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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.

In This Article

Our Top Picks

• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

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. 

• 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.

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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Home » Gear » The Best Men’s Travel Blazers • 2024

The Best Men’s Travel Blazers • 2024

Ok, fellas, so here’s the thing… while we nomads like to keep things super simple and laid-back while we travel, sometimes stepping our outfit up a notch is necessary given certain occasions.

Enjoying the local cultural scene is part of the travel experience, and it doesn’t always involve flip-flops and hiking pants. You don’t want to miss out on experiencing upscale restaurants, clubs, bars, or special events because you don’t have the proper attire to pass the dress code.

The best way to be prepared for a big night out in a capital city or for business travel – while packing light – is to invest in a smart, lightweight men’s travel blazer. There’s a lot to choose from, but you’ll want to go with something versatile and durable that fits your needs.

Here, we’ve put together a list of our top recommendations to help you find the best men’s travel blazer that suits your style.

Prepare to get fancy…

Quick Answer: These are the Best Men’s Travel Blazer of 2024

#1 – best travel blazer for digital nomads, #2 – best travel blazer for music festivals, #3 – best travel blazer for backpacking europe, #4 – overall best men’s travel blazer, #5 – best classic wool travel blazer, #6 – best vintage travel blazer, how to choose the best men’s travel blazer, faq about the best men’s travel blazers, final thoughts.

• Best Travel Blazer for Digital Nomads – Haggar Men’s Smart Wash Performance Blazer
• Best Travel Blazer for Music Festivals – Mogu Men’s Blazer Slim Fit Sport Coat
• Best Travel Blazer for Backpacking Europe – COOFANDY Men’s Casual Suit Blazer
• Best Classic Wool Travel Blazer – Paul Fredrick Men’s Classic Fit Wool Travel Blazer
• Best Vintage Travel Blazer – BGSD Vintage Men’s Suede Travel Blazer
• Overall Best Men’s Travel Blazer – Eddie Bauer Men’s Ultimate Voyager Travel Blazer

Haggar Men’s Smart Wash Performance Blazer

• > Elegant navy color
• > Three exterior pockets

Mogu Men’s Blazer Slim Fit Sport Coat

• > Slim-fit sport coat
• > 22 colors to choose from

COOFANDY Men’s Casual Suit Blazer

• > Stylish and polished
• > Lightweight and minimalist

Paul Fredrick Men’s Classic Fit Wool Travel Blazer

• > Made of 100% wool
• > Available in five classic colors

BGSD Vintage Men’s Suede Travel Blazer

• > Made of 100% leather
• > Two deep front pockets

Eddie Bauer Men’s Ultimate Voyager Travel Blazer

• > Odor-resistant and wrinkle-resistant
• > Lightweight travel blazer

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The best travel blazer for digital nomads on our list is Haggar Men’s Smart Wash Performance Blazer

• Material: polyester/wool
• Best Use: travel/business
• Weight: Mediumweight
• Security Pocket: yes

As a digital nomad, you make your living on the road. But not being tied down to an office doesn’t mean you don’t need to have smart apparel on hand to pull off a snazzy business look should the need arise. The Haggar Men’s Smart Wash Performance Blazer looks sharp and professional while catering to the needs of a nomadic lifestyle.

The fact that it’s low maintenance is a huge selling point. The polyester/wool blend packs down easily and makes it resistant to stains and wrinkles – meaning you won’t find yourself needing to make frequent trips to the dry cleaners. The elegant navy color pairs well with anything from jeans to slacks. It adds just the right amount of chic to any outfit for business or pleasure.

You’ll have plenty of space to carry your mobile phone and other personal items, with a button-tab pocket and two interior utility pockets. Stash valuable items that you don’t want to lose safely in the zippered interior security pocket.

Plus, there are three exterior pockets, so you won’t have any trouble carrying around all your business and travel gadgets everywhere you go. If you’re willing to splurge a bit for a high-quality, versatile travel blazer you’ll feel comfortable doing business in, it’s worth the money.

• Lots of storage
• Made of durable, hassle-free fabric
• Dry clean only

Top pick for best travel blazer for music festivals is Mogu Men’s Blazer Slim Fit Sport Coat

• Material: cotton/polyester
• Best Use: travel/party
• Weight: lightweight
• Security Pocket: no

Who said you have to go to a formal or business event to wear a spiffy blazer? You can also use a travel blazer to make a statement and have some fun. If your travels involve a music festival where psychedelic experiences are likely to ensue, spice things up by sporting a turquoise, lemon yellow, or hot pink blazer. 

If those colors don’t appeal to you, not to worry; there are 22 to choose from. If you have your heart set on a green or orange blazer, those are available too! You can have any color under the sun with this slim-fit sport coat. If the music festival you’re attending is slightly more subdued – say a classical music festival – there are less flashy colors available, like black or navy blue. 

Not only can you use this travel sport coat at music festivals, but it can easily be reused during any other part of your trip; because of its slim fit, it pairs well with t-shirts, shorts or pants, and a dress shirt. Depending on how crazy you want to get with the color, you’ll likely find a variety of occasions to add this lightweight travel blazer to other outfits. And – depending on your destination – wearing a burgundy or pink blazer on a regular night out may just fit in with the latest fashion trends.

• Available in 22 colors
• Has 2 small sizes so can also fit younger, middle school-aged students
• Budget-friendly
• Very slim fit may be restricting for stockier builds
• Chest pocket isn’t a real pocket

COOFANDY Men’s Casual Suit Blazer is one of the best travel blazer for backpacking europe

• Best Use: travel
• Security Pocket? yes

While we respect the typical backpacker’s desire for comfort and utility, we highly recommend having at least one fashionable outfit on hand if you’re backpacking through Europe. Some of the world’s most fashionable cities are found in Europe – Milan, Paris , London, to name a few – and, overall, sloppy-looking clothing is not the European way. 

While you don’t have to look runway ready to fit in, sticking out as a “typical tourist” isn’t advised. Not only does it make you a target for opportunistic pickpockets searching for unsuspecting outsiders, but it may keep you from access to higher-end or trendy hotspots that you’d like to check out. Europe has tons of cultural offerings – from super casual to more refined – and you’ll want to be aptly prepared.

This casual sport coat is the best travel blazer for backpacking Europe because it looks stylish and polished without breaking the bank. It’s also practical, with a real chest pocket, two front flap pockets, and an inside pocket to stash away more important items.

It’s lightweight and minimalist, so it will easily pair with jeans, a simple tee, and casual shoes. It adds just enough style to give you that little bit of pizazz you need for any venue or event you encounter on your European travels.

• Inexpensive
• Lightweight and versatile enough to pair with all clothing
• Looks higher quality than it is
• Needs to be drycleaned
• Thinner than an average sportscoat due to quality of material

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Eddie Bauer Men’s Ultimate Voyager Travel Blazer

Eddie Bauer Men’s Ultimate Voyager Travel Blazer is our top pick for overall best men’s travel blazer

• Material: 100% Polyester

What we love about this travel sports coat is how rugged and comfortable it is without sacrificing style. Not only is it odor-resistant and wrinkle-resistant – making packing in limited-capacity travel bags a non-issue – but it’s also has a water-resistant finish for ultimate versatility. The final look is polished and refined – everything a savvy traveler could want.

This travel blazer was definitely designed with the avid traveler in mind. Every detail is functional and travel-friendly, from the interior zip pocket for organizing travel documents to the zip compartment that includes a media port. It’s the perfect all-in-one solution for a lightweight travel blazer that will serve you well for day excursions and pass any fancy nighttime dress code requirements.

There isn’t much that we don’t like about it. Eddie Bauer makes top-quality items for travelers, and their travel blazer is no exception. It hands-down gets the #1 spot on our best travel blazer list.

• Has a close-to-body, active fit to accommodate mobility and style
• Works for travel and casual business needs
• Includes a detachable throat collar fastener
• Doesn’t require drycleaning
• Wrinkle-resistant but not wrinkle-free

Meet the best classic wool travel blazer: Paul Fredrick Men’s Classic Fit Wool Travel Blazer

• Material: wool
• Best Use: travel/formal event
• Weight: year-round

If you’re looking for the most wrinkle and stain-resistant fabric for your ideal travel blazer, then wool is the way to go. Made of 100% wool, this two-button blazer will suit all your travel needs without needing much cleaning and maintenance while on the road. 

It definitely fits the bill for a more classic, refined look that can be worn in all seasons. Wool is great because the fibers naturally help you regulate your temperature. It’s breathable like cotton, making it comfortable in warmer weather. It’s also insulating, so this travel blazer will also keep you warm in colder temperatures. If you’re a frequent traveler year-round – whether for business or pleasure – a wool travel blazer is worth considering.

If you’re on the lookout for a classically styled blazer for traditional events like a wedding, a formal dinner party, or important business travel, this is a solid choice. It’s available in five classic colors – one of which is a marine blue if you want to spice up the color.

Another bonus is that the Paul Fredrick travel blazer is as practical as it is timeless. There are two front flap pockets and four inside pockets, giving you plenty of space for travel documents and personal accessories. If you travel a lot in all types of weather, this wool travel sport coat is a winner.

• Made of 100% wool that is odor, wrinkle, and stain resistant
• Great value for money
• Stocked with pockets

Our pick for the best vintage travel blazer is BGSD Vintage Men’s Suede Travel Blazer

• Material: suede leather

If vintage is the way you roll, be sure to check out this BGSD suede travel blazer. Reasonably priced and made of 100% leather, you can easily use this sports coat for a wide variety of travel occasions – from a night out in a trendy cosmopolitan city to a casual business meeting. 

It has two deep front pockets that will easily fit essential personal accessories. There’s also an inside pocket to secure travel documents or other important items. This makes travel comfortable and convenient because you have space to keep everything you need on your person – no extra carrying accessories needed.

The distressed brown leather is a classic color that pairs well with anything. It’s easy to dress up for more elegant events or business or keep casual for daytime excursions. 

For an all-around classically cool travel blazer, this one won’t disappoint.

• Made of 100% leather
• Value for money
• Only available in brown

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

While we believe that the best travel sports coat choices we’ve presented above cover pretty much any traveler for any purpose, you may choose to keep looking around for a lightweight travel blazer that suits you better. If you do, we’d like to give you these things to consider to help you choose the best men’s travel blazer when doing your shopping research.

One of the main things to figure out is what material is best for the travel blazer for you –  depending on your needs and travel style. If your priority is low-maintenance in terms of washing, wool may be your best bet.

Wool is the most ready-to-wear as it requires the least amount of washing due to its natural odor, stain, and wrinkle-resistant properties. Just keep in mind that a wool travel blazer will need to be dry cleaned.

If you want to avoid dry cleaning completely, nylon is a better choice. Nylon is extremely resilient, making it a good choice for more rugged conditions. It’s not the typical material you’ll find in more traditional blazers, and it’s probably a material you think of for windbreaker or rain jackets. Because it’s water-resistant, finding garments for travel outerwear is helpful for unpredictable weather or for more versatile use.

Then there’s polyester. Polyester is a very lightweight, quick-drying material that is very wear-resistant, which is why it’s what most sports clothing is made of. It’s usually not considered the most high-quality material for more formal wear, but it’s the material of choice for keeping the costs of items lower. If you’re looking for the most inexpensive travel blazer possible, polyester will be your best bet.

A good question to always ask yourself when shopping around for the best travel blazer is: how much do you want to spend? Thin materials – like polyester and cotton blends – will be the cheapest. For a lower price, you’ll likely have to sacrifice more advanced features like ample pocket space, zipper pockets, and quality. 

If you want your travel blazer to be long-lasting and have all the bells and whistles of a top-notch travel garment, consider investing more money. A higher-quality travel sports coat will cost you more, but if you intend to use it for a long time, it will be worth the upfront investment.

Consider what you need a travel blazer for. Is it a one-off purchase to wear to a music festival, or is it a blazer you intend to use for business trips on the road? For a more professional function, you’ll want to carefully consider how the blazer looks – making sure it doesn’t look too “cheap” or ill-fitting.

If it’s to look good out on the town, you can choose a less traditional style. It should look sharp but could have a more vintage look or an edgier look. If it’s a travel blazer you intend for many nights out on the town in many different cities worldwide, consider paying more for the one you like best.

If it’s for one or two nights out for a specific trip, you probably don’t need to worry as much about the quality and durability of your chosen travel blazer.

Pockets and Storage

How important are pockets and storage space to you? If you like to travel with your travel documents and personal accessories on you at all times, be sure that your travel blazer selection has ample pockets. An inside security pocket is highly recommended for stashing away more valuable belongings.

Packability

Since this garment is meant to serve you well during travel, you need to check out how well the garment packs away. Is it bulky, and will it take up a lot of space, or does it fold down compactly? Does it pack well if it’s folded up, or will it arrive a wrinkled mess if it isn’t packed in a certain way – like on a hanger in a garment bag? For business travelers, this might be okay.

Keep in mind that if you’re a backpacker, your travel blazer will be tucked into a compact pack with a bunch of other items where space is limited. You’ll be better off choosing a travel blazer that packs down easily and is as wrinkle-resistant as possible.

Keeping your garments low-maintenance will help make your travels much easier and hassle-free – especially if you’re staying in hostels, as most don’t offer services that involve an iron or clothes steamer!

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

Why do I need a travel blazer?

Travel blazers are there to look fancy on the road. While you might not need it on remote trips, stepping your outfit up a notch is necessary on given certain occasions.

What is the best looking travel blazer?

We’re huge fans of the COOFANDY Men’s Casual Suit Blazer thanks to its sleek design and great fit. It’s also super light and fits in every bag.

Can you store a travel blazer in your backpack?

Yes, travel blazers are usually made to be stored easily in bags and backpacks without losing their shape or getting wrinkly. It’s best to double check though.

What should you consider when buying a travel blazer?

Think about these features: 1. Weight and Function 2. Packability 3. Cost 4. Materials and Pockets

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Ok, guys, that was your rundown of our top recommendations for the best men’s travel blazers. We hope you found this helpful and that you’ll keep our tips on how to choose the best travel blazer in mind if you choose to keep shopping around.

If you’re stuck, we’d again like to recommend the Eddie Bauer Men’s Ultimate Voyager Travel Blazer . It really is the best overall travel blazer out there.

Remember that a sports coat doesn’t need to be a stuffy, old-fashioned item; if thoughtfully selected, it will be a travel garment that will serve you well. And if you do business on the road or just want to pretend for a night out that you are not just a scruffy backpacker – be sure you have the appropriate attire to look polished and professional when needed.

Stay sharp, fellow travelers!

Aiden Freeborn

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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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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.

The Best Windbreaker Jackets of 2024

Whether you're traversing a wind-swept jagged range, or hunkering down at endless hanging belays, windbreaker jackets provide the versatile, packable protection you need. These are the best windbreaker jackets for any adventure you could dream up.

Offering stellar protection from the elements in dry, cool conditions, windbreaker jackets are our favorite breathable, packable solutions for just about any adventure you could cook up . Plus, with most models hovering around a scant 5 ounces, they barely register in your kit.

While you don’t get the same level of insulation or weather defense as burly hardshells, the simple act of thwarting the wind dramatically boosts your ability to retain warmth without overheating. Lash ‘em to your harness, or chuck ‘em in your pack and forget they’re there — windbreakers are the ultralight, ultra-packable jacket of your dreams.

Over a seven month testing period, we took over 25 windbreaker jackets on big wall ascents in the Sierras, backpacking excursions through Appalachia, and international climbing expeditions, whittling the selection down to include the most capable windbreakers money can buy.

For desperate assaults on wind-swept alpine peaks, or casual jaunts in mild weather, we’ve included jackets for every adventure and budget. We tested each jacket with a mind for a variety of different performance metrics, including breathability, durability, and weather resistance.

Chris Carter, our lead author, brings over 10 years of gear testing experience to the table and has used windbreakers in the most demanding, desperate conditions imaginable. He knows what makes a jacket worth its salt, and included only the best in this roundup.

Scroll through our top picks below, and be sure to hop down to our comprehensive buyer’s guide , FAQ , and comparison chart for help in snagging the best windbreaker jacket for your needs.

Editor’s Note: We refreshed this article on March 29, 2024, by adding the new Patagonia Houdini Stash ½-Zip Pullover, changing the winner of our Most Breathable Windbreaker Jacket Award, and updating the details of the newly revised Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody.

The Best Windbreaker Jackets of 202 4

• Best Overall Windbreaker Jacket: Patagonia Houdini  
• Best Budget Windbreaker Jacket: Cotopaxi Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker
• Runner-Up Best Windbreaker Jacket: Mountain Hardwear Kor AirShell Hoodie
• Best Windbreaker Jacket for Running: Black Diamond Deploy Wind Shell
• Most Breathable Windbreaker Jacket: Dynafit Alpine Wind 2 Jacket
• Best Windbreaker Jacket for Mountaineering: Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody
• Best Ultralight Windbreaker Jacket: Enlightened Equipment Copperfield Wind Shirt

Patagonia Houdini

• Weight 3.7 oz. (men's medium)
• Materials 100% recycled ripstop nylon with PFC-free DWR coating
• Pockets 1 zippered chest pocket (stuff sack)

• Versatile protection for a range of different conditions
• Affordable but hard-working
• Ultralight and packable
• Stellar wind and weather resistance
• Not as breathable as other models
• Minimal elasticity

Here it is — the gold standard of windbreaker majesty, and a seemingly ubiquitous quiver-of-one addition to the kit of every hiker, mountaineer, and adventurer we see. Like many of Patagonia’s products, the legendary Houdini ($109) has developed nothing less than a cult following during its years of service to the outdoor community … and for good reason.

Though not the most technical shell on our list, its simple silhouette, approachable price, and ultralight weight have made it the famous take-anywhere jacket it is today. With a classic cut for style around town, and enough hardworking gumption for the mountains, the Houdini won our best overall award for its rugged versatility, top-shelf construction, and stellar value.

We’ve been testing this jacket on months-long thru-hikes, lofty multipitch climbs, and demanding bushwhacks since 2018, and it remains a shoo-in on any of our adventure gear lists. While we’ve snagged new iterations as they come out over the years, our original model is still going strong with only a peeling logo to show its age — a true testament to the Houdini’s longevity.

From a 30,000-foot view, it’s a bare-bones shell. A single zippered chest pocket, elasticated cuffs, and a drawcord hem round out its basic feature set. But peek under the hood and you’ll find top-shelf tech, featherlight but bomb-proof materials, and an incredibly versatile design at just over 100 bucks.

Recycled ripstop nylon with a surprisingly stalwart DWR coating shrugs off significant torture and light rain in the backcountry, and a slim fit with a slight drop tail gives it an athletic feel, with just enough room for a couple of light layers underneath. We put each jacket on this list through a shower-simulated downpour to test the fabric’s wet-out time (with a thin fleece jacket underneath), and the Houdini lasted an impressive 2 minutes and 45 seconds.

At a mere 3.7 ounces, the Houdini lands comfortably in the “barely there” realm of technical layers — and sports an almost translucent appearance when held to the sun. Its pack size follows suit. Shoving into its zippered chest pocket with a carabiner loop, it crams down to about the size of a pear, and easily disappears in a pack, or weightlessly floats behind you on a climbing harness. Maintaining any semblance of durability in this weight class does merit a few downsides, namely breathability and comfort.

We’ve taken this tiny gem to some wild corners of the world — but we don’t necessarily push the pace when wearing it. For light to moderate activities like hiking or mild multipitch climbs, it blocks wind like a champ, keeping you warm and cozy. But the nylon shell has little elasticity, subpar next-to-skin comfort, and minimal moisture-wicking capabilities. Not the best combo for desperately fast missions with a spiking heart rate.

At that mass and price point though, it punches well above its weight. For versatile, affordable protection in a wide range of climates and conditions, it’s in a league of its own.

Cotopaxi Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker

• Weight 4.4 oz.
• Materials 100% repurposed polyester taffeta & ripstop with DWR finish & PU backer
• Pockets Kangaroo hand pocket, front zip pocket (stuff sack)

• Sustainable construction
• Solid weather-resistance
• Not very breathable
• Not as packable as other models
• No cinch cords at hem or hood

It’s rare to find sustainable apparel crafted from repurposed and recycled material that holds up to the rigors of life outside, but Cotopaxi’s “Gear for Good” slogan encapsulates more than an abstract ethos. Racking up some of the most environmentally friendly points on this list, the Teca Half-Zip ($80) is ethically made and affordable, with just the right spunk for light adventuring.

Though we may not take this on an expedition through the ranges of Pakistan, the Teca delivers solid performance, stellar packability, and peerless style. It’s common knowledge — if you want to stand out in a crowd, snag a Cotopaxi jacket. Vibrant color combinations abound for whatever your vibe might be.

But its allure doesn’t stop there. A patchwork of DWR-coated and PU-backed taffeta and ripstop polyester panels surround the jacket, giving it a technical flair for mild to moderate outdoor activity in unpredictable weather. And, while the material itself is quite thick and unbreathable, subtle mesh venting on the back and a deep venting front zipper allow heat to dump out if you suddenly have to pick up the pace on trail.

We found the Teca to be surprisingly durable during our testing period, holding up to some light bushwhacking and miles of backcountry hiking. Additionally, the chunky ripstop pattern on the arms, thin front panel, and bottom back panel feature some of the most robust squares we’ve seen on windbreaker ripstop fabrics, inspiring serious confidence in thorny terrain. 

The pocket layout is unique, with deep kangaroo-style front handwarmer pockets underneath a zippered pouch, which doubles as the jacket’s generous stuff sack. Pullover designs aren’t our favorite, as we like to rip windbreakers off and on quickly, but the half-zip does cut significant weight and bulk. The Teca crams down ultra tiny. While the stuff sack itself isn’t small, it can easily be mashed to the size of a baseball, and clocks in at a respectable 4.4 ounces on our scale.

The DWR-coated fabric resisted wetting out for about 5 minutes during our downpour simulation in the shower. This is longer than most, but the number of untaped seams along the multitude of panels allowed water to seep in fast, quickly soaking the fleece. Such burly fabric also diminishes breathability. Additionally, the lack of pull cords and adjustability at the hem and hood allows ease of access for strong gusts of wind. 

While not our top pick for technical forays in remote regions, the Teca is a great choice for casual hikes, frontcountry style, or light adventuring in moderate climates. Its approachable price point and fun, funky style made it a no-brainer for this roundup. 

Mountain Hardwear Kor AirShell Hoodie

• Weight 4.8 oz.
• Materials Pertex Quantum Air 20D stretch ripstop & 59% recycled nylon
• Pockets 2 zippered hand pockets, internal drop pocket (stuff sack)

• Extremely soft fabric
• Flexible materials
• Fully featured
• On the heavy side
• No cinch cord at hem or hood
• Wets out fast

Now here’s a cozy layer. Slide this on in the dark and you may think you’ve grabbed a paper-thin fleece jacket. For next-to-skin comfort, the Kor AirShell ($150) is next to none. Mix in a big ol’ batch of bomber stretch-woven fabrics, a ripstop Pertex Quantum Air force field, and a fully loaded feature set, and well — that’s how it gets away with such a cool name.

We immediately knew this would be a standard bearer when trotting around with it for the first time. Marvelous mobility? Check. Blue ribbon breathability? Check. Fantastic fit? Almost check. This bad boy was a hair’s breadth away from snagging our top award, but for a small yet noticeable detail: its lack of adjustability and drawcords.

While leaning into truly ghoulish gusts, the ability to cinch down our windbreaker’s hem and hood is a pretty key feature we look for when testing its mettle. While the AirShell ticked almost every box, we found that wisps of wind squirmed their way under the loose elastic hem and cuffs much easier than other models in our lineup.

That gripe aside, this didn’t stop us from sporting it on towering limestone spires, tough technical scrambles, or high-adrenaline ridgeline romps, and it quickly became one of our go-to shells for demanding adventures where breathability and durability are vital.

The 20-denier ripstop fabric features a significant amount of stretch, allowing it to give when prodded by protrusions instead of puncture. The DWR coating performed about average for a soft windbreaker, and it took just over 30 seconds for the jacket to completely wet out in our shower-simulated downpour. It also takes a bit longer to dry out than many models. It fends off light mist fine, but you better have a rain jacket on hand if things get ugly.

We love the stronger fabric and dual zippered handwarmer pockets, but this does add slight weight and bulk. At 4.8 ounces on our scale, it tickles the heavier end of the spectrum (and yes, we trimmed the tags), but still feels small and light enough for most missions we conjure up.

An elastic, zipperless internal drop pocket doubles as the jacket’s stuff sack and includes a carabiner loop. This design works fine, but we wish they saved some weight by using one of the pockets for this role, and we also appreciate having our jacket closed up by a zipper when crammed down and dangling from a harness.

Don’t let our nitpicks dissuade you though. This is a premium shell that deserves any adventurer’s attention for casual downtown comfort or peak alpine performance.

Dynafit Alpine Wind 2 Jacket

• Weight 3.3 oz.
• Materials Dynashell Ultralight Miniripstop polyamide
• Pockets None (pouch in collar is stuff sack)

• Thumb loops
• Snug but stretchy fit
• Stellar breathability
• Difficult to cram jacket into stuff pouch at collar
• Niche, running-specific design is limiting on some activities

3.3 ounces and an essentially translucent appearance put Dynafit’s Alpine Wind 2 ($140) firmly into our “wisp of wind” category of jackets. With the BD Deploy and LS Blizzard, it’s in good company — but adds a couple of unique flairs to the running-specific options on this list. 

Similar to the Blizzard, a nearly entirely stretch mesh back panel affords phenomenal breathability and mobility while crushing uphill climbs, and laser-cut perforations at the shoulders allow for venting near the pits. The DWR-coated Dynashell Ultralight Miniripstop fabric is indeed mini, and requires some babying over rough terrain … but performed surprisingly well on a frustrating bushwhack when we lost the trail on one particular outing.    

Despite being one of the more breathable jackets on our list, it had an impressive wet-out time of just over 30 seconds in our shower test — but the vent holes and mesh back make this a less-than-awesome barrier in persistent rain. For a healthy balance between wind resistance and breathability though, it stands out.  

The Alpine Wind is snug but stretchy, and doesn’t allow many layers underneath. For runners this is fine, but it doesn’t serve a backpacker or mountaineer well in super chilly environments. Dang, do we love the fit though! Its sleek, tapered design and tight hood make it a top pick for blazing through tempo runs and chasing PRs.

Small thoughtful touches set this model apart, like a thin buckled strap at the collar for quickly stowing the hood if it’s flapping around in the breeze. And thumb loops — we wish every windbreaker had ‘em. They are often left out to streamline the design, but we’re grateful the Alpine Wind didn’t follow suit. Aside from the Deploy, this jacket has the smallest pack size on this list, if you can get it into the stuff pocket at the collar. We found it frustratingly difficult to cram down, which stands out as our biggest con.

That singular qualm aside, this is a nearly perfect windbreaker for aggressive runs or breakneck speed hikes in tempestuous conditions. The attention to detail and breathable nature of this shell make it one of our favorite niche models for fast-paced objectives.

Black Diamond Deploy Wind Shell

• Weight 1.6 oz.
• Materials 5D Japanese ripstop nylon with DWR treatment

• Absurdly ultralight
• Surprising water resistance
• Peerless packability
• Not very durable
• No pockets or hood

Sneeze and it’s gone — the barely existent 1.6-ounce Deploy Wind Shell ($180) will have you questioning the laws of matter. No joke, it’s literally difficult to feel in your hands when pulling it from your closet. And, just south of $200, it may also have you questioning why you joined the ultralight cult in the first place.

The Deploy could be the poster child of “don’t judge a book by its cover,” though, and there’s much to discover if you can afford to take it for a spin. Black Diamond claims this is the lightest, most packable windbreaker on the market, and we’re scratching our heads to drum up any competition.

The infinitesimally thin 5-denier Japanese nylon shell features a tiny ripstop grid, with a light DWR treatment that can somehow fend off significant precipitation. Despite it all, the jacket maintains a shocking amount of breathability.

Cramming the Deploy into the discrete stuff sack in its collar feels like hitting it with a shrink-ray gun. The tiny pouch gobbles it up, and a thin elastic cord snugs the package down to roughly the size of a golf ball. But you won’t be hitting this across the green. With less mass than a wisp of air, it seems to alleviate pack weight, rather than add to it.

Anything can be light and small, but the magic lies in its performance on technical missions and intense runs. Cranking up the pulse during chilly fall tempos, we found the Deploy regulates sweat and moisture buildup well, and the jacket only feels marginally clammy and stuffy. It doesn’t vent as well as a jacket like the Alpine 2, but its breathability did surprise us. 

However, what really took us aback was its water resistance when a storm rolled in during one of our long runs. The rain didn’t last long, but each droplet popped off the jacket, and only a bit of moisture seeped through the zipper and untaped seams. Interested in finding its limit, we put it through the ol’ shower test, and after simulating over 20 minutes of pouring rain, the fabric hadn’t wet out.

We still haven’t found its limit (though moisture eventually seeped through the seams and zipper) — and frankly, we’re scared it will run our water bill too high. Most of our other windbreakers wet out in a couple of minutes at most.  

While we know this DWR coating will fade with time, it is wildly impressive considering its weight and level of breathability. Consistent with its seemingly rainproof nature, the Deploy also shirks wind well, and a cinch cord at the hem (which may be responsible for half of the jacket’s weight) fends off strong gusts.

So … the negatives. It’s not all roses and daisies, with the biggest con being durability. 5-denier fabric is mega fragile, and we avoid anything pokey like the plague while wearing it. There are also no pockets to speak of, nor a hood, which would be a nice addition in the rain.     

But dang, for emergency protection that weighs less than the socks on your feet (our favorite pair weighs 66 g), there’s not much that compares to this ultralight feat of engineering. Effortlessly cruise over windswept ridgelines, or crush that FKT you’ve been eyeing with confidence. The Deploy is the shell for the job.

Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody

• Weight 7.3 oz.
• Materials 93% nylon, 7% elastane with Schoeller Eco-Repel Bio DWR finish

• Stellar durability
• Great mobility for rock climbing or scrambling
• Comfy fabric
• Adjustable hood
• New iteration removes cinch cord at hem

Blurring the line between technical softshell and windbreaker, Black Diamond’s legendary Alpine Start Hoody ($185) is a staple for high-adrenaline outings in far-off foreign ranges. This jacket became our daily driver on lofty limestone multipitch climbs in Mexico, remote romps through the bush of Africa, and blustery ridgeline adventures in Appalachia — and did much more than break the wind.

At 7.3 ounces, it tips the scale as the heaviest jacket on our list, but brings the top-shelf durability, performance, and protection to justify it. The stretchy nylon/elastane blend affords some of the best mobility of any windbreaker we tried while contorting our bodies on tricky rock climbs, or bounding about on exposed knife edges. A helmet-compatible hood and roomy fit for adding insulating layers underneath make this our favorite shell for mountaineering and alpine use. 

The thicker material adds bulk, but also stellar wind protection and above-average water resistance for soft fabrics, thanks to its Schoeller Eco-Repel Bio DWR finish. With a fleece jacket underneath, the Alpine Start fends off all-day drizzles, snow, and light rain like a champ, and wet out completely in just under a minute during our shower-simulated downpour. Of all the jackets we tested, this one is most reminiscent of a lightweight rain jacket, and became our workhorse outer layer in everything but the most brutal weather.

The hood is elasticated and cinch-cord adjustable, and elastic hem and cuffs help seal in warmth and keep weather out. We do wish the new iteration kept the hem’s drawcord adjustment of the previous version, as that is a pivotal windbreaker feature for us. It has a single, low-profile chest pocket that doubles as the stuff sack with a carabiner clip for harness compatibility.

Though it’s heavier than most, the tradeoff is worth it for us, and you just can’t beat the Alpine Start’s performance in the mountains. Send hard at your local crag, or rope up on some far-flung snow-capped peak — this is the windbreaker you want.

Enlightened Equipment Copperfield Wind Shirt

• Weight 1.8 oz. (7D fabric, men's size medium)
• Materials 7, 10, or 20D ultralight nylon with DWR finish
• Pockets None

• Mega ultralight
• Solid feature set
• Super packable
• Highly wind-resistant
• No pockets or stuff sack
• Quick wet-out time
• Minimal durability
• Long lead times on custom orders

When a light summer breeze threatens to rip the jacket from your hands, you know you’ve landed squarely in the ultralight realm. Crafted for featherlight thru-hikes across the country, the Copperfield Wind Shirt ($120-140) may be the lightest full-zip hooded layer on the market.

At an absurd 1.8 ounces (7-denier fabric, men’s size medium), the Wind Shirt occupies the same space as the legendary BD Deploy Wind Shell above, and barely registers in the palm of your hand. However, a full-length zipper, pull-cord adjustable hem, and ergonomic hood with cinch cords nudge the useability and comfort of this jacket a good deal above its featherlight Black Diamond competition. It packs down incredibly small but unfortunately doesn’t have a stuff sack — or any pockets for that matter. 

For uncompromising minimalism on long journeys, this is the brand to buy into. Enlightened Equipment unwaveringly churns out some of the best gear for lightweight thru-hiking and backpacking, and the Copperfield adds to the brand’s stellar reputation.  

The paper-thin 7-denier fabric (there are also 10- or 20-denier options) is a true testament to the simple value of a windbreaker: controlling convective heat loss by keeping wind off your skin. In cold driving gusts, this jacket alone allowed us to trek comfortably and manage our body temperature in mildly extreme environments. For truly heinous wind storms, it’s best to go with a bulkier model, but we were surprised at the tempestuous conditions it was able to handle.

Pair it with an insulating midlayer, and you have a power combo for almost anything you could face on a long-distance three-season backpacking trip. We don’t find it to be particularly breathable, however, when we start pushing the pace. 

While it matches the BD Deploy in wind protection, and knocks it out of the park feature-wise, the Copperfield can’t touch its level of water resistance. While a thin DWR finish allows very light rain to bead up and roll off, it wet out in a mere 25 seconds during our downpour shower simulation, quickly drenching our fleece. What wizardry Black Diamond employs we know not — but this doesn’t have it.

For dry but drafty days on ultralight backpacking missions, though, this is the companion you need. The Copperfield will effectively shield you from wild wind, and pack away to nothing when it’s served its time.

Note: The custom Copperfield can have some long lead times (2-4 weeks). Ready-to-ship models are also available.

Rab Vital Hooded Jacket

• Weight 4.6 oz.
• Materials 20D Atmos woven nylon with PFC-free DWR coating
• Pockets 2 zippered hand pockets (separate stuff sack)

• Wire-brimmed hood
• Solid wind resistance
• Comes with a separate stuff sack to keep track of
• Not the most breathable fabric

Leave it to “The Mountain People” to craft a quality, affordable windbreaker for burly spring and summer escapades. Biting just a bit more from your wallet than our best budget model, Rab’s Vital Hooded Jacket ($95) accompanied us on a few wild adventures during our testing period. It boasts similar performance and protection as some of the top models on this list, but allows you to allocate more of the adventure fund to other areas of your kit.

At 4.6 ounces, it is somewhat lightweight and packable, but still affords top-notch wind resistance, and an adequate amount of ventilation during moderate activity. This weight is impressive, considering its full spectrum of features — from two side handwarmer pockets, to a cinch cord hem and adjustable, wire-brimmed hood.

It also has a simple snap closure at the chest, keeping the jacket snug around you while fully unzipping the front to vent. A unique, super helpful flair if you need to dump heat fast. We do wish one of the handwarmer pockets served as its stuff sack, however, as you have to keep track of the loose pouch it comes with if you want to cram it into a nice tidy package. But cram it does, packing down small to the size of a baseball despite its full feature set.

The 20-denier Atmos woven nylon leans on the durable side, but the fabric itself isn’t particularly breathable compared to the others we tested. It does have a light DWR coating, but wets out quite fast in our shower simulation, at just under 30 seconds. A bit of a bummer given its thicker nature.

You don’t buy a windbreaker for waterproof protection though, and for what it’s designed to do — it slays. We brought it along on jug hauls up giant multipitch climbs, squally days on Appalachian trails, and windy sunset hangouts, and the Vital Jacket quickly became one of our favorite “grab-and-go” windbreakers. Its approachable price means we don’t have to baby it quite as much, but we still feel confident depending on it during backcountry missions.

As a great little budget model, the Vital is consistent with Rab’s reputation for premium, durable, and reliable mountain gear.

Patagonia Houdini Stash ½-Zip Pullover

• Weight 3.7 oz.
• Materials 1.2-oz 100% recycled nylon ripstop with DWR finish
• Pockets Zippered chest pocket and two velcro hand pockets

• Ultralight, despite a robust feature set
• Solid ventilation
• Extremely packable
• We wish the hand pockets were zippered

With a bit of sadness, we say goodbye to the treasured Houdini Air, which makes way for the new Houdini Stash ($139) — an innovative, ventilated layer tailored for runners. The Air was one of our favorite windbreakers, so we have mixed feelings about this shift. Instead of trying to review the Stash in direct comparison with the Air, we tried to review it as a totally separate jacket, and looking at it that way — it slays.

Patagonia thankfully isn’t discontinuing their flagship regular Houdini jacket, but this offers a noticeable bump in features and breathability over that classic layer. While the fabric itself is essentially the same (recycled nylon ripstop with a DWR finish), it offers a noticeable bump in ventilation. The fabric isn’t inherently breathable and thwarts wind well, but overlapping slits on the left and right chest, and a slit on the center back boost airflow. This, in addition to a slightly contoured fit and a bit of stretch, makes this a solid pick for running in high wind.

Two hand pockets are a nice touch for a windbreaker, but the velcro closure isn’t our favorite. If we are going to be stashing anything in our pockets while we run, we really like for there to be a zipper. Elstication at the cuffs and a cinch drawcord at the hem help seal in warmth.

While the lack of a hood saves weight — and a hoodless design is some people’s preference for running-specific jackets — we have missed it on several blustery days. The ½ zip also cuts ounces, but again, isn’t our favorite layout. This is an undeniably comfortable jacket, though, and we appreciate the cut.

The Stash is a new piece from Patagonia, and we haven’t been able to clock too many miles with it, but our first impressions are positive. We love how light and packable it is (stuffs into its chest pocket), despite having a robust feature set and highly wind-resistant fabric. This would be a great pick for the ultralight runner looking for stellar protection with an appropriate amount of ventilation — all at a reasonable price and weight.

Nørrona Falketind Aero60

• Weight 4.5 oz.
• Materials 20 and 50D flexible Aero60 nylon with PFC-free DWR treatment

• Subtle, thoughtful features
• Durable but lightweight
• Wire-brimmed, packable hood
• Breathable but wind-resistant fabric
• No cinch cord at hem

Nørrona, the high-tech Norwegian outfitter, has popped onto our radar in several different apparel categories as of late, and is responsible for some of the more premium designs on our lists — with the high price tag to accompany them. Thoughtful, subtle touches on the aesthetic Falketind Aero60 ($199) lend credence to its reputation for elegant but functional mountain equipment.

Don’t let the sticker shock turn you away … while we normally wouldn’t drop $200 on a windbreaker, we think this one just might be worth it. Though first impressions may reveal a standard, undecorated wind shell, take this into the mountains and you’ll quickly understand its discrete allure. 

A perfect blend of 20- and 50-denier flexible nylon afford this jacket serious bragging rights in the durability department, but a 4.5-ounce weight and top-shelf packability seem to defy its beefy nature. While the Falketind was designed for lightweight mountaineering, we found ourselves grabbing it for high-intensity trail runs and rock climbs due to its superb breathability, mobility, and miniature stuff size.

The magic seems to lie in its Aero60 fabric. This deluxe material strikes a rare balance between wind resistance and ventilation, and seems to effortlessly wick moisture vapor and hot air away from your body. The proof is in the pudding, and we can honestly say we were shocked at how comfortably we were able to regulate our temperature while cranking up vert on high-output missions.   

When the wind begins to howl, this breathability gives way to solid protection, and a wire-brimmed adjustable hood and elastic cuffs and hem seal in warmth. We do wish it had a cinch cord at the hem, or this may have been our favorite windbreaker!

Now for the less obvious features. Small mesh vents at the armpits boost ventilation but don’t rub uncomfortably (like we’ve found some designs to do), and an appropriate amount of stretch in the fabric and articulated arms make for great mobility. The hood easily slides over a climbing helmet and snugs down tight, and can be rolled up and snapped away when not in use; a brilliant touch.

It packs down small into its zippered chest pocket, which includes an additional mesh insert for your phone that keeps it from jostling about while running or hiking. Similar to Rab’s Vital Jacket above, it has a button that can be pushed through a small hole in the chest pocket and clipped to the opposite side, holding the jacket closed without having to use the zipper.

The DWR coating impedes very light mist, but the fabric wet out extremely fast in our shower simulation, lasting less than 20 seconds. You don’t want to be caught without a rain shell if dark clouds roll in.

A few small quibbles aside, for high-ticket performance on demanding alpine excursions and fast-paced aerobic exercise alike, you won’t be found wanting with Nørrona’s luxury Falketind Aero60 jacket.

La Sportiva Blizzard Jacket

• Weight 3.4 oz.
• Materials Recycled polyamide & polyester with elastane & a PFC-free DWR coating
• Pockets None (mesh pouch in collar is stuff sack)

• Fantastic breathability
• Above average wind and water-resistance

A serious contender for our best running windbreaker award, La Sportiva’s fancy Blizzard Jacket ($119) keeps weight and bulk to a minimum with thin but strong fabric, incredible breathability, and a superior fit. Throw in some snazzy colors with a flashy design, and you have one heck of a race-ready, pace-pushing shell.

Though the jacket’s nylon fabric itself boasts one of the longer wet-out times on our list (1 minute, 25 seconds in our shower simulation), it is stippled with perforations and permeable mesh panels for maximum breathability where you need it most. This affords stellar weather and wind protection for your core, and maximum ventilation for areas that tend to overheat. An almost entirely mesh back panel cranks the A/C behind you, while small holes at the shoulder, and breathable fabric down the sides allows heat to escape from your underarms. 

The tapered, athletic fit and slight drop tail of the Blizzard hugs our body close on dynamic trail runs, but still allows for solid mobility over uneven terrain. Some of our favorite elements of windbreakers — adjustable cinch cords at the hem and hood — are unfortunately left off the Blizzard, which docked a couple of key points in our book. This shell does prioritize weight and packability, so we understand the decision, and elasticated cuffs, hem, and hood provide adequate gust protection.

While not as tiny as BD’s Deploy, it easily slides into a mesh stuff sack near the collar, and quickly disappears into your hydration pack or running shorts pocket. At 3.4 ounces on our scale, it’s a bit heavier as well, but an articulated hood and full front zip nudge its useability a tad above its light-as-air competition.

Chase your PR on remote windy trails with about as much breathability, protection, and comfort as you could ask for — the Blizzard should be a shoo-in for any runner’s shortlist.

Outdoor Research Helium Wind Hoodie

• Weight 5.2 oz.
• Materials Pertex Quantum with Diamond Fuse Technology, 100% 30D ripstop nylon

• Durable, nearly windproof construction
• Higher than average wet out time
• Plenty of room to layer underneath
• Good adjustability
• Heavier than most
• Not the most breathable material
• More of a crinkly feel to the fabric than some

Burly battles with granite cracks, long plods over windswept plains, and blazing fast bike rides — that’s the Helium Wind’s ($129) bailiwick. Boasting one of the most durable shells on this list, you can count on this jacket’s ability to weather the storm … and then some.

An impressive 30-denier ripstop Pertex Quantum fabric delivers some of the most confidence of any windbreaker we’ve tried through bushwhacks or chimney squeezes, and is reminiscent of the Alpine Start Hoody’s mountain-ready design. OR threw its Diamond Fuse material, a technology we’ve grown to love over the years, into this windbreaker. Found in OR’s down and rain Helium gear, this uses yarn with unique diamond-shaped filaments that interlock to form a durable, abrasion-resistant weave. 

The result is a highly wind- and weather-resistant barrier that held up to an impressive 1 minute and 15 seconds of shower-simulated downpours before wetting out, despite not having a DWR coating. The tight ripstop weave fends off rips and tears, and thwarts wind like an all-points champ.

An easy-to-use cinch cord at the hem and adjustable hood helps hold out gusts, and a generous zippered chest pocket doubles as the jacket’s large stuff sack. The hood also has a stiff brim to help keep mist or snow off your face. 

The thicker fabric of the Helium Wind does add weight, with a 5.2-ounce reading on our scale, and it won’t pack down as small as others on this list. The fabric itself isn’t particularly breathable either, but small perforations in the underarm help with ventilation when the pace picks up. We do appreciate the slightly oversized fit, which allows us to easily layer fleeces or down jackets underneath when temps drop.

While we tend to favor the more stretchy, soft fabric of the Alpine Start, this close cousin offers similar durability and functionality during high-stakes mountain pursuits. A solid feature set, and stout fabric choice, make this one of the better shells for demanding adventures where bomb-proof wind protection is a must.

Jack Wolfskin Prelight Wind Jacket

• Materials Texashield Ecosphere Pro 100% recycled polyester
• Pockets 1 zippered chest pocket (no stuff sack)

• Funky, stylish look
• Next-to-skin comfort
• Impressive wet out time
• Solid adjustability
• Chest pocket isn't a stuff sack
• Not much layering room underneath

With an eccentric look and trim, athletic fit, Jack Wolfskin’s Prelight Jacket ($130) is another high-performing shell that’s sure to turn heads on the skin track or backcountry trail. There’s a lot to like about this snug-fitting windbreaker, and it outperformed many models on this list in a couple of key areas. 

While the wind resistance we experienced with the Prelight was about middle-of-the-road for its weight class, we were impressed by how well it held out rain and sealed in warmth on blustery days in the backcountry. Its thicker nature piles on a bit of weight (4.6 ounces on our scale), but has a much softer next-to-skin texture than other more crinkly jackets, and almost feels like it offers some insulation. It also had an impressive wet-out time in our shower simulation, keeping our fleece dry for 1 minute and 45 seconds in a full-on downpour.

Its Texashield Ecosphere Pro fabric still offers adequate breathability when pushing hard, but we found we preferred this jacket for slower activities like backpacking or easy rock climbing. The 100% polyester shell gives us a lot of confidence in technical terrain, though, and the ripstop fabric resists punctures and tears during light bush-bashing.

We appreciate the cinch cord at the hem, elasticated features, and stretchy fabric, but wish there was a bit more layering room underneath. If this was a dedicated running shell we would love its slim, tapered fit — but the tight arms in particular leave little space for a thicker fleece or down jacket on colder backpacking trips. Additionally, while it packs down small, the chest pocket doesn’t have a double-sided zipper, and therefore doesn’t work great as a stuff sack.

For a noticeable bump in durability and water resistance over other shells on this list, however, we think the Prelight still deserves a place on this best-of roundup. It’s a stylish jacket with comfortable, bomber fabric that feels equally at home around town or in a windy mountain range.

Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody

• Weight 4.9 oz.
• Materials 100% Tyono nylon 30-denier shell with DWR coating

• Stellar athletic fit
• Fabric has solid mobility
• Cinch cord at hem and back of hood
• Functional wire-brimmed hood
• On the heavy end of the spectrum

Arc’teryx has honed a reputation for crafting durable, top-tier products for any manner of outdoor pursuits, and the Squamish Hoody ($180) lives up to this expectation. This sleek, mountain-ready windbreaker boasts the same stellar feature set, attention to detail, and caliber of materials as other ‘Teryx gems. And, with one of the best athletic fits of any windbreaker we tested, this jacket begs to be brought on demanding alpine missions where mobility and protection are paramount.

The close-cut fit doesn’t feel restraining, however, as ample stretch allows you to contort your body to its full range of motion when throwing desperately for tiny crimps, or teetering across boulder-strewn knife edges. Designed for mountaineering and rock climbing, this wind shell features stellar flexibility, but not as tenacious fabric as something like Black Diamond’s Alpine Start Hoody . The 30-denier Tyono nylon shell does fend off more abuse than most but needs to be babied a bit more than the beefier BD model. This decrease in durability comes with a tidier pack size and lighter weight, though, and the jacket crams down easily into its zippered chest pocket with a loop for lashing to your harness.

We also fell in love with the Squamish’s hood, sporting a thin flexible wire brim and quick cinch adjustment at the back. It fits over our climbing helmets way better than other jackets we donned — though not quite as perfectly as the Alpine Start. Breathability isn’t on par with something like the Deploy Windshell, but it still affords solid ventilation on high-output pursuits and doesn’t feel nearly as clammy and stuffy as others on this list.

For another great mountaineering-specific option, with a touch less durability at a more approachable price point than the Alpine Start Hoody, the Squamish is a solid pick for anyone trotting above the treeline.

Windbreaker Jackets Comparison Chart

How We Tested Windbreaker Jackets

Be it slow plods along breezy trails, or full-on big wall assaults tethered to wind-battered cliffs — we take our windbreaker testing seriously. Senior Editor Chris Carter put over 25 windbreaker jackets through their paces over a seven-month testing period in demanding locations around the world — from remote tours in Africa to long rock climbs in Mexico — and winnowed the selection down to include nothing but the best for this roundup. For a slew of different tasks, there’s a jacket here to answer the call.

The models in this roundup were analyzed based on a handful of key factors: wind resistance, weather/rain resistance, breathability, value, and durability. Different windbreakers fit the bill for different outings, but each jacket had to stand out in one or more of these areas to merit any real estate in this article — or in our packs on an adventure.

Each model was taken on rigorous real-world tests according to their features and unique design (running-specific jackets were taken on trail runs, mountaineering-specific models on rock climbs, etc.). As a standardized test, we put each jacket through a shower-simulated downpour test to gauge the water resistance and/or DWR coating of each shell.

We wore a thin fleece jacket under each windbreaker in the shower, and timed how long it took before the fabric completely wet out (soaked through the fabric entirely). Some wet out in seconds — others took nearly half an hour.

Finally, this is an evolving guide, and we add the newest jackets and revisit our old favorites each season. We work hard to stay on top of the newest and best windbreaker jackets on the market to bring you the most relevant suggestions possible.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Windbreaker Jacket

Why Do You Need a Windbreaker?

You aren’t out to lunch if a $150 wearable tissue that barely registers in your hand gives you pause at the checkout page. But all that is gold does not glitter — and given some time these packable, hardworking wonders could just become the ultralight layer you’ve always wanted. 

Though first impressions may be bleak, there is a lot of bleeding-edge technology woven into the threads of these flimsy wonders, and much to discover under the hood. But why do you need one for your next foray into the wild?

Before taking the famed Patagonia Houdini on a thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018, our author was skeptical of windbreakers, to say the least. They provide subpar rain protection, take up precious pack space — and are expensive to boot.

Cue endless miles of windswept ridge walks, freezing gusts on exposed knife edges, and chilly morning starts, and that tiny jacket got more love than any layer in his kit. He’s now a full-fledged windbreaker believer.

Below we’ll explore the various elements that make windbreaker jackets our favorite layer for just about any adventure, but the root of it lies in their lightweight, packable versatility. Wear it as a standalone piece in mild weather, pair it with insulation in strong gusts, and cram it down to nothing when it’s served its time — you’ll be using it much more than you would ever imagine.

Eschewing the waterproof durability of hardshells and rain jackets , and the insulating power of fleece or down jackets , windbreakers boast minuscule weights and stuff down ridiculously small. For this reason, they disappear in your pack or float behind you on your harness, and provide vital protection while maintaining breathability and mobility.

When you are outdoors, temperature and the effects of wind chill have a significant impact on how cold you feel. Wind chill can make the temperature feel much colder than the mercury suggests — so consider every environmental factor when packing your layers. Skin begins to feel cold once thermal energy leaves your body into the air around you, which is exacerbated by cold air flowing past your body at a faster rate in high wind.

With wind accelerating convective heat loss, the presence of a thin, simple barrier to block the wind from flowing past your skin greatly reduces the effects of windchill. This allows you to better regulate your temperature while cranking hard in the mountains.

Windbreakers are made with tightly woven synthetic fabrics designed to strike a healthy balance between flexibility, breathability, and durability. They are much lighter and more malleable than hardshells, making them prime choices for dynamic activities where weight and performance are paramount.

Granite crack, skin track, or midday snack; windbreakers take the cake for fast and light missions or casual jaunts where a rain jacket is overkill, and a fleece lacks the wind protection you crave.              

Let’s get down to brass tacks — these things weigh nothing. For how hard they work and the level of weather resistance they provide, windbreakers will frequently clock in well under 5 ounces, with some premium niche models (like BD’s Deploy Wind Shell , or EE’s Copperfield Wind Shirt ) dipping down as low as 1.6 ounces. That’s as much as, say … a fancy fountain pen. 

Our biggest question was: “Are they worth it, though?” Jackets like the Deploy Wind Shell represent the lighter end of the spectrum, and 4 to 5 ounces may be a dealbreaker for an ultralighter cutting every other tooth off his comb to shave weight. 

After years of testing numerous models in all sorts of extreme environments, we’d intimate yes, they are definitely worth it. You just can’t beat the degree of wind and weather protection they offer for such a variety of scenarios, or the weight-to-performance ratio they boast. Even for the mega-weight-conscious, the level of insulation and versatile protection they bring to the table allows you to cut some corners in other areas of your base weight.

That said, different adventures merit windbreaker jackets of different weights, and the intensity of your trip will help determine the level of durability you require. Pushing the pulse on that PR of a remote mountain trail? A sub-2-ounce shell may be the only layer you’d let tag along. Setting off on an extended climbing expedition in Chile? The durability and thicker stretchy fabric of the legendary Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody might be in order.

Whatever the objective, a windbreaker needs to meet certain criteria to merit any real estate in your luggage. It must be lightweight but durable, weather-resistant but breathable, and flexible but form-fitting. Those are big asks — but thankfully we live in 2024 — with more and more tech coming out each year to boost windbreakers’ level of protection while cutting weight and packed size to a minimum.     

Packed Size and Stuff Sacks

Packed size is another area where windbreaker jackets shine, and a key factor we consider when testing their mettle. The joy of a windbreaker lies largely in its ability to deploy in seconds from a tiny pouch or pocket, and cram down easily for quick stowing while pushing hard on demanding adventures.

Many of the jackets on our list feature stuff sacks that are integrated into the jacket itself, while others (like Rab’s Vital Hooded Jacket ) come with a separate pouch to keep track of. The most common integrated stuff sack is either a zippered hand or chest pocket with a double-sided zipper that the jacket can be shoved into. This is by far our favorite design for quickly stowing our jackets on the go. An included carabiner loop for easy lashing to packs or harnesses is also a bonus.

It’s not uncommon for windbreakers to fold down into a package you can easily fit in your pocket. At that size, why wouldn’t you bring it along? However, some brands strive so much for a small pack size that it is almost impossible to jam the thing into its included stuff sack. Sure, we love a jacket that compresses to the size of a tangerine as much as the next guy, but if we have to blow a gasket to get it in the pouch — that’s an immediate turnoff for us.

There’s so much to like about Dynafit’s Alpine Wind Jacket , but we feel like we’ve put in our workout for the day after finagling it into the tiny stuff sack in its hood. On the other end of the spectrum, you can almost casually drop Outdoor Research’s Helium Wind Hoodie into its generous zippered pouch, and we wish it featured a snugger package for a more streamlined kit.

There is obviously a balance that must be hit with the size of your jacket’s stuff sack. A small size is key for minimizing bulk on a climbing harness or in a backpack, but it shouldn’t be a battle to pack it down.

A windbreaker’s packed size often directly correlates to its level of weather protection and durability. The microscopic compressed size of Black Diamond’s Deploy Wind Shell may be an ultra-runner’s dream, but for mountaineers deep in the rugged Karakoram Range, Mountain Hardwear’s bulkier Kor AirShell may be the move. It won’t pack down as small, but also won’t rip to shreds on the first fourth-class scramble.    

Wind Resistance and Breathability

We feel like the same guy who named “walkie-talkies” must have dubbed these jackets “windbreakers” — and we’re fans of simple, straightforward nomenclature. If windbreakers excel at anything, it’s this.

But breaking the wind while moving fast outside isn’t as easy as it sounds, and developers face the difficult challenge of effectively reducing convective heat loss while retaining breathability, mobility, and packability. No small feat for that flimsy 5-ounce fabric.

The level of wind resistance a shell boasts changes wildly depending on the model and type of activity it is designed for. Jackets made for hiking and alpine use will tend to block more wind, while those created for intense trail running often afford greater breathability and ventilation. 

This varying degree of wind resistance is measured (in the United States) by a simple unit dubbed CFM. Simply put, this is the amount of “cubic feet per minute” of a 30-mph gust of wind that can pass through one square foot of fabric. Therefore, the lower the CFM, the higher the wind resistance of a jacket, with 0 CFM representing an entirely windproof shell.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, an extremely permeable fleece jacket may have a 60 CFM rating since wind will cut right through it. Many softshells fall in the 10 to 5 CFM range, while burly hardshells may clock in at around 1 CFM. As a general rule, you don’t want an entirely “windproof” windbreaker unless you are going to be completely static during the duration of your adventure. At that point, you might as well just wear a clammy trash bag.

Thankfully, most companies have nailed a CFM sweet spot that maximizes wind resistance, while still offering a certain degree of breathability for active adventures. The more wind-resistant a jacket is, the less breathable it is, which can result in the stuffy buildup of sweat while exercising.

Prioritizing weight and packability, windbreakers are designed to reduce the chilling effect of wind, while preventing overheating. This is something that most waterproof rain jackets or hardshells can’t boast, and they will almost always feel too warm and stifling while charging hard. 

We’ve found that a jacket’s CFM is rarely listed on the company’s website, so this technical spec takes a bit more sleuthing to find. You usually have to gauge a jacket’s breathability to wind-resistance ratio by the product’s description, or a scale that shows where it lands relative to the company’s other layers — though sometimes this figure will be advertised.

CFM and thin materials aren’t the only factors that contribute to a jacket’s level of wind resistance. Vents, stretch-woven fabrics, or mesh side panels will often be used to boost a shell’s breathability, which are frequently found in running-specific models. Dynafit’s Alpine Wind Jacket and La Sportiva’s Blizzard have almost entirely mesh back panels, shielding your front from wind, while cranking up the A/C on your back during demanding runs. 

It’s important to consider the type of activity you plan on using your windbreaker for most before making your selection. We found the ultra-breathable, durable Mountain Hardwear Kor Airshell to be perfect for fast-paced simul-climbing missions in the hot but breezy Mexican climate on a recent multipitch climbing trip.

On the other hand, when temps dropped and brutal gusts bullied us around on knife edges in the Pacific Northwest, the regular Patagonia Houdini offered stellar protection at the cost of some breathability. Different environments merit different layers, and you want to strike a healthy balance between comfort, weight, and performance for whatever you may encounter.    

Weather and Water Resistance

Ultralight minimalism, breathability, and packability always come at a cost. In the case of windbreakers — that would be weather and water protection. Circumventing the bombproof impenetrable fabrics of hardshells and rain jackets , windbreakers simply don’t suffice as quiver-of-one shells for long forays in variable conditions or prolonged rain. 

That said, many windbreakers are no slouch in light to moderate precipitation, and most of the models on this list feature at least a thin DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating to fend off small amounts of rain. Moisture will bead up and roll off new jackets well, but this DWR coating will diminish over time, resulting in quicker wet-out times.

A good cleaning, or the addition of a new DWR spray like Nikwax’s TX.Direct , can help revive your jacket’s water resistance. Be sure to scope out models with PFC-free DWR coatings whenever possible, as this is made without environmentally and biologically harmful perfluorinated chemicals.

We were admittedly shocked at the level of rain protection many of the jackets we battled around with offered, with Black Diamond’s Deploy , Outdoor Research’s Helium , and Patagonia’s Houdini standing out. On multiple occasions we were caught unaware by surprise showers while cragging in remote ranges, and trotting along on casual day hikes — and these models took much longer to wet out than we anticipated.

To test the water resistance of each jacket, we put them through the same shower test. Simulating a constant downpour, we wore each jacket over a thin fleece layer in our shower and ran a timer to see how long it took before the fabric completely wet out (soaked through the fabric entirely).

Shockingly, our lightest jacket, the Deploy Wind Shell, held rain out the longest. We stood there for over 20 minutes and it still didn’t wet out. This comes with a decrease in breathability, but is incredibly impressive for such a thin layer. Most of the jackets wet out in less than 3 minutes, with some taking a mere 30 seconds or less before our fleece underneath was soaking wet.

No matter how beefy the DWR coating is on a windbreaker, it will never hold a candle to the waterproof nature of rain jackets or hardshells. When Mother Nature shows her savage side with sustained downpours, we’ll always pull windbreakers’ heavier cousins out. 

To grasp this, a smidge of technical jargon may lend a hand. Waterproofness is measured in millimeters using what is called a Hydrostatic Head (HH) test, in which a jacket’s fabric is pulled taut under a 1-inch diameter sealed tube of water. The tube is then painstakingly observed over a 24-hour period to determine how many millimeters of water the fabric can support before the moisture penetrates the material.  

Windbreakers will generally have a rating far below 1,500mm — the British Standard minimum to be considered a waterproof layer. Most technical rain jackets clock in at a respectable 5,000 to 10,000mm, with burly hardshells at the battle-ready end of the spectrum touting blistering ratings of up to 30,000mm (30 m). That’s a tall glass of water.

In the shadow of these seasoned giants, windbreakers may seem useless. But, considering their featherlight weight and absurd packability, the weather and rain resistance they offer are nothing to sneeze at. Despite their flimsy first impressions, they fend off serious brutality on wind-battered missions, hold out a modest amount of moisture, and often have surprisingly durable constructions.

Materials and Durability

No need to sugarcoat it — these shred pretty easily. Take ‘em on a few serious bushwhacks and you’ll quickly have more ventilation than you paid for. But, for a weather-resistant technical shell that folds into your back pocket, we’d say they punch well above their weight. Baby them a bit more than your everyday rain jacket, and they will follow you on years of ultralight excursions.

As a general rule, if off-trail travel or desperate scrambles over razor-sharp granite are on the docket, we throw on a thicker shell. However, we’ve had fantastic luck with some top windbreakers, like Patagonia’s Houdini and Mountain Hardwear’s Kor Airshell , on season-long thru-hikes and international climbing tours where day after day torture couldn’t break them down.

We still use these jackets today, and they offer key protection from angry elements. We did make sure to steer clear of jagged brambles or full-on chimney squeezes while wearing them, but light bush bashing was inevitable on several of our excursions.

So how do you make a sub-5-ounce jacket last for months upon months of sustained use? Most of the jackets we tested are constructed with a combo of nylon, polyester, or elastane — but ripstop fabric, DWR coatings, and stretch-woven materials are key ingredients in the secret sauce. 

Denier is one of the primary specs you’ll see when researching technical apparel, in addition to ounces per square yard (oz/yd²), or grams per square meter (gsm; generally found with fleece jackets). But higher values denote a thicker, heavier, and less packable shell, so these aren’t the only features you should consider when narrowing in on the best ultralight windbreaker for your needs.

Ripstop fabric is made by using a special weaving technique that reinforces the fabric with a square grid pattern of thicker nylon or polyester threads at regular intervals. If a small tear or puncture occurs, the grid prevents it from continuing beyond the first square and compromising the integrity of the fabric. This greatly increases the lifespan of thin, light materials. 

Stretch-woven fabrics flex under pressure instead of puncturing, and DWR coatings keep debris and body oils out of the fabric, boosting its lifespan. Throw a power concoction of ripstop, stretch-woven, and DWR-coated fabrics into a windbreaker like the legendary Kor Airshell — and you get that ultralight durability we’ve grown to cherish.

For far-flung expeditions in exceptionally taxing conditions, a windbreaker should be used as an element of your layering system as opposed to a standalone barrier. It will hold up to a good deal of moderate torment, but you’ll want to lean on the trusty hardshell and rain jacket when the clouds break loose, or the terrain turns gnarly.

Extra Features

Minimalism is key with windbreakers, in an effort to hold true to their lightweight, packable roots. Developers trim any fat they can off their models to keep up with the mounting competition of feathery but hardworking jackets, and only the bare necessities are included. 

Despite their modest silhouette, there is a lot of variety in windbreaker designs. Little tweaks here and there separate these jackets into different categories, and either amplify or diminish their useability and functionality. 

You will generally see at least one zippered chest pocket on windbreakers, with some including two zippered handwarmer pockets, at the cost of extra weight and bulk. One of these pockets will often double as the jacket’s stuff sack. Many models will have a hood (often helmet-compatible), and you’ll see simple cinches on the back of the hood on more technical jackets, like the BD Alpine Start Hoody , or Velcro adjustments to snug it down like on Rab’s Vital Jacket .

Cinches at the hem are also common, which play a substantial role in sealing in warmth and thwarting the wind, and elasticated cuffs serve the same purpose. Most windbreaker jackets have a lightweight, full-length zipper, which we have found to be a potential weakness of these thin shells — so close with care.

Some, like Black Diamond’s Deploy , feature a pullover design with a tiny, ½- or ¾-length front zipper to truly cut weight. For the ultralight backpacking or running crowd, these check all the boxes of a minimalist setup.

The type of adventure you plan to bring your jacket on will help to dictate the feature set you need. Windbreakers for hiking will generally offer more pockets and adjustability, while a streamlined running jacket may prioritize lightweight ventilation over function.  

Categories of Windbreaker Jackets

As we have discussed above, windbreakers vary greatly in the degree of weather protection, durability, breathability, and feature sets they offer. They all serve the core purpose of preventing thermal energy loss by keeping wind off your skin, but are designed to carry out this role to different capacities depending on your preferred activity.

Running Windbreakers

These are the gram-weenie ounce counters of the windbreaker family. Every speck of weight has the potential to hold you back while pounding the pavement on casual jaunts or eating up vert on the Leadville 100, so a dialed kit is paramount for performance.

Windbreakers designed for running axe any superfluous features, pack down small for storage in pockets of running shorts or hydration packs, and maximize breathability so you won’t overheat. They sport extremely thin fabrics for ventilation, and often include mesh panels or open vents for increased airflow. They also tend to have more tapered, form-fitting designs for unencumbered comfort while hitting your tempo.  

Some of our favorite windbreakers for serious trail or road running include Dynafit’s Alpine Wind Jacket , La Sportiva’s Blizzard , and the minuscule Black Diamond Deploy Wind Shell . All of these will waft away in a light breeze at under 4 ounces, with the Deploy taking the cake at a ridiculous 1.6 ounces.

For exposed ridgelines or blustery winter mornings, these are key for keeping wind off your skin while regulating moisture buildup. Wander off trail, however, and they won’t last for long. Their thin design is perfect for lightweight breathability, but they cower in the face of more brutal adventures.     

Mountaineering/Climbing Windbreakers

Jam up granite splitters, battle through ridgeline gusts, or break trail on remote alpine snowfields — these are the shells for the job. If any windbreaker could be called a workhorse, it would be these.

With impressively low weights, jackets like Black Diamond’s Alpine Start , Arc’teryx’s Squamish Hoody , and Mountain Hardwear’s Kor AirShell shrug off significant abuse and provide breathable protection while charging hard in far-flung ranges.

Expect to find a handful of helpful extras on these bad boys, including helmet-compatible hoods (often with wire reinforcements), stretch-woven rip-stop materials, water-resistant coatings, and adjustable hems. They will also often feature sleek stuff sacks with carabiner clips for securing to a harness.

The thicker durable material used in these does nudge them towards the heavier, more bulky fringe of the spectrum, with several models inching as high as — gasp — a dreaded 7 ounces. While it may not seem like much, there’s no shortage of die-hard ultralighters who will turn their nose up at the addition of a few mere grams.          

Hiking Windbreakers

This could be broken up into a couple of subcategories: fully-featured hiking windbreakers, and ultralight hiking windbreakers. “Hiking” is such a broad term, and might include gear-intensive plods to a remote base camp for weeks of hunting, or blindingly fast thru-hikes where weight and efficiency are of chief concern. For the former, something like the specced-out Helium Wind Hoodie or no-fuss Houdini may be a prime choice, while the impossibly light Copperfield Wind Shirt would better serve the latter.

Regardless, windbreakers crafted for hiking need to be lightweight and packable, while still offering reliable protection from the mishmash of messy weather patterns you might encounter on trail. Hiking windbreakers don’t necessarily need the same level of bombproof durability as their alpine-ready cousins above, or the see-through breathability of those made for running. They instead inhabit a space somewhere between the two, shielding the hiker from mucky conditions, while offering adequate ventilation for low-output activities where you won’t be sweating like a pig. 

Developers of hiking windbreakers often bite the bulky bullet and tack on a number of handwarmer pockets, chest pockets, and various cinch cords to boost their useability and versatility on trail. They also tend to be slightly oversized in order to easily layer underneath. Additionally, the fabric must be abrasion resistant to deal with the constant rubbing of your backpacking backpack’s shoulder straps.

Others, like the insane 1.8-ounce Copperfield, provide just the essentials and will float away if you don’t hold on to it. These preserve that precious 5-pound base weight in your ultralight backpack , but won’t provide the same level of protection or comfort as heavier, more featured models.

Hiking windbreakers can also be less demanding on your wallet, skirting the high-tech stretch-woven fabrics of posh mountaineering shells and subbing out some breathability and ventilation for thicker, less upscale fabrics. For that reason, in a bout with brutal off-trail terrain, these may tap out early. They will definitely last longer than windbreaker jackets for running, though, and if you stick to the well-trodden path they will serve you for years of backcountry use on that good mountain singletrack.  

Layering With Windbreaker Jackets

A windbreaker jacket truly begins to shine when paired with other compatible layers of your kit. While windbreakers work hard as standalone shells in mild temps, in cold, gusty conditions a breathable fleece or synthetic jacket becomes a much more formidable shield with a windbreaker over top, at the cost of barely any weight. 

Many windbreaker jackets, particularly in the hiking or mountaineering categories, are sized a bit larger to accommodate additional layers underneath, while others have a slim cut that hugs your core and arms more. If you plan on coupling your windbreaker with a few other pieces of insulation, make sure it has the space for the job. 

Sleeves that closely hug your arms won’t get in the way or flap around while running or climbing, but can quickly become stiff, restricting tubes with too many additional jackets underneath. If you plan on rocking your windbreaker jacket in particularly chilly weather, consider how much room they have underneath for when the mercury plummets.  

As is the case with rain jackets, the addition of a light fleece or long-sleeve synthetic shirt underneath will greatly increase the time before your windbreaker wets out in prolonged rain. No windbreaker is fully waterproof, but they can fend off a good deal of moisture if layered correctly. While this combo offers marginal protection, if the heavens really open up and you’re fleeing Thor’s hammer, whip out the hardshell or rain jacket.   

Though windbreaker jackets may seem like glorified trash bags at first glance, we hope this compendium has exposed a bit of the unique value they bring to the table for any adventure you could concoct.

From budget picks to technical, specced-out masterpieces, we’ve included a broad range of models for a variety of different uses. The $80 Cotopaxi Teca will serve you well on casual strolls in the woods or breezy days around town, but you’ll probably want to shell out some more cash if truly technical objectives are on the docket. Jackets like Nørrona’s Falketind Aero60 and Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody may come with some sticker shock, but won’t let you down when reliable, lightweight durability and protection make the difference between successful missions and potential rescues.

Higher-end models weave cutting-edge fabric technology and adventure-specific features into their materials, helping you reduce your pack weight and access more remote areas of the globe. Care for them well, and windbreakers will become some of your favorite companions.

With such negligible weights and inconspicuous packed sizes, there’s no excuse to leave these at home. You’ll forget they’re in your pack but will love them to death when the wind begins to howl.

The best windbreaker jacket for your use obviously boils down to the activity you plan on using it for — of which there are many. Setting off on a mountaineering expedition through Kazakhstan? Few windbreakers will hold up to the demands of such a trip like Black Diamond’s Alpine Start Hoody . Enlightened Equipment’s Copperfield Wind Shirt is a great companion for dialing in a 5-pound base weight for a thru-hike on the Pacific Crest Trail, while La Sportiva’s Blizzard may be the jacket of choice for a desperately fast trail marathon.

For all-around versatility and protection in a wide range of conditions, we narrowed in on the legendary Patagonia Houdini as the best overall windbreaker. It doesn’t feature a necessarily specialized design, but is packable, durable, and technical enough to bring on just about any adventure you could conceive of. We’ve been using different iterations of the Houdini for many years, and it seems to just keep getting better.

If windbreakers are pistols, rain jackets are bazookas and hardshells are tanks. Each serves different roles in our battle against the elements, and are deployed in different ways depending on the type of adventure you are on. The maneuverability, breathability, and packability of windbreakers knock rain jackets and hardshells out of the park, but they can’t touch the weather protection offered by their burlier peers.

Rain jackets and hardshells are generally constructed with waterproof durability in mind, and prioritize that over breathability and mobility. While fancy rain shells with fabrics like GORE-TEX, Dermizax NX, or LIFA Infinity Pro boast impressive breathability to water-resistance ratios, they will never match the ventilating abilities of windbreakers. Conversely, windbreaker fabrics will wet out blindingly fast compared to these high-tech materials.

Consider the full range of weather conditions you may face before heading off on your trip, and bring a healthy mix of layers to keep you comfortable in each scenario.

No windbreaker jacket is entirely waterproof, but thicker fabrics and DWR coatings can often allow windbreakers to fend off a good deal of rain when a storm takes you by surprise. We recommend always bringing a rain jacket or hardshell jacket with you into the backcountry, but in a pinch, these will help you stay dry at least until you can find shelter.

For our testing purposes, we put each jacket through a simulated downpour test in our shower, gauging how long it took each jacket’s fabric to wet out (soak through entirely). The wet-out time of each shell varied drastically, with some drenching us in a mere 25 seconds, and others lasting upward of 20 minutes before showing signs of weakness.

It’s important to note that a windbreaker’s weather resistance is often tied to its DWR coating, which can quickly diminish with use. If you notice your jacket wetting out faster than it used to, you can always reapply a DWR coating with something like Nikwax’s TX.Direct spray.

A windbreaker jacket’s weight and packability depend on its feature set, fabric durability, and level of breathability. Jackets like Mountain Hardwear’s Kor AirShell are decorated with two handwarmer pockets, a full front zipper, cinch cords, and soft stretchy fabrics — which all contribute to its relatively high 4.8-ounce weight and bulky nature. Black Diamond’s Deploy Wind Shirt lands squarely on the other end of the spectrum, clocking in at 1.6 ounces, but rocking a simplified, streamlined design. 

In general, windbreakers are the most lightweight, packable shells you can buy for outdoor use. They provide a surprising amount of wind and weather protection for how much they weigh, which can be the difference between comfortably trekking through gusty weather, or miserably trying to stay warm.

Objectively, a windbreaker jacket serves as a thin, lightweight barrier between your skin and the wind while tramping about outdoors. It reduces convective heat loss by blocking the wind’s ability to snatch heat from your skin while blowing across it. But for us, the primary value of a windbreaker lies in its versatility on any assortment of adventures.

While we wouldn’t necessarily battle into the backcountry without packing a thicker rain jacket or hardshell, a windbreaker can be everything you need for some day hikes, mountain biking excursions, and climbing trips without adding superfluous weight. 

Additionally, the breathability of most windbreakers can allow you to run or hike faster than if you were protecting yourself with a rain jacket. For long trips, bringing it as an element of your layering kit in addition to a heavier shell allows you to break it out for those “in-between” conditions on extended journeys.

The Best Rain Jackets of 2024

Whether you’re splashing about town or trekking through a monsoon, these are the best rain jackets of 2024.

The Best Hardshell Jackets of 2024

Whether you’re getting good sticks in hero ice or traversing the snowfields of some foreign range, a good hardshell jacket will have your back. After months of testing in the harshest of conditions, these are the best hardshell jackets to brave the alpine with in 2024.

Based in beautiful Chattanooga, Tennessee, Chris Carter is a Senior Editor for GearJunkie, while squeezing in side gigs as an adventure filmmaker and content creator in the outdoor industry. Drawing from his childhood in Africa, experience as a rock climbing and backpacking guide, ultra-marathon running, and years of extensive thru-hiking, he’s passionate about journalism that gets people into the wild. He has thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long trails in America: the Pacific Crest Trail (2018), the Continental Divide Trail (2021), and the Appalachian Trail (2021), and has explored, rock-climbed, and backpacked all over the world. He hopes to spread his love of adventure and travel through his writing, art, and videography.

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7 Best Lightweight Travel Jackets for Men

If you are a frequent traveler, you know how useful it is to carry a jacket. Be it on the flight, in the snow or rain, a comfy feature-packed jacket makes your day better. Personally, I carry a heated jacket when I travel. Since it is a lightweight jacket, I can easily put them in my personal bag and use it on the plane if needed. Also, the jacket looks good and protects me against cold and rain.

I have seen so many men’s jackets over the years but the ones that are originally crowdfunded are really cool. After doing a bit of research, in this article, I am going to list some of the best lightweight jackets for men. These are from reputable brands, are light in weight, come with lots of pockets and other cool features. Also, these travel jackets are available to purchase right now.

You may also like Coolest Gadgets for Guys

1. GAMMA: All-Weather 100% Graphene Infused Heated Jacket

Design and Build

Graphene-infused

Features you may like.

• Graphene Infused
• Built-in Heating via PowerBank
• Uniform Heat Distribution
• 100% Waterproof
• Machine Washable
• Anti-Odor and Antimicrobial
• Makes Cooler in Summer and Warmer in Winter

2. The AirLoft Jacket – Versatile Performance Outdoor Jacket

This product was originally crowdfunded on Kickstarter

Flawless Daily Attire

• All Weather Compatible
• Temperature Controlled
• Water & Train Resistant
• 4 Zip Pockets

3. SCOTTeVEST Revolution 2.0 Men’s Jacket With 25 Pockets

• Stain and Water Resistant
• Removable Sleeves
• 25 Utility Pockets
• Anti-Pickpocket
• Airport Friendly
• 2 Year Warranty
• Polyester Fabric

4. Camper Hooded Jacket by Coalatree – An All Purpose Jacket

• Ultra Lightweight
• Transforms into a Pillow
• Long-Lasting Insulation
• All Season Compatibility

5. NatureDry – Eco Friendly Merino Wool Jacket

• 100% Merino Wool Material
• All-Weather Compatible
• Eco Friendly
• Water Shedding

6. ORORO Soft Shell Heated Jacket for Guys

• Heated Jacket, 3 levels of heat
• Water and Wind Resistant
• Soft Shell Fabric

7. EcoDown by Apricoat – A Lightweight Winter Jacket for Adventurers

• Packs small, extremely portable
• Water Repellent
• Ventilators everywhere
• 11 Pockets for every use

There you have it, some of the best-looking light travel jackets for men. If you have any other to recommend, let me know in the comment section.

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Navy Milan 3/4 Sleeve Top

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The Most Lightweight Denim Jackets for Women That Travel

FASHION , Sweaters & Jackets , Travel Clothing

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TFG readers want to know, what’s the best womens jean jacket? We put together all of their recommendations. Take a look below!

Best Jean Jackets for Women

Written By: Tae Haahr

Table Of Contents

Wondering which women’s lightweight denim jacket that you’ll want to consider packing for your next trip?

While blue jean jackets for women can seem similar, some work better for travel than others. We’ve got a list of TFG reader’s favorites which include light and dark wash, patterns, and other awesome choices that are worthy of taking for jet setters!

What’s the Best Denim Jacket for Women Who Travel?

J Crew Classic Denim Jacket | Sizes XXS – 3X

J Crew Thin Denim Jacket Classic

The J Crew Classic is a light jean jacket womens style that readers adore. It’s a classic wear-with-everything style choice that can be layered or worn with a cute tee. It comes pre-distressed with two chest pockets and a hip welt pocket for easy storage. Available in regular XXS-XXL and plus sizes 2X-3X.

TFG readers recommend the J Crew for it’s “classic style and decent quality that lasts for years.” In fact, one of the recurring comments about the jacket is its long-lasting quality. Another reader shares, “It is a really nice one, great style!”

  Check out the best waterproof jackets for stylish travel!

Wrangler Stretch Jacket | Sizes S-XL

Wrangler Blue Jean Jacket for Women

The stretch lightweight jean jacket by Wrangler is a TFG reader fave. It’s made of a mixture of cotton and spandex, which gives it a comfortable stretch and feels more like a sweatshirt.

One reader shares, “I brought this one to Italy this year, it worked perfectly. I like it much better than the heavy Gap one I also have.” Another shares, “This was my favorite travel item for five weeks in Europe last spring! It’s a very lightweight and soft denim jacket, not stiff like most. And relatively cheap!”

Check out the best packable and beautiful cardigan sweaters  that you’ll want for your next trip!

Quince 100% Cotton Denim Jacket | Sizes XS-XL

Quince Womens Denim Jacket

This womens soft denim jacket by Quince is stretchy yet structured to make the perfect travel outfit. It’s a versatile style that can be worn with anything, with f unctional chest flap pockets and side welt pockets.

One wearer shares, “ Really impressed with the fit and the quality of the denim. Heavy enough to be substantial but not too stiff as some denim is. ” Another one adds, “ Absolutely love this jacket! So soft and great quality. I’m usually a medium in jackets and this fits true to size..” Comes in sizes XS-XL .

Riders by Lee Indigo Women’s Stretch | Sizes XS-XL

Riders by Lee Indigo Stretch Denim Jacket

Womens Jean Jackets never looked so good as this dark wash, classic style from Riders by Lee . Constructed with a polyester blend, it’s designed to be comfortable and stretchy. Ideal for travel, it has four pockets to store your belongings, including two that have button flap closure with a little extra security.

These are some of the best denim jackets and TFG readers swoon over it. You can get it in five different colors, so it works with any look you want.

Find out why and how to wear a leather jacket on your next trip!

AG Hunter Denim Jacket | Sizes XS-XL

AG Boyfriend Denim Jacket

This slouchy denim jacket by AG is designed in a faded wash and framed by dropped shoulders. It has handy chest button-flap patch pockets for storing small essentials, and and has a one-button cuffs with spread collar for a perfectly weathered look. 

If you’re looking for nice jean jackets for travel, look no further than this top brand. Sizes available from XS-XL !

You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly !

Banana Republic Classic Denim Best Jean Jacket | Sizes XXS-XXL

Banana Republic Classic White Denim Jacket

This Banana Republic jacket is also a favorite of readers. It has a pointed collar, button closure, and an adjustable waist. It’s stylish and has a cool, classic look. And, according to wearers, it doesn’t take much to break it in.

One reader shares, “I have a denim jacket from Banana Republic that I love. It’s a timeless piece.” You can get it in regular XXS-XXL sizes.

See what our readers ranked as the best packable rain jacket to travel with!

Levi’s Women’s Original Trucker Jacket | Sizes XS-XL and 1X-4X Plus

Levi’s Original Trucker Plus Size Jean Jacket

This Levi denim jacket is a classic style choice that is cute and comfortable. It’s made in a black-wash for a timeless look that can be worn season after season, but also has other shades available. It has front and side pockets and can be buttoned all the way up to the top.  

This Levis cool jean jacket comes highly recommended by TFG readers. One shares that they “have it and love it!”. The fit is flattering as it is made from low-stretch denim. But what we really love is that this style is available for all figures – regular and plus sizes, up to a 4X!

Readers love these cashmere sweaters for their polished and timeless look, incredible warmth, and versatility.

Kut from the Kloth Helena Jacket | Sizes XXS-XL

Kut from the Kloth Light Denim Jacket Womens Style

The Kut from the Kloth Helena is a stylish choice with a button-up front in a light worn jean. It comes with metal button accents and the long sleeves have optional button cuffs. Plus, there’s an adjustable waist tab and readers report that it’s made with a comfortable and stretch material. 

TFG readers really love this cute denim jacket. One shares, “I love the fit, color, and style. It wasn’t too big or too tight. Easy to throw over sundresses, white pants, and travel with.” While another shares that it’s her “all-time favorite.”

The “Helena” is one of the most trendy denim jackets and available is a range of styles and sizes.

We’ve put together the perfect guide to help you choose the best fall coats you can wear on the road!

Joe’s The Relaxed Denim Jacket | Sizes XS-XL

Joe’s The Relaxed Denim Jacket

When a denim jacket comes with a relaxed silhouette and a touch of comfy stretch, you can consider your between-season layering choice made. With a front button closure, spread collar, button cuffs and chest button-flap pockets with front welt pockets, this womens relaxed denim jacket by Joe’s is a perfect choice!

One wearer says, “Soft, comfortable, wearable with so many different outfits. This is my new favorite go to jacket.” Pick up one of these and wear it with your day or night outfit at home or abroad – it’s a classic that never goes out of style.

Womens Lightweight Denim Jacket Product Comparison Chart

Madewell The Jean Jacket in Medford Wash | Sizes XXS-XXL

How Should a Denim Jacket Fit on a Woman?

The exact fit of a jacket depends on your comfort level, but generally speaking, you want one that fits comfortably on the shoulders. You want the jacket to be fitted but not too tight. And you want to be able to move around in it so you’re likely looking for a stretchier material.

Old Navy Classic Jean Jacket for Women | Sizes XS-4X

How to Soften Denim Jacket Before Traveling

A brand new piece of denim will soften out as you wash and wear it. One thing to consider is that some cheap jean jackets for women can not only fit poorly but may not break in the easiest.

If you want to speed up getting your soft jean jacket, try using a fabric softener in the wash with it. But you’ll want to be careful to pay attention to your clothing’s washing instructions because the color can fade.

Some readers have heard that you can use vinegar instead of a fabric softener to speed up the process in your next wash, but we haven’t tried it out so use at your own risk!

Gap Icon Denim Jacket | | Sizes XXS-XXL

What to Wear With Denim Jacket

Denim is versatile and universal. With cute and cool denim jackets you can pair with leggings or shorts for a more casual look. Or you can pair it with a fancier dress and a pair of flats or wedges for a night out on the town.

Pair it with one of these summer dresses !

Loft Denim Trucker Jacket in Light Mid Indigo Wash | Sizes XXS-XXL

Where to Get a Jean Jacket for Travel?

You can get jean style jackets almost anywhere. We have collected choices from Target , Amazon and other great retailers. Nordstrom denim jackets are also an excellent choice!

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

How to Pack Your Traveler Denim Jacket

If you don’t plan on wearing your jacket on the plane, one way to organize it and all your travel wardrobe are by using packing cubes. The Compass Rose packing cubes have a numbering and color system so it’s easy to identify where everything is! The video below demonstrates this.

Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the video above!

We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only.

What do you think are the best denim jacket brands? Share your favorites below!

For more travel jackets, please read:

• THIS is Seriously the Best Travel Jacket
• Readers Choice: Top 13 Fleece Travel Jackets
• Rain Jackets for Women: Our Top Brands for Travel
• What’s the Best Packable Down Jacket for Travel?

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We hope you liked this post on stylish denim jackets comfy enough for travel. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

10 comments.

I’ve been searching for the perfect Jean jacket! Have you seen any reviews on the Quince version? Do you have a link for that one? Thanks!

Hi CareySue, here you go! And thank you for thinking of us.

(affiliate) https://rstyle.me/+gp-7gKdhn32YXOCBQtdCvw

I just purchased a denim jacket at Costco. Great fit and only $20! It wasn’t a brand I had heard of but it looked great

Great find Roberta! I know lots of our readers have been able to find some great items for travel from Costco!

Need ideas for clothing on Alaskan Cruise. Cunard Cruise Lines Queen Elizabeth

Hi there, it’s great to hear from you! Have a read of this article for ideas for what to pack for Alaska, it was written by a fellow TFG reader: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-alaska-cruise-in-august/

And if your not sure about footwear, here are some of our readers favorite shoes for Alaska: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-shoes-for-alaska-cruise/

I would also highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their travel advice and recommendations and many members of the community have been or are planning their own Alaskan cruise.

Have an amazing time!

I would love to know how much these jackets weight in ounces so I can compare them to my Levi’s denim jacket. Is there a resource I can look up for this info?

Good question Sarah! Not sure however, maybe you could check in the product descriptions for each jacket?

We’re going on a Rhine River cruise this year to Europe in August – Sept (19 days). Is it going to be too hot to wear a jean jacket? I will bring a packable rain jacket and my travel umbrella.

Hi there, have a look at this post for tips to help you pack for your river cruise: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-on-a-rhine-river-cruise/

Typically summer in Europe runs through to August and fall starts in September, but the weather can be unpredictable so we always advise that you check the weather forecast around three days before your departure date to ensure that you have the most appropriate clothing and shoes packed.

We also have more tips for packing for this time of year here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/packing-for-europe-in-fall/

Hope this helps. Have an awesome time on your travels!

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Comet Fragment Explodes in Dark Skies Over Spain and Portugal

A brilliant flash of blue, green and white on Saturday night came from a shard of an as yet unidentified comet that was moving around 100,000 miles per hour, experts said.

By Robin George Andrews

Robin George Andrews has previously reported on fireball sightings over Northern Europe and Greenland .

On Saturday, revelers across Spain and Portugal ventured into the temperate springtime evening, hoping for a memorable night. None were expecting a visitor from outer space exploding above their heads.

At 11:46 p.m. in Portugal, a fireball streaked across the sky, leaving a smoldering trail of incandescent graffiti in its wake. Footage shared on social media shows jaws dropping as the dark night briefly turns into day, blazing in shades of snowy white, otherworldly green and arctic blue .

Rocky asteroids cause sky-high streaks as they self-destruct in Earth’s atmosphere with some frequency. But over the weekend, the projectile was plunging toward Earth at a remarkable speed — around 100,000 miles per hour, more than twice that expected by a typical asteroid. Experts say it had a strange trajectory, not matching the sort normally taken by nearby space rocks.

That’s because the interloper wasn’t an asteroid. It was a fragment of a comet — an icy object that may have formed at the dawn of the solar system — that lost its battle with our planet’s atmosphere 37 miles above the Atlantic Ocean. None of the object is likely to have made it to the ground, the European Space Agency said.

“It’s an unexpected interplanetary fireworks show,” said Meg Schwamb , a planetary astronomer at Queen’s University Belfast.

It is not rare for comets to create shooting stars. “We have notable meteor showers throughout the year, which are the result of the Earth crossing debris clouds of specific comets,” Dr. Schwamb said. For example, the Perseids , which occur every August, are the result of our world’s sweeping through litter left behind by Comet Swift-Tuttle.

These meteor showers, and the lone shard over the weekend, light up the sky in a similar manner. Air in front of the objects is compressed and heats up, which cooks, erodes, cracks open and obliterates the debris. That destructive process releases light — and, if the projectile is big enough, a powerful shock wave when it surrenders its immense kinetic energy into the sky.

The weekend’s “chunk is likely a bit bigger than a good fraction of the meteors we see during meteor showers, so this just made a bigger light show,” Dr. Schwamb said.

In addition to its flashy performance, the comet fragment’s breakup served as a dry run for experts hoping to defend the planet from large killer asteroids .

One tenet of planetary defense is to find space rocks before they find us; that way, the planet’s protectors can try to do something about them . But the shard over Portugal and Spain was not spied before its demise.

“It would have been great to detect the object prior to colliding with the Earth,” said Juan Luis Cano , a member of the Planetary Defence Office at the European Space Agency.

The worry is that an object just a little larger than Saturday’s missile could again escape detection and explode with lethal effect over an unaware, unwarned city. The meager, 55-foot meteor that exploded above the Russian city of Chelyabinsk in 2013, for example, wasn’t identified before its arrival, either — and its airborne blast, equivalent to nearly 500,000 tons of TNT, caused widespread damage, which injured at least 1,200 people.

But with improved technology on the ground and in space, the hope is that even tiny, harmless objects from around the solar system (like the weekend’s icy visitor, which experts estimate was a few feet across) can be spotted, providing practice for planetary defense researchers searching the heavens for the common but elusive football-field-size rocks that could destroy a city.

Fortunately, a series of next-generation observatories are set to come online in the next few years — including one named after an American astronomer, the Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile , which will spot millions of faint and previously undiscovered asteroids .

For now, the spectacle in Spain and Portugal reminds us that Earth is a participant in the solar system’s never-ending game of planetary billiards, and that working to find as many killer space rocks as possible is a task of the utmost importance.

What’s Up in Space and Astronomy

Keep track of things going on in our solar system and all around the universe..

Never miss an eclipse, a meteor shower, a rocket launch or any other 2024 event  that’s out of this world with  our space and astronomy calendar .

A dramatic blast from the sun  set off the highest-level geomagnetic storm in Earth’s atmosphere, making the northern lights visible around the world .

With the help of Google Cloud, scientists who hunt killer asteroids churned through hundreds of thousands of images of the night sky to reveal 27,500 overlooked space rocks in the solar system .

A celestial image, an Impressionistic swirl of color in the center of the Milky Way, represents a first step toward understanding the role of magnetic fields  in the cycle of stellar death and rebirth.

Scientists may have discovered a major flaw in their understanding of dark energy, a mysterious cosmic force . That could be good news for the fate of the universe.

Is Pluto a planet? And what is a planet, anyway? Test your knowledge here .