Best Hiking Jackets: Field Trialed & Tested [2024 Update]

Don’t let adverse weather stop your hiking adventures! With the best hiking jacket from our guide, you’ll be ready to face any weather conditions with confidence.

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Written by: | Reviewed by: Brian Conghalie
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While we’d all love to hike year-round in mild weather, unpredictable weather can quickly change your trip into a miserable one. To counter any rain, it’s essential to always have a quality outdoor jacket in your pack. A dependable waterproof or water-resistant jacket is a crucial piece of outdoor gear for any hiking endeavor to ensure comfort and protection from the elements.

In this guide, we’ll showcase our top 10 hiking jackets, explain why the Arc’teryx Zeta is our top pick, and provide detailed buying advice tailored to your needs, budget, and type of adventure. Whether you’re looking for ultra-mobile softshells, lightweight rain jackets, or durable hardshells for all-weather conditions, we have options to fit every hiker’s needs!

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At a Glance: The Top Hiking Jackets

  • Editor’s Choice:  Arc’teryx Zeta SL
    “A lightweight and highly waterproof shell that looks great and performs even better!”
  • Best Value:  Patagonia Torrentshell 3L
    “This new version of Patagonia’s long-term favorite is more comfortable and more breathable than ever before.”
  • Budget Pick:  The North Face Venture 2
    “This nicely priced 2.5-layer shell offers similar weather resistance to many of its far pricier peers.”
  • Best Midweight:  Marmot Minimalist
    “An ever-popular, versatile, well-thought-out, and ethically produced rain shell that offers outstanding weather resistance.”
  • Best Lightweight:  Outdoor Research Helium II
    “This is the lightest shell in our review but doesn’t compromise on toughness or waterproofing.”
  • Best Mobility:  Black Diamond StormLine Stretch
    “Hardshell or softshell? This game-changing jacket brings you the best of both worlds – and at an affordable price too.”
  • Best Ventilation:  Outdoor Research Foray
    “A robust, heavyweight shell that scores extra points for a unique and highly innovative ventilation system.”
  • Best Softshell:  Rab Kinetic Plus
    “An incredibly well-designed jacket that uses a waterproof membrane to provide far superior weather protection than most other softshells.”
  • Best Budget Softshell:  Columbia Men’s Ascender Softshell Rain Jacket
    “A cozy, mobile outer layer that adds around 10-15 degrees in warmth and is water-resistant enough to fend off light showers. “
  • Best Performance:  Montbell Versalite
    “This ultralight jacket weighs a mere 6.4 oz. but provides protection on a par with many jackets that weigh twice as much.”

Which model is the best hiking jacket?

With 100s of miles clocked, these jackets made the shortlist of best hiking coats.

  • Arc’teryx Zeta SL
  • Outdoor Research Foray
  • The North Face Venture 2
  • Black Diamond StormLine Stretch
  • Marmot Minimalist
  • Outdoor Research Helium II
  • Columbia Men’s Ascender Softshell Rain Jacket
  • Rab Kinetic Plus
  • Patagonia Torrentshell 3L
  • Montbell Versalite
Arc'teryx Zeta SL Jacket Men's | Superlight, Packable, Gore-Tex Emergency Shell for Hiking

Arc’teryx Zeta SL

Editor’s Choice

The Arc’teryx Zeta SL earns our top hiking jacket award. With strong waterproofing, a low pack weight, and ample breathability, it offers unrestricted movement for scrambling, ski-touring, or rock climbing.

This comfortable jacket is made with 40d ripstop nylon fabric, making it one of the most durable in our review. Its use of Gore-tex Paclite technology also makes it among the most waterproof and breathable on our list, second only to the Montbell Versalite. 

There are, however, a handful of other features and design characteristics that make the Zeta SL a true standout. 

We especially liked the trim fit and articulated patterning, both of which made it feel more performance-oriented than other models and resulted in less billowing in windy conditions. The gusseted underarms also made it feel less restrictive, while the soft chin guard saved us the free but unsolicited facials we’ve received from many a jacket in the past.

There’s no getting around the fact that this is a pricey jacket. However, its stellar performance across the board means it offers great value for money nonetheless. There are, of course, more breathable, waterproof, mobile, and lighter models out there. Each of these, however, makes a significant compromise (or two) in another metric – something that can’t be said of the Zeta SL. 

  • PROs

    • Robust waterproofing
    • 40d ripstop nylon
    • Articulated patterning
    • Gusseted underarms
  • CONs

    • Pricey
    • No pit zips

Bottom-Line: Tough, mobile, breathable, and waterproof enough to justify its lofty price tag. An exceptional all-around performer.

Outdoor Research Men’s Foray Lightweight Hooded Packable Rain Jacket

Outdoor Research Foray

Best Ventilation

The Outdoor Research Foray wins our best ventilation award. Heavy rain jackets typically aren’t ideal for high-output activities, but the OR Foray is a standout exception to the rule.

At 16.3 oz., this is by far the heftiest rain jacket on our list. However, its use of OR’s unique TorsoFlo hip-to-bicep vents means it’s equipped to provide more airflow than the best of the rest when you’re working hard. You get all the protection you’d expect from a heavyweight shell without affecting your performance in more active pursuits.

This design feature also allows you to wear the jacket over a bulky down jacket or even a smaller backpack, so could save you a buck or two on a raincover for your pack. 

Ventilation aside, there are plenty of other reasons why the Foray is among our favorites. In addition to its solid waterproofing and impressive breathability, it boasts a wealth of useful features. The most notable of these are its fully taped seams, harness-compatible pockets, large chest pocket, adjustable hood and cuffs, and an internal front stormflap.

Compared to the next heaviest jacket in our review, the Marmot Minimalist (14.9 oz), the Foray offers similar waterproofing and breathability but has far superior extra features.

Specs

  • Type: Hardshell
  • Weight: 16.3 oz.
  • Waterproofing: Gore-Tex PacLite Plus
  • HH: 28,000 mm
  • MVRT: 15,000 g/m²/d
  • PROs

    • Highly waterproof and breathable
    • TorsoFlo ventilation panels
    • 50-denier polyester 
    • bluesign-approved fabrics
    • Climbing harness/hipbelt-compatible pockets
    • Stuffs into its own pocket
  • CONs

    • Heavy
    • Bulky 

Bottom-Line: A burly, hard-wearing jacket that’s built for rugged environments and offers unrivaled ventilation features.

THE NORTH FACE Men’s Venture 2 Waterproof Hooded Rain Jacket (Standard and Big & Tall Size), Mid Grey/Mid Grey/TNF Black, Small

The North Face Venture 2

Budget Pick

The North Face Venture 2 is a simple, reliable, and lightweight shell for unexpected bad weather, all at a budget-friendly price.

This cheap-and-cheerful 2.5-layer jacket is made with TNF’s DryVent waterproofing, giving it an impressive hydrostatic head rating of 25,000 mm and a decent MVTR of 12,500 g/m²/24hrs. Compared to the next cheapest option on our list, the Patagonia Torrentshell, this represents a huge upgrade in waterproofing (18,000mm HH) and only a slight drop in breathability. 

In terms of durability, this lightweight hiking jacket is up there with the top performers on our list. If you opt for one of the solid colors, the face fabric is a 40d nylon. Heather-colored models, on the other hand, are made with extra-burly 70d nylon.

The Venture 2 also boasts a set of features on a par with many of its far pricier peers. There are pit zips, an adjustable hood and cuffs, a stormflap with hook-and-loop closures over the front zipper, two hand pockets, and a cinch cord in the hem. 

While there are more technical and performance-oriented jackets out there, this is a great option if you need an affordable, reliable shell for everyday wear or emergency use out on the trails. 

Specs

  • Type: Hardshell
  • Weight: 11 oz.
  • Waterproofing: 2.5-layer DryVent
  • HH: 25,000 mm
  • MVRT: 12,500 g/m²/d
  • PROs

    • Fully waterproof
    • Relatively lightweight
    • Pit zips
    • Durable fabric
    • Relaxed fit leaves room for layers underneath
    • Fully adjustable hood 
  • CONs

    • Not the most breathable option 

Bottom-Line: A highly durable and affordable jacket with a high waterproof rating and a handful of useful features.

BLACK DIAMOND Mens Stretch Waterproof-Breathlable Rain Jacket

Black Diamond StormLine Stretch

Best Mobility

The Black Diamond StormLine Stretch, a close second for the best men’s hiking jacket award, excels in mobility.

Prepare yourself for a few minutes of unmitigated, gushing praise…

The Stormline is, simply put, a game-changer in the world of outdoor apparel.

When the wizards at BD put this incredibly versatile jacket together they essentially upended longstanding notions of what a rain shell could be. Using an elastane-nylon blend over a waterproof-breathable membrane no longer would mobility have to be sacrificed in the name of waterproofing. Waterproof jackets, finally, could be just as comfortable as softshells. 

Beyond its awesome mobility, the StormLine has a lot more going for it, too. It also has an adjustable hem and cuffs, waterproof zippers, a helmet-compatible hood, underarm vents, and packs away into its own pocket. Not bad for such a reasonably priced jacket…

While we would have appreciated a little more adjustability in the hood and would opt for the Zeta SL or Montbell Versalite when expecting seriously wet conditions, this is very nearly the perfect hiking jacket. 

Specs

  • Type: Hardshell (with a twist!)
  • Weight: 11.3 oz.
  • Waterproofing: BD.dry waterproof-breathable laminate
  • HH: 22,000 mm
  • MVRT: 22,000 g/m²/d
  • PROs

    • Stretchable fabric
    • Waterproof
    • Highly breathable material
    • Pit zips
    • Helmet-compatible hood
  • CONs

    • If you’re hiking in extreme weather, there are more waterproof options available

Bottom-Line: The 12% elastane content makes this waterproof jacket far more mobile than its competitors and one of the best rain jackets out there for more technical hikes and scrambles.

Marmot Men's Minimalist GoreTex Waterproof Rain Jacket

Marmot Minimalist

Best Midweight

The Marmot Minimalist is our favorite midweight jacket, earning praise from wet-weather hikers worldwide over the years.

At 14.9 oz., this is far from being the most lightweight jacket on our list – the Montbell Versalite is half the weight and the winner of our review, the Zeta SL, is a whole 4 oz. lighter. However, the Minimalist offers comparable waterproofing to the Zeta SL, is much cheaper, and is far more durable and rich in features than the Versalite.

The Minimalist’s 28,000 mm HH rating and 15,000 g/m²/24hrs MVRT make it among the most waterproof and breathable models in our review. This means it’s a great jacket for hikes in even the most biblical of downpours and capable of keeping you cool and sweat-free when you’re hiking in warmer conditions or on steep, uphill sections of trail. 

Compared to the other “heavyweight” hiking jacket in our review, the OR Foray, the Minimalist is a little less rugged and lacks the oh-so-endearing add-on of full-length pit zippers. On the plus side, it’s a fraction cheaper, 1.5 oz. lighter, and a little more mobile thanks to its use of “Angel-Wing” underarm gussets.

Specs

  • Type: Hardshell
  • Weight: 14.9 oz.
  • Waterproofing: GoreTex Paclite
  • HH: 28,000 mm
  • MVRT: 15,000 g/m²/d
  • PROs

    • Made with 100% recycled polyester fabric
    • PFC-free DWR
    • Underarm gussets
    • Articulated elbows
    • Zippered hand and chest pockets
  • CONs

    • Heavy

Bottom-Line: A highly waterproof hooded jacket that has featured on our list of top rain jackets several years in a row – and with good reason! 

Outdoor Research Men's Helium II Jacket Coat

Outdoor Research Helium II

Best Lightweight

The Outdoor Research Helium II wins our best lightweight hiking jacket award. The ideal choice for trail runners, weight-conscious hikers, or anyone seeking a reliable emergency shell with minimal weight.

Weighing in at just 6.3 oz. this is the lightest jacket in our review, beating the Montbell Versalite by 0.1 oz. and the next closest competitor, the Zeta SL, by over 4.5 oz. Nevertheless, this is a tough little cookie. Thanks to its 30d ripstop nylon fabric, it’s as durable as many models that weigh twice as much and more resistant to tears than its predecessor, the Helium original. 

To keep the weight down, however, makers OR sacrificed a few features found in other jackets on our list. There’s only one chest pocket, no pit zips, no articulation in the sleeves, and no underarm gussets. These omissions make the Helium II less convenient than other models, but don’t detract from its standing as a solid emergency shell. 

The Helium II has the most athletic, slim fit of all the jackets on our list. As such, it’s wise to size up if you plan on wearing substantial layers underneath.

Specs

  • Type: Hardshell
  • Weight: 6.3 oz.
  • Waterproofing: Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse 2.5L
  • HH: 20,000 mm
  • MVRT: 20,000 g/m²/d
  • PROs

    • Incredibly light
    • Solid waterproofing
    • Highly breathable 
    • 30d ripstop nylon fabric
  • CONs

    • Only one pocket
    • Less suitable for cold weather

Bottom-Line: An incredibly lightweight jacket that packs plenty in the way of waterproofing, breathability, and resistance to rips, wear and tear. Possibly the best backpacking jacket out there.

Columbia Men's Ascender Softshell Front-Zip Jacket, Black, Large

Columbia Men’s Ascender Softshell Rain Jacket

Best Budget Softshell

The Columbia Ascender is a durable, cozy, water-resistant jacket suitable as both a mid-layer and a standalone outer, and our top choice for a softshell on a budget.

Made with 100% polyester, the Ascender has a little more stretch than most other jackets in our review, the exceptions being the Rab Kinetic and BD StormLine. It offers impressive wind resistance, too, but is the only jacket reviewed with no waterproof membrane. While billing it as a “rain jacket” is a bit of a stretch, we did find that it kept us dry in short-lived, lighter showers. 

The Ascender’s main selling points are its warmth and comfort. Unlike the hardshell jackets in our review, this one offers enough insulation to keep you warm on shoulder-season hikes or to be used as a winter hiking jacket during more intense, high-output cold-weather hikes. It also feels far softer against the skin.

Features-wise, the Ascender offers more or less what you’d expect from such an affordable jacket. There’s a trio of zippered pockets, adjustable alpine cuffs, and an adjustable hem, but no articulation in the sleeves or underarm gussets. This is also the only shell in our review that doesn’t have a hood. 

  • PROs

    • Stretch fabric
    • Available in 7 colors
    • Water-resistant zippers
    • Warmer than other options
  • CONs

    • Not waterproof
    • No hood 

Bottom-Line: If looking for mens outdoor jackets the Ascender is an incredibly warm, stretchy mid-layer hiking jacket that is water-resistant enough to keep you dry in light rain. 

RAB Men's Kinetic Plus Jacket - Ultralight Waterproof Stretch Softshell Jacket (Ink, M)

Rab Kinetic Plus

Best Softshell

The Rab Kinetic Plus, winner of our best softshell award, is made with Rab’s proprietary PROFLEX fabric, a polyester blend that provides exceptional mobility and next-to-skin comfort.

The British brand Rab has earned a rep for producing exquisitely dialed-in, high-quality technical garments for the mountain-going public. And in the Kinetic Plus, they have delivered what has to be one of our favorite wet-weather jackets ever. 

Unlike most other softshells in its weight class, this hiking jacket also boasts a flexible waterproof membrane with a hydrostatic head rating of 10,000 mm and MVTR or 30,000 g/m²/d. This makes it just as waterproof as hardshells like the Patagonia Torrentshell and among the more breathable models in our review. 

In terms of features, the Kinetic Plus is up there with the best of them. While there are no underarm gussets (the fabric has enough stretch that they aren’t needed) or pit zips, it has a stretch-on hood with a laminated and stiffened peak, three pockets, an AquaGuard VISLON front zip, and adjustable cuffs.

  • PROs

    • Stretchy fabric
    • Waterproof
    • Breathable
    • Adjustable cuffs
    • Taped seams
  • CONs

    • Pricey 
    • Low waterproof rating

Bottom-Line: In short, a superbly comfortable, mobile softshell jacket that uses a PU membrane to deliver wet-weather performance on a par with many hardshells.

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket Mens

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L

Best Value

The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L is a great-value lightweight, highly breathable, and sufficiently waterproof to keep you dry in moderate and sustained rain showers.

This comfortable 3-layer hiking jacket does everything the average hiker needs an emergency rain shell to provide. The Torrentshell’s durable three-layer construction makes it one of the most durable and comfortable options on our list, with the burly outer layer providing extra protection against wear and tear and the soft lining a cozier feel than most of its 2- or 2.5-layer competitors. 

The Torrentshell’s feature set is similar to most other hardshells in its price range and performance class. There’s a two-way adjustable hood, hook-and-loop cuff closures, a microfleece-lined neck, pit zips, and a duo of handwarmer pockets. There are, however, no underarm gussets and nothing in the way of articulation.

For performance, the Zeta SL, Montbell Versalite, OR Foray, and Marmot Minimalist are better options owing to their superior waterproofing and breathability. If you need a reliable, comfortable, and much more affordable shell for general hiking, however, the Torrentshell is well worth adding to your shortlist.

  • PROs

    • Microfleece-lined neck
    • Well-designed hood
    • Hook-and-loop cuff closures
    • Comfortable lining
    • Durable
  • CONs

    • Not ideal in heavy precipitation

Bottom-Line: A long-term favorite of hikers everywhere. While not as waterproof as others on our list, it’s still a great hiking jacket for emergency use in unexpected rain showers.

Montbell Versalite Mens Jacket

Montbell Versalite

Best Performance

For optimal performance, the Montbell Versalite is our top choice for fast-and-light adventures, thru-hiking, trail running, or hikers avoiding unnecessary weight.

This ultralight jacket is made with Gore-Tex’s Infinium fabric. While Infinium is not technically waterproof, the addition of a tightly knit ripstop nylon face fabric gives the Versalite an impressive hydrostatic head rating of 30,000 mm.

Ratings aside, we found the OR Helium II provided slightly more solid protection in heavy downpours, though the Versalite breathed better when moving fast. And while the Versalite’s 10d ripstop nylon fabric is reasonably tough for the weight, it falls a long way short of the Helium in terms of durability and resistance to scuffs, scrapes, and tears.

Weighing just 6.4 oz., this is the second lightest jacket in our review. Nevertheless, it boasts an impressive set of features, including a duo of zippered hand pockets, pit zips, a fully adjustable hood, adjustable alpine cuffs, and articulated arms. 

Specs

  • Type: Hardshell 
  • Weight: 6.4 oz. 
  • Waterproofing: Gore-Tex Infinium
  • HH: 30,000 mm
  • MVRT: 43,000 g/m²/d
  • PROs

    • Highly waterproof and breathable
    • Ultralight
    • Pit zips
    • 2 zippered hand pockets
    • 3-way adjustable hood
  • CONs

    • Not as durable as competitors

Bottom-Line: An ultralight jacket with the highest HH and breathability rating on our list, this one’s ideal for high-output hiking, trail running, ski-touring, and other faster-paced activities.

What to Consider When Choosing a Hiking Jacket?

There are several factors to consider when shopping for the ideal hiking jacket. Below, we offer a brief overview of each.

  • Water Resistance
  • Fabric Layers
  • Durability
  • Comfort & Mobility
  • Breathability & Ventilation
  • Weight & Packability
  • Additional Features
  • Adjustability
  • Sustainability

Water Resistance

While softshells are water-resistant, hardshell hiking jackets are fully waterproof. Softshells are a good option for an insulated jacket with a mobile layer to keep you dry in the occasional rain shower. However, most models won’t keep you dry in heavy or sustained rainfall. For that, a hardshell hiking jacket is necessary.

The level of water resistance provided by hardshells varies from jacket to jacket and is quantified in something called the “hydrostatic head test”. This test measures how much water pressure the jacket’s fabric can withstand before it begins to leak. If, for example, the fabric begins to leak with 10,000mm of water pressure then its HH is 10,000mm. Simple!

The higher the HH rating a rain jacket has, the more waterproof it will be. 

Jackets like the Montbell Versalite (30,000 mm), Arc’teryx Zeta SL (28,000 mm), and OR Foray (28,000 mm), for instance, belong to the truly “bombproof” class of rain jackets and will keep you dry even in a sustained downpour. 

Models like the Patagonia Torrentshell (10,000 mm), on the other hand, are best viewed as emergency shells that will keep you dry in shorter showers or sustained but light rainfall.    

Finally, most hardshells also use a “DWR coating”. This is a hydrophobic (water-repellent) finish that makes water bead up on the surface of the fabric and therefore helps to prevent the jacket from “wetting out”.  

older hiker wearing gloves hat and jacket looking out from mountain
Choose your jacket based on the worst-case weather conditions you expect to encounter

Fabric Layers

Hiking jackets come in 2, 2.5, and 3-layer fabric constructions. While exceptions exist, some general observations can be made about the performance of each type.

2-layer

The most basic configuration consists of 2 layers: a waterproof-breathable membrane attached to an inner fabric layer, usually a mesh lining.

Most 2-layer jackets are heavier, bulkier, and less breathable than 2.5-layer models, though also cheaper. As such, they’re a good option for general hiking and buyers on a tight budget, but not ideal for those who prioritize performance and low packed weight. 

Exceptions to this rule are the OR Foray, which is pricey for a 2-layer, and the Montbell Versalite, which is far more breathable (43,000g/m²/24hrs), lightweight (6.4 oz), and packable than any other 2-layer rain jacket out there. 

hiker wearing thin water resistant jacket
“Thin” 2-layer jackets are great lightweight options for short light showers

2.5-layer

A 2.5-layer construction uses an ultra-thin interior fabric affixed to the waterproof membranes, eliminating the bulkier lining found in both 2- and 3-layer designs.

This construction makes 2.5-layer jackets highly breathable, compressible, and lightweight. On the downside, it also means they’re less soft against the skin and less durable than 3-layer jackets, which usually have a fabric lining and burlier outer layer.  

3-layer

A 3-layer model consists of a waterproof membrane sandwiched between a more substantial face fabric and a slightly thicker interior lining. 

While bulkier than 2.5-layer options, most 3-layer jackets feel better against the skin and offer far superior breathability and waterproofing to 2-layer models (the Patagonia Torrentshell, however, is an exception to the rule). 

Durability

The most reliable markers of a rain jacket’s durability and resilience are the fabric thickness and the type of weave used in its construction. 

The thickness of the fabric is quantified in the denier rating (d), which measures the density of fabric fibers.

In most cases, higher-denier fabrics are tougher and more durable than low-denier ones. However, some jackets are made with a “ripstop” weave that makes them tougher, pound for pound, than ordinary weaves. This means that a 15D ripstop shell is likely to be as tough, if not tougher than a 20D shell made with a regular weave.

As you might have guessed, the trade-off for durability is usually extra weight, with jackets made using high-denier fabrics tipping the scales at a few ounces more than those made with thinner ones.    

In our review, the most durable jackets are the Arc’teryx Zeta SL (40d ripstop nylon), North Face Venture 2’s (70d nylon), and Patagonia Torrentshell (50d ripstop nylon). The least durable are ultralight models like the Montbell Versalite (10d ripstop nylon) and OR Helium II (30d ripstop nylon).  

Hiker wearing thinner jacket

Comfort & Mobility

As mentioned, softshells are more mobile and comfortable than hardshells due to their use of stretchier and softer fabric. That said, some hybrid models combine hardshell waterproofing technology with stretchy softshell inserts, bridging the gap between the two. The BD StormLine is a perfect example of this.

With out-and-out hardshells, the fit of the jacket and its interior lining are the most important things to look for. 

With regards to fit, articulated (i.e. ergonomic) cuts are the most comfortable as they conform to the contours of your body and provide superior freedom of movement. 

Other mobility-enhancing features are underarm gussets and helmet-compatible hoods. While pit gussets like those used in the Marmot Minimalist allow for unrestricted movement of your arms (especially important when scrambling), helmet-compatible hoods prevent the jacket riding up and exposing your midriff when wearing a helmet. 

Smaller features like a chin guard that prevents the fabric chafing against your chin are also handy additions. 

For the most part, 3-layer shells offer better next-to-skin comfort thanks to their use of a more substantial lining than 2- or 2.5-layer models, both of which can feel a little plasticky and sticky.

backpacker hiking past lake
A comfortable jacket should feel barely noticeable

Breathability & Ventilation

Breathability refers to a jacket’s ability to let body heat and sweat escape, with the fabric type and ventilation features aiding in this. Without it, things can get sticky as soon as you start exerting yourself.

Breathability is quantified using the moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR), which measures how much moisture can escape through a square meter of fabric in a 24-hour period. In product listings, this usually looks like this: 15,000 g/m²/24h or 25,000 g/m²/day. In a few words, the higher the MVTR, the more breathable the fabric is. 

Jackets with a high MVTR are typically those geared towards high-output pursuits like trail running, backcountry skiing, mountain biking, and more intense hiking. Those with a low MVTR are better suited to general use or hiking on mellow trails. 

The rain jacket with the highest MVTR on our list is the Montbell Versalite (43,000g/m²/d). 

To boost airflow, some jackets include ventilation features like pit zips (underarm zippers), adjustable cuffs, and mesh pockets, all of which can be opened to release heat/let in some fresh air when need be. 

hiker over looking morraine lake
Hiking can work up a sweat so make sure your jacket can let heat escape.

Weight & Packability

Since your rain jacket will spend most of its working life stowed in your backpack, ready to be deployed when it starts raining, weight and packability are important considerations. When considering options, keep in mind that ultralight jackets may lack the durability and weather resistance of heavyweights and often compromise on features like pit zips or pockets.

This is exemplified by the lightest and heaviest jackets in our review – the OR Helium II (6.3 oz.) and the OR Foray (16.3 oz.). While the Helium II is a much lighter jacket, it’s less waterproof and is made with much thinner fabric. It’s also less adjustable and has fewer pockets and vents. 

Additional Features

The additional features most likely to impact the convenience and user-friendliness of your hiking jacket are pockets, a hood, vents, and adjustable cinches or drawcords.

Pockets 

Pockets are useful for storing small essentials you want to access easily and, of course, for putting your hands in when temperatures are low. Most midweight jackets have three pockets – two hand pockets and one chest pocket. Ultralight models, however, may have only one or omit pockets altogether to reduce weight.

For added convenience, the pockets on some jackets (the OR Foray, for example) are situated higher on the body to allow easy access even when you’re wearing a hipbelt or harness. 

Hood

The best hoods are fully adjustable, with cinches that tighten over your head. This prevents the hood from blowing back when hiking into the wind and improves peripheral vision by keeping the fabric out of the way.

In rain shells, we’re also fans of wired peaks, which help to keep rainwater off of your face by creating a small awning, of sorts, above your brow. 

Vents

Vents are a useful non-standard feature, allowing you to quickly release heat without exposing yourself to the rain. Pit zippers are the most common ventilating features, but the OR Foray goes one step further with zippers that run from the bicep to the hem.

Adjustable Cinches and Drawcords

Adjustable hems, cuffs, and hoods enable you to trap body heat when it’s chilly and to ventilate when starting to sweat.

Sustainability

If sustainable production practices and eco-friendly materials are important to you, look for a rain jacket that’s bluesign-approved, made from recycled materials, and features a PFC-free DWR coating. 

Both the Marmot Minimalist and Patagonia Torrentshell are partially made with recycled materials, while the Torrentshell and OR Foray are bluesign-approved.

Types of Waterproof Hiking Jackets

Broadly speaking, hiking jackets can be categorized into two main categories: softshells and hardshells. Below, we explore the benefits of each type.

Softshell Hiking Jackets

Softshell jackets are defined by stretchy, soft, breathable fabric designed to offer light water resistance and insulation.

For the most part, soft-shell hiking jackets offer more warmth and mobility than hardshells, but a lot less in the way of water resistance – instead of a waterproof membrane, most have a DWR (durable water repellent) coating that will fend off only light showers. 

Examples: Columbia Ascender and Rab Kinetic Plus.

how to wash rain jacket - featimg
Choosing a softshell vs a hardshell will depend on the expected weather conditions and your choice of activity

Hardshell Hiking Jackets

While softshells are water-resistant, hardshell jackets are waterproof, meaning their core function is to protect against the elements. Most use a waterproof-breathable membrane either sandwiched between the lining and face fabric or bonded to the latter.

Though exceptions exist (see the Black Diamond Stormline Stretch), hardshells are made with stiffer materials that lack the mobility of softshells. 

In short, if weather protection is your priority, a hardshell is what you need.

While some overly pedantic observers are apt to class 3-layer jackets as the only true “hardshells,” to keep things simple, our review treats 2-, 2.5-, and 3-layer models as hardshells.

Examples: Arc’teryx Zeta SL, Outdoor Research Foray, The North Face Venture 2,Black Diamond StormLine Stretch (hybrid), Marmot Minimalist, Outdoor Research Helium II, and the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L, Montbell Versalite.

hiker in snow checking bearing
Hardshell jackets offer more protection from the weather

Last update on 2024-03-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Kieran Avatar

Kieran James Cunningham is a climber, mountaineer, and author who divides his time between the Italian Alps, the US, and his native Scotland.

He has climbed a handful of 6000ers in the Himalayas, 4000ers in the Alps, 14ers in the US, and loves nothing more than a good long-distance wander in the wilderness. He climbs when he should be writing, writes when he should be sleeping, has fun always.

Kieran has taught mountaineering, ice climbing, and single-pitch and multi-pitch rock climbing in a variety of contexts over the years and has led trekking and mountaineering expeditions in the Alps, Rockies, and UK. He is currently working towards qualifying as a Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor and International Mountain Leader.

Kieran’s book Climbing the Walls—an exploration of the mental health benefits of climbing, mountaineering, and the great outdoors—is scheduled for release by Simon & Schuster in April 2021.

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