker is a great choice: at full size, it easily covers one hiker and their backpack from the elements. CleverHiker Gear Analyst, Heather Eldridge, uses the Rain Walker for local hikes in Oregon.

Thanks to flexible, wind-resistant ribs, the closed umbrella packs up ultra-thin – barely the diameter of a quarter – and collapses down to about two feet. It’s easy to store, fast to deploy, and we love the soft EVA handle for holding over a long time. Plus, Six Moon also offers attachments for securing your umbrella to the shoulder strap of your backpack so you can hike hands-free.

The downside of the Rain Walker is it’s a bit less durable than other options on the market, and it doesn’t come with a reflective outer layer. If sun shade is a priority for your umbrella, we highly recommend the Silver Shadow or the Silver Shadow Carbon by Six Moon as well.

Zpacks Lotus UL Umbrella

The ZPacks Lotus has a strong and balanced construction. It also offers the widest diameter of these three umbrellas at a whopping 38 inches, which provides a ton of shade and rain protection.

We really like the attachment method (sold separately) for the Lotus umbrella. Instead of two stretchy ties, one of the “holsters” is a low-bulk clip that attaches directly to the strap of your backpack. We find that this design offers more stability for the umbrella, and needs less tweaking and adjusting over time. 

That said, the Lotus itself is the most flimsy in wind compared to the other umbrellas on this list. We find a sudden breeze can dramatically strain the ribs under the material. The handle is also small and less comfortable. However, the Lotus is an outstanding option for long-distance treks: its chromatic exterior will reflect the sun’s heat, it packs small and is under seven ounces.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

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Best Lightweight Rain Jackets: Field-Trialed & Tested [2024 Update]

Equip yourself for any weather with one of the best lightweight rain jackets featured in this guide. With models from Montbell, Patagonia, and more you can venture onto the trails with confidence, regardless of the weather conditions!

Unpredictable weather is a common challenge for hikers. A sunny, clear sky can quickly turn into a sudden downpour, turning a pleasant hike into a damp ordeal. Wet clothes not only bring discomfort but can also lead to chills and blisters, hindering your mobility and enjoyment.

In such situations, a comfortable rain jacket becomes essential. It ensures you stay dry, comfortable, and mobile, allowing you to enjoy your hike regardless of the weather conditions.

But what makes one model a better option than other rain jackets?

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to our 12 favorite hiking rain jackets, why we think the Montbell Versalite is the best rain jacket on the market today, and what features you should consider before making your purchase.

Whether you want an affordable rain jacket, high-end rain jackets, a durable hardshell jacket or something lightweight, our list has something for everyone!

Table of Contents

Montbell Versalite

Patagonia torrentshell 3l, arc’teryx zeta sl, outdoor research helium rain jacket, patagonia houdini air, mountain hardwear exposure/2 stretch, enlightened equipment visp rain jacket, ultimate direction ultra, rei co-op drypoint gtx, rei co-op xerodry, marmot precip eco jacket, montbell storm cruiser jacket, lightweight rain jacket comparison table, top choices by category, waterproofing, breathability, ventilation, weight & packability, best rain jackets: the verdict, at a glance: quick recommendations.

• Editor’s Choice:  Montbell Versalite Jacket “This highly breathable and waterproof jacket is chock full of features, and it only weighs 6.4 ounces! “
• Bargain Buy:  Patagonia Torrentshell 3L “The Torrentshell is a long-term favorite with hikers everywhere – and with good reason.”
• Most Versatile:  Arc’teryx Zeta SL “A lightweight but very durable shell that offers outstanding weather resistance and looks great, too.”
• Best Value Ultralight Jacket:  Outdoor Research Helium “Lightweight, very packable, and quite affordable, this is ideal for ultralight backpacking on a budget.”
• Best for Summer Day Trips:  Patagonia Houdini Air “At 4.1 ounces, this is a no-brainer backup option for fair-weather hikers.”
• Best Mobility:  Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Stretch “A technical hardshell and lightweight rain shell all wrapped up in one stretchy package.”
• Most Breathable:  Enlightened Equipment Visp “Low weight and high breathability make this one stand out from the pack.”
• Best for Alpine Hikes:  Ultimate Direction Ultra “This shell has integrated rainproof mittens and is one of the lightest on the list, we think that says a lot.”
• Best Value Gore-Tex:  REI Co-op Drypoint “You could pay almost twice as much for a shell with all the features this has.”
• Best Budget Shell :  REI Co-op XeroDry Gore-Tex “Good thing this has lots of pockets – you’re gonna need them to store all that money you saved buying it!”
• Best Value:  Marmot Precip Eco “This classic, packable shell from Marmot is updated with recycled materials and loads of color options.”
• Best for Winter Hiking:  Montbell Storm Cruiser “The Cruiser excels in high-intensity activities when the weather just plain sucks.”

Which is the best packable rain jacket?

With years of experience testing outdoor gear on the trails, we’ve updated our shortlist to the following best rain jackets of 2024. This year, our testers put over 30 jackets through their paces in various locations, from the Hoh River Trail in the Pacific Northwest to the English Lake District. The list below are their top picks.

• Arc’teryx Zeta SL

Weight: 6.4 oz.  ⸱ Waterproofing: GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ WINDSTOPPER® waterproof-breathable membrane  ⸱ HH: 30,000 mm ⸱ MVTR: 43,000 g/m²/24hr

The Montbell Versalite is one of the very best rain jackets for backpacking and hiking available. This is why it has earned our Editor’s Choice award for lightweight rain jackets. The Gore-Tex Infinium fabric is ultralight, packable, and ultra-breathable. The Versatile also comes loaded with features, including pit zips, and still weighs less than 7 ounces!

With a four-way adjustable hood, you’ll stay cozy and warm while still being able to see your surroundings. The hook-and-loop tab that adjusts hood brim height doubles as a way to roll up and secure the hood, too. This helps when you’re hiking in light rain – you won’t overheat and the hood also won’t collect water for a total bummer of a surprise when you put it on again.

With an MVTR of 43,000, this waterproof jacket is seriously breathable, so you won’t overheat when hiking hard. It also comes with all the right features: hook and loop wrist cuffs, hip-belt-compatible chest pockets, and an internal hem adjuster.

With all these features for less than 7 ounces, Montbell hit the bull’s eye with this one.

• Very breathable
• Very waterproof
• Surprisingly competitive price
• Comes with a stuff sack
• Has 2 chest pockets
• Not the most durable
• Doesn’t pack into its own pocket

Bottom-Line: Weighing less than 7 ounces and full of features, this is our favorite lightweight and breathable rain jacket.

Weight: 14.1 oz.  ⸱ Waterproofing: Waterproof/breathable H2No® Performance Standard 3-layer  ⸱ HH: 20,000mm ⸱ MVTR: 12,000 g/m2/24h

The Patagonia Torrentshell is our top pick for hikers who want solid weather protection at an affordable price, even if that means carrying a few extra ounces in weight.

At 14.1 ounces, this is the heaviest jacket we tested. Nevertheless, we decided to include it on our list as an alternative for buyers put off by the lofty price tags associated with lighter models.

The Torrentshell’s 3-layer construction combines a H2No waterproof membrane sandwiched between tough, 50-denier face fabric and a tricot liner. In layman’s terms, this means you get robust waterproofing, well-above-average ruggedness, and soft fabric against the skin.

Unlike many lower-cost jackets, which all too often feel like flappy trash bags with arms, the Torrentshell has a trim, tailored-feeling and athletic fit that leaves very little fabric to flail in the wind. There’s also a drawcord hood and drawcord hem that let you quickly fine-tune the fit when you’re on the move. The face fabric is a little crinkly and noisy, but this isn’t a major shortcoming and a pair of pit zips can help you dump heat whenever needed.

The Torrentshell isn’t the most breathable jacket we tested, so isn’t the best option if you’ll be hiking hard and fast. However, its reliable waterproofing and reasonable pricing make it an attractive choice if you don’t want to splurge on an ultralight performance jacket.

What Others Thought

• Ben Applebaum-Bauch and Ian Nicholson, Outdoor Gear Lab : “Great for those on a budget.”
• John Ellings, Switchback Travel : “…offers excellent protection and durability.”
• Adventure Alan & Co : “….(costs) literally hundreds of dollars less than most 3-layer hardshell rain jackets with the same features.”
• Fairly priced
• Solid waterproofing
• A little short on breathability

Bottom-Line: Less breathable than other options on our list and not the lightest jacket out there, but perfect for buyers keen to keep costs to a minimum without compromising on stormworthiness.

Weight: 10.9 oz.  ⸱ Waterproofing: Gore-Tex New PacLite Plus  ⸱ HH: 28,000 mm  ⸱ MVTR: 15,000 g/m²/24hr

The Zeta SL (click here for women’s version , a contender for the best women’s rain jacket) performed well across every category we tested, so we had to give it the award for most versatile rain jacket.

This jacket stands out in durability, waterproofing, and fit.

It’s made with 40d ripstop nylon face fabric – the thickest face fabric used in any of the jackets we reviewed. Even though the fabric is so thick, it is still reasonably light.

The Zeta SL has a trim fit, yet it doesn’t sacrifice mobility. The articulated fit and gusseted underarms ensure there’s plenty of freedom of movement without leaving excess fabric to flap around in the wind. it has just enough room to ensure maximum mobility.

Our testers were also impressed by the Zeta SL’s hood, even though it’s not helmet-compatible. It can be adjusted at multiple points, has a stout brim, and doesn’t block peripheral vision tightened snug around your head. The soft chin guard also prevents chafing.

Yes, this jacket is pretty pricey (it’s the most expensive on this list), but we think it’s worth the price. With the Zeta SL, you’ll get great performance across all categories and you’ll look good into the bargain. One of the most well-rounded rain jackets out there.

• Michael Lanza, The Big Outside : “…strikes a balance between performance, low weight, and packability in a rain shell ideal for backpackers and dayhikers.”
• Dave Collins, Clever Hiker : “…a very well-balanced jacket for backpackers looking to shave weight but still stay dry in nasty conditions.”
• Highly waterproof
• Articulated design
• Durable 40d face fabric
• Adjustable cuffs and hood
• No pit zips
• No chest pocket

Bottom-Line: A durable, highly waterproof, and great-fitting jacket. It performs well enough all-around to justify its high price.

Weight: 6.3 oz.  ⸱ Waterproofing: Pertex® Shield Diamond Fuse 2.5 layer  ⸱ HH: 20,000 mm  ⸱ MVTR: 20,000 g/m²/24hr

The Outdoor Research Helium (click here for women’s version ) is an ultralight rain jacket without a huge price tag. This is one of the lightest rain jackets we tested and the least expensive in the sub-7-ounce category.

In testing, it held up well in storms and breathed surprisingly well. A few of our testers even remarked that it worked well as a wind-blocker when needed. While not as stormproof as some of the Gore-Tex models on our list, its combo of a solid waterproof rating, high MVTR, and minimal heft make it a great just-in-case or summer rain jacket.

The Helium also excels in packability, packing away into its own chest pocket ready when not in use and taking up hardly any room in your backpack.

The Helium isn’t as durable as some other jackets on our list, or as breathable. And, it only has one pocket. But, this is a minimalist model made for ultralight hikers, backpackers, trail runners, and climbers. And when you’re counting grams while trying to save cash for ramen noodles, who cares about pockets?

• John Ellings, Switchback Travel : “…a true ultralight shell at a very reasonable price.”
• Philip Werner, Section Hiker : “…a good choice for warmer weather trips where gear weight is a priority.”
• Michael Lanza, The Big Outside :”…excellent performance for a shell weighing under 12 ounces.”
• Lightweight
• Lots of color choices
• Waterproof zippers
• Not very breathable
• Only 1 pocket
• Non-adjustable cuffs

Bottom-Line: The best ultralight rain jacket on a budget: this is the least-expensive sub-7-ounce waterproof rain jacket you’re going to find that’s still reasonably durable.

Weight: 4.1 oz.  ⸱ Waterproofing: DWR coated  ⸱ HH: N/A  ⸱ MVTR: N/A

Okay, the Houdini Air is not quite a waterproof shell. But, it is on the more weather-resistant end of the wind jacket spectrum and weighs next to nothing. There are certainly more outright weather-resistant options in this review, but we decided to include this one since it’s so darn light and offers reasonable rain protection.

The Houdini Air does a good job in light rain and is the perfect jacket to throw in your pack on a nice summer day just in case. It packs down so small you’ll have more of an issue finding it in your pack than feeling the weight on your back.

The thin nylon shell fabric with durable water-repellent coating will be just enough to protect you from quick showers. And, the inside of that fabric is textured, so if you’re working hard it won’t give you that clammy next-to-skin feel.

• Trey French, Treeline Review : “…perfectly balances packability and lightweight alongside durability and wind resistance in most situations.”
• REI : “…a one-quiver wonder for fickle-weather adventures.”
• Dave Wilkinson, Switchback Travel : “…perfectly serviceable for fending off light precipitation, but it’s not built for heavy or sustained storms.”
• Comfortable
• Not fully waterproof

Bottom-Line: This isn’t a backpacking rain jacket per se, but will give you a surprising amount of protection from an unforeseen shower or two. Being so light, you have no reason not to throw it in your pack.

Weight: 13.7 oz.  ⸱ Waterproofing: GORE-TEX Paclite stretch fabric ⸱ HH: 28,000 mm  ⸱ MVTR: 15,000 g/m²/24hr

The Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Stretch is a great rain jacket for hikers and backpackers who prioritize comfort and mobility. It its somewhere between a standard rain jacket and a technical hardshell, and most of our testers agreed that it delivers the best of both worlds.

Sure, it could be more breathable and lacks pit zips, but the 2.5-layer GORE-TEX Paclite material does a decent job regulating heat. And while not as durable as a true hardshell, the Exposure/2 is leaps and bounds ahead of some of even the best ultralight rain jackets on this list in terms of toughness.

The Exposure/2 is a solid hiking rain jacket. For activities like backcountry skiing or winter mountaineering, you’d be better off with a true three-layer hardshell. But for those who want one rain jacket to do it all, this is a great option.

• Katie Kommer, The Trek : “…a great rain jacket…my favorite morning and wind-breaking layer.”
• Hayley Helms and Kyle Porter, Gear Patrol : “…perfect for stashing in a backpack when the forecast isn’t confirmed.”
• Jack Cramer, Outdoor Gear Lab: “…a great rain jacket, but we don’t feel like its performance is high enough for technical hardshell applications.”
• One of the most comfortable rain jackets out there
• Hipbelt-compatible pockets
• Doubles as a technical hardshell
• Helmet-compatible hood
• High waterproof rating
• Heavier than most ultralight rain jackets
• Hood could be better
• A bit clammy in higher temps

Bottom-Line: Half technical hardshell and half lightweight rain jacket – what’s not to love?

Weight: 5.4 oz.   ⸱ Waterproofing: 3-layer 7D ripstop nylon  ⸱ HH: 20,000 mm  ⸱ MVTR: 75,000 g/m²/24hr

The Enlightened Equipment Visp is an ultralight 3-layer waterproof-breathable rain shell that’s ideal for those who like to travel fast and light. It’s breathable enough that it can be used as a wind shell and is the lightest model on our list that comes with pit zips.

The Visp uses a 20,000mm waterproof and breathable membrane with 7d nylon ripstop face fabric. Though highly breathable, our testers didn’t think it’s twice as breathable as any other item on this list – that 75,000 g/m²/24hr breathability rating is certainly a result of extremely controlled laboratory settings! Nevertheless, it performed well in higher temps and when working up a sweat.

This rain shell could be more waterproof, though, and you’ll want to reapply a DWR coating regularly to keep it from wetting out. There’s also no chest pocket and the fabric is too skinny to guarantee longevity. But for under six ounces with pit zips, this seems like a small price to pay.

• Adventure Alan & Co : “A great ultralight option that has plenty of breathability and still keeps you dry.”
• Philip Werner, Section Hiker : “…has a surprisingly rich feature set despite its light weight.”
• Andrew Marshall, Backpacking Light : “…made with high-performance fabrics at a low weight, and at a reasonable price.”
• Really light
• One of the most breathable jackets out there
• Comes with pit zips
• Doubles as a wind-stopper
• Hood compatible with climbing or bike helmet
• 7d ripstop nylon face fabric isn’t the most durable
• Could be more stormproof

Bottom-Line: One of the lightest, most breathable jackets available and surprisingly affordable.

Weight: 6.6 oz.  ⸱Waterproofing: 2.5-layer waterproof/breathable laminate  ⸱ HH: 30,000mm ⸱MVTR: 30,000 g/m²/24hr

The Ultimate Direction Ultra is a featherlight waterproof-breathable rain jacket deisgned for trail running, backpacking, and fast-and-light hiking.

This ultralight, ultra-packable backpacking rain jacket comes full of features that make it well-suited for those high-alpine pursuits when you don’t know what the weather will do next.

The Ultra is highly breathable and waterproof, but what makes it stand out is its array of well-designed features. Firstly, it has peristaltic underarm vents. This is most certainly over-fancy marketing jargon, but in real-world testing, we can assure you these permanently open-pit vents work.

This ultralight running rain jacket also has stowable waterproof mitts. When it gets cold, wet, or both, just pull the mitts out and over your hands to keep them warm. Our testers unanimously loved this feature, which could save you having to carry a pair gloves in warmer weather.

• Philip Werner, Section Hiker : “…a lightweight rain jacket than can serve double duty as a wind shirt.”
• Claire Maxted, Advnture : “We really like this jacket and love the Flip Mitts feature.”
• Peristaltic pit vents
• Stowable waterproof mitts
• Thinner fabric needs to be babied
• No storm flaps on zippers

Bottom-Line: With stowable flip mitts, peristaltic pit vents, and loads of other features, it’s no wonder this ultralight and ultra-breathable jacket is so popular with ultrarunners.

Weight: 10.5 oz.  ⸱ Waterproofing: Gore-Tex Active  ⸱ HH: 28,000 mm  ⸱ MVTR: 25,000 g/m²/24hr

The REI Drypoint GTX is a lightweight, highly functional, and cozy shell that offers great value to hikers who want robust weather protection without paying through the nose. With its 3-layer Gore-Tex construction, this is technically a hardshell, but it’s still light enough to be considered in the rain jacket class.

The weather protection you’ll get with this one is impressive . It will keep you dry in even the heaviest downpours without even a hint of clamminess. Gore-Tex Active is the most breathable fabric made by the company, so you’ll be able to wear the Drypoint while hiking with a fully loaded pack without overheating.

The Drypoint doesn’t come with pit zips, but the front hipbelt-compatible pockets double as vents. Complete with a solid, fully adjustable hood, the Drypoint comes with just the right amount of features to be functional. And, it does this while keeping the price affordable.

• Maggie Slepian, The Trek : “…lightweight and comfortable to wear while moving for extended periods of time.”
• Ian Nicholson, Outdoor Gear Lab: “…an excellent jacket for hiking or backpacking.”
• Stormproof waterproof membrane
• Affordable for Gore-Tex
• No packable features

Bottom-Line: You’re not going to find a more capable hardshell in this price range.

Weight: 12.5 oz.  ⸱ Waterproofing: 2-layer GORE-TEX   ⸱ HH: 28,000 mm  ⸱ MVTR: 15,000 g/m²/24hr

The XeroDry GTX is one of the best value Gore-Tex rain shells you’ll find anywhere. This shell provides exceptional waterproofing and breathability at a steep discount compared to other Gore-Tex Paclite offerings available. While you can find a lighter or more breathable shell, it would be difficult to buy a more versatile one for even close to this price.

The XeroDry comes with 3 pockets, and the hand pockets double as vents. It has a fully adjustable hood that allows you to maintain your peripheral vision while hiking.

It does have some downsides, though. We would’ve liked to see pit zips, but at least there is some ventilation via the chest pocket and hand pockets. We also found, however, that the interior can get a little clammy and it tends to wet out faster than more expensive 3-layer Gore-Tex models.

Given the price, however, it’s hard to quibble with these small shortcomings.

• Rebecca Yaguda, Switchback Travel : “REI’s Gore-Tex-equipped rain shell is yet another great value from the brand.”
• Kurt Spurlock, The Wise Adventurer: “…an industry leader when it comes to value.”
• Incredible price for Gore-Tex
• Good weather protection
• Waterproof-breathable fabric
• Well designed hood
• Packability

Bottom-Line: One of the best budget rain jackets out there. Has the same features as many more expensive shells.

Weight: 10.6 oz.  ⸱ Waterproofing: NanoPro™ Eco 100% Recycled Nylon Ripstop  ⸱ HH: 10,000 mm  ⸱ MVTR: 17,500 g/m²/24hr

The Precip Eco is an inexpensive rain jacket that’s great to stash in your pack when there is a chance of showers.

Weighing in at 10.6 ounces and packable into its own pocket, the Precip is a lightweight and highly portable jacket. Marmot has made the Precip for close to 20 years, but they’ve updated it to include 100% recycled ripstop nylon in the construction, so it’s a more durable option than some of the lighter models we tested.

This is the perfect jacket for travel or moderate day hikes when you don’t expect a biblical downpour. It’s not the most breathable, but it does have pit zips.

While there are certainly more functional waterproof jackets out there, for the price this is hard to beat.

• Ian Nicholson, Outdoor Gear Lab : “…packs quite a punch for its price tag.”
• Philip Werner, Section Hiker : “…inexpensive but fully featured and suitable for year-round hiking and backpacking.”
• Amanda Jameson, Treeline Review : “…a reliable standby hiking rain jacket available in relatively inclusive sizing.”
• Great Value

Bottom-Line: A far more functional and protective option than most jackets in this price range.

Weight: 10 oz.  ⸱ Waterproofing: 3-layer GORE® C-KNIT Backer Technology, 20-denier Ballistic ripstop nylon with DWR finish  ⸱ HH: 50,000 mm  ⸱ MVTR: 35,000 g/m²/24hr

The Montbell Storm Cruiser is lightweight, full of features, and offers great storm resistance. Using Gore-Tex with a C-knit backer, this is one of the most breathable and waterproof jackets on this list and ideal for winter adventures.

While stats aren’t the be-all-and-end all, the Storm Cruiser’s high HH and MVTR piqued our interest. In testing, we found it lived up to the numbers, keeping the first of our testers (yours truly) dry in a biblical downpour on the Hoh River Trail and the second happy through a week-long hiking trip in northern Scotland, where pelting precipitation is the norm rather than the exception.

The Storm Cruiser’s textured backing doesn’t feel clammy against your bare skin and the pit zips come in handy when you crank up the pace, too. And if the sun is shining, this jacket packs down into the tiny included stuff sack. If you want to keep it on for some extra warmth, you can roll down the hood and keep it out of the way with the hook-and-loop tab.

Unlike other lightweight shells, this one can take the abuse of constant use, too. It uses 20d outer fabric, which is much thicker than some lightweight jackets.

This is one of the more expensive options you’ll find on this list. But, we think it’s worth the price if you’re looking for a reliable and durable shell for winter hiking.

• Philip Werner, Section Hiker: “…loaded with features but still exceptionally lightweight and affordable.”
• Mac, Halfway Anywhere :”…a high-performance rain jacket with all the features you need for a successful time in the wet outdoors.”
• Ultra-breathable
• Crinkly fabric can be loud

Bottom-Line: Though this premium rain jacket is expensive, we think it’s worth the price for a dependable shell designed for active pursuits. 

Most waterproof: Montbell Versalite , Montbell Storm Cruiser , and Ultimate Direction Ultra Best for breathability: Enlightened Equipment Visp , Montbell Versalite , and Montbell Storm Cruiser Lightest: Patagonia Houdini Air , Enlightened Equipment Visp , Outdoor Research Helium , Montbell Versalite , and Ultimate Direction Ultra

How to Choose a Rain Jacket?

When searching for the perfect rain jacket, there’s a lot to consider. In truth, however, you just have to figure out what you want your jacket to do for you, then find the jacket that does all those things within your budget. 

If you’re going backpacking on the Appalachian Trail during the rainy season you’ll probably want a more durable rain jacket with high levels of waterproofing. On the other hand, if you’re going out in the California desert you can probably get away with a more lightweight, minimalist shell since you likely won’t be needing it much. 

We’ve broken down some considerations below.

A rain jacket’s most important job is to keep you dry. No matter what the activity, that’s why you wear it. You can have the most breathable or lightest rain jacket in the world, but if it doesn’t keep you dry then what’s the point?

There are many different waterproof fabrics and treatments used in rain jacket construction, and we’ll go through some of the most common below. But first, we want to touch on the method used to rate the waterproofing qualities of a fabric,  Hydrostatic Head . 

Hydrostatic Head 

Hydrostatic head is the standard way of measuring how waterproof a fabric is. The measurement is given in millimeters and measures how high a column of water on the fabric can be before the water starts to penetrate the fabric. This is pretty technical, I know. Think of it this way: the higher the number, the more waterproof the fabric will be. 

Generally, fabrics in the range of 16,000-20,000 mm (EE Visp, Marmot Precip Eco, OR Helium) tend to be adequate for all but the most torrential downpours. Above 20,000 mm (Montbell Storm Cruiser, Arc’teryx Zata SL, Montbell Versatile, REI Drypoint, REI XeroDry, MH Exposure/2, Ultimate Direction Ultra) is only necessary for extremely heavy rain – think extended heavy rainfall with strong winds. 

DWR-Coated Fabrics

DWR (durable water repellent) is a treatment applied to the outside of rain gear during manufacturing. This makes the water bead up when rain lands on your jacket and allows it to shed that moisture, thus preventing saturation. 

If your garment doesn’t shed moisture adequately, it will feel colder, heavier, and won’t be as waterproof until it dries. Both nylon and polyester are hydrophobic, but if they aren’t DWR-treated the jacket will eventually “wet out”.

DWR-coated fabrics do require some maintenance. They need regular cleaning with  tech wash to help refresh the DWR coating. You’ll also want to apply a new DWR coating to your breathable rain jacket when it starts to saturate with water.  DWR sprays are best for this because they only deposit the waterproof coating on the outside of the jacket. 

Breathability is important when working hard in stormy weather. The more active you’ll be, the more you’ll need breathability. What’s the point in keeping you dry from wet conditions only to make you soaked in your own sweat? Breathability allows your jacket to “dump heat” as your body warms up during exercise. It’s as simple as that. 

Breathability ratings are often determined by material manufacturers. These ratings, called moisture vapor transmission rates (MVTR) , are measured in grams per square meter over 24 hours (g/m²/24hr). Basically, MVTR attempts to measure how much moisture can pass through a fabric. 

What really matters here is real-world application, so it’s best to read these numbers skeptically. They will give you a general sense of how breathable a fabric is, though. The higher the number, the more breathable a fabric will likely be.

There are some extremely high MVTR ratings on some of these jackets. You’ll see ratings ranging from 15,000 (Zeta SL, REI XeroDry) to 75,000 (Enlightened Equipment Visp) here. But what is most important are real-world results, not lab tests. 

For high-output activities, look for breathability from 20,000 to 30,000+ g/m²/24hr. For general hiking, 12,500 to 20,000 g/m²/24 hr should be sufficient.

Ventilation is often considered in conjunction with breathability. Because, when your body builds up heat, you can open your jacket for mechanical venting. This is a 100% reliable way to cool off when you’re working hard. 

Ventilation comes in the form of armpit zips, side zippers, core vents, mesh pockets, the main zipper, or other various ventilation holes built into a jacket. They’re all useful to increase airflow and cool you down. And they allow some moisture to escape so that the breathable membrane won’t have to work as hard. 

Pit zips, which can be used even when it’s raining, will allow more moisture and heat to escape than any other type of ventilation.

Mobility refers to how easy it is to move around in a jacket. When hiking, mobility isn’t as critical a consideration as it is for climbing, but it’s still important for general comfort. 

Look for rain jackets with mobility-enhancing features like articulated arms, underarm gussets, and an adjustable hem and hood. Stretch fabric like that used in the MH Exposure/2 is the crème de la crème. If you’re in between sizes we recommend sizing up, then you’ll have room to move and options for layering underneath your outer shell.

Lightweight wet-weather clothing is important since you’ll be carrying it on your back when it isn’t raining. We tested products ranging from 4.1 to 14.1 ounces in this roundup. So while nothing in this review is particularly heavy, there is still a wide range in weight represented. 

If you’re backpacking, alpine climbing, or riding your bike across the country, weight should be one of your primary concerns. 

While weight savings are important, you shouldn’t skimp on protection. What’s the point of carrying waterproof gear all that time if it doesn’t do what you need it to do when needed?

The lightest model in our review is the Patagonia Houdini Air (4.1 oz.), which relies on a DWR coating for weather resistance. The lightest of the rain shells is the Outdoor Research Helium, which weighs 6.3 oz and offers good enough waterproofing for 3-season hiking.

Packability refers to how small your jacket scrunches up when packed in your backpack. For multi-day backpacking trips, this is more important than for day hikes. Ideally, you want a jacket that packs into its own pocket or a small stuff sack and takes up as little room as possible. The smaller your jacket, the more room you’ll have for other goodies! 

Durability is especially important for hikes with a lot of bushwhacking or scrambling, or for other high-abrasion activities. So, if you’re going to be putting your jacket through a lot of abuse, get a durable one. Generally, this means jackets made with 20d or thicker ripstop outer fabric. 

Wearing a rain jacket with a backpack often will cause the outer fabric to wear out faster on top of your shoulders. And the DWR will wear off quickest where the backpack rubs, too.

The most durable jacket we tested was the Montbell Storm Cruiser, which is made with 20d ballistic ripstop nylon. This fabric is tough enough to deal with serious abuse and should last the best part of a hiking career with proper care. The least durable was the Patagonia Houdini Air, which is unlikely to survive too many clashes with rock or branches unscathed.

Last but not least is features: a catch-all category of everything you’ll want to look for in a rain jacket. This includes pockets, hood adjustability, closures, and chin protectors. 

Zippered hand pockets have a high utility, but many of the best ultralight rain jackets don’t have them. They do add weight, after all. Consider if you use the pockets on a rain jacket while hiking. If you don’t, you can go without them and save some weight. If you do, look for water-resistant zippers to ensure no rain sneaks in when you’re not using them. 

Often, hand pockets aren’t accessible if using a backpack with a hip belt. Even worse, the zipper pull might dig into your hips under your hip belt. Many of the ultralight jackets on this list are hip-belt compatible, but not all of them. 

Hood Adjustability

Make sure your hood has a cinch cord that wraps around the crown of the head. Ideally, it will have at least 2 adjustment points, but 3 is better. You want a hood that’s fully adjustable to ensure it doesn’t block your peripheral vision. 

Look for a good bill (aka ‘wired peak’), too. It will keep water from dripping onto your face. 

Closures (Cuffs, Waist, Neck)

Closures will ultimately dictate how well you can batten down the hatches with a jacket. Because when it’s pouring down, you’ll want to tighten your sleeves, hood, and waist hem to stay as dry as possible. And when things warm up, you can release those hatches to let in a little air. For this reason, adjustable closures (adjustable hem, neck, and cuffs) are the way to go.

Chin protector

Finally, does the jacket you’re considering have a chin protector and wicking fabric? Because if it doesn’t you might end up with some chafing on your chin!

Looking for a true all-rounder that won’t weigh down your pack when not in use? If so, the ultralight Montbell Versatile’s our top pick.

Need a reliable rain-blocker that won’t break the bank? The tried-and-true REI Co-op XeroDry and Groundbreaker are solid options if breathability isn’t a high priority.

Using your jackets for high-output hiking, trail running, or ski-touring? If so, the ultra-breathable Enlightened Equipment Visp is the shell for you!

We hope you enjoyed our guide to the best lightweight jackets for hiking and backpacking. 

What did you think of our recommendations? Leave a comment below if you have any questions or if we missed your favorite! As always feel free to share this article with friends and family looking to upgrade their hiking wardrobe.

Last update on 2024-04-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Sam Schild spends most of his time outside. On any given day he's either backpacking, bikepacking, trail running, or thinking about the next time he’ll get out there.

He has hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and the Colorado Trail, among countless other shorter trips. He has logged over 10,000 miles bike touring all over the United States, too.

When he’s not out on a trail somewhere, you can find him cruising on his bike or drinking coffee on a patio in Denver, Colorado.

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Best Packable Rain Jackets (Light, Compact & Affordable)

Traveling around the world means having to be ready for anything. Unfortunately, you can’t exactly carry your entire house with you, especially if you’re carrying a single backpack. That’s why you need one of the best packable rain jackets to help you beat that sudden downpour!

At A Glance: Our Top 3 Picks for Packable Rain Jackets

• BEST travel rain jacket Marmot Precip Jacket Jump To Review
• best lightweight waterproof jacket Arc'teryx Zeta LT Jump To Review
• BEST VALUE FOR MONEY The North Face Alta Vista Jacket Jump To Review
• Cheapest Compact Rain Jacket Paradox Waterproof Rain Jacket Jump To Review

And when you don’t need it, you can keep it stowed away in your bag and forgotten about. Until you need it, suddenly, again!

There are many kinds of lightweight rain jackets out there, from soft shell jackets to heavier hard shell. But some are a few notches above the rest.

These won’t save you in extremely wet weather or torrential rain, but they will give you enough protection from light drizzles to moderate rain. Either way, you’ll be thankful you thought of packing one of these babies in your bag.

Top Product Overview

Best packable rain jackets, marmot precip jacket.

Another great alternative for a packable rain jacket is  the  Marmot Precip . It’s not as popular as the Patagonia Torrentshell, but it’s quickly gaining cult-level popularity due to great performance for a lower price tag. And the fact that it’s a fully waterproof rain jacket, of course!

The Precip offers  reliable protection against water, wind, and even some light snow  thanks to its  DWR coating and NanoPro Nylon Ripstop  material.

The collar is a good touch to keep your neck covered and keep rain from entering from the top. Together with the hood,  the whole head is pretty well covered . The  hood is also removable  making it a great option for everyday and urban wear.

The adjustable cuffs are sealed with velcro, and the hem is adjustable and keeps water and cold out pretty well. The front zipper is not waterproof, but it is covered with a flap and also secured with velcro to keep it from flying up. It also has an additional storm flap underneath the zipper to keep the water out.

It doesn’t come with a chest zip or pit zips (like the majority of packable rain jackets) but it does have some mesh inner pockets to store things if the need arises.

TIP: You can read a full review of  the Marmot Precip here .

While it’s great for moderate rain,  the Precip is not meant to be worn under torrential and extended rain.  The water doesn’t leak through the jacket, but it does soak through the upper layer and you’ll feel the cold on your skin.

• Relatively affordable compared to rainjackets in the same category
• Excellent performance
• Removable hood
• Water soaks through in extended exposure

Product Information

• Weight: 11 ounces
• Waterproofing: DriClime® Lined Chin Guard
• Material: 100% Nylon Ripstop 2.2 oz/ yd

Arc'teryx Zeta LT

If you’re a serious hiker and traveler and you’re on the lookout for the best gear in the market, then the   Arc’teryx Zeta LT  delivers the  highest performance on this list.

It also goes without saying that it costs the most as well by  almost double the price . However, if the price is no problem, then you’re getting yourself one of the most reliable and packable rain jackets out there.

This waterproof jacket has hand pockets that go above a hip belt, an adjustable hood that can mold to your head, and an outer shell that performs like a hard shell jacket in a very lightweight package. It also has its own chest pocket that is quite deep, to store items you want easy access to. Although there are no pit zips, so, if you walk for a while in this, it will eventually get a bit warm!

Despite the tough build, it’s still lighter than the Patagonia Torrentshell at  11.85 ounces . It performs better than any lightweight rain jacket on the list and is one great investment instead of getting poorer built and tear-prone lightweight jackets.

It also does not skimp on comfort. While most packable rain jackets tend to be clammy and less breathable to keep the waterproofing intact, the Arc’teryx Zeta LT has a Gore-Tex C-Knit interior. It’s soft against the skin while still moisture-wicking and odor repellent .

Unlike most ultralight rain jackets that use a 2-layer build, the Zeta LT has a 3-Layer construction. The Gore-Tex waterproof membrane is sandwiched between the outer shell and inner liner. Even in the heaviest rain, you won’t feel clammy and the jacket won’t feel slippery against your skin.

Note: If you want the even lighter and more packable version check out the Arc’teryx Zeta SL .

Despite the thicker build, Arc’teryx was able to keep this jacket  light and breathable . Thanks to the C-knit inner layer, the wearer is kept cool even when you’re working really hard. It also has a snugger fit than most lightweight rain jackets, which keeps less hot air to build up inside.

In terms of packability, it  doesn’t have its own stuff sack or pocket . However, it’s thin and manageable enough to roll and store into the hood.

• High performance lightweight rainjacket
• Extremely comfortable
• Lightweight and packable
• Very expensive
• No stuff sack or stuff pocket
• Weight: 11.85 ounces
• Waterproofing: 3L Gore-Tex C-Knit
• Material: GORE-TEX C-KNIT Backer Technology

The North Face Alta Vista Jacket

The North Face has been making outdoor gear for decades, so they are a worthy contender for the best packable rain jackets around.  This particular model  is a new model that is a great compromise between a waterproof jacket and sometimes lightweight and packable. And affordable too!

Unlike the far more expensive Gore-tex options, this jacket uses a DryVent™ 2.5 Layer shell with mesh liner, to reduce any discomfort. It is reasonably breathable too, so you won’t feel like you are wearing a portable sauna!

Starting at the top, it has a 3-way adjustable hood, pit zips to let the sweat out and adjustable pulls to rein in the hem for the perfect fit. These are all the kinds of things I look for as a minimum in a jacket because otherwise they don’t fit, water and wind gets in and they are a waste of money, quite frankly.

In terms of packability, this jacket is so small and light it rolls into the pocket! This is a pocket rain jacket you can throw it in any bag, your car, your biking or running pack and always have it handy. Sure, it’s not a mountaineering Goretex jacket, but for the price it is a no-brainer and many reviewers say the same thing!

The front zipper of this pack away rain jacket is one of those great waterproof zippers. And the DWR on the outside will have the rain beading off in no time. One guy who reviewed this recently said he came out of a downpour completely dry.

All in all, this is a great buy for anyone not wanting to spend a fortune on a full Gore-tex jacket, but still wanting a little comfort and something light to carry around in case of bad weather.

• Extremely affordable option
• Waterproof and Windproof
• Runs a little small
• Weight: 11.6 ounces
• Waterproofing: 2.5-layer DryVent
• Material: 2.5-layer DryVent

Paradox Waterproof Rain Jacket

Sometimes, all you need is a product that works. For those who are not keen on dropping a wad of cash for a foldable rain jacket, the Paradox Waterproof Rain Jacket  fits the bill.

Priced  under $50 , this is anyone’s  go-to packable rain coat for casual travel . Of course, you  sacrifice some comfort and performance  with a lower price tag, but it does a good job of protecting you from that sudden rainfall on an otherwise sunny day. Made of a  polyester and nylon blend , you can even toss this in a washing machine in a cold setting.

This packable rain jacket is built with a  2.5-layer breathability level  with a thin inner lining. Without ventilation, this tends to get very  clammy and you get very sweaty  when working hard under the rain. The outer shell is treated with a  water repellent finish , which tends to wear out after years of use.

Rain also soaks through to the middle layer  after around an hour of continuous exposure, which will then get you feeling cold. Luckily, it doesn’t soak through entirely.

While the silhouette and design are sleek and stylish, the  material itself has a plastic feel . The hood also goes on the large side and has limited adjustment options. It also doesn’t come with its own stuff sack, but you can easily stow it in the hood and stuff it in your bag. It also comes with one handy internal chest pocket, so you can stash at least your phone or keys if you need to.

Nevertheless, at its price, you can’t get any better than this.

• Extremely affordable
• Lightweight and compact when packed
• Mediocre performance
• Rain can soak through after an hour of exposure
• Waterproofing: 2.5 layer
• Material: 80% Nylon/20% Polyester

Outdoor Research Helium Jacket

When we talk about lightweight, there’s no other company that does it better than Outdoor Research. The Outdoor Research Helium  is ultralight, packable, and sports a minimalist design  in bright and neutral colors.

Thanks to its  Pertex waterproof build , the Helium II does an excellent job protecting wearers against rain and width. It only weighs  6.4 ounces , but the material is quite sturdy and almost impenetrable. It’s been a top pick for hikers, bikers, and travelers.

The Outdoor Research Helium rain jacket doesn’t boast much in terms of features. There is o ne Napoleon chest pocket , a  water-resistant main zipper , and a  single pull hood adjustment . It  stuffs easily into an inner pocket  and it turns out so compact and weightless that there’s no real reason for you to leave it behind.

Because of the  lack of functionality , it’s not the best jacket to wear around the urban jungle. No hand pockets, nowhere to store your phone, and nothing to keep things from getting stolen. It’s a very  basic jacket almost to a fault , but its real performance comes out when you get it outdoors.

While the Outdoor Research Helium jacket is great for waterproofing, the material can get very clammy . Its 2.5-layer design is  not very breathable and there are absolutely no venting options . It’s a great option for surprise rain, but wearing it for long periods of time will leave you sweaty and uncomfortable.

While it has significant design flaws, the  price range is very attractive . It’s not the cheapest but also definitely not the most expensive. If price is no option, there are better garments on this list that can do a better job. However, value for money gives Helium II a big boost in terms of favorites.

• Excellent water and windproofing
• Value for money
• Not breathable
• Only one pocket
• Weight: 6.4 ounces
• Waterproofing: 2.5L Pertex Shield +
• Material: 100% Nylon

Patagonia Torrentshell

Patagonia  is another great brand for outdoor gear, and the  Torrentshell  is one of the best packable rain jackets. Much thought was put into  achieving the perfect fit , not just for style but also for better protection against the elements. It has a  sleek flap to cover the waterproof zipper  and  adjustable hems to hug your hips .

Unlike many rain jackets, the  Patagonia Torrentshell  is  sleek and stylish  enough for everyday and urban wear.

It has a more luxurious feel to it as well. The fabric is soft to the touch and not plasticky like many packable rain jackets. At 13.9 ounces , it’s not featherlight, but still light enough for you to easily carry it around everywhere. This  heftier build also comes in handy when the weather turns particularly sour . And when the drizzle does turn into heavy rain, the 2-way  adjustable hood design  keeps your face well protected in any weather.

There’s a single cinch at the back to adjust the sides and back of the head. It also has a small bill to extend protection over the face. It also packs compactly into one of the hand pockets.

The athletic style of the jacket makes for a great silhouette, but the  shorter back of the hem  doesn’t do well for rain protection. As with any kind of garment, the backside usually rides higher than the front, and a longer back hem would have been better for keeping rain from hitting the backside.

Overall, however, it’s a great option for  everyday and emergency wear . It retains its slimmer style even when layered over a shirt or under a heftier jacket. Its versatile use is a great option for travel and outdoor adventures.

• Great athletic fit
• Versatile and functional
• Adjustable hood design
• Short back hem
• Weight: 13.9 ounces
• Waterproofing: 3L H2No
• Material: 100% recycled nylon ripstop

Black Diamond Stormline Stretch

Black Diamond has a pedigree when it comes to making long-lasting, reliable, and waterproof outdoor gear. I use a lot of their stuff for snow sports and I have to say that they never fail to amaze me with the quality of their product.

The Black Diamond Stormline  is another worthy contender for a great lightweight rain jacket with all the jacket features you would expect. It features their in-house 2.5 layers BD-Dry fabric which is waterproof, breathable, and stretchy. It comes with a DWR coating to help make the water bead. At least for a while.

Black Diamond even gives you pit zips on this model, which is rare in this review. If you don’t know what they are, they are waterproof zippers under your arms which you can open as much as you like to let the jacket ventilate when you are doing heavy exercise. You normally only see these features on top-of-the-line Goretex jackets .

All the openings are also easily secured to keep you dry including the cuffs, hem, and hood, which is adjustable.

• Waterproof, Windproof & Stretchy
• Full of features you only get on a top-notch Goretex
• Fit may not be as you would normally expect
• Weight: 282 g (9.9 oz)
• Waterproofing: 2.5 layer DB-Dry from Black Diamond
• Material: 100% Nylon 2.5 Layer

Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket

Colombia is not as renowned for its outdoor gear as say Patagonia or North Face, however, if you want quality at a reasonable price, they are a great option. This lightweight, packable rain jacket  has all the features you would expect. Starting with their own branded Omni-Tech breathable waterproof layer, they have also added mesh on the inside for a little extra comfort.

The fabric chin guard is also a welcome addition for when you need to zip all the way up in cold, windy conditions. This ultralight rain jacket also has zippered pockets and a draw-string hem to keep the wind out. And, it is packable into the pockets, which is great for when you want to keep it in your bag – just in case.

All in all, most owners of this jacket say it’s a great buy and keeps the weather out in all kinds of conditions. For hours on end.

• Lightweight rain gear
• Compact when packed
• Runs a little large, although is great for layering in cold weather
• Waterproofing: Omni-Tech™ waterproof & breathable fully seam sealed
• Material: 100% Nylon 2L Full Dull plain weave

Arc'teryx Norvan SL

If you want the absolute lightest rain jacket , then you can’t go past  the Arc’teryx Norvan SL . It is actually designed for trail running, so you can understand why it is so light, packable, and yet still absolutely waterproof.

It weighs in at only 4.4oz (125g) so is great when you want something that will pack into a small space. I have a similar jacket for mountain biking, which I rarely use, but know will always be there when I need it. Right at the bottom of my pack, taking little space.

They have used a new technology on this jacket – Goretex along with Shakedry to help keep the weight to a minimum. There are also fewer features on this jacket, as it is so minimalist – with elastic use on all openings (hood, cuffs, and hem).

So, it might not be as tight and windproof as other jackets that you can really cinch down. The hood is rollable and stowable though, which is a smart addition. All in all, this is the type of light, packable rain jacket people need when they to sports.

• Extremely Lightweight and Packable
• Great for sports
• Not as windproof as other jackets
• Weight: 4.4 oz (125 g)
• Waterproofing: Goretex with Shakedry

What To Look For

Rain jackets come in all shapes, sizes, materials, and built. Casual users will require fewer functions than serious hikers. Determine what you’ll use your rain gear for, how often, and under what conditions. This will greatly affect the materials you need and the price you pay for.

Also, ensure that it is going to provide you with enough range of motion for the main activity you want to do in the jacket. This is far more important for sports, so in those cases, you will find the more expensive jackets on the market are often better equipped for such things.

Waterproofing

Just because it’s a rain jacket doesn’t mean it will always keep you completely dry. Know the difference between water-repellent and waterproof. Most rain jackets, especially the ones on the cheaper range, will eventually soak through if exposed for long periods of time in the pouring rain. While you won’t always end up wet, a soaked rain jacket will leave you cold and clammy.

So, look for jackets that use a top-notch material like Gore-tex, Gore-tex paclite or similarly branded equivalents from North Face and Black Diamond.

Breathability

The biggest flaw of any rain jacket is breathability. Most rain jackets have no venting options to keep the integrity of their waterproofing or water-repellent function. This means that if you’re hiking or doing any serious activity with the jacket on, you’ll eventually create heat inside the jacket and the jacket will trap that heat inside. Check for inner lining materials that keep you cool.

Weight and Packability

The point of carrying a lightweight and packable rain jacket is to have it with you at all times in case of emergencies. This means it should be light enough for you to forget about it and packable enough for you to stuff it in any bag. If the rain jacket doesn’t come with its own stuff sack or can’t be packed in its stuff pocket, something that’s light can still be rolled compactly and tucked into its own hood.

Which Packable Rain Jacket Is The Best For Me?

Rain jackets have one purpose – protect you from the rain. The difference is how well they do it.

Hands down, the best lightweight jacket on the list is the Arc’teryx Zeta LT . With its hardshell performance in a lightweight and packable jacket, the Zeta LT outperforms any rain jacket by far. It can be used for daily wear, emergencies, and tougher outdoor activities without getting you clammy, uncomfortable, or soaked through. And it’s so super light, you almost won’t know it’s in your backpack!

• ZETA LT JACKET - The Zeta LT delivers weather protection during extended trekking and backpacking trips. Lightweight, comfortable and compressible, it is made from N40p-X 3L GORE-TEX fabric with GORE C-KNIT backer technology. This material delivers longwearing waterproof, windproof, highly breathable performance with a backer technology that makes the fabric exceptionally supple, quiet and comfortable next to the skin.

For use anywhere kind of rain jacket, the Marmot PreCip Jacket is your best choice. Stylish with a removable hood for urban wear, it can stand up to the elements for outdoor adventures at well. At a mid-range price, this jacket performs pretty well for any kind of weather.

• Avoid Getting Soaked - Sturdy and durable with a patented dry-touch finish, this waterproof jacket will keep you comfortable and protected during planned treks in stormy weather or as a just-in-case layer in your pack for unexpected downpours.
• The Next Generation Of Waterproofing - Our PreCip collection of pants and jackets is made with PFC-free NanoPro recycled nylon fabric that keeps you dry in the wettest conditions and is highly breathable thanks to an advanced microporous coating.

If you want it cheap but still functional, there’s no other jacket that can do the job other than the Paradox Waterproof Rain Jacket . It may not be as comfortable as the more expensive options, but it still does a great job as a rain jacket for light rain or emergencies.

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The 8 Best Packable Jackets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested jackets that can fit in luggage without taking up too much space.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Packing for a cold weather getaway can be difficult since bulky clothes take up a lot of space. To eliminate the stress of trying to fit warm clothing in a suitcase, invest in a packable jacket as the ultimate hack. 

Travel editors already double as packing experts so we researched and tried out 19 portable jackets for various activities. From hiking and biking to sightseeing and air travel, the coats came with us on short and long trips so we could gauge the usefulness, quality, fit, and overall design to endorse the top-scoring packable jackets from our tests. 

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Columbia Switchback Iii Jacket
• Best Windbreaker: Cotopaxi Teca Half-zip Windbreaker

Best Long Jacket: Everlane The ReNew Long Liner

• Most Size-Inclusive: Girlfriend Collective Packable Puffer
• Best for Hiking: L.L.Bean PrimaLoft Packaway Jacket
• Best Lightweight: Patagonia Women's Nano Puff Jacket
• Best Down-filled: Lululemon Pack It Down Jacket
• Best Budget Down: Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket

Best Overall: Columbia Women's Switchback III Jacket

It folds down to a fraction of the original size and comes with a stowaway hood. 

We found that it doesn't have a lot of insulation and is best for shoulder season. 

Columbia is one of the most trusted brands on the market for outdoor gear so it’s no surprise to us that this jacket earned a perfect score in testing. Of course, our favorite feature of this jacket is the ability to fold it into itself to save space in a suitcase. After six months of use including stuffing the jacket into backpacks, duffels, and suitcases, it also still looks brand new.

This lightweight coat is also equipped with other helpful features to ward off rain, wind, and other inclement weather while traveling. It comes with a stowaway hood that hides in the collar of your jacket and can easily be pulled out or tucked in as needed. We’re also big fans of the adjustable velcro wrist cuffs and bungee cord hem to tighten or loosen the jacket for a more customized fit. We found that the jacket runs true to size, but if you want to layer clothing under the jacket (which we recommend for cold weather because the material is relatively thin), then you may want to size up. 

The Details: XS to 3XL | Polyester, nylon

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Windbreaker: Cotopaxi Women's Teca Half-zip Windbreaker

The jacket is ideal for transitional seasons like spring and fall.

After six months of use, we noticed it's not very breathable.

This Cotopaxi anorak is the best lightweight layer we tested that is protective against breezy outings. It’s made with a water- and wind-resistant, repurposed polyester taffeta material with a DWR finish to repel light rain for all types of activities. Lightweight and durable don’t always go hand in hand, but after using this jacket for rigorous outdoor adventures over a three month period — like biking and hiking — and even washing it multiple times, the jacket hasn’t wavered in quality even the slightest. We even spilled coffee on the coat and the stain came right out in the wash. It has a slightly oversized fit so we were able to fit a sweatshirt underneath, but the thinner jacket can also layer underneath a larger coat as needed. One slight inconvenience is that the anorak style means it can’t be fully unzipped to cool off a bit in warmer weather, and there aren’t any vents, so it’s not the most breathable jacket. 

The Details: XXS to XXL | Repurposed polyester taffeta

Travel + Leisure / Kristin Cleveland

It has split zippers to increase range of motion when needed. 

During our six month test, an excited dog jumped on the coat, tearing the fabric — pet parents be warned! 

For cold-weather travel, you’ll need a cozy and warm jacket that won’t take up an entire suitcase so we recommend this quilted jacket from Everlane. We wore this nearly every day throughout the cold winter months and it is still just as puffy and stylish as when we got it. The longer length means the hem sits below the knees for more coverage than a regular puffer jacket. Although this jacket has more material than other jackets we tested, it still packs down small enough to fit in a small carry-on or backpack. Made with recycled polyester, the coat has a slightly puffed, quilted design and it provides plenty of warmth in the colder temperatures. For transitional weather, the split zippers were super helpful for breathability and mobility since we could unzip from both the top and bottom. The jacket is designed to be oversized but even when we sized down, it was still roomy which is something to consider for style and fit. 

The Details: XXS to XL | Recycled polyester

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Most Size-inclusive: Girlfriend Collective Packable Puffer

Girlfriend Collective

The jacket comes in several stunning colorways and 10 size options.

This jacket is a little less puffy after six months of use.

Girlfriend Collective constantly wows us with flattering, size-inclusive, and stylish clothing for travel and the Crystal Packable Puffer is no exception. And the cherry on top is that the brand has an excellent sustainability mission so this jacket is made entirely of recycled water bottles. We love that the jacket comes in six earth-tone colors and there are 10 sizes ranging from XXS to 6XL. In testing, the lightweight puffer was warm enough for cooler fall days and there’s enough room to layer underneath for the winter. The material is water- and wind-resistant so it can serve as an outer layer in inclement weather while still being thin enough to be worn underneath a bigger jacket. We had some difficulty getting the puffer to fit inside the stuff sack pocket, but we had no issues folding up the jacket to fit in a suitcase as is, so we still think it’s great for travel. 

The Details: XXS to 6XL | Recycled polyester 

Travel + Leisure / Elizabeth Rhodes

Best for Hiking: L.L.Bean Women's PrimaLoft Packaway Jacket

It’s warm and breathable for hiking in cold climates.

We found that the jacket runs big, so we recommend sizing down if you want a tailored fit.

Since the weather can change drastically in the great outdoors, it’s important to bring layers when you’re on a trek. Space can be limited in a hiking backpack so this L.L.Bean packable jacket is the best option for staying warm and saving space. It can be tucked away in its own pocket, and the packed jacket measures 6 x 11 inches so it can easily fit in a daypack or even a fanny pack. Besides its packability, the jacket is water- and wind-resistant, and each jacket has 60 grams of PrimaLoft Gold insulation to keep you plenty warm in cold weather. Throughout our six months of tests, we even found it to work well for more mild winter days when you're keeping active. We love that the outer layer comes in six sizes in regular, petite, and plus cuts but we felt like even the petite size was slightly oversized so you might want to size down for a slimmer fit. 

The Details: XXS to XL | Recycled ripstop polyester 

Travel + Leisure / Brit Haines

Best Lightweight: Patagonia Women's Nano Puff Jacket

The featherlight material is flexible and doesn’t feel restrictive.

After six months of wearing, we do wish it had a hood and we think it is best for shoulder season.

If you’re in search of a jacket to toss on for pretty much any activity, then Patagonia’s Nano Puff Jacket is the one for you. This nearly weightless jacket is made with recycled polyester filled with 60 grams of the 100 percent recycled PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco, which makes this an excellent option for those looking to reduce their ecological footprint with a consciously-made coat. The most-loved aspect of the Nano Puff is that, although it’s technically a puffer, the materials are so lightweight that it doesn’t feel bulky or too hot for a range of activities. It’s warm but breathable and there’s plenty of stretch for a full range of motion. Plus, the thinner materials make it easy to fold the jacket into its own pocket for excellent portability. We do wish it had a hood and waterproofness for outdoor activities but the shell is still water resistant. 

The Details: XXS to XXL | Recycled polyester 

Travel + Leisure / Sabrina Weiss

Best Down-filled: lululemon Pack It Down Jacket

The goose down fill jacket is so cozy and toasty.

After six months of regular use and machine washing, white spots have appeared on the sleeve.

For ski trips or any other winter travel, this goose down fill jacket from Lululemon is your best bet for staying warm in cold weather. It’s made with 100 percent goose feather down fill packed between the brand’s DiamondStretch fabric that boasts resistance against water, wind, and offers plenty of stretch for mobility. While this jacket is quite puffy, it effortlessly fits inside the included stuff sack and we love that the coat doesn’t wrinkle even the slightest when it comes out of the pouch. This is a seriously warm and cozy puffer so we think it’s best for leisurely activities rather than hiking since we got fairly sweaty and had to take it off during a trek. Our other favorite features include the removable hood, fleece-lined pockets, and hidden phone or passport sleeve for safekeeping. Throughout three months of tests, we washed the coat a number of times in a washing machine and it still looks good as new.

The Details: 0 to 14 | DiamondStretch fabric

Travel + Leisure / Elena Garcia

Best Budget Down: Uniqlo Women's Ultra Light Down Jacket

It comes with a sleeping-bag-like stuff sack to compress the puffer jacket down.

The quality seems a bit lower compared to other jackets we tried and after six months of use, the threads are starting to come loose.

This packable puffer from Uniqlo comes with a stuff sack similar to a sleeping bag, but much easier to pack. We love that the stuff sack comes with a drawstring cord so you can really compress the jacket to a size that easily fits in a carry-on without taking up much space. This even fit inside the Calpak Luka Mini Backpack (that also held a wallet and a book!) The jacket is quite puffy but not in a bulky way so we’re big fans of the lightweight nylon shell filled with 90 percent down fill. It has the perfect balance of warmth and breathability for various activities and, although it doesn’t have a hood, it does have a cozy puffed collar for extra warmth around the neck. The only downside is that the stitching and materials feel slightly lower quality compared to pricier coats we tested, but we didn’t notice any damage to the jacket during testing so we think the price matches the quality of the coat. 

The Details: XXS to XXL | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Krisha Joshi

Other Packable Jackets We Liked

The jackets below still earned high scores during testing, but we ran into a few issues that prevented us from adding them to our winner’s list. 

Decathlon Forclaz Women's MT100 Hooded Down Puffer Jacket : This down-filled puffer jacket is super cozy and warm but it takes some serious elbow grease to get it to fit inside the stuff sack.

Orvis Pack-and-go Jacket : It’s not the warmest jacket (so you’ll definitely want layers underneath), but it is a very compact and lightweight jacket that packs down easily into a pouch.

Our Testing Process

Packable jackets are essential for traveling in cooler climates so we researched all the best options and selected 19 jackets from trusted outerwear brands like Patagonia, Everlane, Cotopaxi, and more to test out. We made sure to pick packable jackets that range in style, material, size, and color to find ones that fit the needs for all types of travelers.

We tasked 19 travel editors and product testing experts to wear the jackets for over six months to get a feel for the fit, quality, comfort, and design of the coat. And, of course, the most important aspect of these outerwear pieces was the packability so we made sure to use the stuff sacks (if included) to pack and unpack the jackets many times. If the jacket didn’t come with a case, we still packed them in carry-ons, backpacks, and purses to see how much space they would take up. 

Tips for Buying a Packable Jacket

Consider your activities.

Before you start shopping for a packable jacket, ask yourself what its main use will be. Is it for outdoor activities? Or more leisurely or style purposes? The answer to this question will greatly impact the traits to look for in a packable jacket. Nature enthusiasts should opt for sporty coats that feature water and wind resistance with breathable and lightweight materials. Longer packable jackets with down fill or thicker outer materials will be best for casual wear rather than rigorous activities. 

Look for thoughtful features for travel

Most of the jackets we loved came with stuff sacks for superior portability. While that didn’t necessarily mean they were better than jackets that didn’t come with a case, it’s certainly something to consider for personal preference. Other helpful features to look out for include removable hoods, hidden pockets for valuables, and customizable features like bungee cords at the hem and adjustable wrist cuffs. 

There isn’t a right or wrong way to fold a jacket and it depends on the size of the jacket and stuff sack. Some jackets are easier to fold up than others, so whichever way you can get the jacket into the bag gets the job done. The jacket might come out looking wrinkly whether you shove it in the sack or fold it up nicely and it ultimately depends on how prone to wrinkling the material is. 

Packable jackets come in various styles, which means it depends on the material and intended use of the jacket. Down-filled options will be the warmest and rain jackets will likely be the least warm, but the intended use for each item is different. 

Not all packable jackets are waterproof so if you’re looking for a truly waterproof jacket, it’s important to read the specifications section on the website. Most rain jackets will be waterproof but others could just be water-resistant instead.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer who writes nearly all of the Travel + Leisure Trusted articles, and participates in product testing from luggage and shoes to outdoor gear and apparel. Anna reviewed the team’s insights to compile this list of the best packable jackets for travelers, plus did additional research as needed.

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Best Lightweight Rain Jacket for Travel

If you are on the hunt for the best lightweight rain jacket for travel, then you have come to the right place. This guide takes you through everything you need to think about when purchasing the perfect waterproof travel jacket for your next trip.

When it comes to the best men’s and best women’s rain jacket for travel you don’t only want it to keep you dry in case of a downpour while sightseeing, you also want it to be lightweight and packable.  You certainly don’t want to be lugging around a bulky jacket “just in case” it rains, nor do you want a cheap one that doesn’t do its job keeping you dry.

This guide takes you through everything you need to know to purchase the perfect lightweight, packable rain jacket. First, I’ll take you through the various features you need to consider when looking for a travel rain jacket and then take a closer look at some of the best jackets currently on the market.

This post may contain compensated links.  Please refer to my disclaimer  here  for more information.  

Table of Contents

Why should you consider a Lightweight Waterproof Travel Jacket?

You probably already have a rain jacket at home and are so wondering if it’s really necessary to purchase a lightweight rain jacket just for travel.  Well, the main advantage of a travel rain jacket is they are super lightweight – unlike the one you probably have at home, which is perhaps reasonably bulky.

Given a travel rain jacket is so lightweight – it’s usually relatively thin and doesn’t do a lot more than keep you dry in case of a downpour.  A lightweight rain jacket is not designed to keep you warm – it’s just intended to keep you dry.  This may not be ideal in some cold destinations such as Europe or Canada in the middle of winter, but if you’re heading to a tropical destination like somewhere in South East Asia or the pacific – a lightweight rain jacket for travel is perfect.

So sure, you could lug around your heavy rain jacket with you – just in case it rains – but a lightweight rain jacket is so much for more convenience.  It will take up next to no space in your luggage – you’ll be able to throw it in the bottom of your backpack during the day, and you’ll probably forget it’s even there.  However, if you’re out and about and it does start raining – you sure will appreciate the fact that you brought it along with you.

If you like to travel light – having a lightweight rain jacket for travel is the ultimate!

Our Pick for the Best Lightweight Rain Jacket for Travel: Marmot PreCip Jackets

Don’t have time to read my entire men and womens travel raincoat guide? I just love the Marmot PreCip rain jackets .  For the money, these jackets offer exceptional value.

The Marmot PreCip men’s and women’s jackets are not only lightweight, but they are great had keeping you dry in a downpour and pack down nice and compact

Click here to purchase the Marmot women’s jacket or here for the Marmot men’s jacket .  Keep reading below for my detailed review.

Comparison Chart for the Best Men’s and Women’s Travel Raincoat  

Check out the table below for a quick and easy comparison of the travel rain jacket (women’s and men’s) options reviewed in this guide.  For further information, keep reading the reviews below.  

Things to Consider when Purchasing the Best Men’s & Best Women’s Rain Jacket for Travel

What makes the best lightweight rain jacket for travel depends on a few things. To ensure you get the best jacket, I recommend you consider the factors below.

Lightweight  

Given the point of a lightweight rain jacket is to be lightweight, one of the most important factors to consider is the weight of the jacket.

Ensure your jackets weighs no more than 10 -11 ounces.  In fact, some of the very best outdoor brands make jackets close to half that weight.  This means that not only will your jacket not take up much space in your luggage; it won’t be an issue in terms of strict weight restrictions that many airlines are now stringently enforcing.

With a lightweight jacket, you’ll be able to pop it in the bottom of your backpack and go about your day to day sightseeing without even realizing its there.  But in case of a downpour, you’ll be well protected.  

You might also like the best rain pants for men.

Packability

As well as jackets being lightweight, a good travel rain jacket needs to be packable.  In other words, this means that the jacket packs down nice and small, so it’s not only lightweight but also takes up barely any space in your bag either.

Some of the best lightweight rain jackets come with their own little stuff sacks or even have built-in pockets, so when not in use, you can easily store them away.  

Fabric: Number of Layers and Quality  

When it comes to considering the fabrics used to make rain jackets, its helpful to understand the makeup of a rain jacket.  Generally, a rain jacket will have up to three layers – an outer layer, a middle waterproof membrane and a lining.  The more layers a jacket has, the better it is at not only keeping you dry but also in letting out hot air and sweat.  However, the more layers, the bulkier the jacket is.

Top-quality jackets will have the number of layers clearly identified.  Look for mention of either 2L, 2.5L or 3L.

To ensure your rain jacket keeps you well protected, you want to look for a jacket made from high-quality, durable fabrics.  While rain jackets from the top outdoor brands may seem expensive, these brands use high-quality materials to ensure your jackets not only keep you well protected, but last for years.

Breathability

One of the biggest downsides of a rain jacket is its inability to be breathable – that is not adequately letting out perspiration or hot air.  This means that if you’re in a warm climate – you will most likely get hot and sweaty while wearing your rain jacket.

However technology has come along away, and top quality brand jackets are likely to perform better in terms of breathability than the cheaper jackets.

If you’re the sort of person that gets hot quickly – look for jackets that mention increased breathability.  Rain jackets made with three layers tend to perform best in terms of breathability.

Price  

When it comes to lightweight rain jackets, there is a huge range of prices.  You can pick one up for $20 as well as spend well over a few hundred dollars.

You’ll note that I haven’t included any $20 rain jackets in this guide.  That’s because although cheap, these jackets are really not worth the money.  If you’re going to buy a rain jacket, then you might as well make an investment in a good quality one, that you know will perform well when you need it to, as well as last you years to come.  

Pockets and other Features  

Ok so we’ve covered all the essential features to consider when it comes to a lightweight rain jacket – let’s talk about the nice to have.

Some jackets come with exterior or interior pockets, removable hoods, or hoods with a drawstring (I recommend this to ensure the hood stays well secured on your head), jackets with drawstring waists and cuffs, double-ended zippers – the list goes on.

As to what features are important – that really depends on your personal preferences and also perhaps how much money you’re willing to spend.  Just note that usually the more features, the heavier and bulkier the jacket becomes.

The Best Travel Rain Jacket (Women’s) Reviews 2020  

Below I’ve listed five great options for the best women’s raincoat for travel.  

The cheapest rain jacket in these reviews, the Columbia Arcadia jacket comes in a stack of great colours and is perfect for keeping you dry.

Made with Omni-Tech material, this lightweight travel women’s raincoat will keep you dry, while also being breathable.  This jacket features two layers of fabric with a soft mesh lining inside the jacket.

For a low-priced jacket, the Arcadia comes with loads of features.  This jacket has an adjustable hood, drawcord adjustable hem, and dual zippered hand pockets.  Plus it’s also easy to carry, folding up into a built-in pocket.

While not the lightest of lightweight jackets, for the price and what it offers, it’s a great jacket for keeping dry on your travels.

The ladies Marmot PreCip rain jacket is among one of the most highly rated rain jackets currently on the market and my pick for the best lightweight rain jacket for travel.  Coming with some great features and all at a great price, it’s not surprisingly this is such a popular jacket

This 2.5L jacket is made with comfortable and breathable NanoPro fabric which is completely waterproof.  With the NanoPro’s microporous structure, water won’t soak into your jacket, and the taped seams ensure that all points are sealed to prevent any leaks.

To aid in ventilation, this Marmot jacket also has PitZips (side zippers) which allow you to let out hot air quickly, and get some cool air in.  Other features of this jacket include a drawstring hood and hem as well as Velcro cuffs to help prevent leaks and to improve temperature control.  The jacket also has two deep front pockets.

Weighing in at 9.6 oz, this Marmot jacket is a great lightweight rain jacket for travel and also comes in a range of great colours to choose from.  

Yet another highly popular rain jacket, North Face’s Venture 2 is an excellent choice for anyone after a great priced jacket to keep them dry in wet weather conditions.

This 2.5L jacket is made with a durable 100% windproof and waterproof exterior fabric.  It also has cuff and hem drawcords for a better fit and to keep out wet weather.  For those who need the extra ventilation, you’ll appreciate that the jacket has zippers under the armpits.

The jacket also has an adjustable hood and zipper hand pockets.  Plus for easy storage the jacket stuffs away into its own pocket, making it perfect for throwing in the bottom of your day pack.

The North Face Venture 2 rain jacket is the perfect companion to keep you well protected from poor weather conditions.

4. Outdoor Research Women’s Helium II Jacket

At just 5.5 ounces – the women’s Outdoor Research Helium II jacket is by far the lightest rain jacket in these reviews.  You can keep this jacket at the bottom of your backpack or even in your handbag – just in case you encounter wet weather during a day of sightseeing.

Not only is this jacket lightweight, but it’s also ridiculously packable.  This little jacket packs down to about the size of a mobile phone!  Plus you can clip it on the outside of your bag if you need to with the carabiner loop.

But don’t let its size fool you, this is a great performer too.  The Pertex waterproof fabric is great at keeping you dry, and all seams are fully sealed as well as the zipper being protected with YKK® AquaGuard® waterproofing technology.

Given how lightweight this jacket is, it doesn’t feature any extras like the heavier rain jackets in this review, but it does come with a hood as well as one chest pocket.

For those just after a no-frills lightweight rain jacket that they can pop into the smallest of small day packs or their handbag, you really can’t beat the Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket.

5. Arc’teryx Zeta SL Jacket

If you’ve booked that dream trip and have just discovered that heavy rain is predicted – then you’re going to want to ensure you have the best protection – which is where the Arc’teryx Zeta SL jacket comes in.  This rain jacket is a top of the line product which will keep well protected in poor weather conditions.

Made with high-quality 2L Gore-Tex fabric with Paclite Plus technology, not only is this jacket waterproof and windproof, but it also performs well in the snow too.  The jacket has a watertight front zipper, taped seams, and an adjustable hood, cuffs, and hem to seal out the weather.  Other features of this jacket include two hand pockets, chin guard with soft brushed microsuede.

This is by no means a cheap rain jacket, but if you want to make the investment upfront for a top-quality rain jacket to keep you well protected for years and years to come, the Arc’teryx Zeta SL jacket is one to consider.  

The Best Travel Rain Jacket (Men’s) Reviews 2020  

Below I’ve listed five great options for the best men’s raincoat for travel.  

For men after a good quality but a cheap option, Columbia’s Watertight II rain jacket is well worth considering.  It’s rated highly by many people and is among one of the best-selling lightweight rain jackets for travel.

Made with Omni-Tech material, this jacket will keep you dry, while also being breathable.  This jacket features two layers of fabric with a soft mesh lining inside the jacket.

For a low-priced jacket, the Watertight II comes with loads of features.  This jacket has an adjustable hood, drawcord adjustable hem, dual-zippered hand pockets, a visored hood, and a chin guard to avoid zipper to chin chafing.  Plus it’s also easy to carry, folding up into a built-in pocket.

Yet another highly popular rain jacket, the Marmot men’s PreCip rain jacket is an excellent choice for anyone after a great priced jacket to keep them dry in wet weather conditions.

To aid in ventilation, this Marmot jacket also has zippers under the armpits which allow you to let out hot air quickly, and get some cool air in.  Other features of this jacket include a drawstring hood and hem as well as Velcro cuffs to help prevent leaks and to improve temperature control.  The jacket also has two deep front pockets, which can be stuffed into when not in use and for easy carrying.

Weighing in at 11 oz, this Marmot jacket is a great lightweight rain jacket for travel and comes in a range of great colours to choose from too.  

Click here to check the current price or to read more reviews.

The North Face men’s Venture 2 jacket is among one of the most highly rated rain jackets currently on the market.  It’s not surprising this is such a popular jacket, given it comes with some great features and all at a great price. 

This 2.5L jacket is made with a durable 100% windproof and waterproof exterior fabric.  It also has cuff and hem drawcords for a better fit and to keep out wet weather.  For those who needed the extra ventilation, you’ll appreciate that the jacket has zippers under the armpits.

At just 6.4 ounces – the Outdoor Research Helium II jacket is by far the lightest men’s rain jacket in these reviews.  You can keep this jacket at the bottom of your backpack or stuff it into your hiking pants pocket – just in case you encounter wet weather conditions during a day of sightseeing.

Not only is this jacket lightweight, but it’s also ridiculously packable.  This little jacket packs down to about the size of a granola bar!  Plus you can clip it on the outside of your bag, or even your belt loop if you need to with the carabiner loop.

But don’t let its size fool you, the Helium II has impressive waterproofing too.  The 2.5 – layer Pertex waterproof fabric is great at keeping you dry, as is the fully taped seams and the single zipper which is protected with YKK® AquaGuard® waterproofing technology.

For those just after a no-frills lightweight rain jacket that they can pop into the smallest of small day packs or even hiking pants pocket, you really can’t beat the Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket.  

If you’re ready to invest in a top of the line lightweight rain jacket, then the Arc’teryx Zeta SL jacket is certainly one to consider.  This rain jacket is a top of the line product which will keep well protected in poor weather conditions.

Made with high-quality 2L Gore-Tex fabric with Paclite Plus technology, not only is this jacket waterproof and windproof, but it also performs well in the snow too.  The jacket has a watertight front zipper, taped seams, and an adjustable hood, cuffs, and hem to seal out the weather.  Other features of this jacket include two hand pockets and a chin guard with a soft brushed microsuede.

This is the most expensive lightweight rain jacket in these reviews, but if you want to make the investment upfront for a top-quality jacket to keep you well protected for years and years to come, the Arc’teryx Zeta SL jacket is the perfect one to consider.

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Home > Guide To The Best Travel Products > Best Travel Rain Jackets

Best Travel Rain Jackets

Rain, rain, go away! But if it won’t, here we have found you the best lightweight rain jacket for travel! You’ll be dry and stylish, without a doubt.

That’s probably what you’ll be thinking if the heavens decide to open while you’re out and about, especially if you’re off on your travels. However, this planet of ours needs a little rain from time to time, so we need to plan for every eventuality.

When the weather isn’t quite cold enough for a full-on coat, yet it’s decided to start throwing it down with the wet stuff, a lightweight rain jacket is an answer to your weather-related prayers. You don’t have to sweat it out in a full-on coat, yet you’ll still be dry. This jacket also rolls up relatively compact, packs away in your bag, and doesn’t weigh you down.

Of course, everyone has cottoned on to the fact that these jackets are the thing to have in your bag during the shoulder seasons, which means there are countless on the market. If you want to purchase the best packable rain jacket for your needs, you need to shop around – and we’ve made it easy.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Best Packable Rain Coat Reviews

Here we’ve taken the top travel raincoats and reviewed them for you. We’re sure you’ll find one you’ll love to pack with you on your next adventure .

Arcteryx Zeta SL Gore-Tex Rain Jacket

Best waterproof jacket.

This is a stylish, outdoorsy jacket for women who want to stay dry while out and about! This jacket is made of high-quality Gore-Tex material, available in eight different color options, which is waterproof and windproof. The material is designed to be breathable, which is ideal in warmer temperatures or tropical conditions. It is incredibly lightweight, so you can easily pack it away in your bag when not in use.

This is a perfect jacket for women who are likely to be out hiking or doing outdoor activities and who want to have a sporty look while staying dry at the same time.

Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket

Best men’s rain jacket.

Columbia is a big-name brand, so you know you’re getting high quality here. This jacket isn’t specifically designed for extreme outdoor activities, but it is a good everyday jacket to opt for. The jacket is designed for men who want to stay dry while doing general activities.

The jacket is made of a nylon and polyester combination with solid zipper closure. Two side pockets zip up, and an elastic hemline for warmth. The cuffs are also elastic, and there is a chin guard for when the weather takes a real turn for the worst. It is waterproof and will keep you dry, even in a severe downpour.

Columbia Pardon My Trench Women’s Raincoat

Not all lightweight rain jackets have to be sporty or outdoorsy in appearance, as this particular women’s jacket shows. This is a trench coat-style jacket that is very fashionable and is available in 15 different color options. The coat has press studs up the front and a belt in the center to add shape to any outfit. The longer length keeps you warm and gives you extra fashion kudos!

Of course, this jacket comes from a big brand name, so it’s about quality and how it looks. The jacket is made of 100% polyester, so it’s incredibly durable and has two zipped pockets on the sides. A hood on this jacket adjusts for a bespoke fit, and the cuffs adjust to your specific size.

KUHL Women’s Jetstream Trench Rain Jacket

This jacket is ideal for women who will likely be out in downpours while exploring or sightseeing. The jacket is made of high-quality Nylon Ripstop, which means it’s super-durable and isn’t going to rip or tear accidentally. It’s also breathable, so you don’t have t worry about feeling a little sweaty in warm temperature downpours.

This trench coat style is a little longer and has a zip-up front with a hood at the back. The cuffs are adjustable and elasticated, with two zip-up pockets on either side. The jacket has a fitted style, so it is stylish, despite being less fashion and more performance-focused.

Brands We Use And Trust

Marmot men’s precip rain jacket.

This jacket is available in a massive number of different colors, making it a fashionable choice no matter what outfit you choose to wear it with. The jacket is made of 100% Nylon, so it’s durable, robust, and breathable. The Fabric is NanoPro, which means it will stand up to even snow with a waterproof layer. Two side pockets zip up, and a back pocket too. The waist is elasticated for a comfortable fit.

The neck section zips up to the chin for extra warmth, making this a good jacket for men who are likely to be outdoors quite often while exploring. It is breathable and protects against extreme wet weather, making it a quality option.

Marmot Minimalist Rain Coat

This is an excellent quality lightweight rain jacket that looks incredibly stylish and comes from a big brand name. The coat is available in 11 different color options and is made of high-quality Gore-Tex material with Paclite Technology. This means no water will get inside at all, and it won’t tear or rip easily.

The jacket has an adjustable hood to give you better visibility and protection. The zips allow you to ensure more air is getting inside, adding breathability into the mix. The hemline has a drawstring for a bespoke fit, and there are zippered hand pockets and a chest pocket, all of which are water-resistant.

North Face Men’s Fanorak Rain Jacket

Everyone knows the name North Face instantly, which should give you some idea of the quality you’re dealing with. This particular jacket is unique and comes in several color combinations to provide you with extra fashion status.

The jacket is made of strong nylon, which is water and wind-resistant. There is an adjustable hood, and the jacket zips right up to the chin for extra warmth and protection. The unique thing is that you don’t need an extra bag to store this jacket in when you’re not wearing it, as it keeps in the built-in fanny pack. You clip it to your waist and takeout out when the rain starts pouring. When unpacked, this turns into a kangaroo-style pocket to the front so that you can store all your things, and this also zips up for extra protection.

North Face Men’s Venture 2 Rain Jacket

This is another North Face jacket and, therefore, another high-quality option. The jacket is made of strong nylon and polyester in combination with Shell DryVent technology. This means that the jacket is waterproof to a high degree and manages to keep you cool with breathability as standard. You can choose between several color contract options here, all of which are a combination of white, grey, or black, so they’re all extremely wearable options.

The jacket zips up and then clasps closed at the front with a hook and loop. The hood is adjustable for extra visibility and warmth, and the material is also ripstop, so it has double protection in terms of durability. There are two zipped pockets on either side to store your items.

North Face Women’s Fanorak Packable Rain Coat

This is the women’s version of the men’s Fanorak we have already reviewed, and it is an equal competitor for the title of the best lightweight rain jacket. Again, it’s a big brand name and comes in several different color options. The jacket packs away into a fanny pack, so you can easily take it anywhere, turning it into a front kangaroo pocket when unpacked.

The jacket is made of 100% polyester, meaning it’s strong and breathable at the same time. The cuffs are elasticated for a bespoke fit, and the hood is also adjustable, so you can keep yourself warm and make sure you can see correctly at the same time. This jacket is also windproof, so it’s ideal for storms you had no idea were heading your way!

Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket

This is an excellent choice of everyday jacket, so you can grab it out of your bag if the rain falls unexpectedly. The jacket is made of nylon woven material, meaning it’s not only lightweight but it’s also durable and waterproof to a high degree. The jacket has a zip-up chest pocket and two side pockets, with elasticated cuffs and an elastic hemline for a bespoke fit. You can choose between several different color options.

The Pertex Shield technology built into the fabric means it’s waterproof and breathable, helping you stay cool in the rain, whatever it is you’re out and about doing. This is a very stylish option, and it would look great with jeans!

Outdoor Research Interstellar Rain Coat

This is an exceptionally stylish lightweight rain jacket, to the point where you might want to wear it whether it’s raining or not! The only downside is the price, as this is the most expensive of the jackets we’ve listed so far.

You can choose between several color options, and the jacket is made of 100% nylon for durability. The coat has ripstop technology, so it’s not going to rip or tear while wearing or packed away, and it is also breathable to allow air to circulate while you’re wearing it. This jacket has an adjustable hood, elasticized cuffs, and two zipped pockets on either side. Despite the price, this is a very fashionable and high-quality jacket to go for

Patagonia Men’s Torrentshell Packable Rian Jacket

This is another huge brand name, so you know you’re getting quality. Choose from several different color options in a jacket that is 2.5 layers waterproof and highly durable to boot. The jacket is made of 100% nylon and has a two-way hood with a visor that rolls down or back up for protection and visibility.

The neck is micro-fleece lined, and there is a zip up front with hook and loop closures on the cuffs for a close fit. The chin guard zips up for extra protection, and the two pockets are fleece lined to keep you warm when the rain falls.

REI Co-op Drypoint GTX

Best raincoat for men.

This is an incredibly stylish lightweight rain jacket for men and one which will look the part whether it’s raining or not! With a zip-up front, elasticated cuffs, and hemline, the coat fits snugly and in a streamlined design to avoid bulk.

The jacket is made of Gore-Tex material, so it’s waterproof and breathable and can stand up to the most substantial downpour while you’re out and about. This unisex jacket comes in several colors and has side pockets that zip up to keep your smaller items safe. The hood also has three-point adjustability, so you can ensure a bespoke fit for staying dry and visibility.

What To Consider When Buying A Packable Rain Jacket

Before you take the plunge and purchase a lightweight/packable rain jacket, consider the following features.

Make sure you opt for a coat that is made of durable fabric and one that isn’t going to rip on the slightest sharp edge. You’ll find most jackets claim to be either water repellent/resistant or that they are waterproof. There is a difference, and waterproof is the better option of the two if you’re out for long periods. However, if you’re wandering around for a short time, water repellent/resistant is more than adequate.

You should also consider whether the fabric is breathable, especially if you’re in a tropical or warm climate and it starts to rain.

Of course, you want to look good, so make sure you go for a jacket in color and style that will ‘go’ with most outfits. Avoid bright colors if you want flexibility in your style options, and stick to a shade that matches many outfits.

Functionality

Check for additional features, such as a hood, how many pockets it has, the type of zipper, etc. This entirely depends on what kind of activity you’re going to be wearing it in; if you’re sightseeing or walking around and the weather takes a turn, a general, lightweight jacket will be enough. However, if you’re hiking, you need a coat that isn’t going to rip easily and which has breathability included.

We also have a lot of packing and travel product tips, including the following.

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11 Best Rain Jackets of 2024

Procuring the best rain jacket is no easy feat. A high-quality, ultralight rain coast usually comes at a price. But these 11 options will keep you dry, warm and protected against the elements without breaking the bank.

Rain, rain, go away! We all wish the dark clouds away so they don’t spoil our outdoor adventures. But I’m sorry to tell you that crossing your fingers is probably not enough to drive those drops away. What you need, then, is a good rain jacket to keep you snug and dry.

But outdoor adventure gear like raincoats seem to be a dime a dozen. High-quality rain jackets usually come at a high cost. But I’ve done a lot of research and testing, and I’ve waded through all the different materials.

This list of the best rain jackets of the 2024 season will protect you from the elements. And the detailed guide on materials, features and jacket types to follow will prep you with all the information you need to pick out the absolute best rain jacket for your needs.

• Top Rain Jacket Overall: REI Co-op XeroDry GTX
• Best Lightweight Rain Jacket for Travel: Patagonia Storm Racer
• Best Budget Rain Jacket: REI Rainier Rain Jacket
• Best 4-Season Rain Jacket: Arc'teryx Beta AR (All-Round)
• Best Men's Rain Jacket: Outdoor Research Foray
• Best Women's Rain Jacket: Outdoor Research Aspire
• Best Rain Jacket for Hiking: Arc’teryx Beta Lightweight
• Best Backpacking Rain Jacket: Columbia OutDry Ex Eco Tech Shell
• Best Travel Rain Jacket: North Face Venture 2
• Best Breathable Rain Jacket: Mammut Alto Guide HS Hooded Jacket
• Best Packable Rain Jacket: Montbell Versalite

Top Rain Jacket Overall

Rei co-op xerodry gtx.

• Extremely breathable yet waterproof
• Very customizable and comfortable hood
• Excellent Gore-Tex waterproofing
• Great for hiking

Best Lightweight Rain Jacket for Travel

Patagonia storm racer.

• Very lightweight for extreme runners and hikers
• Packs down very small
• Great breathability

Best Budget Rain Jacket

Rei rainier rain jacket.

• Excellent waterproofing for a reasonable price
• Armpit zips for improved ventilation
• Jacket packs away into its own pocket for easy storage!

Best 4-Season Rain Jacket

Arc'teryx beta ar (all-round).

• Incredibly durable construction
• Helmet-friendly hood

Best Men's Rain Jacket

Outdoor research foray.

• Excellent Gore-Tex Waterproofing
• Good durability
• Large Armpit Zips for ventilation

Best Women's Rain Jacket

Outdoor research aspire.

Best Rain Jacket for Hiking

Arc’teryx beta lightweight.

• Very packable
• Lower weight than other gore-tex options

Best Backpacking Rain Jacket

Columbia outdry ex eco tech shell.

• Excellent breathability for such good waterproofing
• Extremely lightweight

Best Travel Rain Jacket

North face venture 2.

• Budget friendly
• Good venting options - Armpit zips

Best Breathable Rain Jacket

Mammut alto guide hs hooded jacket.

• Excellent breathability
• Great trim fit
• Very durable construction

Best Packable Rain Jacket

Montbell versalite.

• Very lightweight
• Dedicated water resistant stuff-sack
• Excellent waterproofing for a two-layer coat

REI Co-op XeroDry GTX : Top Rain Jacket Overall

The XeroDry certainly lives up to its namesake by staying bone-dry. Add to this the extremely comfortable fit and highly mobile construction, and you have a coat that is ready to stand fast in the face of any rainstorm the world over.

The XeroDry owes its badge of the top rain jacket in part to its two-layer Gore-Tex design. This is certainly one of the most waterproof jackets I’ve ever come across. The hood compliments this by cinching down perfectly, regardless of headwear, and it offers excellent periphery sight-lines.

Amongst my jacket pet-peeves is turning my head only to see the lovely inside of my hood. The XeroDry hood, however, completely eliminates this by traversing with my head even during intense activities or wind. That’s absolute gold in my book!

For the fit, you’ll find the XeroDry to be comfortable and stretchy. This makes the jacket optimal for just about any aerobic activity.

The shape, however, is a little boxy/roomy for most tastes. While this is perfect for layering in cold conditions, it can be a bit of a hindrance or eyesore if you’re trying to maintain a sleek profile. The material itself, while light, seems a little thin for the more intense activities that this jacket is marketed for, so try to take care.

The XeroDry is by far the greatest rain jacket for overall use in my book for all uses. Stay dry, keep moving and keep stylish throughout the worst the weather can throw at you. (It’s also available in women’s ).

• Pros & Cons
• Technical Specs
• Waterproof AND breathable to a great extent
• Comfortable, highly adjustable hood
• Lightweight for hiking
• Thin material may compromise durability 'Tent' cut?good for layering but very roomy otherwise

Patagonia Storm Racer : Best Lightweight Rain Jacket for Travel

Extreme outdoor adventurers – I’m talking to you ultralight runners and hikers out there – know what it’s like to count ounces. Every single piece of gear must earn its place and be worth the weight. It’s for exactly those situations that Patagonia created the Storm Racer . A mere six ounces of awesome water repellency that can pack down to just about nothing definitely makes this the ideal rain jacket for you gram counters!

The zippered chest pocket of this jacket cleverly becomes a stuff sack. The whole jacket packs away into this nifty little package, which features a reinforced carabiner loop. So you can easily clip it onto a backpack strap or belt loop if the sun comes out.

The Storm Racer achieves its lightweight status with a very thin 12D Nylon ripstop material and H2No water repellency shell. While I love how packable and light it is, I am worried about its overall durability as 12D as close to paper-thin as we’ll see on this list. There’s one for women too!

The nice trim fit offered by the Storm Racer is also a win as it maintains a very low profile for trail running or hiking. The hood continues this trend with a very low profile that is comfortable and offers a great field of view. Be aware, however, that with this snug design you won’t be able to get the hood over most helmets.

For the diehard runners and hikers out there, you can’t go wrong with the Patagonia Storm Racer. Lightweight, trim fit and entirely waterproof in the face of any rainstorm; this is certainly the top rain jacket for you. But if you tend to dabble in rock climbing, mountaineering or mountain biking, I’d recommend getting a tougher jacket.

• Very for extreme runners and hikers
• Poor durability, very thin material

REI Rainier Rain Jacket : Best Budget Rain Jacket

Budget world travelers and frugal spenders unite. REI has an impenetrable reputation when it comes to quality outdoor adventure gear, and their Rainier Rain Jacket is no exception.

Excellent waterproofing along with comfortable mobility, and all for a price that won’t result in tear-swollen eyes.

A Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish keeps you dry on those wet days, and the shell makes a great windbreaker on the blustery ones. You’ll stay nice and dry in everything from a morning mist to a full-on deluge, and the jacket is very comfortable and easy to use to boot.

But what really makes this jacket stand out is its very reasonable price tag. This jacket is absolutely perfect for folks who want all the benefits of a high quality rain jacket without the premier price tag. It’s available in women’s too.

• Excellent waterproofing at a reasonable price.
• Armpit zips for improved ventilation.
• Not as breathable as similar jackets.
• Mixed reviews on if it's good for heavy rain or not.

Arc'teryx Beta AR (All-Round) : Best 4-Season Rain Jacket

When it comes to quality craftsmanship, Arc’teryx often comes to mind. They’re one of the best outdoor clothing brands on the market and they are one of the best jacket brands as well.

Firmly entrenched in the intense outdoor adventure niche, you can always expect top-tier quality and their Beta AR jacket perfectly follows this trend. Nearly indestructible construction and impenetrable waterproofing both come together to make the ideal rain jacket for year-round adventurers. From light rains on a summer day to the heaviest of torrential downpours, the Beta AR will have you covered.

The tough construction is courtesy of 40-80D Gore-tex layering that will hold up to just about everything short of a full-on rock slide, and will help keep you nice in warm in every frigid condition. I absolutely love Arc’teryx’s foresight where the tougher 80D material is reserved for high impact areas such as shoulders and forearms. The 40D material conversely covers the rest of the coat to provide excellent durability and waterproofing where you most need it without driving the weight of the whole jacket through the roof.

Atop this is a very handy drop-hood-collar combination. The adjustable hood is large enough to shield any helmet but adjustable enough to stay in place, while the collar protects your chin and neck. And yes, there’s a style for women!

The one primary drawback I found is the waist. The rest of the coat is perfectly designed to allow for layering during cold conditions, but the waist seems just a little short to me. When wearing a hip-belt and bending over, the bottom of the coat can scoot up into the hip-belt which is always uncomfortable and makes for an awkward shimmy as you work it back into place.

Nevertheless, the Beta AR is a powerhouse of durability and protection that clearly earns its title of the top rain jacket for all seasons.

• Helmet-friendly adjustable hood
• Waist seems a little short
• Very expensive

Outdoor Research Foray : Best Men's Rain Jacket

Gentlemen, from walking the dog on a rainy day to pushing your way through a rainforest with a pack on your back, you’ll need a reliable and comfortable barrier between you and shivering, damp misery. The versatile Foray by Outdoor Research is my best recommendation to achieve that barrier and the finest rain jacket for any occasion. It’s the

The Foray’s versatility is derived from an exceptionally hefty and durable build that at the same time boasts a surprising amount of ventilation to keep it comfortable in all conditions. You have a thick, 50D, Gore-tex material to thank for this durability that will see you safely from cities to mountains. And massive, ventilated pit zips that zip all the way down for “poncho mode.”

What the 50D material buys you in durability, however, it’ll cost you in weight. Coming in at 16.3 ounces, this is definitely one of the heaviest rain jackets I’ve seen and will make its bulky presence felt. If you don’t mind the bulkiness, or simply need the tough construction, then definitely rock on.

For men anywhere in the world who are caught out in wet conditions, the Foray is the tough bulldog of a jacket. A beefy build, comfy fit and reliable performance all come together to make this coat the best rain jacket for men currently on the market.

• Large Armpit
• Zips for ventilation

Outdoor Research Aspire : Best Women's Rain Jacket

Outdoor Research once again makes my list for the best rain proof jackets, but this time for the women adventurers. Like its male counterpart, the Foray, the Aspire jacket does an excellent job of blending comfort, breathability and, of course, waterproofing for all-around solid performance in nearly every damp circumstance out there.

The 50D polyester Gore-Tex blend works wonders to make this article both entirely waterproof and very durable. Whether you’re pushing your way through bushes and trees on a hike, scrabbling over rock or simply climbing in your own window after forgetting the key, you’ll find the Aspire up to any challenge.

Unfortunately, these thick materials and intense waterproofing usually puts a damper on breathability. Outdoor Research’s Gore-Tex with Paclite, however, maintains excellent airflow to keep you comfortable while facing down a storm. The waterproof rain jacket even artfully includes full-length arm-pit zippers to turn this jacket into a poncho for a quick heat dump, if needed. It also features a zippered chest pocket for convenient storage and hand pockets which can keep your digits toasty on cooler days.

While this jacket is certainly heavier than your average rain shell, rest assured that you’re bringing a tough and dependable heavyweight into the ring that will stand up to all the rain beatings the weather dishes out.

• Little bit pricy

Arc’teryx Beta Lightweight : Best Rain Jacket for Hiking

Here we have the lighter cousin to the Beta AR that is specifically designed for the trail. Get all the benefits of Gore-tex and wind-proofing, but in a wonderfully light shell that packs down to almost nothing to make it easily one of the best rain jackets for hiking. It’s also designed with range of motion in mind, so you’ll be able to move freely and comfortably during your adventures.

The low weight is thanks to a minimalist design and ultralight Gore-tex 3-layer fabric that provides an excellent shield against the elements, yet cuts down ounces at the same time. But what we gain in portability and packability, however, we oftentimes lose in durability. The Beta Lightweight waterproof rain jacket eliminates the thicker reinforcing material often found in high abrasion areas – shoulders and forearms – and I, therefore, worry about the durability in the long run with backpack shoulder straps rubbing constantly.

When you’re therefore hitting the trail for anything from a single-day hike to multiple days out in the elements, the Beta Lightweight is a must-have in case of rain! Lightweight, great waterproofing, and specially designed with the trail in mind; this is definitely one of the best waterproof jackets.

• Less durable than other options

Columbia OutDry Ex Eco Tech Shell : Best Backpacking Rain Jacket

Columbia uniquely cuts out the standard outer layer of a rain jacket, instead, relying solely on the waterproof membrane. And they’ve certainly created a fine piece of backpacking rain gear in the process.

The Outdry Ex Eco Tech Shell has an external waterproof breathable membrane that does a fantastic job of shedding water during prolonged rain exposure and allowing for air transfer at the same time to keep you comfortable. This is due to the fact that eliminating the typical outer layer also eliminates an extra layer that air has to pass through. Therefore, it’s much easier for air exchange, and thus you’re much more comfortable!

Plus, this jacket is possibly the most eco-friendly rain jacket on the market. It is made out of recycled water bottles (even the zippers and thread), isn’t dyed (which saves 13 gallons of water in manufacturing), and uses no PFCs or other nasty chemicals to repel water.

So long-lasting waterproofing, breathability, and environmental friendliness? Sounds like a backpacking winner to me for multiple days on the trail!

The danger in putting the waterproof membrane on the outside, however, is durability. If that membrane is scraped, scratched or otherwise damaged, then your waterproofing is immediately compromised. After extensive testing, I have to admit that I haven’t damaged it yet, but it’s something I’m definitely aware of.

This Outdry system also results in a uniquely shiny appearance. I’ve met folks that have either loved or hated it, so take a good long look before you go ahead with your purchase!

Appearances aside, this coat is undoubtedly a solid and refreshingly light rain jacket that is sure to keep the wet out and cool air in. While not boasting as many bells and whistles as other highly technical oriented coats, this is still the best waterproof jacket for backpacking that you can find.

• Very lightweight and packs down into its own pocket
• Fully seam-sealed, with a bonded hood brim
• Shiny look is a bit of an acquired taste

North Face Venture 2 : Best Travel Rain Jacket

The North Face is a trusted brand for mountaineers and adventurers in every corner of the planet, and I’m constantly impressed by their consistent quality and craftsmanship. This all holds true for the Venture 2 to make it the best rain jacket for travel with solid performances in almost every criteria.

In the weatherproofing criteria, North Face’s DryVent tech-utilizing layered polyurethane?works very well to keep the damp out in most conditions. The DWR finish at the same time reliably repels rain for the long run to keep the coat performing admirably for city or trail use.

I’m also impressed by the very durable construction that you get for such a low price tag. The 70D thick material definitely holds up to hiking. As you might expect, however, having such a thick coat does come with a couple of drawbacks.

For one: the bulky fit. Great for layering, but it can feel a little baggy and unwieldy. The hood is, surprisingly, the exact opposite of this description and won’t fit over helmets. So look out traveling climbers! Nevertheless, the overall hood design is very straightforward plus comfortable, and it works nicely to protect your dome from the rain and wind.

The different color options will spice up your entire trip too, to easily make the Venture 2 the best packable rain jacket for travel. It’s available for both male and f emale travelers , too.

• Huge number of color options
• Good venting options
• Armpit zips Packable
• Smaller hood - doesn't fit over most helmets
• Could be more breathable

Mammut Alto Guide HS Hooded Jacket : Best Breathable Rain Jacket

We all like breathing, and so does your skin. To keep that clammy, progressing-towards-jungle-conditions-air away from the inside of your coat, we have the Alto HS Hooded Jacket by Mammut. Soft inner lining, armpit zips and excellent air flow all come together to form what is definitely the best breathable rain jacket and one that’s ideal for keeping cool in all conditions!

Mammut expertly puts their Gore-Tex Paclite material to use by completely locking out all moisture for entering, and yet allowing enough airflow to prevent you from turning into a mobile sweat machine. However, heavy hiking or running can inevitably result in some heat buildup. In that case, the armpit zips are perfect for a quick and seamless heat dump without having to fully unzip, or remove the jacket.

I’m also a huge fan of the very smooth and comfortable inner material that not only makes this breathable jacket a pleasure to wear, but it also keeps it from sticking to your skin in those hotter circumstances. Exteriorly speaking, the Teton HS Hooded Jacket cuts a very trim and sleek profile that looks natural in just about every situation. Nobody said your adventure raincoat couldn’t be classy too!

The exceptional airflow, heat-dumping capacity and comfortable fit easily make the Teton HS Hooded Jacket the ideal rain jacket for a cool and comfortable experience. To be fair, the tough design has resulted in a fairly hefty coat at 1lb, but to have all that durability and still maintain great breathability is a unique success right there!

• Fairly heavy design

Montbell Versalite : Best Packable Rain Jacket

For stuffing a rain jacket into your pack, car, or pocket, the Versalite by Montbell is definitely the ideal rain jacket. Extremely light with its own dedicated stuff-sack and impressive waterproofing, just fold and forget!

Weighing in at a mere 6.4 ounces, this jacket is a trifle to stuff in an unused nook or cranny. While not quite as light as my best lightweight waterproof jacket?Patagonia Storm Racer?what sets the Versalite apart is the included stuff sack.

Almost nothing makes me shiver and curse more when whipping out a raincoat than to find it’s already wet! Horrible, right? Well, the included stuff sack is also water resistant, which is absolutely glorious for storing on the outside of a hiking pack for easy access! The women’s jacket works the exact same way.

Now the downside, at a mere 10D thickness, this raincoat is incredibly thin. Again, great for packing, cramming, stashing, or whatever you do; but poor for long term durability. Therefore, I suggest treating it gently for optimal lifespan.

The Montbell Versalite is without a doubt the top rain jacket for you space constrained individuals! These jackets will fit just about anywhere, be protected by its stuff sack, and be bone-dry when the time comes to throw it on in a hurry!

• Very thin which may compromise durability

Rain Jacket Buying Considerations

Not all rain jackets are the same! Some are heavy-duty constructions that are meant to hold up to absolutely everything you can throw at them, while others are very lightweight shells for the weight counters out there. There are also differences in quality, material and function to consider that all add up to a daunting quagmire of options, so how do you decide?

That’s why I’m here! I’ve itemized the critical coat criteria from start to finish so you know exactly what you’re looking at along with its strengths and weaknesses. So let’s jump straight in.

In general, heavy duty thick jackets will weigh more than the ultralight shells out there. Now for standard day-to-day use, this can become a non-issue where a few ounces won’t keep you from getting to work on time. But there are circumstances where weight is everything!

Think ultralight distance hikes or extreme trail running and marathons. In those situations, every single ounce counts and must earn its place. Getting hold of the best ultralight rain jacket that keeps the rain at bay and packs down to almost nothing is very valuable.

Therefore, depending on your intended activity, keep an eye on jacket weight!

2. Waterproofing

All rain jackets are completely waterproof, right? Well, not exactly. Nearly every brand has its own method to achieve their waterproofing?and all with varying degrees of success.

The basic system seen on the market is a bare two-layer system that features a waterproof coating plus a mesh layer to protect it. These tend to be on the bulky side and often lack breathability. They’re therefore very basic and I’d only recommend them for occasional and casual use, except with a couple notable exceptions above.

The tried-and-true method is the standard three-layer system in which the waterproofing is sandwiched between two protective and durable layers. These tend to be the most effective and, therefore, the most expensive options on the market, with excellent moisture protection and breathability to keep you comfortable at the same time.

The actual method of waterproofing, however, also varies greatly. Many companies have their own proprietary method, such as Columbia’s OutDry or Marmot’s NanoPro or Patagonia’s H2No, and most work extremely well. But remember that water is incredibly persistent and can sometimes seep through with prolonged exposure, and not all jackets are immune. So reference the reviews above and remember that established adventure brands are the best bet.

But there’s yet another avenue for water to find its way under your coat, and that’s due to poor feature design.

3. Features

What are you hoping to get out of your new rain jacket? Will you be using it for running or traveling or rainy commutes? Whatever the reason is, it drastically influences what features you want to be on the lookout for.

Hoods, for one, vary drastically from coat to coat. Basic models will feature an equally basic hood with maybe one, or no, cinch cords to help tighten it around your head. More premium models will feature more technical, adjustable hoods with two or more levels. Sometimes these jackets include a way to secure the hood to ensure that it moves with you from side to side, gives you a wide field of view and, of course, keeps your head out the rain the whole time. Finally, if you’re planning on helmet wearing activities, make sure your hood is big enough to cover it, or comfortable enough to wear under!

Cinching wrists, or adjustable cuffs, are another feature that are incredibly useful as nobody enjoys the sensation of dampness creeping up their arm from a leaky wrist. Similarly, a sealable or adjustable waist is also very useful for the exact same reason!

You may also want to keep an eye out for pockets. Pockets come in a healthy variety of shape, size, purpose, and position. From the humble chest pocket to hand pockets and a series of small pouches serving a variety of purposes, most high-quality jackets have a pretty comprehensive range. But different pocket arrangements work for different people, depending on a host of factors, such as the type of items you plan on carrying and at what height your pocketed-hands feel most comfortable. So it’s well worth checking what the jacket you’re considering has to offer before making a purchase.

A final feature that I’d like to cover is armpit zips. When the heat starts to build up inside a coat from hard activity, it’s like a breath of fresh air to be able to unzip and dump some warmth without having to take off the whole coat. I’m particularly fond of coats with full-length zips so you can transition into poncho mode when needed. But also remember, another culprit of heat buildup can be poor jacket breathability.

4. Breathability

Almost nothing is worse than slipping into a raincoat and later finding that you’re just as wet anyway from your own humidity and sweat. You might just as well rinse off in the rain! The trick for coat manufacturers is, therefore, to develop a material that keeps rain and dampness from getting in, yet allows moisture and vapor to escape.

The general leader of the pack in this department is Gore-Tex. It’s been applied far and wide for both raincoats and boots, and it’s generally a fairly safe option. Other companies have recently been developing alternatives?recall Columbia’s OutDry or Marmot’s NanoPro or Patagonia’s H2No??that all also work to combine waterproofing and breathability.

One important note to consider is that high-quality, and equally high pricing, ultralight (UL) raincoats typically do not include extraordinary breathability. They are focusing on trimming weight wherever they can, cutting out all non-essentials, and breathability often does not make the cut.

UL options aside, the better the coat you opt for from an established brand, the better breathability you’re paying for. But you don’t only benefit from just a cool ride by choosing high-quality items. I truly cannot overstate that the more you focus on superior products from reputable brands, the more likely you are to buy your favorite rain jacket of all time with regard to every criterion.

5. Cost and Quality

I know it hurts, but if you want the ideal rain jacket, you’re probably going to have to pay for it. The jackets with top-tier durability, waterproofing, breathability and features will undoubtedly set you back a pretty penny. But I find it always helps to consider this point: Would you rather be stuck out in the woods, on a mountain or even on your way to work in the driving rain with a mediocre coat that essentially just filters the water for you? I think not! So take the time, consider your options and intended activities, and pick out the rain jacket that fits your lifestyle and will benefit you the most!

The next time you’re hiking, biking, running, just commuting to work or doing just about anything caught in the rain, you’re going to be glad you’ve been prepped on the finest rain jackets on the market.

You know the materials, you have your required features in mind and you understand the importance of breathability. And, finally, you have a complete list of the top rain jackets for nearly every occasion. So take a look, pick out the jacket that will work best for you and let the adventuring begin rain or shine!

Have fun and stay safe, eh?

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Rain Jacket FAQs

What rain jackets are actually waterproof.

Non-breathable PVC or polyurethane-coated rain jackets will be the most waterproof.

What type of jackets are good for rain?

Three-layer waterproof-breathable shells are the best for keeping you dry in the rain.

Is Gore-Tex the best?

Gore-Tex is often seen as the industry standard for waterproof-breathable materials, but other competitors like eVent and North Face Futurelight offer similar (or even better) performance.

Why isn't my rain jacket waterproof anymore?

If you’re rain jacket isn’t waterproof anymore, it’s likely that the DWR-coating wore out or that sections of seam tape came apart.

Should a rain jacket be tight or loose?

A rain jacket should be loose-fitting to allow room for more layers underneath.

Jeremy Scott Foster

this is a super awesome post. thanks for sharing this to us. you have shared a informative post. we travelers need this type of rain jacket for travel around the world!

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The 6 best packable jackets for travel in 2024.

These packable jackets promise protection from the elements without sacrificing space in your suitcase.

The Best Packable Jackets

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When preparing for a trip, you always have to account for whatever kind of weather might come your way – which, in most cases, means packing a jacket just in case. Of course, space in your luggage is precious, and the bulk of a jacket may be more than what you want to pack. That's why many travelers seek out packable jackets that fold down compactly.

Choosing a packable jacket doesn't mean you have to sacrifice warmth, though – there are plenty of options that will keep you warm without the bulk. Read on to find the best packable jackets based on recommendations from travel experts as well as consumer ratings and reviews across a variety of retail sites.

Best Overall: Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Lightweight: Arc'teryx Atom LT Jacket

Best down: cotopaxi fuego hooded down jacket, best rain jacket: marmot precip eco jacket.

• Best Budget: Amazon Essentials Puffer Jacket

Best Style: Lululemon Pack-It Down Jacket

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

Courtesy of Patagonia

There's no contest when it comes to the best packable jacket: The Patagonia Nano Puff is the tried-and-true choice for travel experts. "The warmth-to-weight ratio on this jacket is unmatched. It keeps me warm in cool temperatures or on a cold plane without making me overheat," says Lauren Maternowski, who has tried dozens of packable jackets in her role as managing editor at Pack Hacker. "And, if I add a few warm layers underneath, it adds enough warmth to feel comfortable in winter climates."

The jacket barely takes up any luggage space, either. "It compresses down to the size of a sandwich bag in its own interior pocket," says Melissa McGibbon, destinations editor at Powder. "I also appreciate that it's sustainably produced and lasts for years."

The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket is available in a variety of men's and women's sizes as well as with a hood (the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody , McGibbon's personal favorite).

Price: $239 or less

Courtesy of Arc'teryx

Many travel writers recommend Arc'teryx for its packable jackets like the Cerium and – if you're looking for something particularly lightweight – the Atom LT. Though light, this packable jacket retains heat thanks to its synthetic insulation. It also protects from the elements with a water-resistant shell, making it suitable for a variety of climates.

In addition to the design, the overall fit of this jacket earns high praise. "One of my favorite things about the Atom LT is its fit and comfort," says travel blogger Ethan Williams of Traveling Gossip. "It's not too tight, allowing room for layering, but still has a flattering, streamlined design." He notes that the side panels are made of a breathable, stretchy material, which increases mobility.

If you're looking for a jacket with a hood, there's also the Atom LT Hoody . While both men's and women's sizes are available, note that the women's jacket is now called the Atom (without the LT). Some stores may still advertise it as the Atom LT, however.

Price: $280 or less

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

The Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket features responsibly sourced 800-fill down, so you can feel warm and cozy (literally and figuratively) when wearing it. Its outer shell, which has two zippered pockets, is water-resistant, and an interior zippered pocket provides protection for your smartphone or other small essentials.

"My favorite feature is the scuba hood, which – along with the jacket zipping up to my nose – keeps me extra warm on cold and windy days," says Leilani Osmundson , digital producer for travel at U.S. News. "I wear this jacket everywhere, from skiing and walking my dog in the winter to camping and backpacking in the summer. My other down jackets have stayed tucked away in my closet ever since I received this one!"

The Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket is available in a variety of the brand's signature color combos, which make it also stylish. "I seriously get compliments all the time," Osmundson says.

Price: $295 or less

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A packable rain jacket is essential for any vacation, and the Marmot PreCip remains a classic choice 20 years after it first debuted. This well-priced option is 100% seam-taped with eco-friendly materials to ensure you'll stay completely dry, whether you're chasing the Niagara Falls on a boat tour or exploring Thailand during the wet season. It's also so compact that its hood can be rolled into the collar, and the jacket itself is designed to fold down into its own pocket.

Travelers appreciate how breathable this jacket is, noting that it doesn't make them sweat in warm temps. In cold weather, many say it's all you need and that if you get chilly, it's versatile enough to be layered with other clothing.

Price: $100 or less

Best Budget: Amazon Essentials Packable Jacket

Amazon makes some surprisingly sturdy travel gear, including packable jackets. In fact, more than 44,000 reviewers in total across men's and women's options have given the Amazon Essentials Packable Jacket 4.5 stars, pointing to its value for the price. The water-resistant puffer jacket is lightweight yet provides just the right amount of coziness on cool days (and works well over a hoodie for added warmth). Travelers say the jacket has worked well for a variety of trips, including cruises to Alaska and backpacking through Europe.

The jacket is available in a variety of colors and sizes including children's and plus sizes , though many reviewers note the sizes are inaccurate (so you may want to purchase a few or use Amazon's Prime Try Before You Buy to find the right fit). The jacket comes with a packable carry bag and is machine-washable.

Price: $39.90 or less

Fashion meets function in the Pack-It-Down Jacket by Lululemon, which features a slim fit that also covers the buttocks. "One thing I very much appreciate about the Pack-It-Down puffer jacket is that it cinches at the waist, so it doesn't make me look like an amorphous blob like most puffer-down jackets do," says travel blogger Katie Caf. You'd never know the jacket has 700-fill-power goose down by looking at it.

Caf also notes that her coat still looks new even after three New York City winters and two years of full-time travel, including trips to warm weather destinations. "When I'm traveling in tropical climates, it's a no-brainer to still bring my Pack-It-Down jacket because it takes up almost no room in my bag and weighs next to nothing." The water-resistant jacket has a removable stuff pocket for packing it into luggage, as well as a removable hood and hand pockets with a hidden phone sleeve.

Note that the Pack-It Down Jacket is often sold out due to its popularity, but you can sign up to to get an email when it's back in stock.

Price: $198 or less

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Patagonia Boulder Fork Rain Jacket Review

While not a standout in any one area, patagonia’s latest rain shell fills a nice gap in their lineup—with a healthy sustainability slant to boot.

Jason Hummel Photography

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Patagonia Boulder Fork

Price: $229 Weight: 12.5 oz. (women’s) Waterproofing: 3L H2No Performance Standard What we like: A streamlined but functional design with reliable protection and a strong sustainability slant. What we don’t: Comparable in weight to other Patagonia shells but without pit zips; doesn’t stand out in any major way. See the Women's Patagonia Boulder Fork   See the Men's Patagonia Boulder Fork

Patagonia is an irrefutable leader in the rain jacket market, and the Boulder Fork is the latest addition to their well-rounded collection. Slotting in between the everyday-friendly Torrentshell and more technical Granite Crest, the new shell is designed to minimize bulk without sacrificing protection. While testing the women’s version on a five-day backpacking trip in Chilean Patagonia, we found that the streamlined design does make a couple compromises—including no pit zips to dump heat—but it’s overall another trustworthy and thoughtfully built rain shell from Patagonia. Below we outline our experiences with the Boulder Fork. To see how it stacks up to the competition, check out our articles on the best rain jackets and best women’s rain jackets .  

Table of Contents

Weather protection, breathability, weight and packability, build quality and durability, key design features, fit and sizing.

• What We Like/What We Don't

Comparison Table

The competition, performance.

We’ve had positive experiences with Patagonia’s in-house waterproof membrane, and the Boulder Fork proved to be yet another highly protective and reliable use of the technology. Along with the 3-layer H2No Performance Standard waterproofing, Patagonia equipped the jacket with quality seam taping and a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish that prompts moisture to bead up and roll off the exterior rather than soak through. We didn’t experience any true deluges on our backpacking trip in Patagonia, but the Boulder Fork performed flawlessly during a bout of sustained rainfall and did a nice job combatting wind, too.  

The Boulder Fork also comes with several features to batten down the hatches. For starters, the hood is adjustable via a drawcord at the back and has a stiff brim to deflect moisture. I did find the brim prone to sinking down over my eyes, but adding a ball cap underneath solved the issue. You also get hook-and-loop tabs along the cuffs for sealing out weather, along with a single drawcord cinch at the hem. Finally, all of the zippers are protected in some way: The main zipper and hand pocket zippers are waterproof, while the chest pocket opening is guarded by a fabric flap.  

Waterproofing and breathability are inherently at odds, but the Boulder Fork strikes a pretty solid balance. The 3-layer construction plays a big role: The waterproof membrane is covered on the inside with a soft tricot backer, which helps wick moisture (i.e., sweat) away from the skin. For reference, many rain jackets use 2- or 2.5-layer constructions instead, which can result in a noticeably clammy feel. However, it’s important to note that the Boulder Fork lacks pit zips for dumping excess heat in a hurry, which was likely an effort to minimize bulk. I ended up lowering the front zipper when I started to build heat while backpacking, but that’s only an option in mild conditions.  

Comfort varies widely between rain jackets, and the Boulder Fork scores fairly high marks. As I touched on above, the jacket’s interior is fully lined and avoids the sticky, plasticky feel of many 2- and 2.5-layer competitors when working up a sweat. Patagonia also included a soft patch of fleece at the back of the neck, which is a small but thoughtful touch. And unlike the brand’s cheaper Torrentshell, I didn’t find the Boulder Fork to be overly stiff or bulky-feeling. You can get better comfort and mobility with a stretch-infused design like Black Diamond’s StormLine Stretch or Rab’s Kinetic Alpine 2.0 , but we’ve found that protection typically drops as a result of the more porous fabric.  

At 12.5 ounces for the women’s version, the Boulder Fork is about average among performance-ready, 3-layer rain shells. For comparison, it splits the difference between two other Patagonia favorites: their cheaper Torrentshell 3L (12.4 oz.) and upgraded Granite Crest (12.6 oz.) jackets. It also stacks up competitively to more premium alternatives like Arc’teryx’s Beta LT Jacket (12.3 oz.) and Rab’s Kinetic Alpine 2.0 (13 oz.). Serious-backcountry-goers can go lighter with a minimalist design like Norrøna’s Falketind Gore-Tex Paclite (7.8 oz.), but that jacket has a less breathable 2.5-layer construction and forgoes hand pockets. In practice, the Boulder Fork was light enough that I didn’t notice it, and it packed down fairly small for shoving in my pack. There’s no dedicated stuff pocket—which is something you get with both the Torrentshell and Granite Crest—but I found it easy to roll the jacket into its hood for storage.  

Patagonia shells rarely disappoint from a build quality standpoint, and the Boulder Fork Rain Jacket is a case in point. The jacket’s 30-denier (D) shell is thinner than what you get with the more everyday-friendly Torrentshell (50D) but plenty hardwearing, in my experience. And all of the smaller details are up to Patagonia’s typical level of quality, from the reliable water-resistant zippers to the hood and hem drawcords. All told, it’s a decidedly premium-feeling design that I expect to hold up well over the long term. And while entirely subjective, I love the retro styling of the Subtidal Blue colorway that I tested, which boasts fun details like an original Patagonia logo, a small mushroom embroidered on the right arm, and neon cuff adjustments.  

The Boulder Fork’s feature set is fairly streamlined but not overly so, in my opinion. Starting with storage, the hand pockets are generously sized and positioned high enough to clear a climbing harness or backpack hipbelt—I had no issue accessing my phone while hiking. There’s also a chest pocket at the left side that’s great for stashing a map, satellite messenger , or keys. Unlike the hand pockets, the chest pocket doesn’t have a waterproof zipper but does include a fabric flap to protect against moisture. Moving onto the hood, the design is low-profile, boasts a laminated visor for deflecting rain, and has a single drawcord at the rear for dialing in fit (note: It’s not helmet-compatible). Rounding out the feature set are hook-and-loop-equipped cuffs and a drawcord to cinch the hem, which is routed up through one of the hand pockets.  

I ordered my usual women’s size small in the Boulder Fork and found the fit to be mostly spot-on. While less form-fitting than performance pieces like Arc’teryx’s Beta LT Jacket , the Patagonia’s “regular” fit makes it easy to layer underneath without feeling overly roomy when worn on its own. The Boulder Fork did feel a little short on me—I wish the jacket had more coverage when sitting down or bending over—although the 29.8-inch center back length is right in line with the competition. And importantly, I didn’t have any issues with overall mobility or the jacket riding up underneath my hipbelt.  

Sustainability

Patagonia has been at the forefront of the outdoor industry’s sustainability push for years, and the Boulder Fork is another intentionally built piece. For starters, the jacket uses recycled polyester for both the face fabric and tricot backer, along with a PFC/PFAS-free DWR finish that’s made without perfluorinated chemicals. With many states stepping up to ban the sale of items that include PFCs, the outdoor industry is seeking better solutions for water- and stain-resistant finishes (for more, you can read about Patagonia’s take on the issue ). Finally, the Boulder Fork’s Fair Trade certification indicates that Patagonia put extra money into production to ensure workers have access to fair compensation and programs like healthcare and childcare services.  

Men’s Patagonia Boulder Fork

We put the women’s Boulder Fork through its paces for testing in Chile, and the men’s version is largely identical apart from some minor differences. In comparing the two, the men’s Boulder Fork Rain Jacket is a little heavier at 13.7 ounces, comes in different colorways, and is available in sizes up to 3X (the women’s model only goes up to XXL). Otherwise, the two designs share the same feature set and overall construction, including the use of Patagonia’s in-house H2No membrane, a 30D shell fabric, and a “regular” fit for layering underneath.  

What We Like

• Patagonia’s H2No membrane provides trustworthy protection even in sustained weather, and the feature set is well sorted for battening down the hatches.
• Well built with Patagonia’s typical attention to detail, including premium-feeling components and quality fabrics that hold up well over time.
• Tricot backer adds a nice boost in comfort and avoids the sticky, plasticky feel common among 2- and 2.5-layer designs.
• While subjective, we love the retro styling and flair of the Subtidal Blue colorway.
• Strong sustainability slant, including recycled materials, a PFC/PFAS-free DWR coating, and certification to the Fair Trade standard.

What We Don’t

• Lack of pit zips makes it hard to dump excess heat quickly.
• While reasonably durable, the 30D shell fabric is thinner than many rain jackets in the same weight class.
• Despite a fairly standard center back length (29.8 in.), the jacket felt short for our 5’6” tester.
• Doesn’t really stand out in Patagonia’s lineup: The Torrentshell is the better all-around value, while the pricier Granite Crest is the superior performance piece.  

The Boulder Fork is Patagonia’s mid-range design and slots in between two other leading rain jackets : their Torrentshell 3L and Granite Crest. Compared to the former, the Boulder Fork costs an additional $50 but is more streamlined overall, including a thinner shell (30D vs. the Torrentshell’s 50D), no pit zips, and a single adjustment point for the hood (the Torrentshell has three). The Torrentshell also packs down into its own pocket with a fabric loop for attaching to a carabiner. Both jackets use 3-layer H2No membranes for waterproofing and tricot linings for next-to-skin comfort, although we found the Boulder Fork to be notably less stiff and crinkly (likely due to its thinner shell). The Torrentshell’s storm flaps covering the main zipper also give it a bulkier look and feel, although there’s essentially no weight difference between the two. All in all, the Boulder Fork is sleeker for dedicated outdoor use, but the Torrentshell wins out in value and crosses over better for everyday wear.  

Next up is the Granite Crest , which is $50 pricier than the Boulder Fork but comes with several upgrades. These include two-way pit zips for quickly releasing heat while on the move, a dedicated stuff pocket for storage, and two additional drawcords at the front for fine-tuning the fit of the hood. The Granite Crest also ups the sustainability ante with a shell made from recycled fishing nets. Apart from those differences, the two jackets weigh around the same, boast 30D exteriors, and showcase Patagonia’s typical attention to detail. If you’re willing to spend slightly up, we think the Granite Crest’s additional features—without incurring a weight penalty—are worth it, especially for performance use (for more, see our in-depth review ).  

Moving away from Patagonia’s lineup, Outdoor Research’s Motive AscentShell Jacket stacks up pretty closely to the Boulder Fork. Both designs cost $229, feature premium 3-layer constructions, have comfortable interiors that aren’t prone to feeling clammy even when working up a sweat, and leave out pit zips. However, that’s about where the similarities end: The Motive has a thicker (50D) shell fabric than the Patagonia and adds built-in stretch for better mobility, but weight jumps to a fairly hefty 1 pound. The OR’s cuffs are also too loose to create a good seal (there are no Velcro adjustments), and the hand pockets aren’t accessible under a hipbelt. In the end, the Motive’s boost in durability isn’t enough for us to give it the edge over the lighter and more refined Boulder Fork.  

Our final competitor is a bit of a stretch price-wise but a no-brainer for serious performance use: Arc’teryx’s $450 Beta LT . For waterproofing, Arc’teryx opted for a hardshell-like, 3-layer Gore-Tex construction that delivers trustworthy protection for 4-season backcountry use. You also get upgrades like a helmet-compatible hood, pit zips for venting, and a slightly thicker 40D shell fabric—all for 0.2 ounces less than the Boulder Fork. And compared to the Patagonia, the Beta LT’s “fitted” shape makes it harder to layer heavily underneath but is very flattering and minimizes bulk. Opting for the Boulder Fork will save you a whopping $221 with only small compromises in protection and long-term durability, but avid backcountry-goers who like to get out year-round will benefit from spending up for the Arc’teryx.

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6 Scandinavian Raincoats You’ll Want to Wear Every Day

The raincoat is an indispensable closet staple that can all too easily skew frumpy instead of fashionable—which is all the more reason to invest in a statement piece that can keep you dry year-round. In our hunt for the perfect rain jacket, we started in a region that’s known for unforgiving weather: Scandinavia. From the classic, minimalist Stutterheim coat to the street-ready Rains jacket, the options below are designed for performance and look just as chic in the great outdoors as they do in the urban jungle.

Stutterheim

Based in Stockholm, Stutterheim brands itself as offering "Swedish melancholy at its driest."

Far from combatting the rain, Stockholm brand Stutterheim relishes the gloom, selling minimalist coats with the tagline "Swedish melancholy at its driest." Founder Alexander Stutterheim found inspiration for the coat’s classic contours in his grandfather’s old fishing jacket, and the accompanying emotional resonance of pensiveness, wistfulness, and creativity. The company’s offerings are a clean, contemporary take on the traditional rain jacket, made from premium rubberized cotton for a satisfying drape and a silky, smooth texture. We were struck by the heavy-duty, yet elegant, material, and impressed by the coat’s versatility, as the generous cut allows for layering throughout the seasons.

You probably recognize this brand thanks to the ubiquitous Kånken backpack, the first iteration of which was designed in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden, by then 14-year-old Åke Nordin. Officially established in 1960 and launched in the U.S. in 2012, the Fjällräven brand is now much beloved by millennials for its collection of outdoor gear and apparel. The company’s waterproof jackets combine simple, Scandinavian design with superior performance, and look just as good in the woods as they do in the office.

Headquartered in Aarhus, Denmark, and founded in 2012, Rains offers a modern rendition of the traditional rain slicker that’s both high-functioning and stylish enough to pass as streetwear. The lightweight, water-resistant, matte-finish jacket boasts deep pockets and a thoughtful cap on the hood, which kept the drizzle out of our eyes. We were impressed by how warm, yet packable, the coat was, adding insulation without bulk. It’s the ideal layer for both daily commutes and urban escapades—and best of all, the styles are set at an accessible price point.

Ilse Jacobsen

Staying close to her roots, designer Ilse Jacobsen launched her eponymous brand in her hometown—the historic, seaside hamlet of Hornbæk, Denmark—in 1993. Inspired by the wide, sandy beaches and dunes of Jacobsen’s stomping grounds, the brand’s designs marry understated luxury with utility, all while flattering the feminine shape. The brand has since expanded to include flower shops, a spa, and a beauty line, creating a universe that promotes style and personal wellness.

Named for the latitudinal line that traverses the small, Icelandic village of Suðureyri where the company was founded, 66°North got its start in 1926 when Hans Kristjánsson set out to design protective wear for fishermen and workers setting out to brave the wild elements. High performance, durability, and versatility continue to suffuse the brand’s product line, which includes the award-winning Snæfell Jacket, and a clean, sporty aesthetic keep these coats appropriate for city adventures.

Norwegian Rain

Based in Bergen, Norway—known as the rainiest city in Europe—Norwegian Rain offers hardcore protection against wet weather thanks to sophisticated, high-tech Japanese fabrics. Founder and creative director Alexander Helle comes from a business background, while bespoke tailor and designer T-Michael lends an expert eye to the brand’s sophisticated silhouettes. The small, collaborative team produces exquisitely crafted coats that will truly stand the test of time—though the price point is decidedly high, with some pieces running well over $1,000.

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Life in bergen – the rainiest city of europe..

Founder and creative director Alexander Helle is born and raised in Bergen, a city on the west coast of Norway known for its heavy rain, underground music scene and the encapsulating 7 mountains that bring wild nature all the way into the city streets.

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It was however a sojourn in Milan that initiated the inspirational idea of merging tradition, technology and style. With dry living as motivation, he went home to join forces with local expertise. When Ghanaian born T-Michael came onboard as co-owner, head designer and chief strategist the project materialized. Michael’s 24 years of tailoring experience as owner and creative director of his eponymous label T-MICHAEL, balanced Alex’s degree in Master of Business and brought depth to ideas. A versatile duo full of contrasts was born.

Drop by drop, the rain project has evolved into an award-winning label.

“A sartorial take on 100% waterproof outerwear inspired by Japanese sensibility & life in the rainiest city of Europe – Bergen.”

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“I cannot fault this parka – it has everything!”

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12 Winter Coats to Keep You Toasty Through the Worst of It

By Gerald Ortiz

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

There’s an adage that says bad weather doesn’t exist, only bad clothing. The best men's winter coats would agree, but allow us to expand on it: bad fits don't exist, either—only bad outerwear. With both those ideas in mind, we set about finding the cold-weather parkas, coats, jackets, trenches, bombers, and beyond that will not only keep you dry and warm through Mother Nature's most brutal season, but keep you looking on point, too. And we did a damn good job.

But GQ, you've found so damn many great coats for me to choose from! We hear you, guy. That's why we've done our best to break down all the winter coats into an easily digestible—though admittedly still-daunting—list in the hopes that you'll land on the right winter coat (or coats, plural) for you.

Whether you’re after an arctic-level insulated jacket , a lightweight-but-weatherproof parka, a heavy-duty peacoat, or lush and luxurious topcoat , we’ve got the right stuff to keep you toasty and dry from now through March (or April, or sigh May).

Here are a dozen essential mens outerwear styles—and the best versions of each to buy right now.

The Best Winter Jackets Shopping Guide

• The Default Puffer Jacket: The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse jacket , $330
• The Leading-Man Trench Coat: Percival Auxiliary Sherlock Trench Coat , $360
• The Larger-Than-Life Topcoat: Todd Snyder Italian Donegal Balmacaan , $998
• The Updated Duffel Coat: Our Legacy Cropped Duffel Coat , $885
• The Pleasantly Affordable Parka: Uniqlo 3D Seamless Down Parka , $160
• The Beefy Peacoat: Schott Wool Peacoat , $615
• The Trés Chic Car Coat: Gap Wool Car Coat , $248 $149
• The Super Warm Camel Coat: Paul Smith Wool-Cashmere Epsom Coat , $675
• The Built-for-Everything Raincoat: Arc'teryx Beta LT Jacket , $450
• The Subzero Flight Jacket: Alpha Industries N2-B Short Waist Jacket , $225
• The Deeply Satisfying Fleece Jackets: Patagonia Retro Pile Fleece Jacket , $149
• The Celeb-Endorsed Waxed Jackets: Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket , $298

What are some brands of best men's winter coats?

With a blizzard of winter jackets flying at you, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Myriad climes and personal needs doesn’t make it easier. Here are some of the best men’s winter jacket brands to keep your eyes on:

The Outdoorsy Icons: Arc'Teryx, Columbia, Eddie Bauer, L.L. Bean, Marmot, Patagonia, The North Face They've been in the outdoors game for decades (or longer), and built their names on making clothes that can survive the worst the world can throw at you. They often make the most technical winter jackets. The Rugged Legends: Alpha Industries, Barbour, Mackintosh, Schott They've been making outerwear longer than you've been alive, often for the military, police officers, and other professionals whose workdays leave them out in the elements for hours. The Elegant Menswear Brands: De Bonne Facture, Paul Smith, Todd Snyder These labels can fill your closet with handsome, upscale clothes—and they'll do the same for your jacket closet. With them, you're getting some top-tier tailoring and upscale fabrics, plus craftsmanship that'll last for years. The Mall Masters of Value: Abercrombie & Fitch, Banana Republic, Gap, Madewell, Uniqlo, They make good stuff at solid prices, and a 15-minute drive means you can actually try the jacket on without just buying it and crossing your fingers. Plus, they tend to be right at the sweet spot of menswear style trends (like the current move toward longer, looser overcoats). The Fashion-with-Function Labels: Our Legacy, Percival We went light on the runway grade outerwear for this winter jackets roundup, but these brands do a great job of making high-quality jackets that'll keep you from looking like everyone else walking (or hunching) through the streets this winter.

What should you consider before buying a winter jacket?

The best winter coat for a dude in Minneapolis is different than the ideal winter jacket for another guy in Houston. Here's what to look at.

Warmth: Winter is, famously, cold. But a super-toasty, 1000-fill-power down jacket may not be the right jacket for you. Winter jackets are often lined with a heat-trapping fabric like brushed flannel, wool, fleece, or corduroy. The warmest winter jackets use some form of insulation, usually either natural duck down or a synthetic fill. Duck down is lighter and warmer by weight; synthetic fills tend to be less expensive and will still preserve heat if they get soaked through.

Waterproofness: Winter is, often, wet. Whether that’s from an onslaught of rain or melting snow, some sort of water-resistance will likely come in handy. Water-resistant jackets usually use some kind of hydrophobic coating—either a synthetic DWR (durable water repellent) coating or some a wax—to prevent water from seeping into your clothes. Both will wear away over time, but can be replenished with off-the-shelf products. More technical jackets will use sealed seams and waterproof-breathable textiles like Gore-Tex, which are great but price-y.

Windproofness: Wind steals the heat your jacket's trying to trap and preserve. Look for windproof shells of nylon or extremely tightly knit twills.

Breathability: Breathable jackets may sound counterintuitive in a winter context, but trapped sweat turns into heat-sapping moisture if it can't escape. If you're going to be active in your winter jacket—whether from hiking or skiing, or just walking a lot—you'll want to consider prioritizing an outer fabric that lets the hot air escape, like Gore-Tex or Pertex.

Length: A jacket’s length determines how exposed you are to winter’s elements. Most raincoats are longer to protect your torso and legs from getting wet, but many other winter jackets are cut shorter for ease of movement.

Size and Weight: The average wool peacoat will weigh considerably more than a short down puffer. You probably won't get tired from walking around in any winter jacket, but make sure you're okay hauling around that thick shearling all day before you splash out on it. Similarly, poofy puffer's are nice and toasty—but can also be a pain in the ass to stash in a cramped closet or in a small restaurant.

Details: Take into account useful feature: maybe a jacket includes a removable hood or lining that can extend how long you use it into slightly warmer weather. And make sure you're happy with everything from the hardware—do you want a two-way zipper?—to where the pockets sit to the cleaning instructions. Fancy fabrics are lovely until you spill that Frappuccino and end up with a dry-cleaning bill.

The Puffer Jacket

A great puffer means functionality, sure—it’s the jacket you’ll reach for on the crappiest, bone-chilling-est days of winter. They can be stuffed with real deal goose down filling or synthetic insulation like Primaloft, which puts your bare skin at a good distance away from the biting cold and retains your body heat. Some down jackets are even packable, meaning you can squish them down into a tiny pouch and toss them into your bag when the winter weather feels a bit closer to fall. Technical stuff aside, it doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice your style to wear one. Beyond the sleeping-bag-like coats of your youth, there’s a whole universe of sleek and shapely puffers out there for the coldest of times. Whether you take your cues from A$AP Rocky’s streetwear vibe or George Costanza’s normcore aesthetic is entirely up to you.

The North Face

1996 Retro Nuptse Puffer Jacket

Guides Down Hoody

The Trench Coat

Given that they were originally designed to keep British army officers warm and dry in the dark, dank trenches of World War I (hence the name), we’re pretty sure these classic coats will be able to handle most anything a wet February day in the city might throw your way. These days, trench coats come in an endless range of cuts and fabrics—single or double-breasted? Belted or not? Water-repellent cotton gabardine or waterproof Gore-Tex?—but the end result is always the same: you’ll look elegant as hell in one, whether it’s tossed on over a suit or a simple tee and jeans.

Waterproof Auxiliary Sherlock

Oxford Bonded Cotton Trench Coat

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The Topcoat

You know that tired chestnut about the Inuit supposedly having 50 words for snow? ( Apparently, it’s true. ) That’s sort of the deal with topcoats . Call ‘em an overcoat or a great coat, a balmacaan or a chesterfield. The list goes on forever. Each of those distinct styles varies slightly, but they’re bound by a common denominator: they’re long and tailored from a warm, dense fabric—generally wool or cashmere—and will keep you looking and feeling all-business in the face of chilly temps. They’re roomy enough to toss over a hoodie or even a suit, or when the weather is somewhat mild, over a T-shirt and jeans like you're dashing from gate to gate at LAX.

Todd Snyder

Italian Donegal Wool Balmacaan

Double-Breasted Topcoat

The Duffle Coat

Beloved by generations of great Brits—from Winston Churchill to Paddington Bear—the duffle coat, with its heavy melton wool body and charming toggle closures, feels more relevant right now than it has in ages. It feels rugged and rustic, but can swing to more refined territory with the right details. Lean into its preppy energy by layering one over a chunky turtleneck and some horsebit loafers, or go full Raf Simons FW11 by wearing one with with your biggest, leather-iest pants.

De Bonne Facture x Gloverall

Wool Duffle Coat

Cropped Duffel Jacket

You probably owned a great surplus store parka in high school, and the appeal remains the same: they’re big, they’re tough, they look killer with everything from thrashed jeans and boots to flannel trousers and brogues to cargoes and trail runners. Parkas inherently are designed with hoods. The rest is kind of left up the air. They can be filled with down insulation or they can be left unlined and lightweight enough to pack into a tote bag. They can be zipped up, buttoned up, or pulled over. They can come with a furry hood or a detachable hood. There are many ways to slice it and you couldn't easily mess it up.

Seamless Down Parka 3D Cut

Tres 3-in-1 Parka

The Peacoat

The peacoat has all the necessary hallmarks of a menswear staple: initially designed for the military (the US Navy, to precise) and once worn (devilishly well) by Steve McQueen. They're usually made with a dense, super thick Melton wool fabric which is great at keeping the wind out. They're also usually double breasted and sit just below the butt. Try one with some slim jeans (a little flare is optional, but highly recommended!), beat-up boots , and the collar popped to maximize the '70s Robert Redford energy.

Wool Peacoat

Melton Wool Peacoat

The Car Coat

No driver's license necessary. Car coats, known for their long and drape-y silhouettes, are the perfect medium for bringing some texture and flow to your winter ensembles.

Wool Car Coat

Banana Republic

Viedma Wool-Blend Car Coat

The Camel Coat

There’s something instantly elevating about a perfect camel coat. They’ve been around for over a century at this point, but that golden tan tone still stands apart when you step out into a sea of dowdy black and gray overcoats. Though they originated as literal camel's wool, the style has become more synonymous with the light tan color itself. That's a great thing because camel wool is pricey stuff, so opting for a camel-colored option in a more conventional wool can save you some serious change without sacrificing the uptown looks. It’s sophisticated, it’s striking, it works with every skin tone. And it’s high time you tried one yourself.

Wool-Cashmere Epsom Coat

Abercrombie & Fitch

Wool Mac Coat

The Raincoat

If you’re smarter than we are and live somewhere with temperate climes all year long, then, first off: Why are you reading this article? And secondly, you can probably get away with a nice light raincoat . Raincoats these days are a pretty broad category. They can be as classic as a trench coat or as rough-and-tumble as a Gore-Tex-laden anorak. They can even be a lightweight outer shell that can get you by when the rain isn’t so intense. That's good news if, for some reason, you thought that waterproof coats were boxed in to a single style. Here are a few worth considering.

Arc'teryx

Beta LT Jacket

Watertight II Jacket

The Flight Jacket

As far as trends go, bomber jackets have tumbled a fair bit from their mid-2010s height. If you ask us, that’s a great thing: these jackets are as authentic and timeless as it gets, and they’re all the more appealing when every third goober at the bar isn’t wearing one. And considering they were originally intended to keep pilots from freezing at high altitudes, the genuine articles pack in a fair bit more heat than they generally get credit for. High-quality jawnz will be outfitted with knit cuffs, premium leather and shearling, and tough hardware. But you'd be surprised with how good some of the more affordable options can be.

Alpha Industries

N2-B Short Waist Parka

Eddie Bauer x Huckberry

Skyliner Jacket

The Fleece Jacket

Fleece jackets aren’t blowing up on your Instagram feed just because they’re cute and cozy (for the record, they are cute and cozy). There’s real utility to the fluffy stuff: when Patagonia’s Yvon Chouinard first began making clothing from the fabric in the ‘70s, it was because he was enamored by its combination of durability, lightness, warmth, and washability. (They're like the Wool Coat 2.0.) And who wants to go through the hassle of taking their wool coat to the cleaners, anyway? You can layer it over a hoodie in the city or under a shell jacket on a snowy trail, and it’ll never steer you wrong. And, yeah, they’re pretty darn cute, too.

Retro Pile Fleece Jacket

Sherpa Jacket

The Waxed Jacket

Longtime fans of The Crown , this one’s for you. Waxed cotton hunting jackets, long beloved by British royalty and Brooklyn cool guys alike, are like raw denim jeans for your torso: the longer and harder you wear them, the better they look. And given that they’re hardy enough to keep you safe and sound from the elements and re-waxable ad infinitum, we guarantee you’ll be wearing yours for a very, very long time. They may not be the warmest jackets on the winter coat spectrum, but some options are fleece-lined for extra warmth. Other waxed jacket options can be suped up with attachable linings, upping their versatility for multiple seasons.

Bedale Jacket

Flint and Tinder

Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket

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In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

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21 Things to Know Before You Go to Moscow

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