travel best jacket

Protect Your Trip »

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

Getty Images

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

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

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

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Walking Shoes for Travel
• The Best Travel Pants for Women
• The Best Adventure Vacations

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best scotland tours.

Marisa Méndez June 13, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross June 13, 2024

How to Renew a Passport Online

The Best Small Group Tours of Italy

John Rodwan June 12, 2024

Crystal Symphony Review

Jill Schildhouse June 12, 2024

Fall in New England

Amanda Norcross June 11, 2024

Fun Things to Do in New Mexico

Alissa Grisler and Ashley M. Biggers June 11, 2024

Travel During Hurricane Season

Top Orlando Theme Parks

Lyn Mettler and Timothy J. Forster June 11, 2024

The Best Places to Go for July Fourth

Sharael Kolberg June 10, 2024

Travelling is ultimately a tool for growth. If you want to venture further, click this banner and take the leap 😉

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Gear » best travel jacket

8 Best Travel Jackets for ALL Travelers • Must Read Review for 2024

At The Broke Backpacker we understand the importance of versatile gear that can withstand the elements while keeping us comfortable and stylish on our journeys. Every backpacker, regardless of where they plan to go traveling, should always bring along a good jacket. It’s just one of those things you need as a traveler.

Icy wind, freezing rain, mountain climates, coastal evenings, chilly deserts, winter travel, pub crawls… there are a million scenarios when having a great travel jacket makes the difference between having an awesome time and wishing you were back home tucked up in bed!

I can’t tell you how many times my jackets have saved my life (sometimes literally) in the mountains. Having a good jacket is as important as having shoes that fit or a backpack with two shoulder straps! A travel jacket is a staple piece of equipment that should always be tucked down somewhere in the depths of your backpack.

In this guide, we’ll embark on a quest to uncover the best travel jackets that seamlessly combine performance, durability, and value. By the end of this guide, you’ll have everything you need to know – cost, performance, weight, and all of the factors that go into making an awesome jacket to take traveling.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Quick Answer: Best Travel Jackets Roundup 2024

Faq about the best travel jacket, final thoughts on the best travel jackets of 2024.

• Overall Best Travel Jacket – Patagonia Nano Puff Hoodie
• Best Rain Jacket to Take Traveling –  Arc’teryx Beta AR

Best Winter Jacket for Travelers – Ravean Down X Heated Jacket

• The Ultimate Travel Jacket for Hikers –   Arc’teryx Thorium Down Hoodie
• Best Travel Jacket for Women –  Patagonia Nano Puff
• Most Badass Snowboard/Ski Jacket –  Burton GORE-TEX Pillowline Insulated Jacket

Best Budget Travel Jacket – REI 650 Down Jacket

• Most Stylish Travel Jacket –  Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Hooded

Patagonia Nano Puff Hoodie

• Cost > $289
• Best Use > Hiking, traveling, climbing, daily use.
• Waterproof > No

Arc’teryx Beta AR

• Cost > $600
• Best Use > Trekking, mountain sports, camping, traveling.
• Waterproof > Yes

Ravean Down X Heated Jacket

• Cost > $260
• Best Use > Winter travel, everyday use, cold day hikes, urban lifestyle

Arc’teryx Thorium Down Hoodie

• Cost > $500
• Best Use > Outdoor sports, hiking, urban lifestyle, travel.

Feathered Friends EOS

• Cost > $409
• Best Use > travel, hiking or casual city use

Patagonia Nano Puff

• Cost > $239
• Best Use > Traveling, outdoor sports, hiking, camping.

Burton GORE-TEX Pillowline Insulated Jacket

• Cost > $399.95
• Best Use > Winter sports

REI 650 Down Jacket

• Cost > $129

Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisper 2

• Cost > $360
• Best Use > Urban lifestyle, traveling, hiking

Best Overall Travel Jacket  –  Patagonia Nano Puff Hoodie

The Patagonia Nano Puff Hoodie takes the prize of best overall travel jacket for a variety of reasons. I have traveled with this jacket in my backpack for the last seven years. It has been with me to over 20 countries and at least 3,000 trail miles and counting. It is the best all around jacket and the most versatile travel jacket on this list.

The Nano Puff hoodie is made out of synthetic down, so it is a bit water-resistant, unlike natural down. It is lightweight and very packable at 12.8 ounces making it perhaps the best jacket ever!!!! If you want more protection it’s best to combine it with a waterproof Patagonia jacket .

A good down (or synthetic down in this case) is an absolute must for most backpacking trips. Even in warm, tropical countries, I have ended up using my Nano Puff every day as a pillow on buses and whilst camping. When it’s windy out but not too wet I also like to combine it with my Patagonia Houdini for a bit more protection.

At $249.00 USD this Patagonia travel jacket is priced in the mid-range in terms of its competitors. It is not necessarily the best travel jacket ever but is very high quality, versatile and priced in the mid-range making it affordable. It also feels absolutely lovely to wear – its soft, light, warm and is kind of like being hugged by kittens!

Though My Nano Puff has seen a ton of abuse, it is still going strong after all this time. When the zipper on my Nano Puff died, Patagonia replaced it for free. Apart from the zipper I have had zero issues.

In addition to their excellent warranty, Patagonia is a great company to support in general. Each Nano Puff Hoodie is made from 55% post-consumer recycled content. You can feel good about supporting a company that actually gives a shit about the earth and their own impact on it. This isn’t the last time you will be hearing about the Patagonia Brand in the best travel jackets review!

Want to read more about this jacket? Check out our dedicated review of the Patagonia Nano Puff jacket .

If you need something warmer, then have a look at our guide to then best winter jackets from Patagonia too.

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

Best Rain Jacket to Take Traveling  – Arc’teryx Beta AR

Arc’teryx is famous the world over for making some of the best quality gear for adventures. I have had several rain jackets in the past that claimed to be waterproof. There is nothing more frustrating (and potentially dangerous) than being out on a backpacking trip in the mountains and having your rain jacket fail you. Arc’teryx make some of the best traveling jackets out there though so that won’t happen with any of their gear.

After being a rain-soaked-hiker one too many times, I bit the bullet and bought an Arc’teryx Beta AR rain jacket. I have never once looked back. My hiking trips have never been the same and my happiness levels have stayed consistently high since that day, for me, it’s the best travel anorak on the market bar none.

You feel like you are wearing an invisible suit of waterproof armor. It’s Gore-Tex Pro Shell three-layer laminate fabric is waterproof, snow-shedding, windproof, breathable, lightweight and durable. If you’re going somewhere very rainy, like a Sri Lankan adventure , be sure to bring a jacket as waterproof as this one. (Or this one).

The Beta AR features taped seams like a tent so you are guaranteed to stay dry even in the most heinous of storms. It also features zipping watertight pockets for stashing your snacks (very important) or phone (meh). At just over 1 pound, it might just be the most useful piece of clothing you will pack for your adventure by weight. In fact, if you’re looking for the best outdoor jacket on the market , this might just be it!

The major drawback. For many backpackers, the Arc’teryx Beta AR is cost prohibitive. And for good reason. Who wants to spend $600 on a jacket?! I admit it was really tough for me to fork out that kind of dough for a jacket. But hey, serious adventures call for serious, quality gear. Arc’teryx Beta AR is the definition of quality and serious. Unfortunately, $600 USD is the price you will have to pay if you want the luxury of never being wet and cold again. Look at it as a lifelong investment in backpacking comfort.

Once you have this jacket on your body in a rainstorm you will know what I am talking about and you will thank me. When they say waterproof, your $600 guarantees that not a single fucking rain drop will be felt inside the jacket!

We also love the Arc’teryx Beta SL Rain Shell and the Arc’teryx Zeta SL for women, so check out those full reviews too! Want more options? Check out our list of the best Patagonia rain jackets to see if one fits the bill for your trip.

Ever thought to yourself “yeah this down jacket is warm, but I wish they could make one with a heater built in.” When I have been walking around a city freezing my butt off, the thought has certainly crossed my mind. Well my friends, that is exactly what Ravean has done here with their ultra-toasty Down X Heated Jacket (they make both male/female versions).

The jacket is heated using a rechargeable battery system (that is also able to charge your phone), allowing you to manually regulate the heating element so you can stay comfortable in temperature ranges  from -10° F to 55° F .

When we first heard about this jacket we thought the concept sounded gimmicky and that the jacket wouldn’t be attractive. How wrong we were. Oh and ladies: we wrote a whole post on the best women’s heated jackets too if you want to check out some more options.

For the perfect winter travel jacket that will keep you warm in a range of temps AND looks good too, the Ravean Down X Heated Jacket is hard to beat. We highly recommend this one for your winter travels or just as an awesome everyday jacket during the cold months.

Check out our full Ravean Down X Heated Jacket review .

Best Travel Jacket for Hikers –  Arc’teryx Thorium Down Hoodie

Alas, Arc’teryx has made the best travel jacket list again. This time for the Thorium Down Hoodie. If you’re a keen hiker looking to stay warm and pack light whilst racking up big miles this is the jacket for you.

750-fill-power RDS grey goose down is the magic formula that keeps you cozy in cold weather. Weight only 1 lb. 2.2 oz, the Thorium Down Hoodie packs down to next to nothing. Stylish, tough as hell, and warm enough to battle the mountain elements, The Thorium Down Hoodie is one beautiful piece of gear to behold.

An interesting new feature is that Arc’teryx added Coreloft synthetic insulation in the areas likely to become damp and wet. This means the previously vulnerable down has been replaced with a synthetic that holds up much better against moisture.

At $450.00 it isn’t the cheapest hiking jacket out there, but it might well be the best. Broke Backpacker tip: sometimes you can find them on Amazon for under $400.

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

Best Ultralight Down Jacket: Feathered Friends EOS

This one is a great lightweight warm jacket for travel, hiking, or for casual city use. Offering maximum amount warmth compressed into a tiny package, the Feathered Friends EOS jacket apart from the rest. Feathered Friends have been producing some great travel down jackets and sleeping bags for years. The EOS is yet another fine addition to their down layering arsenal. It’s a packable travel jacket which is great for popping inside your backpack.

We tested this jacket in the Pakistani mountains on several long treks and found the EOS to offer the perfect blend of warmth, lightweight, and packability. To put it bluntly, the EOS kicked ass and felt great to trek in when the temperatures dipped on the glacier. What’s cool is that this jacket isn’t just a one-trick pony. It’s a solid choice for your Autumn adventures , regarding its weight, comfort, and packability.

The FF EOS jacket has a fitted cut so it hugs the body whilst maximizing warmth. At just under $340, the EOS is not the cheapest jacket out there, but in our opinion, well worth the investment. Unlike true ultralight jackets, the Flinders can take a fair bit of abuse as the fabric is not paper thin. Plus, you would be hard pressed to find another jacket with Ethically-sourced 900+ fill power goose down power with the same warmth to weight ratio. 

The  Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer for example, while an excellent ultralight option, simply can’t take the punishment other down jackets can. That’s not to say that it is poor quality though. If you don’t do lots of climbing or bush-bashing anyway, this shouldn’t be an issue for you if you want to really go ultralight.

Best Travel Jacket for Women – Patagonia Nano Puff

Patagonia joins our best travel jacket list again with the women’s version of the Nano Puff (sans the hood). This is the jacket merges the comfort of down with the warmth of a lightweight jacket. Whether you are hitting the town, the slopes, or tackling a summit bid in the summer, the Nano Puff has got you covered.

The Nano Puff was technically designed for rock climbers and thru-hikers. As is the case with most of Patagonia’s gear, the Nano Puff is certainly a multi-purpose unit. If you are a lady looking to score the perfect travel jacket, your search is over.

Ana, contributing writer and editor at the Broke Backpacker had this to say about the women’s Patagonia Nano Puff jacket: “The Nano Puff is amazing. I have used it all over, in multiple countries and it has held up great. It is super warm and a good insulator jacket. Because it is not down it can get wet and dry a little faster than a down would. I highly recommend checking them out.”

For $199, you will be investing in a fantastic jacket that can handle all of the wear and tear of a seasoned traveler. In case you haven’t gathered it by now, Patagonia makes excellent products, and their line of ladies gear is no different. This one is made specifically to fit a ladies frame but there are loads of similar mens waterproof travel jackets out there so don’t feel excluded guys! The Nano Air is maybe the best travel jacket women can buy!

Best Snowboard/Ski Jacket – Burton GORE-TEX Pillowline Insulated Jacket

Burton’s first appearance on my list is for the Pillowline Insulated Jacket. This jacket is a fantastic cold weather/ snow sports layer. It combines the warmth of a down jacket with the elemental protection of a Goretex rain jacket. This truly luxurious, ultra-warm jacket packs a big punch with its sleek design and brilliant construction.

Strategic placement of each insulation material ensures user comfort and prolonged jacket life. Down Composite Mapping places synthetic materials, which retains warmth when wet, along the hood, hem and underarms; areas prone to contact with moisture. lightweight 80 g ThermacoreECO insulation lines the core and sleeves where warmth is most needed. The hood comfortably fits over any ski or mountaineering helmet so you can cover up with losing your head protection.

The Burton Pillowline jacket also offers up a solid ventilation design, allowing you to cool down while you are working hard on the slopes. Airflow and moderate sweat management for medium-intensity activities; mesh-lined, no-snag underarm vents enhance breathability and allow heat to escape because deep snow is a workout.

I have said it before and I’ll say it again. Burton makes some of the best gear money can buy, and whilst their stuff can be outrageously expensive, you can be sure you are buying the best possible product on the market.

If like me, you value having quality gear, the reality is you have to fork over the cash sometimes. As is with most things in life, you get what you pay for and the Burton GORE-TEX Pillowline Insulated Jacket doesn’t everything but disappoint. It is great for alpine and winter conditions but if you are after a lightweight travel jacket then this one is NOT for you.

After surviving my above list of amazing and expensive travel jackets, you deserve a quality budget option! Look no further than the REI 650 Down Jacket. As the name suggests, its 650 goose down insulation provides a high warmth-to-weight ratio and compacts so easily you can pack the jacket into its own left-hand pocket for storage.

This jacket is super warm and is the perfect jacket for everyday use whether you are traveling or not. Sometimes us travelers simply don’t have the cash to spend on big-ticket items. Fear not! The 650 down jacket is very affordable for everyone! At $75 USD (current sale price) you’d be hard-pressed to find another high-performance jacket at this price.

If you have never owned a down jacket before the REI 650 is a good place to start. Every backpacker needs a great jacket to take along on every adventure. This is the jacket for those looking for a solid piece of gear without the gouging price tag. REI also makes the same exact jacket in women’s sizes and colors.

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. 😉

Most Stylish Travel Jacket –   Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 Hooded

I agree that in addition to keeping me warm, I want my jacket to look somewhat nice. The outdoor industry is notorious for producing some of this least visually appearing garments in the history of western fashion. Who the fuck wants a neon yellow puffer jacket with lime green zippers?

In recent years, the industry as a whole has become more style conscious. In order to win my most stylish jacket rank, the jacket must look good, but also be a badass piece of gear in the field.

That is where the Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer 2 comes in. This was a hard choice as now there are many stylish, well-performing jackets out there.

The Ghost Whisperer 2 really has it all. It is super lightweight, warm, looks great in a city and performs in the backcountry. At only 8.8 ounces, the Ghost Whisperer is one of the lightest multi-sport jackets around. It even performs well in semi-damp conditions. Its “QShield” Down resists moisture and retains maximum loft even when wet!

I gave Patagonia and Arc-teryx a lot of attention in this review, but Mountain Hardware’s Ghost Whisperer is a jacket not to be overlooked. If you want a jacket that looks cool and will keep you warm in freezing temperatures, the Ghost Whisperer has your name on it.

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:

What jacket should backpackers get?

The REI 650 Down Jacket is a great travel jackets for backpackers. It’s light, warm, cheap and has so many epic features.

What is the most stylish travel jacket?

If you prefer a very classic and chic-looking travel jacket, the is the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Hooded is a great option. It’ll keep you warm while making you look like a professional, yet sleek traveller.

Are down jackets good for travelling?

Down jackets are great for cold and dry weather travelling. They’ll keep you perfectly warm, but most of them aren’t made for damp and wet conditions.

What is the best packable jacket?

A packable jacket should be easy to store and weight almost nothing. The Feathered Friends EOS offers exactly that. And on top of that, you’ll also get a high-quality, lightweight down jacket.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

Well there you have it: the ultimate review of best travel jackets of the year! I hope you found this review to be helpful! Choosing travel coats and jackets can be bloody well tough but hopefully you are now ready to choose the right jacket for all of your traveling needs.

Whether you are new to traveling or a seasoned adventure you know how important it is to have a great all purpose jacket ready at all times. Having an awesome jacket to take traveling is a great feeling. It gives you confidence and keeps you comfortable when the weather turns chilly (or worse).

Any way you swing it, investing in a quality jacket of your choice is one of the best things you can do to prepare for your epic adventure.

Stay warm my friends!

What are your thoughts? Did this best travel jackets review help you? Anything I didn’t answer? Let me know in the comments below – thanks guys!

Aiden Freeborn

Share or save this post

The detailed review of the 8 best travel jackets for 2023 is a treasure trove of valuable insights. It’s clear that the writer has done their research, providing comprehensive information that covers all the must-know aspects. From functionality to style, the jackets are dissected to help readers make informed choices. This blog is a go-to guide for travelers seeking the perfect jacket companion. The thoughtful analysis and recommendations are incredibly helpful, ensuring that adventurers stay comfortable and stylish on their journeys. Kudos for compiling this essential resource for all globetrotters!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Matador Original Series

These are the best packable travel jackets on the market.

T raveling in winter — or anytime when weather isn’t balmy and consistent — presents a unique set of challenges. One of those is bringing the right jacket, and not letting that jacket take up too much room in your luggage. The best travel jackets on the market today are packable — meaning they compact, often into a case that accompanies the jacket — for easy stowing.  Matador’s  travel editors and writers have tested dozens of travel jackets, and these are our favorites. Each pack easily and will keep you warm and dry.

Shopping for a packable travel jacket? Check out Matador’s detailed reviews: The Orvis Pro Insulated Hoody is a Go-Everywhere Jacket That Turns Into a Travel Pillow  This Packable Rain Jacket Will Keep You Bone Dry, Even In Torrential Rain Patagonia’s Houdini® Air Jacket Is The Perfect Packable Light Jacket Patagonia’s Micro Puff Hoody Is Perfect For Winter Travels The Cotopaxi Fuego Is the Most Durable and Dependable Down Jacket on the Market Arc’Teryx Made The World’s Most Packable Puffy Jacket

We hope you love these packable travel jackets! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Jump to a review:

Arc’Teryx Cerium Hybrid Hoody Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket Patagonia’s Micro Puff® Hoody Patagonia’s Houdini® Air Jacket Jack Wolfskin’s Pack & Go Shell Orvis Pro Insulated Hoody

Packable travel jackets: Rundown of top options

Arc’teryx cerium hybrid hoody.

• Built to Last: The Cerium is crafted with premium materials and innovative construction for lasting performance.
• Breathable Warmth: The details. Fortius™ Air 50 outer shell offers exceptional breathability for extended comfort, while ethically sourced 850-fill European white goose down delivers superior warmth without the bulkiness of synthetics.
• Packable Prowess: Forget wrestling with bulky jackets. Arc’teryx ditches the standard puffy panels in favor of a sleeker design with thinner segments, making the Cerium a champion of easy rolling and packing.

Arc’teryx, forged in the fires of the mountain climbing scene, Arc’Teryx knows the importance of crafting quality gear that stands the test of time – and many perilous situations along the way.

The Cerium boasts a dynamic outer shell called Fortius™ Air 50. This blend of 84% nylon and 16% elastane breathes brilliantly, ensuring long-lasting comfort even on extended treks. Inside, ethically sourced 850-fill European white goose down traps warmth without the bulk or weight of synthetic alternatives.

But the Cerium’s genius lies not just in its materials, but in its construction. Arc’teryx has ditched the standard puffy panels for a sleeker design with thinner segments. This clever trick makes rolling and packing the Cerium a breeze, a stark contrast to bulkier competitors that leave you wrestling with awkward compartments. With its smart material choices and innovative design, the Cerium is a testament to Arc’teryx’s commitment to creating gear that’s as durable as it is packable, ready to conquer any adventure you throw its way. -Brett Braley

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Arc’Teryx Cerium Hybrid Hoody

Price: $400

Buy Now – Men’s

Buy Now – Women’s

Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket

• RDS-certified, responsibly-sourced 800-fill goose down
• Polartec Alpha underarm insulation and DWR-finished ripstop nylon shell
• Looks cool with any manner of mountain fashion, and is super comfortable

The Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket is a great choice for anyone looking for a warm, packable, and stylish jacket. It’s made with RDS-certified, responsibly-sourced 800-fill goose down, so you can feel good knowing that your purchase supports ethical down companies. The jacket also features Polartec Alpha underarm insulation, which helps to prevent the swishy sound that puffy jackets are known for.

I’ve had my Fuego for over a year now, and I’ve been really impressed with it. It’s kept me warm in everything from cold fall days to snowy winter hikes. The DWR-finished ripstop nylon shell has held up well to everything I’ve thrown at it, and the elastic binding on the bottom of the jacket has helped to keep the cold air out. One of the things I love most about the Fuego is that it’s not bulky or awkward. I can wear it out to dinner or to happy hour, and it always looks great. It’s also super packable, so it’s easy to take with me on trips. -Tim Wenger

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket

Price: From $199

Patagonia’s Micro Puff® Hoody

• The good: Extremely lightweight, zippered outside pockets, windproof, center-front zipper goes all the way above the chin, packs into an 11.5 x 6.5-inch rectangle.
• The bad: Water resistant but not waterproof, makes the wearer’s head look like an egg when zipped all the way up with the hood on.

Don’t be fooled by the name of this puffy by Patagonia: It’s much more than a hoodie, it’s a proper winter jacket that’s as versatile as it is practical. You can certainly wear it in early fall over a long-sleeve shirt to protect you from the season’s chilly air, but it is also appropriate for wearing in colder weather on top of multiple layers to keep you toasty when the temperatures plummet or the wind picks up. While the tight elastic cuffs and hood, as well as the drawstrings at the hem, help keep the wind out, note that because it’s water resistant but not waterproof, the Micro Puff is not meant for playing in the wet snow or in heavy rain falls. Also, while it’s warm, it’s not the jacket you want in extremely cold temperatures (20 degrees should be the cut-off.) That said, if you get caught in a downpour, know that Patagonia’s Micro Puff dries extremely fast.

My partner took his Micro Puff with him on a 10-day trip to Iceland in September and it proved to be the perfect travel jacket for the fall weather on this near-Arctic island nation. It was warm enough to protect him when exposed to the wind during hikes and it was sufficiently water-resistant for the few showers we experienced.

The biggest asset of Patagonia’s Micro Puff is its ridiculously lightweight (10.5 ounces or 298 grams) and its capacity to pack into an 11.5 x 6.5-inch rectangle by being stuffed into the left pocket. This jacket will take minimum space in your carry-on or checked luggage, but you can also just toss it in a small backpack in case you need it, whether you’re going for an urban walk or a hike.

The shell of Patagonia’s Micro Puff is made of 100 percent post-consumer recycled nylon and its insulation is made of an extremely durable 100 percent recycled polyester developed by Patagonia that’s warm like down plumes but much lighter and way more ethical. – Morgane Croissant

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Patagonia Micro Puff jacket

Price: $329

Patagonia’s Houdini® Air Jacket

• The good: As light as a feather, packs into a rectangle that fits in the palm of your hand, extremely breathable, very comfortable, zippered chest pocket for small items.
• The bad: Water resistant but not waterproof, not warm

Patagonia’s Houdini® Air Jacket is not one you take with you to a destination where you know you’ll have to face low temperatures, high winds, and heavy rain. It’s meant for keeping you warm and dry during intense outdoor activities in mild temperatures and in case of a sprinkle. It’s the perfect jacket if you jog at dawn or at dusk and want to keep the chill away from your body when you sweat, or if you go for a bike ride or hike and want to make sure you have some protection in case the weather turns. The elasticized cuffs and the drawstrings on the hem and the hood keep the wind out. It’s best worn on top of a base layer or quick-dry t-shirt, not under a bulky sweater. The cut of the jacket is meant to facilitate your movements, allowing you to keep going in comfort, no matter what. When wet, Patagonia’s Houdini Air Jacket dries at record speed.

My partner took his Houdini Air Jacket (as well as his Micro Puff) with him on a hike-filled trip to Iceland in September and it came in handy when the weather was sunny and warmish, but he needed something to wear on the chilly way up the side of a volcano or after a sweaty hike. It’s very breathable so your clothes are not trapped in a damp and sweaty shell even while you give it your all in the outdoors.

Because it’s so incredibly tiny when packed into its stuff sack (7 x 3.5 inches), it’s worth adding to your luggage, whether that be your checked suitcase, your smaller carry-on, or your backpack. It’s smaller and lighter (4.1 ounces or 116 grams) than a balled-up pair of socks. – Morgane Croissant

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Patagonia Houdini Air jacket

Price: $179

Jack Wolfskin’s Pack & Go Shell

• The good: Extremely waterproof, windproof, breathable, very light, packs into a small trapezoid, zippered side pockets.
• The bad: Only two pockets, not warm (it’s a shell), few choices of color

Jack Wolfskin’s Pack and Go Shell is a no-frills, rainproof, and windproof shell that does exactly what it’s meant to do: Keep you bone dry even in heavy rain, and safe from blowing winds. It’s also very breathable so you can wear it while hiking without fearing dampness. Note that because it’s a shell, it won’t keep you warm in low temperatures, but layering underneath it is always an option.

The best feature of this jacket is, of course, its packability. The left pocket doubles as a stow pouch. After stuffing it in, you’ll be left with a light (11.6 ounces or 330 grams), 9.8 x 7-inch trapezoid that you can throw in any bag or luggage. But there’s more to praise about this package jacket: The fabric is soft, not crinkly, and barely wrinkles; the hood, the hem, and the sleeves are adjustable so no drop of rain or draft can get to you; and the two side pockets are deep and can be zipped shut so your belongings don’t escape. My personal favorite detail is the zipper pulls, which are the perfect length and are covered in a grippy material that feels lovely on your fingers. (Every little thing counts when you spend a lot of time outdoors in the wet.)

Jack Wolfskin’s choice of color for this packable jacket, for both men and women, is thin (three colors available for men and four for women), so here’s hoping they have a bigger selection in the future. I went for the hedge green while my partner has the night blue version, both of which are discreet and work just as well in the great outdoors as in any urban setting.

After looking at the size chart on Jack Wolfskin’s website, I was advised to order a size XL. It seemed surprisingly big since I’m usually a size M, but I decided to follow the brand’s guidance. Upon receiving it, the jacket was unfortunately too large, as initially expected. I placed a new order for a size L jacket and it’s a perfect fit. I would advise to order one size up if you’re in between sizes, especially if you plan to wear layers underneath. – Morgane Croissant

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Jack Wolfskin Pack and Go Shell

Price: $120.49 for men’s, $131.20 for women’s

Orvis Pro Insulated Hoody

• Warm and sweat-free, thanks to underarm panels and high-end insulation
• Thoughtful features like fleece-lined pockets and reinforced cuffs
• Excellent water- and wind-proofing
• Packs into a travel pillow

After a year of throwing it headfirst into every adventure imaginable, my Orvis Pro Insulated Hoodie shows barely a whisper of wear. The high-tech insulation keeps me toasty warm without suffocating sweat, thanks to those genius underarm panels. Even the smallest details impress – fleece-lined pockets to pamper my chilly fingers and reinforced cuffs that shrug off snags and rips. And did I mention it repels rain and wind like a champ? But the real kicker? This trusty hoody magically transforms into a comfy travel pillow. Unbelievable versatility, unwavering performance – the Orvis Pro Hoodie has become my go-to gear, no matter the weather or the wildness. -Suzie Dundas

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Orvis Pro Insulated Hoody

More like this

Trending now, the best sun protection shirts our editors tested for summer adventures, happening now: save up to 30% on outdoor gear at the 2024 rei anniversary sale, the 6 best patagonia baggies alternatives for men and women, expedia wants to put an ai travel assistant in your private group chats, what we packed for a long weekend rving in england, discover matador, adventure travel, train travel, national parks, beaches and islands, ski and snow.

We use cookies for analytics tracking and advertising from our partners.

For more information read our privacy policy .

Matador's Newsletter

Subscribe for exclusive city guides, travel videos, trip giveaways and more!

You've been signed up!

Follow us on social media.

Our editors carefully select every product we recommend. We may earn a commission from these links. Learn more

Tested: The 7 Best Men’s Travel Jackets for Easy Packability

By: Ethan Brehm Published: May 10, 2024

By: Ethan Brehm and Cameron Cardwell Published: May 10, 2024

Contributors

It can be hard to find the perfect travel garment , but in an attempt to track down the best around, we’ve compiled a guide to travel jackets that will adhere to any destination in which you find yourself. If you already thought traveling was a multi-layered process, then you might as well add one more layer that could change your whole trip for the better. Fortunately, we were able to get hands-on and test our favorites.

Best Travel Jackets

Best Half-Zip

Cotopaxi Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker

Best Down Jacket

Outdoor Research Helium Jacket

Best Hybrid Jacket

Patagonia Nano-Air Light Hybrid Jacket

Best Waterproof Jacket

L.L.Bean Waterproof PrimaLoft Packaway Jacket

Best Lightweight Jacket

Relwen Windzip Jacket

Most Stylish

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 Down Hoodie

Best High-End Jacket

Arc’Teryx Beta AR Jacket

Article Overview

How We Tested

What to look for, travel jackets comparison chart, why should you wear a travel jacket, what is a travel jacket, honorable mentions, the best sling bags for everyday carry.

Jackets can come and go, especially with all the new and improved tech they keep coming out with. And that’s a major reason why we compiled this guide. To help you sift through the noise of the plethora of options available, we did the legwork of scouring the space and coming up with a shortlist of travel jackets that we thought would be great candidates for testing. We looked at aesthetics, materials, insulation (if any), weight, and packability.

From there, we acquired our units for testing and took each of these jackets out and about, seeing what we liked and didn’t like about them. Aside from seeing how well each of them stuffed into our bags, we also considered fit, comfort, and warmth. The results are detailed down below.

Measurements: I’m 6’0″ tall and wear an XL on most occasions, and almost every jacket I tested is an XL. My body type is a bit large with broad shoulders, so I also prefer jackets that are a bit slimming, especially around the belly area. For the sake of jackets, I’m more particular than most about hood fit since I have long hair that I usually wear in a bun.

Material: When you’re traveling, you want a jacket that’s lightweight and ready for anything. That means materials like GORE-TEX, nylon, and polyester will be best because they’re light, durable, and weather-resistant.

Insulation: Not every travel jacket will need to be insulated but these fills can improve your warmth but can sometimes make packing a challenge.

Water-Resistance: Luckily, most packable jackets are made with a water-resistant material (or finish). While it’s not as common, a water proof jacket will provide you with even more protection.

Weight/Packability: Some jackets may come with attachable/built-in bags to stow them away in, but as long as you have your own bag and the jacket can bunch up easily, you can travel easily.

• Stylish color options
• Lightweight
• Flattering fit
• Hood can be taken on/off when zipped up
• Very affordable
• Long sleeves

Best Half-Zip: While the half-zip jacket is working its way back into the lexicon of cool style silhouettes, it provides you with some utility as well. Layering with a standard jacket just isn’t as feasible, especially if you’re looking to use it as a mid-layer. However, the half-zip may just answer all of your problems without completely overheating you like a sweater or thermal might. Our favorite in this regard is Cotopaxi’s Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker, which taps into both the functional and visually appealing aspects of a half-zip. And it’s currently available in six eye-popping colorways.

Cotopaxi has arguably the best use of color of any outdoor clothing company and this jacket is no exception. We got hands-on with the “Dance Moves” colorway, which is conceptually very late-’80s with its shades of blue complementing the red and periwinkle accents. The complexity of the lines and colors also allows this to be a bit more flattering than your average non-black top. It also fits very true-to-size, which is even more important since it doesn’t unzip all the way. Not to mention, it’s incredibly affordable. At just $80, this windbreaker also packs into its own front pocket and is super lightweight at only 8oz.

If the pass-through front pocket lacks the level of security you’re hoping for to secure your gear, there’s a nice zippered kangaroo pouch above it, which is also equipped with a small flap for extra protection against wetter weather. Other things I liked were the high front zipper, which doesn’t go so high that it’s impractical but can still keep out a good draft. Likewise, the hood can be taken on or off without unzipping the jacket (though this might be more challenging if you have a bun like me).

The Not So Good

Like most windbreakers, the Teca Half-Zip is a noisy sucker. You’ll be thwip-thwipping any time you move, which might not be ideal if you’re sitting on a crowded airplane next to someone who’s trying to sleep. It’s also important to note that while the torso, arms, and shoulders fit well without being too tight or spacious, the sleeves themselves are noticeably long. In fact, they fall below my knuckles when I’m standing up. Fortunately, there’s an elastic band at the cuffs that let you pull these above your wrists. Unfortunately, the elastic could be a bit tighter.

Verdict: While you’ll notice the striking colorways of the Cotopaxi Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker, it serves as a comfortable, protective, and utilitarian jacket for traveling light –– and at only 8oz! We noticed it was a bit too noisy for long plane flights and the sleeves fell pretty low but this is still an affordable and attractive option for anyone who loves expressive outerwear.

Weight: 8oz Shell: Repurposed polyester taffeta and repurposed ripstop polyester Insulation: N/A DWR?: Yes Hood?: Yes

• Stylish and slimming
• Waterproof reinforcement on shoulders & hood
• Lightweight yet warm
• Waist pockets hard to zip up

Best Down Jacket: Most down jackets aren’t necessarily practical for travel. However, most down jackets aren’t Outdoor Research’s Helium Down Hoodie. Insulated with responsibly sourced 800-fill power goose down, the shell is a 30D Pertex Quantum ripstop nylon bolster with extra abrasion resistance in a way that doesn’t increase the weight. High-impact points on the shoulders and hood are supplemented with some extra waterproof protection, making this one of the few rain-friendly down jackets around. Lightweight at just under a pound, this stylish coat is known for its packability.

When we put together our down jackets guide, the OR Helium was my favorite of the bunch, making it a no-brainer here for travel jackets. When unzipped, it fits incredibly well, but it’s even slimming when zipped all the way up –– not super common for down jackets. Not too tight or too bulky, the sleeves were a plus, featuring elastic on the cuffs that closed perfectly. I wear a watch on my right wrist and I was able to show it off naturally without the cuff falling over it to cover it up.

Sporting a sleek aesthetic and a packable design that stuffs well into your suitcase, this coat is also a smart choice if you’re doing any outdoor activities on your trip. As advertised, the hood and shoulders are reinforced to beat moisture well, even though the entire jacket isn’t waterproof. The longer cut is also preferable, which creates extra coverage at the waist for windy days without getting in the way when you’re sitting down.

If I had to nitpick about one thing, it would be the waist pockets on the outside. While unzipping them was quick and could be done with a single hand, closing them back up was a struggle, which could be an issue if you’re trying to be fast. Also, I didn’t love how I couldn’t put the hood on when the jacket was zipped up all the way; I had to unzip it a bit to take the hood on and off. However, I did like the low profile of the hood, which didn’t lump against my shoulders when I sat down.

Verdict: Our favorite down jacket around, the Outdoor Research Helium is a lightweight, warm, and stylish hoodie that can pack away into your suitcase with ease. Bolstered on the hood and shoulders for waterproofness, the coat has some finicky pockets but was among the best-fitting options we tried out. If you’re traveling in colder climates, consider this one.

Weight: 15.4oz Shell: 30D Ripstop Pertex Quantum Nylon Insulation: 800-fill goose down DWR?: Yes Hood?: Yes

• Warm yet super breathable
• Very comfortable and soft
• Made in a Fair Trade Certified facility
• Tight when zipped up

Best Hybrid Jacket: If you tend to overheat in jackets, then Patagonia’s got you covered with the Nano-Air Light’s unique ventilation system. The jacket’s dual-zippered closure allows you to vent as needed, and Patagonia assures nothing short of an ideal hybrid jacket for when you simply don’t know what the weather report has planned for your week out of the office . Impeccably light with 40-gram FullRange insulation and a cool name to boot, this sleek piece from the SoCal-based heritage brand is Fair-Trade Certified as well.

A sweatshirt feel with a jacket function, the Patagonia Nano-Air Light is expectedly lightweight weighing just 10.5oz. It’s a simple build but has enough of a unique identity that it’s well-worth wearing. Incredibly soft both inside and out, the coat feels cozy, which will serve you well on long flights or when riding passenger in a car with people who like to crank the AC. As promised, the jacket doesn’t overheat. I was wearing it with a long-sleeve shirt underneath and noticed I didn’t feel too warm despite the moderate temperature at the time. On the other hand, it was incredibly warming the next evening when the weather cooled down.

While the jacket is slimming on the body, it does wear rather tight, which is noticed mostly when sitting down. If you never zip up your jacket, then you’ll be fine with your normal size, otherwise consider going a size up (or just unzipping when you sit down). Likewise, the unique back construction makes this portion of the coat stick out when it’s un zipped. However, my least favorite aspect here is the sleeve length. The cuffs fell halfway down my palms and didn’t functionally clamp to my wrists like the elastic was supposed to.

Another thing I’d change here is the pockets. There are only the two options at the waist, which require two hands to close. However, it could use a chest pocket or one on the inside.

Verdict: Finding a balance between a sweatshirt and a jacket, this lightweight Patagonia Nano-Air Light Hybrid Jacket is one of the coziest options we tried out. Soft both inside and out, it’s warm when it needs to be but never overheats. We weren’t fans of the long sleeves that kept getting in the way or the tight fit when zipped up but this is still a favorable option when you need some flexibility in your outerwear.

Weight: 10.5oz Shell: 1.6-oz 30-denier 100% recycled polyester Insulation: 40-g FullRange 100% polyester DWR?: Yes Hood?: No

• Zippers on pockets are easy to use single-handed
• Nice hood design protects you well
• Accessible style doesn’t look like a rain jacket
• Inner sleeve acts as a nice wind barrier
• Hood drawstrings are frustrating

Best Waterproof Jacket: In case the rest of your travel gear is already weighing you down, L.L.Bean decided to develop their sleek Packaway Jacket from the world’s lightest material – literally. While this particular jacket lacks a down lining, the American heritage brand makes up for it with plush layers of lightweight, NASA-developed Aerogel and its 60-gram PrimaLoft Gold insulation that is highly capable of keeping you warm should you find yourself snowed in near Bean’s Maine headquarters. Finished off with a bevy of handy pockets, its most convenient one will prove to be the easily accessible stowaway pocket.

I love how much the L.L.Bean Packaway Jacket doesn’t look like a rain jacket despite how well it protects you from moisture. I was able to test this in wet weather and can attest that it does keep you dry (though it wasn’t raining incredibly hard). The hood provides some nice coverage all around and the collar goes up pretty high on your chin, but not too high that it looks ridiculous. In all, this coat has an accessible style that doesn’t feel too aggressive; you can wear this thing out in the evening and it won’t look like you’re trying too hard. You also wouldn’t think the jacket was as packable as it is, but it will quickly prove you wrong in that regard.

Another nice feature of this jacket is the pockets. I loved the options you get: two at the waist, two at the chest with inward-facing zippers, one hidden zippered compartment on the inside, and a pouch pocket down below. Moreover, the zippers themselves are designed to keep out moisture and, unlike most other jackets , they are all very agreeable and easy to use with a single hand. I avoid most jacket pockets because they’re so impractical but I was using these ones a lot. In terms of wind protection (and coldness protection), the inner sleeve is a nice touch, mimicking the feeling of wearing a compression shirt at the cuff. This also prevents the sleeves from falling too low.

My biggest gripe with the Packaway Jacket is how frustrating it is to use the hood drawstrings. Not only would you have to unzip the jacket about a third of the way down in order to pull the strings but they don’t even remotely remain cinched after you do so. Likewise, the secondary cinches on the outside require two hands to operate, which isn’t ideal. On the other hand, I like the hood shape, which didn’t stick out or fall off despite my hair being up in a bun.

Verdict: If you want a performative rain jacket that doesn’t look like a rain jacket, the L.L.Bean Packaway is the perfect choice, with an accessible style and subtle style points to boot. We loved the hood design, easy-to-use pocket zippers, and the inner sleeves, but the drawstrings on the hood could have been more functional.

Weight: 25.12oz Shell: 100% nylon ripstop Insulation: 60g PrimaLoft DWR?: No Hood?: Yes

• Waist pocket is cleverly designed to keep stuff inside
• Soft and comfy
• Surprising amount of storage

Best Lightweight Jacket: It’s hard to pin down the exact style of this one, but that’s certainly by design. Relwen took the best from a bit of everything and designed this hybrid jacket to be lightweight, wind-resistant, water-resistant, and super warm. It’s filled with 60g of down insulation and an outer shell made of nylon and spandex for a stretchy fit. This is a great travel jacket because it’s very lightweight, making it a solid year-round choice as well.

The first thing you’ll notice with the Relwen Windzip Jacket is how incredibly soft and comfortable it is. I used the word “cozy” with the Patagonia above, and that’s true with this one as well. It was rather cold out when I wore this one, and the Relwen served me well thanks to its synthetic down fill. I wasn’t able to button it up but the thick snap button flap will also aid you when it’s windy .

My favorite part about this coat was the side pockets. I thought the non-zippered pockets would prove to be an issue but most of the time, these zippers are impractical anyway, so Relwen just opted out of them. Instead, it chose to redesign this element. These aren’t just pouches to throw your gear into but are designed to keep your gear inside, despite their open nature. To do this, the pocket drops down once you get inside thanks to a stitched wall that prevents your items from falling out. And if you want a zippered pocket, the Windzip has one as well, located at your chest.

This was the one jacket I tested that was not an XL. I can still wear a Large most of the time, especially in jackets since they naturally are a bit larger anyway. However, this Relwen Windzip was incredibly tight on me. I struggled to get it on and even when I did, it was difficult to activate the zipper down below –– and that’s after I got it past the snap buttons that kept getting in the way. I’ve worn size Large jackets in the past and they’ve never been this tight on me. Regardless though, I still found the jacket form-fitting and even slimming on my body. Honestly, I expected the opposite to be true. On the same note, the top snap button kept falling together when this jacket was unzipped, which felt annoying against my neck to say the least.

Verdict: Warm, soft, and easy-going, the Relwen Windzip Jacket is a versatile jacket for any time of year. We loved the waist pockets which eschewed zippers in favor of a thoughtful open-mouthed design. However, even though we got hands-on with Large (instead of an XL), this coat ran a bit small, making it difficult to zip up and wear comfortably.

Weight: Unspecified Shell: 94% nylon, 6% spandex Insulation: 100% polyester, 60 gram down-alternative DWR?: No Hood?: No

• Good color options
• Sleek aesthetic
• Very lightweight
• Fits firmly
• Runs a bit small; slim fitting
• Not a lot of pockets

Most Stylish: Long are the days when a suit and tie was the norm on a cross-country plane ride, but it still makes perfect sense that you’d want to look good on your jet-setting adventures. To help you with the cause, Mountain Hardwear’s Ghost Whisperer is a slightly high-end jacket with some serious style points. At just 8.8oz of total weight, it can pack into its own pocket, which features an interior carabiner loop. Combining the brand’s proprietary Whisperer ripstop nylon fabric, the shell is insulated with 800-fill power goose down that’s been RDS-certified by the Control Union. Great whether you’re exploring the city or venturing outdoors , the coat is available in five different colors at the moment.

While not as good of a down jacket as the Outdoor Research Helium, the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer still has an edge in regard to its weight, which is about half of the former at just 8.8oz, and its sleek design aesthetic, giving you a nice dose of gloss on the shell. Although we stuck with the black option, we do love the orange and blue options as well. Mountain Hardwear does a good job blending form and function and this is no different.

Where the jacket really excels is its fit. Even though it’s designed more for slim bodies, it’s true-to-size and doesn’t feel slim. There’s plenty of room in the sleeves without them being too roomy or too long; they fall perfectly at the base of the palm. Likewise, I liked how firmly fit I was in this coat, which eliminated any wind that could’ve gotten inside. Overall, this is a very comfortable jacket and will keep you pretty warm, especially considering how light it is.

On the other side of the same coin, the slim fit could also be mistaken as “running small.” In other words, you won’t be able to drop a size here. Similarly, this coat is not very flattering. The horizontal quilting only adds to the accentuating of certain body parts like the belly. Perhaps my least favorite part of the Ghost Whisperer is the pockets. Not only could this use interior pockets or pouches, but the sole pockets, which are at the waist, have finicky zippers that struggle to open and close. And then there’s the price. $360 is a lot to pay for any piece of clothing, especially one that you don’t deem perfect.

Verdict: The lightest insulated jacket in this guide, the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 is stylish, warm, and pretty darn comfortable. Some might say it runs small but if you have the right size, it’s quite form-fitting, almost to a fault. We could’ve used some improvements on the zippered pockets but the main issue here is the price tag, which we had a hard time justifying.

Weight: 8.8oz Shell: Whisperer 10Dx10D ripstop recycled nylon Insulation: 90% goose down, 10% goose feather DWR?: Yes Hood?: Yes

• Widely-accessible style
• Really comfortable
• Tough and rugged shell
• Warm without the extra bulk
• Stands up well to weather
• Pocket zippers are stiff

Best High-End Jacket: If you have some extra-rigorous activities on your travel docket, then you’ll want a jacket that’s purpose-built for mountain treks. Arc’teryx has a lot of really lightweight packable options but this Beta AR (for all-around) is a versatile GORE-TEX-equipped pick that won’t be as overbearing as the mountain options from other brands. Like all other Arc’Teryx pieces, the Beta AR is a minimalistic piece of technologically advanced outerwear that lives up to the Canadian brand’s world-class standard. Equipped with windproof GORE-TEX PRO fabric, the hoodie remains lightweight and willing to tackle the outdoors thanks to its windproof and water-repellent design. Other intuitive features include the helmet-compatible DropHood with an internal collar for extra coverage and a built-in RECCO reflector that will aid you in search-and-rescue situations, just in case they ever occur.

In our hiking jackets guide, I was able to get hands-on with the Arc’teryx Beta Lightweight Jacket, which I loved for its versatility, comfort, and accessible style. And this Beta AR brings all those to a new level. Arguably more rain jacket-looking than its “more affordable” little brother, the Beta AR almost looks like a casual evening coat if it weren’t for the thick, rugged materials and its weather protection properties . As we’ve come to expect from the brand, there aren’t really any aggressive design cues or logos, maintaining its appeal without sacrificing durability. And the GORE-TEX and nylon shell is surprisingly soft to the touch.

The hood here is very big, for better or worse. Even with my hair up, I could take the hood on or off with the jacket zipped all the way up. The drawstring to tighten the hood is effective (and on the outside of the collar, which is not the case with a lot of these types of jackets). To loosen the cinch, you simply press the buttons embedded inside the base of the hood. Likewise, when it’s zipped all the way up, the collar comes up high enough to protect you without shrouding your entire face. The Beta AR is also very warm, which it achieves without any extra bulk or an abundance of insulation.

Like the Beta Lightweight, the Beta AR does fit rather large. It’s a comfortable jacket to wear but it’s admittedly roomy. The sleeves are especially spacious with the cuffs hanging down below my knuckles. Fortunately, the cuffs Velcro for a better fit. The hood is also quite roomy, with the collar digging into my neck when I first tightened it up.

Despite the high-placed front pockets, which makes them ideal for accessing while wearing a backpack, the zippers are difficult to operate single-handedly and are stiff as well. They could also afford to be a bit deeper. However, I did appreciate the small essentials pocket on the inside. And lest we forget to mention the $600 price tag, which most consumers will balk at. This is not a cheap jacket but if you have the money, it’s a no-brainer.

Verdict: While it’s difficult to figure out how this coat gets to be $200 more expensive than Arc’teryx’s Beta Lightweight jacket, the Beta AR would still be my choice if money were no option. It’s expensive, yes, but it fits well, provides warmth without bulk, and keeps you dry. Not to mention, the coat just looks really great with its widely accessible, almost simple aesthetic.

Weight: 16oz Shell: 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro Insulation: N/A DWR?: Yes Hood?: Yes

With countless minor tasks to keep up with beforehand and countless hurdles to jump through at the airport , getting on a plane nowadays has become an obstacle course unto itself. Nevertheless, your trip starts from the moment you start packing, and there is almost nothing worse than filling your suitcase to the brim only to realize the lack of space for any potential souvenirs or gifts you plan on bringing back. Scenarios like this are where the convenience behind packable jackets comes into play, as these compact pieces of outerwear can make a huge difference in your luggage.

Coming in a variety of styles, shapes, and sizes, the packable travel jacket is quintessential for any vacation. The ability to go from providing lush warmth to folding into itself and becoming an inconspicuous accessory is practically the epitome of convenience. However, with so many options on the market, it’s difficult to find one that checks all the boxes: a lightweight carry, seamless storability, and, most importantly, optimized warmth and protection from the elements. So we’ve narrowed it down to light, intuitive, and reliable jackets from trusted labels to help you out. Whether they be hoodies or anoraks, as long as they’re easy to pack away and provide enough weather protection, they can be used as a travel jacket.

REI is always a safe choice when looking for outdoor gear but their house brand also happens to make fantastic budget-friendly options such as this 650 Down Jacket 2.0 , which packs really well.

Fjallraven’s Expedition Pack Down Jacket is incredibly warm and impossibly packable. However, for “best down travel jacket,” we opted for the Outdoor Research Helium instead, which is one of our favorites.

One of our favorite do-anything travel jackets is Marmot’s GORE-TEX Minimalist Component 3-in-1 Jacket , but availability issues kept it off the main list. If you find this one out in the wild though, pick it up!

If you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious, check out the Canada Goose Armstrong Hoody . Yeah, it’s about $900, which is a lot, especially if you’re going to be traveling and stuffing this into a suitcase.

While having a packable jacket is ultra-convenient when out and about, it is just as handy to have a sling bag when the scenario calls for it. Luckily, our guide to the  best sling bags  on the market is here to help you accessorize even further.

From Our Partners

Nike’s Pegasus 41 Reduces Its Carbon Footprint by 43% Thanks to ReactX Midsole Foam

Presented by Nike

Gerber’s Armbar Drive Offers 8 Tools In a Pocketable, EDC-Ready Package

Presented by Gerber

The Best USA-Made Everyday Carry Essentials [VIDEO]

Nike’s Pegasus 41 Is the First to Feature ReactX Foam

By Ethan Brehm

Tested: The Best Field Jackets for Stylish Utility

Relwen Made the Perfect Shorts for Outdoor Adventures This Summer

Nike Unveils the Alphafly 3 ‘Blueprint’ Just in Time for the Paris Olympics

The 10 Best Style Gifts for Father’s Day 2024

Tested: The Best Swim Trunks For Men To Wear All Summer

By Tim Huber

10 Best Travel Jackets with Hidden Pockets [Updated 2023]

Sure, you could leave your valuables locked in your bag, but when you are away from home losing a credit card or passport, let alone your phone, can ruin your trip.

At A Glance: Our Top Travel Jackets with Hidden Pockets

• Top Pick for Men Men's SCOTTeVEST Travel Jacket Essential 2.0 Jump To Review
• Top Pick for Women SCOTTeVEST Women's Essential 2.0 Jacket Jump To Review

That is why a good travel jacket (or vest ) with hidden pockets can help keep your things secure. That way you can carry all your essentials and not have to worry.

And in this review I will cover the best options travelers have available – those with enough pockets and hidden places to let you focus on the things that matter when you are traveling – enjoying yourself!

Check out our best picks below, or use the quick navigation to jump to the relevant section (men or women) for you.

Top Product Overview

Best travel jackets with hidden pockets for men, men's scottevest travel jacket essential 2.0.

While it’s great to have everything within reach, the SCOTTeVEST Travel Jacket pays special attention to weight management . That way, even if you have all  25 inner and outer pockets full , you won’t feel lopsided or bulky. Often an issue with this kind of jacket.

The  cotton blend material  keeps this jacket light and airy and the  Teflon treatment makes it water and stain-resistant . It also has  detachable sleeves  for a hotter climate, but it doesn’t have a hood . That means you better reserve one of those pockets for a small umbrella in case it rains.

The organization is good with this jacket despite the many compartments. Outside, there are two large chest pockets with hidden zippers at the top. Inside, a padded pocket can hold an iPad or tablet and a special pocket is fitted with RFID blockers to secure against credit card and data theft.

Two large hand-warmer pockets can also hold a water bottle and extendable/detachable key-holder in the right pocket and ZIP-PIP (zippered pocket-in-pocket) to keep items segregated in the left pocket. There are two interior clear touch pockets so you can use touchscreen devices without taking them out, and several smaller pockets for sunglasses, IDs, pens, and travel documents.

• Excellent weight management and organization
• Many pockets specific to different important items
• Water and stain-resistant

Product Information

• Material: 58% Cotton, 42% Nylon
• Pockets: 24

SCOTTeVEST Men's Pack Windbreaker Jacket with 19 Pockets

The SCOTTeVest Windbreaker Travel Jacket is one of the most affordable options from SOTTeVEST. Which might explain why it’s so popular. And you know you are getting a great travel jacket. After all, they are the brand for travel jackets with pockets!

This model comes with 19 pockets, 14 interiors, and 5 exteriors. Of course, that means you have a spot for just about anything. From your pen and sunglasses to your tablet and phone. I won’t go into detail on all 19, you can read it on their website.

It’s made from 100% Polyester and is also quite a bit lighter than some of the others SCOTTeVest offer. It is 1.2 lbs, so easy to carry around with you in case of a change of weather. It also packs into its own pocket, so it’s easy to stash in a backpack – just in case!

• Lightweight and durable
• 19 pockets for everything you carry
• Reasonable price for such a jacket
• Not great for really cold weather
• No hood or removable sleeves
• Material: 100% Polyester
• Hidden Pockets: 19 - 14 interior, 5 exterior

VERSATYL Unisex Travel Jacket with 18 Pockets

The Versatyl Unisex Travel Jacket is another decent option when you don’t like the   SOTTeVEST options. It’s a little on the heavy side, but still waterproof so will keep your gear dry while you are out and about. There is also a warm hood, and some slide-out hand warmers, so if you are going somewhere cold, this might be a great option.

The biggest highlight of this jacket aside from its reasonably stylish look is the 18 pockets you get. Yes, that’s right – 18! From Napoleon-style chest pockets for things, you want close by to all sorts of internal pockets for more secure items. There are also some less handy pockets like those on the forearm, but you might still find a use for them.

They have also thought about the most essential items like your phone, wallet, passport, and documents. And, there is a handy loop for hanging your wired headphones on the upper inside of the jacket, for when you aren’t listening to your tunes on the go.

Just one major thing to be aware of when purchasing this softshell jacket – it runs small, so grab one size up otherwise you might be busting out of it! Although the zippers are quality YKK affairs, you don’t want to break them.

• Pull-out warmer sleeves
• Ideal for different climates
• Sleeves are longer than usual sizes and fits
• Hidden Pockets: 18

BOMBAX Travel Jacket

The BOMBAX Travel Jacket is a pretty nifty travel jacket. Not only does it carry a lot of stuff in  10 functional pockets , but it also has some fun extras to make your travels more comfortable.

There’s an outer pocket with a flap and another one with a zip. Inside, there are 10 practical hidden pockets where you can hide a tablet, passport, sunglasses, phone, water bottle, power bank, cash, and even a blanket. Once you’ve stashed all your valuables, the  built-in inflatable neck pillow  keeps you comfortable during a long flight.

When you step outside into cold weather, the  built-in gloves  will keep your hands warm and that’s one less thing you have to carry around.

The jacket is made of polyester and is  water-resistant too . It’s a great windbreaker that can protect your jacket and everything inside it from being soaked by rain. So, it’s great for cold and windy climates, but it’s  not made for warmer weather .

• Water-resistant
• Built-in features for more comfortable travel
• Well-designed pockets and organization options
• Neck pillow can be bulky around the neck when not in use
• Material: 60% Cotton 40% Polyester
• Pockets: 10

AyeGear V26 Vest with 26 Pockets

Not everyone likes wearing jackets, especially when it is warm enough out. That is why a secure vest with hidden pockets is also worth considering. It can be carried around and used, or not, depending on the weather conditions too.

This vest from AyeGear has been well thought out in more ways than you can imagine. It has pockets enough for everything you are carrying. Including specific ones for your phone and tablet, along with clear plastic so that you can not only read them but also interact with them! How handy is that?

It’s also designed to be taken off at airport security, so if you want to wear it to/from your destination – no problem at all. Just toss it (lightly!) into the security scanner containers, along with any other electronics, etc.

And in terms of weather, it is wind and waterproof, so in many cases with also means you don’t have to carry another jacket.

• Useful in a lot of different weather - windproof, waterproof
• Specific pockets for electronics that enable them to be used
• Lots of options for all sorts of things
• Bulky when fully stored
• Vest might not be enough in very cold weather
• Material: Nylon
• Pockets: 26
• Weight: 550g

Best Travel Jackets With Hidden Pockets For Women

Scottevest women's essential 2.0 jacket.

When it comes to travel jackets with hidden pockets, SCOTTeVEST has a wide range of designs and uses. Their Women’s Essential 2.0 Jacket is a no-frills travel jacket that helps you carry everything you need.

There are  25 external and hidden pockets  meant to house all your gadgets and essentials. There are also dedicated pockets to hold phones, tablets, wallets, keys, accessories, water bottles, and sunglasses.

Like all SCOTTeVEST products, its Weight Management System  is the kicker to avoid bulging and uneven weight distribution.

It’s also a versatile jacket with  detachable sleeves  if you want to convert it to a vest. The material is  Teflon coated for water resistance , but the jacket has  no hood . It’s more suitable for light weather with lots of sunlight, or just carry a folding umbrella in one of the many pockets.

• Detachable sleeves
• Material: Cotton with Teflon coating
• Pockets: 25

BOMBAX Women 10 Pocket Travel Jacket Hoodie

A jacket you will love while traveling for sure, this one from Bombax has the ever-important hidden pockets, of course.

But also, a built-in blow-up pillow and eye-mask so you can keep it on and still fall asleep on the plane or bus. Without worrying about all your belongings! And before you wonder what you are going to do with the hood, you can remove that too.

There are 10 hidden pockets, as well as 6 standard pockets on the outside, so you will have more than enough space for all your gear. Yes, space for your phone, tablet, documents, passport, and more.

Oh, and there is an earphone hook on the top, so you can pass through security without having to remove everything or just listen to those peaceful in-flight announcements we all know and love.

• Removable hood
• Built-in blowup pillow & eye-mask
• Material: 50% Cotton/Polyester Blend
• Hidden Pockets: 10

SCOTTeVEST Women's Chloe Hoodie Jacket

For winter travelers , the SCOTTeVEST Women’s Chloe Hoodie Jacket will keep you  warm and cozy with a heavyweight fleece . It’s made with  100% polyester and is a lightweight way to keep warm while you are traveling .

It has a decent number of pockets  14 to be exact. This means there is plenty of space for all your gadgets, gizmos, and personal items. There are also a couple of external hand-warming pockets and one specifically for change.

The addition of a hood on this particular travel jacket means that it adds that extra warmth when things get cold or windy. This is always a bonus when you are out for the day in a foreign city and don’t want to go back to grab another sweater.

And, unlike a lot of the other jackets from SCOTTeVest, this one is super affordable at just under $100.

• Warm layer for on the go
• Hood gives extra warm
• Enough pockets for all your everyday travel items
• Might need an additional rain jacket with you
• Pockets: 14

SCOTTeVEST Women's Trench Coat

The SCOTTeVEST Women’s Trench Coat is a great addition to any wardrobe. The  classic style  is great for any travel but also  works for daily wear whether casual or business .

With the longer garment than a jacket, the coat’s  18 pockets  are larger, easier to access, and can hold a lot more items equivalent to a travel purse. While it’s still not the best replacement for a bag altogether, it significantly lessens the number of items you have in your purse or carry-on.

As with all SCOTTeVEST garments, the  Weight Management System  keeps the coat from being too heavy or bulky. Add to that the  sleek lines and the belt  and you will have a slimming shape even if your pockets are full.

The coat is  water and stain-resistant , so you can walk through a downpour and keep yourself and your gadgets dry. The length of the coat also offers more protection than a jacket.

Despite its construction and material, it’s still  machine washable  making it easy to maintain and store. Unfortunately, it  doesn’t come with a hood .

Also, knowing where you put your phone can be a challenge at first because  some pockets are too deep  and will be more troublesome than convenient.

• Weather-resistant
• Classic style and design
• Larger pockets
• Some pockets are too deep
• Material: DWR Nano poly fabric
• Pockets: 18

Baubax Travel Jacket

The Baubax Travel Jacket is a startup hit , crowdsourcing a total of $9.2 million on Kickstarter and $11.5 million on Indiegogo On Demand.

It comes in  four styles : windbreaker, sweatshirt, blazer, and bomber jacket. Of all the versions, the Bomber jacket is the most well designed, does NOT look like a travel jacket, and will fit any urban or adventure setting.

It  is heavier than the other styles , but it’s  thicker and sturdier  and will hold up well even in cold climates.

It’s  built with lots of features and pockets  to keep you from having to dig into your bag the whole time. The jacket has nine utility pockets (six of which are hidden), an attached pen stylus, built-in gloves, and hand warmers, and a built-in neck pillow and eye mask. Yes, it has everything!

Sizes run small  for Bomber jackets, so make sure you get the measurements right. The material doesn’t stretch, but it’s machine washable.

• Stylish design
• Lots of built-in features
• Inconsistent sizing

What to look for in a Travel Jacket or Vest

The main point of finding a jacket with hidden pockets is fitting everything you need inside. More pockets are not necessarily better. Some pockets are too small to be functional. Too many pockets will also just give you a more difficult time looking for what you need. Too few, on the other hand, leaves you with items that have no place in the jacket.

There are some pockets with plastic panels so you can see your phone without taking it out. They are super-handy, but come at a price, If you need to machine wash or toss the jacket in the dryer, this plastic panel can melt. So, be careful.

Also, make sure that closures are secure so your items don’t accidentally fall out of the jacket. This could just mean a zipper, or similar, but have a think about what you are going to put where, and how secure (in terms of falling out) it is going to be.

The jackets in this review are made from a variety of materials, so it pays to know what you want it to do, in terms of warmth or weather, before you buy it.

Not all travel jackets are water-resistant or waterproof. For example, there are travel jackets made like a sweater, so it will keep you warm but not dry. So, you will need another one to go over the top if it rains (or you can simply use an umbrella)

Waterproof jackets will keep you dry but can be too hot if you’ll be traveling to warmer climates or doing lots of exercises. It pays to be flexible in what you wear when traveling, so keep layering in mind.

A lot of jackets have hoods, which can be great against the wind or to sleep in a plane. But they are not a style everyone likes, as they are quite casual.

Others have built-in features like pillows and eye masks, but can be too bulky when not in use. So, don’t overdo it on the features unless you really need them. Find a design that fits your style of travel the best.

If you don’t need a hood, then hoodless jackets can still be a great option. And bells and whistles are often more hassles than they are worth. Stick with what you need, and focus on the security features that are going to protect your most important possessions.

The Best Travel Jacket For You

There are two reasons why you are looking for a travel jacket with lots of pockets: convenience and fewer baggage fees.

Travel jackets are similar in many ways, but the way these pockets are designed and secured makes all the difference. The best lookout when choosing your jacket is how easy it will be for you to get your stuff out of the pockets and, of course, how much protection you can get from the climate.

For men, the  Bombax Travel Jacket  has everything you need. The built-in pillow and eye mask are great for long-haul flights or emergency naps. It has enough pockets to store your things, and it’s weather-resistant to protect you from rain and cold weather. The manly and modern design also makes you look stylish wherever you go.

• ▶[ABOUT SIZES OF BOMBAX BOMBER JACKET]: Please check our size chart as picture (not Amazon size chart) listed on the left part of the listing.The jacket is measured in flat [ITS THE ASIAN SIZE,please check the size image as left]
• ▶[10 PRACTICAL POCKETS/16 in 1 FEATURES FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS]: this 16 in 1 multi-pockets travel bomber jacket comes with 10 practical hidden pockets,which includes neck pillow,eye mask,tablet/passport/sunglasses/phone/bottle/power bank/blanket/hand warming/change pocket,earphone holder,2 in 1 pen and Microfiber Cloth to covers all your needs in the trip.

For women, the  SCOTTeVESTJacket   is light, functional, and versatile. It has detachable sleeves should you find things getting a little hot, and it has ingenious pockets to keep everything you need close to you. It’s also very easy to pack thanks to its lightweight material if you decide not to use it sometime during your trip.

• Overview Guide
• 1 Week Itinerary
• Train Journeys
• Epic Drives
• Stunning Lakes
• Historic Castles
• Lauterbrunnen
• Grindelwald
• Chocolate Tours
• Swiss National Park
• Majestic Mountains
• Spectacular Waterfalls
• Famous Things
• Tasty Fondue
• 10 Day Itinerary
• Cherry Blossoms
• Tokyo Shrines
• Dos and Don’ts
• Osaka Guide
• Osaka Itinerary
• Osaka or Kyoto
• Kyoto Day Trips
• Matsumoto Castle
• Tokyo Luxury Hotels
• Island Hopping
• Best Campsites
• Driving Tips
• Beaune, France
• Barcelona Itinerary
• Spain Itinerary
• Greece Itinerary
• Italy Road Trips
• Berlin Day Trips
• Norway Northern Lights
• Netherlands National Parks
• Mostar, Bosnia
• Best Airlines
• Midwest Ski Resorts
• Florida RV Parks
• Washington RV Parks
• Oregon RV Parks
• Utah Camping
• Texas Camping
• Chicago National Parks
• East Coast National Parks
• Colorado National Parks
• Joshua Tree
• Yellowstone
• Alberta Hikes
• Flashlights
• Water Filters
• Sleeping Pads
• Solar Lanterns
• Tent Brands
• 4-Person Tents
• 4 Seasons Tents
• Backpacking Tents
• Beach Tents
• Cabin Tents
• Multi-room Tents
• Pop-up Tents
• Truck Bed Tents
• Underwear (Men)
• Backpacks Under $100
• Microspikes
• Boonie Hats
• In The World
• New Zealand
• Hardisde Luggage
• Lightweight Luggage
• Luggage Sets
• Spinner Luggage
• Durable Suitcases
• Duffel Bags
• Kids Luggage
• Teen Luggage
• Space Saving Luggage
• Business Carry-Ons
• Garment Carry-Ons
• Suitcases Under $50
• Travel Briefcase
• Zipperless Suitcases
• Rolling Briefcase
• Luggage Straps
• Luxury Brands
• American Tourister
• AmazonBasics
• Delsey Chatelet
• Anti-Theft Backpacks
• Backpacks Under $50
• Baby Carrier Backpacks
• Cooler Backpacks
• Backpacking Backpacks
• Climbing Backpacks
• Backpacks for Back Pain
• Beach Backpacks
• Hiking Backpacks
• Business Travel Backpacks
• Laptop Backpacks
• Backpacks for Tablets
• Commuter Backpacks
• Travel Backpacks (Men)
• Travel Backpacks (Women)
• Waterproof Backpacks
• Wheeled Backpacks
• Down Jackets
• Down Parkas
• Fleece Jackets
• Hardshell Jackets
• Rain Jackets
• Softshell Jackets
• Eco Friendly Jackets
• Gore Tex Alternatives
• Heated Jackets
• Lightweight Jackets
• 3-in-1 Waterproof Jackets
• Parajumper Jackets
• Rain Poncho
• Ski Jackets
• Travel Hoodies
• Travel Jackets
• Winter Coats
• Helly Hansen
• Mammut Jackets
• Patagonia Nanopuff
• Survival Jackets
• Flower Captions
• Waterfall Captions
• Tree Captions
• Sunset Captions
• Sunflower Captions
• Rainbow Captions
• Paddle Boarding Captions
• Hot Air Balloon Captions
• Kayaking Captions
• Airplane Captions For Instagram
• Forest Captions

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products

The 13 Best Travel Clothing Brands of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

From swimwear to walking shoes, we’ve got you covered.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco

A travel wardrobe is different from a regular wardrobe. How so? It should include comfy, breathable pieces made of stretchy, flexible fabrics while also being versatile, layerable, and suitable for different activities, climates, and occasions.

Finding items that check all the boxes can be challenging. To make it easy, we’ve rounded up the best travel clothing brands that carry casual, professional, weather-friendly, and active pieces alike.

The Travel + Leisure team not only trusts these featured brands but has also personally tried many of their best-selling, highly rated clothes, outerwear, and shoes firsthand. We used our extensive apparel and footwear testing process to come up with the best places to shop online for all types of travelers.

Best Overall

Unbound Merino

Unbound Merino's clothes are woven from ultra-soft, stretchy, non-wrinkling wool that wicks away sweat and promises to keep odors at bay.

The selection is somewhat limited, but it's great for basics.

When it comes to travel apparel, Unbound Merino is tough to beat. Crafted from premium merino wool boasting super-fine, silky fibers, the fabrics are not only not itchy but are also softer, stretchier, and more wrinkle-resistant than many cotton weaves. Wool is naturally antimicrobial and sweat-wicking, too, meaning it won't harbor odor-causing bacteria. So you can wear the garments multiple times on a trip without needing to wash them — the brand says you can wear its clothes for weeks without laundering them.

Unbound Merino carries lots of comfy basics that are excellent for travel, like plain tees, long-sleeves, and pants that feel like sweats but look like professional trousers. We're particularly fond of the Women's Merino Wool Travel Dress . This versatile frock can be dressed up or down, worn as-is or under a light jacket, and styled with sandals, heels, flats, or sneakers. We also like the Men's Merino Crew Neck T-Shirt , a perfect short-sleeve tee or undershirt for guys.

The Details: 90-day return policy

Best for Everyday

The brand's active-meets-casual pieces are just the thing for travel days, athleisure outfits, and sporty weekend looks.

You'll mostly find athleisure and loungewear clothing, but there are some good trousers and knitwear items, too.

Alo is technically a yoga apparel brand, but it makes some excellent athleisure and loungewear pieces for comfy everyday ensembles. The brand has also expanded its offerings to include things like work-ready trousers, knit sweaters, bodysuits, and sporty dresses.

We love Alo's 7/8 High-waist Airlift Legging on account of its extra-wide waistband and soft fabric that lifts and sculpts your curves. When going for a more laid-back look, we'd rock the slouchy Alcolade Sweatpant with a pair of sneakers.

The Details: 30-day return policy

Best for Business Travel

Madewell carries lots of professional-looking pieces, like blouses, bodysuits, button-ups, trousers, and midi dresses.

The men's collection isn't as extensive as the women's.

Madewell is known for its denim, and while we certainly love the jeans, it's also a great place to shop for a work trip. From sophisticated dresses and tailored pants to chic blouses, button-ups, and bodysuits, you'll find a range of high-quality, professional-looking pieces.

The Harlow Pant is one of our favorites for business-casual and business-professional outfits. This best-seller features a high-rise, wide-leg cut and a drapey, breathable blend of cotton and Tencel. (It's also available in a curvy fit , with a contoured waistband and extra room through the hips and thighs.)

Best Sustainable

Besides its impressive collection of classy, travel-ready clothes, we appreciate Everlane's commitment to reducing waste and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

The brand leans seasonless but has some cold- and warm-weather pieces available.

Everlane carries a mostly seasonless collection of travel-ready apparel, including jogger-trouser hybrid pants, jeans in on-trend yet versatile cuts, elegant sweaters, classy Oxford shirts, everyday crewnecks, cotton dresses, and jumpsuits. The brand is also dedicated to sustainability, with a waste-minimizing supply chain and a goal to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by over 50 percent by 2030.

The Dream Pant is one of our go-tos for travel days. These pants look like tailored trousers but feel like stretchy joggers, plus the fabric is wrinkle-resistant and (according to Everlane) "comfortable enough to nap in."

Best Athleisure

Lululemon carries not only top-notch athleisure wear, but also pieces you can wear to work that feel like lounge clothes.

Though the sizes can run a little small, the Align collection stretches to fit even if you fluctuate sizes.

We pretty much always pack at least one Lululemon item when traveling. Originally a yoga apparel brand, it now offers an impressive range of loungewear and athleisure pieces, including leggings in virtually every cut, style, and color. You'll even find work-appropriate garments, like trousers, poplin shirts, and blazers that feel like athleisure wear. The prices can be steep, but you can often strike gold in the discounted " We Made Too Much " section.

Lululemon launched its uber-popular, borderline-famous Align Pant in 2015. While we certainly like the original, the pocketed version is ideal for travel — and it's made with the same buttery-soft fabric and super-wide, high-rise waistband. We also like the slightly looser-fitting Align High-rise Jogger , which has pockets big enough to hold a smartphone .

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best for Capsule Wardrobes

This affordable luxury brand has pieces you can dress up or down and wear in multiple seasons.

While many cashmere and silk items are machine washable, the brand still recommends hand washing.

Quince is a relatively new clothing brand but has gained a loyal following since its 2020 launch. When you browse the site, you'll find affordable pieces made from premium materials, like cashmere, natural silk, and linen. There's even a chart on each product page that breaks down exactly how it gets the prices so low. Just the thing for building a capsule wardrobe, the high-quality, multi-season garments can be mixed and matched to create endless outfits. Quince also has an almost unheard-of 365-day return window.

We like the Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater, which comes in women's and men's sizes. We're also big fans of the Washable Stretch Silk Blouse because it's not only machine washable, but it’s also versatile enough to wear with a skirt, jeans, shorts, or pants.

The Details: 365-day return policy

Best Budget

Amazon essentials.

Amazon's own clothing brand has accessibly priced travel basics, loungewear, professional attire, and swimsuits for men, women, and kids.

The "try before you buy" option is only available for Prime members.

If you're on a budget, look no further than Amazon. The mega-retailer has many private label brands, including a very accessibly priced clothing line, Amazon Essentials. There's tons of great stuff for men, women, and kids, including wardrobe basics, loungewear, dresses, sweaters, underwear, swimsuits, and even workwear. Prime members can get their items within a couple of days (sometimes even with same-day delivery) and take advantage of the "try before you buy" perk. This allows you to order items to try on and ship them back without being charged for anything if you decide you don't want them.

The Women's Short-sleeve Maxi is breathable, stretchy, lightweight, and versatile — everything you want in a travel dress. Amazon Essentials also has many affordable short-sleeve men's shirts, including henleys, V-necks, and crewnecks, like this two-pack of Regular-fit Short-sleeve Pocket T-shirts .

Best Size-inclusive

Girlfriend Collective

Many styles run from XXS to 6XL, plus they're made of stretchy, flexible fabrics that won't wrinkle in your suitcase.

The brand suggests using a wash bag or microfiber filter when washing and hanging items to dry.

Girlfriend Collective has one of the most inclusive size ranges out there — many of its styles come in 11 sizes, running from XXS to 6XL. The brand carries fitness apparel, athleisure, loungewear, bodysuits, dresses, and outerwear – all stretchy, breathable, wrinkle-resistant, and packable. Most items are made of fabrics sourced from recycled plastic bottles, and you can even recycle the pieces you're done wearing through the ReGirlfriend program.

The brand's Compressive Pocket Legging is a stellar choice for travel. We like how the soft yet sturdy fabric holds you in without restricting movement, and the deep side pockets are big enough for a phone or passport.

Best for Shapewear

Spanx has shapewear for every outfit, along with thoughtfully designed clothing items you can wear while traveling, to work, and on weekends.

Many items come in limited colors, but the selection is getting broader.

Spanx is almost synonymous with shapewear. The brand carries a comprehensive selection of undergarments that hold you in, smooth certain areas, and enhance your curves — think bodysuits, high-rise underwear, compressive shorts, tanks, and camis. Besides that, you can now get chic, comfy apparel, including travel clothes, workwear, swimsuits, and even jeans with hidden shapewear features.

Made specifically for travel, the AirEssentials Collection has cozy yet classy jumpsuits, dresses, and wear-anywhere pants. We like the Suit Yourself Boat Neck Ribbed Bodysuit because it combines core-smoothing shapewear with a sleek long-sleeve shirt you can style many ways.

The Details: 60-day return policy

Best for Hiking

This outdoor apparel brand has all types of hiking clothes, from pocketed pants and shorts to layering pieces and weather-ready, stuffable outerwear.

Patagonia doesn't make hiking shoes or boots.

If you're planning a hiking trip, Patagonia likely has almost everything you need. We're talking layering pieces, pocketed trail pants and shorts, windbreakers, rain jackets, packable puffer coats, and thick, sweat-wicking socks. It doesn't carry hiking boots or shoes, but we can tell you which ones to buy from other retailers.

We tested the Women's Chambeau Rock Pants and loved the elastic waistband, adjustable cuffs, ample pockets, silky-soft fabric, and true-to-size fit. The material is also breathable and stretchy, preventing you from overheating while offering a full range of movement on the trail. These pants did a great job repelling water, too, so you can definitely wear them on a drizzly day.

The Details: Unlimited return policy

Travel + Leisure / Lisa Pezzuto

Best Outerwear

Columbia makes a myriad of weather-ready pieces, like vests, pullovers, stuffable puffers, rain jackets, and windbreakers.

The outerwear options are more for outdoor activities than professional or formal occasions.

Columbia has been making outdoor apparel for nearly a century. When you shop the collections, you'll find practical base layers, hiking clothes, snow gear, and lifestyle pieces you can wear for travel and other casual occasions. The brand really stands out for its outerwear offerings, which include fleece pullovers, insulated vests, down jackets, raincoats, and windbreakers. Some options feature Omni-Heat technology, a foil-like lining that essentially reflects your body heat back onto itself to keep you toasty-warm when the temperatures drop.

We tried the Women's Carson Pass Interchange Jacket firsthand and were thoroughly impressed. We found it very warm and liked how easy it was to layer over various shirts and even sweatshirts. What's more, this coat has fleece-lined pockets, sleeves with thumbholes, and a hood that actually stays in place when you put it on.

Travel + Leisure / Maria Rowella

Best Swimwear

Andie Swim 

This swimwear brand has well-made one-pieces and bikinis in multiple coverage options, cuts for long torsos, and an inclusive range of sizes.

Some styles may not be supportive enough for large chests, and the return window is pretty short.

Andie is a prime place to shop for swimsuits. The brand is known for its well-made one-pieces with flattering cuts and comfortable designs that don't require constant adjusting — including options for long torsos and plus-size bodies. You'll also find bikinis, cover-ups, and various other travel accessories for women , like hats, sunglasses, and beach bags.

We tested The Amalfi One Piece and fell in love with the thick, durable ribbed fabric. It's exceptionally comfy, even when soaking-wet, and dries quickly, so you're never soaking-wet for long. Though the thin straps may not be supportive enough for those with large chests, we appreciate that you can choose from three coverage options on the bottom: medium, cheeky, or full.

The Details: 14-day return policy

Travel + Leisure / Frances Crouter

Best for Shoes

Nike's footwear selection goes far beyond trainers, with streetwear styles and walking shoes that'll keep your feet happy for hours.

The rocking outsoles might take some getting used to.

Nike has dominated the sportswear market for multiple decades. Over the years, its offerings have expanded to include athleisure clothes, streetwear, and travel-friendly lifestyle pieces. Beyond clothes, the brand has some of the best shoes not just for working out and playing sports but also for hanging out and taking a leisurely stroll.

We tried Nike's Motiva Walking Shoes , which have unique rocker-style bottoms. The shape of the outsoles took some getting used to, but it really seemed to optimize our stride in terms of stability, shock absorption, arch support, and overall comfort. We also adore the sporty-chic look.

Travel + Leisure / Kimberly Souza

Travel + Leisure / Donna Freydkin

Our in-depth testing process for clothing involves carefully inspecting the garments, assessing the materials, trying them on to evaluate the fit, and wearing them for various activities for multiple hours at a time. We rate apparel based on factors such as fit, comfort, breathability, moisture resistance, stretch, durability, care requirements, and overall value. The results for this article were compiled from multiple testers who used the products in real-life settings, often for ongoing, months-long periods.

Tips for Buying Travel Clothing

Choose versatile items.

When buying travel clothes, look for versatile pieces you can dress up or down, mix and match with different outfits, and wear on numerous occasions. Like a capsule wardrobe , this will allow you to pack fewer items and re-wear certain garments. The best apparel for travel is also suitable for multiple seasons, meaning you can layer pieces under or over it for cooler or warmer weather.

Look for travel-friendly features

We recommend prioritizing odor-resistant, breathable, and wrinkle-resistant materials, such as wool, cashmere, lyocell, performance fabrics, and cotton blends containing a stretchy fiber, like spandex or elastane. Some fabrics have built-in sun protection listed as UPF (ultraviolet protection factor).

You'll also be glad to have clothing with pockets. These will come in handy on travel days when you need to quickly stash your phone, boarding pass, ID, or cards. Strategically placed pockets can also allow you to forgo a purse or backpack (or at least bring a smaller one) on some outings.

On travel days (whether you're catching a flight, taking the train, or road-tripping), you want to avoid things that make it hard to sit comfortably for hours or quickly go to the bathroom. For some people, this includes bodysuits, jumpsuits, rompers, dresses, and overalls.

Lace-up shoes can also slow you down when going through airport security. Though some advise against wearing sandals (especially without socks), slip-on footwear such as slides or sneakers can be a good choice. Other things that can hold you back include belts, jewelry, hats, and other accessories.

The best material for travel clothing is stretchy, breathable, and moisture-wicking, meaning it'll draw sweat away from your body to prevent you from overheating. It should also be wrinkle-resistant, so you can pack it in your suitcase without worrying about creases. Fabrics that check all the boxes include wool, cashmere, lyocell, some cotton blends, and performance fabrics.

While you have lots of options for what to wear on a plane , it’s most important to be comfortable and able to move freely, with layers you can take off or throw on if you get hot or cold. You can't go wrong with stretchy jeans or trousers with a simple tee or long-sleeve and a crewneck sweater, half-zip sweatshirt, or button-down flannel. Men's joggers are also a great choice. While you shouldn't wear pajamas, some people rock head-to-toe athleisure or loungewear sets, which we can totally get behind.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer, editor, and product reviewer specializing in travel, apparel, accessories, footwear, and consumer goods. She has worn multiple pieces from every brand on this list and is personally familiar with the fabrics, quality, comfort features, and wearability.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

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.

11 of the Best Travel Jackets for Your Next Adventure

01/26/2024 by Kristin Addis 1 Comment

Finding the best travel jackets can be a quest, but it’s one worth undertaking. My ideal jacket is ultra-functional, fits with my style, and works for various climates and activities. Is that too much to ask? Whether you’re exploring urban landscapes or venturing into the wilderness, the right jacket should be comfy and versatile enough to accompany you on all of your travels.

Here, I’ve handpicked a selection of the best jackets for travelers, each uniquely suited for different types of adventures.

Table of Contents

1. Eddie Bauer Women’s Charly Jacket – $129

The bright yellow Eddie Bauer Charly Jacket is as functional as it is eye-catching. Ideal for destinations prone to rain and wind, like the Azores , this jacket features big zippered pockets and a sturdy build. Its vibrant color not only stands out in travel photos but also adds a cheerful touch to overcast days. Snag one for yourself and see why I’m so obsessed with mine!

2. Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket – $80

This sleek and lightweight down jacket from Uniqlo is a traveler’s delight. It’s incredibly compact, easily folding into a pouch, yet it provides substantial warmth. Perfect for chilly mornings in the mountains or brisk city nights, its streamlined design also means it won’t take up much space in your luggage.

3. Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket – $280

I’ve had my Rab Microlight Alpine for years, and I still break it out when I’m traveling to chillier destinations. It’s just right for cold, adventurous trips and incredibly warm for its weight and size, packing down into a small pouch for convenience. Whether you’re hiking Mount Rainier or exploring a wintry city, this jacket provides essential warmth without bulk.

4. Calvin Klein Jeans Plaid Wool Shirt Jacket – $150

When it comes to finding the best travel jackets, sometimes it helps to think outside the box. I love anything merino wool, because it’s light and surprisingly warm. Especially when I travel during seasonal transitions like spring or fall, I like to have a jacket that layers well with a vest or long sleeves underneath. The one in the photo above is my favorite, and this one from Calvin Klein is the closest thing I’ve seen online.

5. Free People Hit the Slopes Fleece Jacket – $148

Light, warm, and versatile, the Free People Hit the Slopes Fleece Jacket is a must-have for travelers seeking both comfort and style. Its understated design ensures that it matches everything, making it an excellent choice for trips where you want to pack light but stay cozy. I love the texture of this one, and it’s held up well over time, no matter now many chilly mornings I spend in it!

6. Columbia Women’s Switchback III Jacket – $50

This jacket is a prime example of Columbia’s reputation for quality outdoor gear. The Switchback III shines in its versatility and compactness, and it’s a stellar choice for travelers who can’t pack light enough. This is the jacket for you if you know you’ll be adventuring in the rain and wind, as it’s completely waterproof.

You can adjust the Velcro wrist cuffs and bungee cord hem to allow for a customized fit, ensuring comfort and protection against the elements. I’m dying to test this one out!

7. Aritzia TnAction The Pillow Puff – $128

This one is for all of you travelers who wouldn’t dare leave the house in a traditional sporty rain jacket. The Aritzia TnAction The Pillow Puff is not only fashion-forward but super practical, making it a must-have for the style-conscious traveler. This puffer jacket is 100 percent vegan down and has PrimaLoft insulation, so it also ticks off some ethical fashion boxes.

Designed to provide comfort in temperatures as low as 32 degrees, the Pillow Puff works for a range of activities, from early-morning hikes to urban walking tours. The jacket is water-repellent (not completely waterproof) and suitable for a range of weather conditions. Plus, it comes in some adorable colors: purple, pink, black, gray, and blush. You can also get the Pillow Puff in a vest version, offering an alternative style for different climates or personal preferences.

8. Girlfriend Collective Packable Puffer – $148

Say hello to the Girlfriend Collective Packable Puffer , the jacket that’s as conscious about the environment as it is about keeping you cozy on those chilly adventures. This is the ideal pick for when you need just a touch of warmth without going full parka mode.

The outer shell and filling of the jacket is made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles, which is pretty cool! It’s also wind-resistant and water-repellent, so whether you’re going for a breezy beach walk or dodging unexpected drizzles, this jacket has got your back.

9. DU/ER Weightless Reversible Jacket – $97

Get ready to meet the chameleon of travel jackets: the DU/ER Weightless Reversible Jacket . This jacket is the definition of getting two for the price of one. One side flaunts a classy brown cotton fabric, while the flip side has a blue puffer material. Heading out for a casual city stroll or gearing up for a chilly evening? This jacket has got both scenarios covered.

One of the features of this jacket that caught my eye was the adjustable waist, which elevates the style. Cinch it up for a snugger, more defined look, or leave it loose for an oversized fit. Plus, the jacket’s midweight nature means it’s compact enough to slide into your carry-on, leaving plenty of room for the rest of your travel essentials.

10. Patagoni a Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket – $179

You just found your new best friend for those “just in case” travel moments. The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket is the epitome of pack-and-go — it tucks neatly into its front pocket. But don’t let its simplicity fool you. This jacket is a powerhouse when it comes to battling the elements. Totally waterproof and as light as a feather, it’s designed to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at you, and it’s built to last.

People who love this jacket really love it because of its comfort. It has a two-way-adjustable hood and a cozy micro-fleece-lined neck. No more wrestling with hoods that won’t stay put or that scratchy feeling against your chin. Plus, it comes in eight colors!

11. Cotopaxi Women’s Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker – $60

The Cotopaxi Women’s Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker is a game-changer for those breezy, in-between weather days. What sets this anorak apart is its combo of lightweight yet sturdy protection. Made from repurposed polyester taffeta with a DWR finish, it fights off wind and rain without feeling plastic-y like many other windbreakers. This one is slightly oversized, so it’s perfect for layering a cozy sweatshirt underneath. And if the temps really drop, it slides effortlessly under a bulkier coat.

Although finding the best travel jackets for your personal style and travel needs might be tricky, I hope this gave you plenty of options to choose from.

Which one will come with you on your next adventure?

*Some links in this post are affiliate links that support this site at no extra cost to you when you purchase through them. Everybody wins!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 subscribe to our newsletter

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

divya jain says

02/01/2024 at 10:03 pm

Thank you for sharing such a good information It will help us a lot.

Best Down Jackets of 2024

From ultralight to winter-ready, we've tested and picked the season's top down jackets.

Switchback Travel ( Brian McCurdy )

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

It's tough to beat a great down jacket, whether it’s for casual use or tearing around the backcountry. This cozy insulation type offers the best warmth-to-weight ratio on the market and packs down smaller than synthetic options for easy storage. From the high Himalaya to the chronically wet Pacific Northwest, our team has put countless down jackets through the wringer to narrow in our list of 18 models below. These are the best down jackets of 2024, including leading down sweaters, ultralight models, and winter-weight designs for cold weather. For background information on warmth, weight, denier, and more, see our down jacket comparison table and buying advice below the picks. Note: This article includes models for both men and women, but our team has also written a dedicated round-up of the best women’s down jackets .

Editor's note:  We updated this guide on May 9, 2024, to include information about our testing practices , add the new La Sportiva Supercouloir 1000, and expand some of the sections in our buying advice. We also combed through the guide to ensure prices, colorways, and products are current at the time of publishing.  

Our Team's Down Jacket Picks

• Best Overall Down Jacket: Patagonia Down Sweater
• Best Ultralight Down Jacket: Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 Hoody
• Best Budget Down Jacket: REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket
• Best Heavyweight Down Jacket: Rab Neutrino Pro
• Best Down Jacket for Everyday Use: Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown

Best Overall Down Jacket

1. patagonia down sweater ($279).

The down jacket market ranges from performance to casual and everything in between, but you won’t find a more versatile option than the Patagonia Down Sweater. With 5 ounces of 800-fill-power down, the jacket is light and packable enough for backpacking and travel yet offers enough warmth to use as a midlayer for skiing. In addition, it looks great for everyday use—few outdoor companies can match Patagonia in crossover appeal—and is now available in eight sizes from XXS to 3XL. We also can't help but love the build quality—of all of the brands we've tested, Patagonia jackets consistently last longer and end up winning us over with their longevity.

The Down Sweater has received many updates over the years, and the most recent iteration includes an all-new NetPlus shell (made from recycled fishing nets), significantly more down insulation (5 oz. compared to the previous version’s 3.4 oz.), and drop-in pockets for additional storage. We’re big fans of all of the updates, but the latest model does cost $50 more than its predecessor. And at 13 ounces (just 0.1 oz. lighter than the prior version), it's still far from an ultralight backcountry piece. Finally, the fit isn’t as tailored as some of the performance designs on this list, although the upside is that you can layer either over top or underneath, which isn't the case with most technical pieces. All told, for a highly versatile down jacket that can play the part for winter commuting, summertime camping, and everything in between, the Patagonia Down Sweater remains hard to beat... Read in-depth review (hooded version) See the Men's Patagonia Down Sweater   See the Women's Patagonia Down Sweater

Best Ultralight Down Jacket

2. mountain hardwear ghost whisperer/2 hoody ($360).

Several seasons ago, Mountain Hardwear revamped one of the original ultralight down jackets: its popular Ghost Whisperer. The “2” features a small increase in weight (about 1 oz. for the men’s hoody) but comes with a number of notable upgrades. To start, there’s a little more 800-fill down stuffed inside, and the recycled shell is a bit thicker, which translates to modest increases in warmth and durability. But the jacket stays true to its roots with excellent packability and a simply phenomenal warmth-to-weight ratio, while including important features like zippered hand pockets, a hem adjustment, and decent wind and water resistance. For fast-and-light missions, the Ghost Whisperer/2 remains a go-to choice.

Unfortunately, two elements that have not changed with the Ghost Whisperer/2 are its fit and cuff design. Unlike the tailored cut that you get from the Arc’teryx Cerium or Feathered Friends Eos, the Mountain Hardwear is boxy and awkwardly large in the torso. It still layers reasonably well under a shell, but we’re surprised they haven’t given it a better performance fit considering its intended use. Further, the cuffs are loose and don’t provide a very solid seal, which can let cold air sneak through unless you throw on a pair of gloves. Despite these nitpicks, the rebooted Ghost Whisperer is very light, warm, and a favorite among serious outdoor adventurers... Read in-depth review See the Men's MH Ghost Whisperer   See the Women's MH Ghost Whisperer

  Best Budget Down Jacket

3. rei co-op 650 down jacket ($129).

REI’s 650 Down Jacket has been our top budget pick for years, and the most recent update sticks to the winning formula. The jacket is reasonably light at 10.9 ounces (our men's size small is even less at 10.2 oz.), provides solid warmth with over 4 ounces of 650-fill-power down, and features a windproof and water-resistant shell. REI also honed the design with the latest version by adding a hem adjustment, a more durable ripstop nylon shell, and traditional horizontal baffles (the previous version had box baffles). The price did go up by $29, but so did the quality, and the jacket still easily undercuts most competitors by $150 or more. For daily use, travel, light adventuring, and as a midlayer for resort skiing, you simply won’t find a better deal.

Budget-oriented products almost always come with compromises, and REI’s down jacket does fall short for serious performance use. The 650-fill down isn’t quite as warm or compressible as the 800-fill of the Patagonia Down Sweater above, and the most recent version no longer packs into its hand pocket (nor does it include a stuff sack). What’s more, the fit is fairly roomy, which is great for casual use but less ideal for sliding under a trim-fitting hardshell. But circling back to value, the 650 Down Jacket’s combination of warmth, build quality, and price are simply unmatched, making it an indisputable “yes” for those on a budget. REI leads the outdoor industry in inclusive sizing, too: The men’s jacket comes in 10 sizes, including four “Tall” sizes, while the women’s version is available in eight sizes from XS to 3X. See the Men's REI 650 Down Jacket   See the Women's REI 650 Down Jacket

  Best Heavyweight Down Jacket for the Cold

4. rab neutrino pro ($400).

For cold-weather climbing, frigid nights of winter camping, or as an extra layer during ski transitions, there’s no match for the security of a heavyweight down jacket. These jackets are epitomized by their sleeping-bag-like loft, tall and protective collars, and longer cut. Because they’re meant to be worn as an outer layer (you’d be hard-pressed to squeeze a hardshell overtop such a lofty piece), heavyweight down jackets also feature a durable, water-resistant shell and handy extras like internal stash pockets, which are great for storing skins or keeping your climbing shoes warm. It doesn’t get much better for all-out warmth, and our current favorite is the Rab Neutrino Pro. 

One of the most noteworthy features of the Neutrino Pro is its Pertex Quantum Pro shell, which is impressively hardwearing and weather-resistant despite its thin, lightweight build. This tough exterior makes the Rab fully capable as a belay jacket or outer layer in below-freezing conditions, although we wouldn’t test its limits in a rainstorm. And with 7.5 ounces of 800-fill-power down (for the men’s medium), you get about twice the warmth of most jackets here, which is a steal considering the Neutrino Pro’s $400 price tag. For reference, one editor has worn the Rab as his primary insulator during late-season big-wall ascents in Yosemite over the past two years and found it to be just about perfect for endless, wind-blasted hanging belays and freezing nights on the ledge. It’s true that the Neutrino Pro is undeniably heavy and bulky, and its chart-topping warmth means it’s not a versatile piece for summer hiking or backpacking. But for sleeping-bag-like loft and warmth on a cold winter day, it fits the bill...  Read in-depth review See the Men's Rab Neutrino Pro   See the Women's Rab Neutrino Pro

Best Down Jacket for Everyday Use

5. mountain hardwear stretchdown hoody ($300).

Mountain Hardwear launched its Stretchdown line a handful of years ago, epitomized by soft and stretchy shells and welded seams (rather than stitched baffles). The goal here was to combine the insulation of down with the range of motion, durability, and comfort of a softshell—and we’d say Mountain Hardwear pulled it off pretty well. The jacket’s knit fabric is very tough, and the stretchiness gives it a plush feel that you typically don’t get from a down piece. Tack on some clean styling—even the logo is understated—and the Stretchdown is a practical and good-looking jacket for everyday use.

But the performance chops of the Stretchdown are limited: The 700-fill-power down has less loft than the true backcountry pieces on this list, and the jacket is bulky and heavy for the amount of warmth you get. Further, $300 is no small price for a casual item, especially when you can save $170 with the REI 650 above. Finally, we have noticed that the Stretchdown’s fabric has a tendency to hold stains, and the elastic in our cuffs has grown tired over time. But we have a soft spot for this jacket (no pun intended), which receives compliments almost every time we go out. See the Men's Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown   See the Women's Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown

Best of the Rest

6. arc'teryx cerium hoody ($400).

Oh, the beauty of Arc’teryx products. They generally cost the most, look the best, and perform well enough for seasoned adventurers to put them through the wringer on a consistent basis. Replacing the Cerium LT Hoody in their lineup, the Cerium Hoody is the company’s leading lightweight down jacket and one sleek piece of gear. With a total weight of 11.9 ounces, a nearly complete feature set, a silky interior and exterior, and a very clean design overall, the Cerium plays and looks the part. We also like the use of Down Composite Mapping, which includes synthetic insulation in areas prone to getting wet. While most jackets on this list are strictly down, Arc’teryx has created a really nice balance of lightweight warmth and functionality.

The most common knock against Arc’teryx products is price. At $400, the Cerium is a full $120 more than our top-ranked Down Sweater (or $70 more than the hooded version ), which will get the job done for all but the most discerning users. But the latest version improves upon some of our biggest gripes with the outgoing model, including an updated fit with more room in the midsection, a thicker (15D vs. 10D) nylon face fabric, and more eco-friendly materials. It also features a reverse-coil front zipper with a TPU pull (rather than a thin cord) for sleeker looks and operation. All told, the Cerium is an exceptionally well-built piece of gear, looks great (we frequently get compliments when wearing it around town), and can more than handle its own in the backcountry... Read in-depth review See the Men's Arc'teryx Cerium Hoody   See the Women's Arc'teryx Cerium Hoody

7. La Sportiva Supercouloir 1000 ($449)

La Sportiva jackets have slowly but surely been worming their way into our packs on technical adventures as of late—and for good reason. Their fit is stellar, they are built to last, and they boast a certain unique flair to boot. The beefy Supercouloir 1000 Jacket carries the torch. With ultra-premium and compressible 1,000-fill-power goose down (a relative rarity in the market) and a highly weather-resistant Pertex Quantum shell, this piece punches well above its weight in terms of warmth and durability while tipping the scales at a very reasonable 15.5 ounces. Purpose-built for alpinist and ice climbers, the Supercouloir has quickly become a staff favorite for those downright freezing high-altitude endeavors when lofty warmth and minimal weight are both top priorities.

We recently brought the Supercouloir on a mountaineering expedition in Nepal and wore it during an ascent of 20,ooo-foot Island Peak. In short, sub-zero temps, sharp crumbly rock, and brittle ice were no match for this hardwearing insulator. The ventilated pits, athletic fit, and adequate stretch allowed it to seamlessly move and breathe with us as we battled our way to the top—and it shoved away neatly in our pack when not in use. However, while we came away with very few performance-related complaints, this jacket certainly isn’t for everyone. In addition to its trim fit, the tight sleeves make it difficult to layer underneath, and we found the helmet-compatible hood a little big (it often impeded our view). It’s also a decidedly technical piece that’s lacking in versatility and no small investment at $499. That said, for high-altitude athletes looking for the ultimate performance companion, the Supercouloir gets our resounding endorsement. See the Men's La Sportiva Supercouloir 1000    See the Women's La Sportiva Supercouloir 1000

8. Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie ($279)

Outdoor Research jackets aren’t always the highest-quality or most technical on the market, but they are some of the best values. The Coldfront Down Hoodie carries the torch: At $279, it’s a considerable step down in price from the more premium options on this list but doesn’t fall too far behind in terms of performance. Warmth is quite impressive with 6.7 ounces of 700-fill down, plus you get more weather-ready VerticalX ECO synthetic insulation at the shoulders and cuffs. We also love the soft-yet-rugged shell and nice touches like fleece-lined handwarmer pockets, snug-fitting cuff gaiters with thumb loops, and classy branding on the sleeve. For everyday use and casual winter adventuring, the Coldfront is a very well-rounded option.

With mid-range 700-fill down, a hefty dose of synthetic insulation, and a relatively durable (30D) shell, the Coldfront is not a particularly lightweight option. In fact, at 1 pound 4.7 ounces, it’s well over twice as heavy as the ultralight Ghost Whisperer above. Outdoor Research did streamline the design with their  Coldfront LT Down Hoodie ($249), which features thinner baffles and just 4.9 ounces of 700-fill-power down. But while it’s advertised as OR’s lightest and most packable down jacket, the LT is still relatively hefty at 1 pound 2.1 ounces and can’t compete with the true UL pieces here. In the end, OR’s Coldfront offerings aren’t our first choice for the backcountry, but they’re undeniably high on value and offer great durability for everyday use. See the Men's Outdoor Research Coldfront   See the Women's Outdoor Research Coldfront

9. Rab Mythic Alpine Light Down Jacket ($330)

Rab’s Mythic Alpine Light gives the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer a run for its money as our top ultralight pick. It’s incredibly premium considering the price point, touting 900-fill down and PrimaLoft Gold insulation along with a protective and durable Pertex Quantum shell. And at just 8.8 ounces, it’s an excellent option for those looking to maximize warmth for the weight. But the Mythic Alpine Light is not all function—it’s also a great-looking piece with boxed baffles and a small but classy colorway selection, and we love the flattering length that offers a bit of extra coverage down the back. 

If you’re considering the Ghost Whisperer above, don’t overlook the Mythic Alpine Light. For $30 less, the Rab checks in at the same weight and features more premium down (900 vs. 800-fill-power), along with synthetic insulation at the sides, cuffs, shoulders, and hood for added breathability and weather protection. What’s more, it’s over an inch longer than the Mountain Hardwear, which we love for standalone use—although the Mythic might peek out from underneath the hem of a minimalist rain jacket or hardshell. The Mountain Hardwear eeked ahead by just a hair due to its more durable, time-tested design. All told, there’s a lot to like about Rab’s ultralight jacket, especially for those who venture out in wet climates or changing mountain conditions. And for a bit more warmth, Rab also makes the standard Mythic Alpine , which features 2.1 ounces more down for an additional $60. See the Men's Rab Mythic Alpine Light   See the Women's Rab Mythic Alpine Light

10. Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoodie ($299)

For all their inherent strengths, down jackets aren’t perfect: Namely, they perform poorly in wet weather, and their thin fabrics are often lacking in durability. But with the Helium Down Hoodie, Outdoor Research addresses both of these concerns in one fell swoop. The Helium uses Pertex’s Diamond Fuse technology throughout the shell, which improves abrasion resistance without adding weight. On top of that, you get waterproof Pertex Shield—the same fabric used in OR’s popular Helium Rain jacket—on the hood and shoulders for protection from rain and melting snow. The result is a sub-1-pound down jacket that is both impressively durable and relatively capable in wet weather.

But while the Helium Down’s partially waterproof shell is a nice touch, you won’t find us relying on it for much more than light rain or snow. In terms of the competition, the Cerium Hoody above is significantly lighter, and the use of synthetic Coreloft in the hood and shoulders (which insulates even when wet) lends similar wet-weather assurance. In addition, we’ve found the crinkly Diamond Fuse shell makes the OR jacket a little less cozy than an alternative like the Cerium, and the jacket is known to run small for its size. Nitpicks aside, the Helium’s solid weatherproofing and durability make it an intriguing standalone piece, earning it a spot on our list. See the Men's Outdoor Research Helium Down   See the Women's Outdoor Research Helium Down

11. Fjallraven Expedition Pack Down Hoodie ($275)

Swedish brand Fjallraven does a nice job of marrying premium design with performance, as evidenced by their Expedition Pack down jacket. We’ll start by noting that you don’t get the 800-fill-power down or higher that brands like Arc’teryx or Patagonia offer, but for casual use and done-in-a-day adventures, it’s a quality option. The jacket has a healthy amount of 700-fill down for warmth, synthetic insulation in the shoulders for extra weather resistance and toughness, a terrific hood, and an athletic fit that is less baggy than many options on this list. All in all, we like the premium looks and versatility of the Expedition Pack.

In terms of competitors, the Fjallraven offers a similar level of warmth as our top picks like the Patagonia Down Sweater and Arc’teryx Cerium above, but it’s not quite as light or packable, limiting its backcountry appeal. This said, we appreciate the durability of Fjallraven products in general, and the synthetic insulation in the shoulders makes wearing a pack for extended periods more feasible (it’s a nice option for hiking and snowshoeing). And there’s no denying the Expedition Pack’s coziness, attention to detail, and good looks, which are a testament to the brand’s overall expertise. Finally, for those interested in using the Expedition Pack as a midlayer, Fjallraven makes a non-hooded version for $260... Read in-depth review See the Men's Fjallraven Expedition Pack   See the Women's Fjallraven Expedition Pack

12. Arc’teryx Thorium Hoody ($500)

The Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody above is a lightweight backcountry piece with a thin 15-denier shell, and that doesn’t come without sacrifices. For a bit less of a specialized down jacket from Arc’teryx, the Thorium Hoody (previously the Thorium AR) is considerably more durable (30D) and warmer with more down and synthetic fill (although it uses 750-fill-power down instead of 850). For all types of outdoor activities including winter use and everyday wear around town, the Thorium arguably is the more versatile option and one that you won’t have to worry about as much.

The most recent iteration of the Thorium includes a number of new performance-oriented features, including a helmet-compatible hood, two internal dump pockets, and a two-way main zip. These are great additions for activities like cold-weather cragging or ski touring, bringing the Thorium into the same category as technical pieces like the Rab Neutrino Pro. On the other hand, the Thorium is no match for these designs in terms of warmth to weight (both use more premium down and thinner face fabrics), giving us pause in recommending it for weight- or space-conscious missions. But if you’re willing to make the $500 investment, the Thorium Hoody is nevertheless a premium down jacket, and its robust shell fabric will hold up to everyday use and abuse better than most... Read in-depth review (women's version) See the Men's Arc'teryx Thorium Hoody   See the Women's Arc'teryx Thorium Hoody

13. Feathered Friends Eos ($409)

Feathered Friends doesn’t do splashy marketing campaigns like other gear brands, but this down specialist gets a whole lot of respect among the alpine community (if you’re in Seattle, the store is across from the REI flagship and makes for a fun visit). Here’s what you get from Feathered Friends: premium construction (including some of the highest-fill-power down on the market), local manufacturing in Seattle or Vancouver, and a decently competitive price given that they only sell their products in-house. Their performance-oriented lineup of jackets ranges from lightweight designs to heavyweight expedition-grade parkas, and the Eos stands out as the most approachable option for the masses. With an impressive 3.7 ounces of 900-fill down in a 10.8-ounce build, it offers more warmth for the weight than just about any jacket here.

Why isn’t the Eos ranked higher? For one, Feathered Friends is more of a down specialist than a fashion company, and the jacket has a boxy, unflattering fit that isn’t quite as appealing for daily wear as competitors like the Arc’teryx Cerium or Patagonia Down Sweater above. Second, the jacket is pricey at $409, which puts it in the same range as much warmer offerings like the Rab Neutrino Pro. A final consideration is availability: There can often be a delay before the jacket ships out, and—unless you live in Seattle—you won’t be able to try it on before you buy. But if you’re not put off by those downsides, the Eos is one of the highest-performing down jackets on the market for weight-conscious climbers, skiers, and more... Read in-depth review (women's version) See the Men's Feathered Friends Eos   See the Women's Feathered Friends Eos

14. Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket ($295)

Rab’s popular Microlight Alpine Jacket pays tribute to the brand’s climbing heritage. To start, it's built to handle wind and light moisture thanks to a tough Pertex Quantum shell, DWR coating, and hydrophobic down. Further, we found the rigid structure of the jacket’s wire-brimmed hood has a hardshell-like feel, offering great all-around coverage and protection. You’ll still want to don a waterproof layer if the skies open up, but the Microlight Alpine stands out as one of the more weather-resistant midweight down jackets we’ve tested.

The Rab has been a longtime favorite among casual users and serious alpinists alike, but it's up against some stiff competition. The OR Helium Down above offers more weather protection with fully waterproof fabric across the shoulders and hood, and the chart-topping Patagonia Down Sweater users higher-quality down while clocking in at a lighter weight (14.8 oz. for the hooded version). But for those who want the best of both worlds, the Rab offers a great combination of warmth and weather resistance—and the price is really reasonable at just $295... Read in-depth review (women's version) See the Men's Rab Microlight Alpine   See the Women's Rab Microlight Alpine

15. Stio Pinion Down Hooded ($285)

Jackson Hole-based Stio has a strong presence in the Mountain West, but we’re seeing more and more of the brand’s signature pinecone logo throughout the U.S. They have a couple of entries in the down jacket space, and our current favorite is the Pinion Down Hooded. In many ways, it reminds us of Patagonia’s discontinued Ultralight Down Jacket: closely spaced baffles, premium 800-fill-power down, and a supple ripstop shell. Speaking of the shell, Stio opted for 20-denier Pertex Quantum, which hits a nice balance of toughness, packability, and weather resistance. And the hoody has good sustainability chops, too, with recycled fabrics, a PFC-free DWR coating, and a bluesign certification.

With an MSRP of $285, the Stio Pinion goes head-to-head with a number of our longtime favorites. In terms of build and material quality, the jacket holds up nicely: The large-toothed center zipper has a premium feel, the three-pocket layout is perfect for use as a mid-or outer layer, and we’ve had zero durability issues to date. Where the Pinion comes up a little short, however, is warmth. With 3.3 ounces of 800-fill down in the hooded version, you get far less insulation than Patagonia’s popular Down Sweater Hoody (5.3 oz. of 800-fill down). Nor are you getting class-leading weight—at 12.9 ounces for our men’s small, it’s about average. In the end, there’s plenty to like about the Stio, but the fact that it doesn’t manage to stick out in any specific way leads to a lower-half finish. One final fit-related note: We found it runs a little big and opted to size down since we’re often on the fence. See the Mens Stio Pinion Hooded   See the Women's Stio Pinion Hooded

16. Norrøna Falketind Down750 Hood ($349)

Norrøna might not be on everyone’s radar, but the Norwegian company has a serious lineup of outerwear built for performance use. Their Falketind Down750 is a lightweight down jacket that has served us well both as a cold-weather midlayer (worn underneath a hardshell) and a standalone piece in milder conditions. A number of features set it apart from other jackets here, including body-mapped insulation—the down fill is centered largely around the core, while synthetic fill is used in exposed areas for added durability and weather protection—and fabric reinforcements (45D) at the shoulders and lower arms for abrasion resistance. We wore the Falketind Down750 for a winter of travel (including a 16-day trek in Nepal and backcountry skiing in BC), and it proved itself a capable companion in fall and winter conditions.

That said, we do have a few minor gripes with the Falketind Down750’s design. First off, both of our handwarmer pockets have stitching on the inside that reduces the usable area by a sizable margin (we undid the stitches in one pocket but our handiwork resulted in a damaged zipper). Second, the jacket lacks interior storage (we appreciate dump pockets for storing skins or climbing shoes), and the hand pockets’ low placement makes them inaccessible under our backpack’s hip belt. Finally, the Norrøna is heavier than much of the lightweight competition (you can get comparable warmth for almost 5 oz. less with the Eos above), although many will consider this a fair trade for the added water resistance and durability. Added up, the Falketind Down750 is a hardwearing and thoughtfully designed down jacket with the top-notch build quality we’ve come to expect from Norrøna... Read in-depth review See the Men's Norrøna Falketind Down750   See the Women's Norrøna Falketind Down750

17. Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded ($295)

Many down jacket brands keep their styling fairly close to the cuff, but Cotopaxi stands out with its fun, retro designs. The Utah brand’s leading down jacket is the Fuego, which gets you premium 800-fill down (we were unable to track down the fill weight from the company), along with a versatile 20-denier shell that is reasonably tough while keeping weight down. Of course, the retro styling is what stands out most and Cotopaxi currently is offering the jacket in nine colorways, all but one with the signature multi-colored baffles on the front. Throw in responsibly sourced down and the fact that Cotopaxi is a certified B Corp, and the Fuego is an easy jacket to get behind.

In terms of competitors, Patagonia’s Down Sweater Hoody uses the same 800-fill down but is almost 1 ounce heavier and costs $329 (without fill weight, it’s difficult to make a more exacting comparison). But the specs don't offer a full picture here. The biggest reason we rank the Cotopaxi here is quality: The Fuego has a noticeably plasticky and slippery feel, especially when held up against pricier options like the Patagonia, and its fit is boxy and unflattering. But the Cotopaxi nevertheless hits a nice balance of performance chops, casual appeal, and value, which is why we've included it on our list... Read in-depth review See the Men's Cotopaxi Fuego   See the Women's Cotopaxi Fuego

18. Montbell Plasma 1000 Down Jacket ($369)

Among serious alpinists, you won’t find an outdoor brand with more street cred than Montbell. This Japan-based company makes gear for those who depend on it and they don't spend much on paid athletes or splashy marketing campaigns. But the proof is in the pudding: Montbell makes some of the most well-respected ultralight insulation on the market, and their most unique offering is the Plasma 1000. With ultra-premium 1,000-fill-power down (that is not a misprint) along with a paper-thin 7-denier shell, it’s by far the lightest down jacket on this list at an incredible 4.9 ounces all-in.

Why isn’t the Montbell Plasma 1000 ranked higher in our lineup? First, the 1.6 ounces of down fill is pretty meager—it might work for warm-weather backpacking on a route like the Appalachian Trail, but on its own, may not provide enough insulation even for summer nights in the mountains. Second, the 7-denier shell is extremely thin and requires extra care to prevent holes and snags. Last but not least, the fit of the jacket felt quite short on us. It’s listed as having a 27-inch length down the center back, but it certainly didn’t feel that way in person (the medium was way too short while the large was too baggy). Nevertheless, the Plasma is an impressive technological feat and, for the right person, a fun jacket to have in your quiver. See the Men's Montbell Plasma 1000   See the Women's Montbell Plasma 1000

Down Jacket Comparison Table

About our testing process.

Granite crack, skin track, or midday snack—no matter where our adventures take us, the Switchback Travel team depends on these cozy insulators for essentially every journey we embark on. We've tested countless down jackets over just as many miles in nearly every environment you could dream of to narrow in on the streamlined list of 18 worthy models you see above. Each jacket was put through the wringer in real-world tests and had to stand out in multiple categories to merit any real estate in our lineup. Former editor-in-chief John Ellings  drew from his experience on endless local romps in the PNW and far-flung international expeditions alike to hone in on our initial list of 11 jackets back in 2015. 

Senior editor Chris Carter took over the guide in 2024. A seasoned thru-hiker, rock climber, and traveler, Chris has completed the Triple Crown of long trails in the United States (AT, PCT, and CDT) and continues to backpack, climb, and explore whenever he can. He's suffered more emergency shiver-bivvies in a single down jacket than he'd like to admit and has left trails of fluffy white plumage all over the world in a quest to find the best puffy out there. Rest assured, only the crème de la crème of these toasty wonders wormed their way into our guide. In testing, we consider several factors when gauging the merit of a jacket. Warmth-to-weight ratio, packability, weather resistance, and durability are all key considerations, and each jacket must perform with flying colors in several—or all—of these categories to land a spot above. As the market continues to shift and change, we'll refine and update the list above with what we find to be the best options.  

Down Jacket Buying Advice

Down jacket categories.

• ​ Fill Power
• Fill Weight
• Our Estimated Temperature Scale
• Shell Fabric Durability (Denier)

Compressibility and Packed Size

• Hydrophobic Down and DWR
• Sizing and Fit

Hood or No Hood?

Women’s-specific down jackets.

• Sustainability

What About Synthetic Jackets?

Lightweight The lightweight down jacket category is the industry’s most popular and what most folks are in the market for. Warmth and wearability are top priorities, and you won’t find technical features like helmet-compatible hoods, slim fits, and ultralight shells. But they perform well for everyday use, travel, light adventuring, and layering for winter sports. The temperature range for these jackets depends on factors like layering and exertion, but we find that lightweight models are typically suitable for approximately 35 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (more on this in “Our Estimated Temperature Scale” below). Leading models include the Patagonia Down Sweater , REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket, and Cotopaxi Fuego.  

Ultralight Ultralight down jackets are focused pieces designed for backpacking, climbing, backcountry skiing, and other outdoor pursuits where every ounce matters. These jackets generally have similar fill weights as lightweight down models, but are ultralight due to their use of premium down (fill power), thin shell fabrics (denier), and minimalist zippers and pockets. Interestingly, we frequently see this category of down jacket worn as daily layers around cities, including the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 and Rab Mythic Alpine Light. They are high-quality jackets in general, and if you are willing to take a little extra care to avoid damaging the shell, they offer a great combination of warmth relative to their weight and an athletic fit that's easy to layer.  

Nothing is quite like the lofty and premium warmth found in a down-filled product. Down insulation functions so effectively because the loose clusters of feathers are great at trapping body heat. But unlike down sleeping bags , which have an official EN rating system that tests and measures their warmth on a concrete scale, down jackets are more like the Wild West. Read on for information that should help you fill in the gaps. Fill Power Fill power (600-fill, 700-fill, 800-fill, etc.) is how the quality of down is measured, and the higher the fill, the better the down. The number is calculated based on how much space one ounce of down clusters takes up in a cylindrical tube. This is known as the amount of loft, and the more loft a jacket has, the more body heat it traps and the warmer you will be. Put another way, achieving the same amount of warmth with a lower fill power requires more down, adding weight and bulk to achieve the same comfort goals.  

For jackets, 550 to 650-fill down is what you’ll find on most entry and mid-level models, which is perfectly respectable for daily wear but falls short for performance use. Premium down is 800-fill and above, which is what Arc’teryx, Patagonia, and Mountain Hardwear use for their high-end down jackets. At this level of quality, you reap the highly touted benefits of down insulation: lightweight and ultra-compressible warmth. Some high-end climbing brands like Feathered Friends and Montbell use 900-fill down, but that high of a number is a rarity, and 800-fill is considered premium.  

In 2013, Patagonia experimented with a 1,000-fill down jacket, the Encapsil, but hasn’t yet brought it back to market, and Montbell currently offers the 1,000-fill Plasma Down Jacket and Parka with thin 7D shells. This is a great option for the ultralight adventurer, but Montbell's 1.6-ounce fill weight limits its use in extreme conditions. For colder temps at higher altitudes, we really like La Sportiva's Supercouloir Jacket , which packs 5.3 ounces of 1,000-fill down into a much tougher shell, making it well suited for freezing-cold mountaineering expeditions where maximum warmth and durability—for minimal weight—is paramount.  

Fill Weight Fill power gets the most press, but fill weight is perhaps the most important factor in determining a down jacket’s warmth. Fill weight is the actual amount of down stuffed into a jacket, measured in ounces. For example, if Jacket A has 6 ounces of 800-fill down and Jacket B has 3 ounces of 800-fill down, you can expect that Jacket A will be significantly warmer (we estimate that it would increase comfort levels in low output activities by approximately 10-20 degrees). Lower fill power down offers less warmth per ounce, so to compare apples to apples you should use similar fill powers.  

We find it interesting that fill weight is much less publicized than fill power, which leads to a lot of confusion for shoppers who associate higher fill power as always meaning more warmth. Apparently, the fill power numbers are far sexier, and as a result, we sometimes have to call the manufacturers to track down fill weight as it’s not always listed (for more information, see our article: Down Fill and Insulation Explained ).  Our Estimated Temperature Scale It’s tough to pinpoint an exact temperature range in which you will feel comfortable wearing a down jacket (there’s a reason no one has attempted to create a standardized rating system). Factors like fit, layering, your levels of exertion and circulation, and wind all play a role.  

Generally, we think of down sweaters and ultralights—which usually have between 2 and 4 ounces of fill weight—as providing solid warmth in conditions ranging from around 35 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (2 to 15 degrees Celsius) with low levels of exertion, such as puttering around a campsite. More fill will help you move toward the bottom end of the range and less will push you toward the middle. A cozy baselayer can buy you an extra 5 to 15 degrees depending on its thickness and quality. These types of jackets are very popular for three-season alpine use and in cities for everything but the heart of winter. 

When the mercury drops below freezing, you will be more comfortable wearing a true midweight or heavyweight down jacket for winter. The fill weight of these jackets should be 4 ounces at the absolute minimum and often is in the range of 5 to 6 ounces or more (the Rab Neutrino Pro , for instance, has 7.5 oz. of down). For bitter cold and climbing the highest peaks, an even heavier down parka may be in order.  

For uses like backpacking, climbing, mountaineering, ski touring, or whenever you have to lug around your own gear, the total weight of your down jacket should play a significant role in your buying decision. Jackets like the Rab Mythic Alpine Light and Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 (both 8.8 oz.) weigh very little for the warmth they provide and compress down extremely small in your pack. As a result of all the fun tech, they also cost considerably more than your typical down sweater. On the other hand, if you just need a layer for around town and occasional outdoor uses like downhill skiing, you'll be completely fine with a somewhat heavier and more affordable build like the 1-pound-4.7-ounce Outdoor Research Coldfront. Finally, winter-ready jackets will obviously be the heaviest options, such as Rab's 1-pound-5.3-ounce Neutrino Pro.  

“Ultralight” is a buzzword of sorts that you will inevitably run into when shopping for a down jacket, and it’s worth noting there aren’t hard-and-fast rules as to what qualifies. We keep a close eye on the ratio of fill weight to total weight to see what lengths the manufacturer went to trim weight (the shell denier is a good hint too, and more on that below). At the extreme end of the spectrum is Montbell's Plasma 1000 , which packs 1.6 ounces of down inside a super light 4.9-ounce package. When gear companies really prioritize cutting weight, you’ll see changes to zippers, a trim fit, and a lack of pockets. Some even opt for a pullover style to cut out half of the zipper. No matter what the manufacturer names a jacket, keep a close eye on fill weight and total weight to make your own determination.  

Shell Fabric Durability (Denier)  

Denier (D) is the measurement of the weight of a thread, and the lower the number the lighter the weight. A lower denier rating means the material is less durable and more prone to tears or punctures. Much of the difference in weight of an ultralight jacket is trimmed by using a lower denier fabric for the shell. Other factors like premium down (it provides the most warmth for the least amount of weight) and ultralight zippers play a role as well, but the shell fabric is the most important.  

Almost every jacket on this list is made with reasonably lightweight shell fabrics. The thinnest jacket is the Montbell Plasma 1000, which has a very fragile 7D shell, while some jackets get up to 30D or higher. 10D is pretty standard for ultralights, and a more substantial 20D is what you’ll often find in an average down sweater. Don’t underestimate the importance of denier: even the difference from 10D to 20D can play a significant role in the total weight and potential lifespan of your jacket. If ounces matter and you intend to use the jacket in the backcountry, treat yourself to an ultralight. If most of your use will be in the city, a down sweater is sturdier and should save you money in the process.  

Aside from denier, there are a few more factors to keep in mind when judging a jacket's durability. First off is any technology present in the shell material. Pertex's Quantum Pro (as seen in the Rab Neutrino Pro) is one of our favorite fabric techs, and known to be particularly abrasion resistant—we've tested jackets with 10-denier Quantum Pro shells and found them to be remarkably tough and hard-wearing. Pertex's Diamond Fuse (seen in the OR Helium Down) is also impressive. A second factor is the presence of stretch in the material. Spearheaded by designs like the Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Hoody , we're seeing more and more down jackets use stretch-woven shells, which lend comfort, mobility, and a good deal of tear resistance.  

Down enthusiasts love its compressibility—and for good reason. An ultralight jacket like the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 can be stuffed into its own pocket, ending up much smaller than a Nalgene bottle. The tiny packed size means you have little reason to leave your jacket behind and can fit it easily into either a daypack or an overnight backpacking pack .

Keep in mind that the higher the fill power the more easily it will compress. This is noticeable when you get into premium levels of down (800-fill and above), which pack down to seemingly impossible sizes yet bounce back after only a few minutes out of the bag (as long as you don’t store it compressed too long). Fabric thickness also plays an important role, and thinner denier fabrics logically pack down smaller. Along with warmth for the weight, compressibility is an area where down dominates the vast majority of synthetic-insulated jackets.  

Hydrophobic Down and DWR Treatment

Unfortunately, down feathers lose much of their ability to insulate when wet, turning into a clumpy and soggy mess. This makes them a serious liability in wet conditions or if you’re sweating heavily, which is why some prefer a synthetic jacket that continues to insulate when wet.

Nowadays, a lot of gear manufacturers treat down to make it more water resistant. They do this by adding a polymer to the down before filling the jacket, and the result is that it resists water better and you don’t have to worry as much about light precipitation. Even though it still doesn’t match the wet weather performance of synthetics, we love the hydrophobic down movement. If you’re headed out in a wet area like the Pacific Northwest or New Zealand, a jacket with hydrophobic down like the Rab Microlight Alpine  (and a waterproof shell) is a smart choice.  

Another way that gear manufacturers fight moisture is a DWR (durable water repellant) treatment on the outside on the jacket. This treatment helps prevent water droplets from forming and entering your jacket—essentially the water has a harder time staying on the fabric and beads up and rolls off instead. Neither a DWR finish nor hydrophobic down will keep your down completely dry, but they make nice lines of defense against light to moderate precipitation.   

Sizing and Fit 

Fit is jacket-specific, but there are two main considerations here. First, down sweaters have a more casual fit than ultralight or performance jackets, including boxier torsos, arms, and hoods (when available). Fit also varies significantly by brand. From our experience, Arc’teryx jackets like the Cerium Hoody fit the slimmest of all, which we refer to simply as the “Arc’teryx fit.” Guides and ultra-athletic folks who frequently use the gear are a key contingent for Arc’teryx, which helps explain the fit. We also like the athletic cuts on layers from Mountain Equipment and Rab. Brands like Patagonia, Outdoor Research, and Mountain Hardwear often have more accommodating shapes that balance everyday comfort with performance. And finally, we’ve found that REI Co-op and Marmot fall on the roomier end of the spectrum, and we occasionally need to size down (including with our REI 650 Down Jacket ).  

Most down jackets on this list are offered in hooded and non-hooded versions. The non-hooded version is slightly cheaper and weighs less, but you don’t get the advantage of the extra warmth and comfort. For casual use or as a midlayer for skiing, many people opt for a down vest or go without the hood and carry a separate beanie instead. For backpacking and climbing, many people get the hood and don’t regret it. You’ll notice that in our picks above, we listed options in the non-hooded versions (when available), which are the most commonly purchased, and the ultralights with hoods, also the most common for that variety of jacket. For a deeper dive into the topic, see our article: Does Your Down Jacket Need a Hood?

This article is unisex in nature, and we have both male and female gear testers getting outdoors in all seasons and types of conditions (and you’ll notice that whenever possible, product buttons are provided for both the men’s and women’s versions). In addition, we have created a round-up of the best women’s-specific down jackets covering that category in particular. Many of the models are the same but the names and colorways sometimes vary. On occasion, a specific design feature or the fit will differ. And there are products that are only available for women or vice versa. Regardless, we hope that it’s helpful for those who prefer to see how the women's-specific designs stack up.  

Sustainability: RDS-Certified Down, Recycled Fabrics, and PFC-Free DWR

Our impact on the environment has never been of greater concern, and it’s nice to see gear companies step it up with more sustainable practices. One measure we’re seeing more and more of is the use of responsibly sourced down (look for an RDS certification). In short, this translates to greater transparency in where the down comes from and ensures the birds were treated humanely and not subjected to unnecessary harm, such as force-feeding or live-plucking. In addition, the use of recycled fabrics has grown substantially in the past few years, with companies like Patagonia, REI Co-op, and Mountain Hardwear prioritizing these materials.  

A final trend to touch on is the use of PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) finishes. We detail the benefits of DWR above, but pertaining to sustainability, traditional DWR coatings use per- or polyfluorinated chemicals—"forever chemicals" known to be harmful to the environment. With many states stepping up to ban the sale of items that include PFCs, the outdoor industry is seeking better solutions for water- and stain-resistant finishes (for more, you can read about Patagonia’s take on the issue ). The good news is that many brands have started making the shift to PFC-free DWRs, including Stio, Black Diamond, and Patagonia.  

There is a lot to be said for synthetic insulated jackets , which insulate better than down when wet, are more breathable, and are cheaper. However, down still has no replacement (at least for now). The warmth-to-weight ratio is unparalleled, as are compressibility and comfort. We’ve tested a number of synthetic jackets like the Arc’teryx Atom and Patagonia Micro Puff , both of which are very comfortable and reasonably light, but the warmth just isn’t the same. We often reach for synthetics for everyday use and light outdoor activities in the fall and spring, but they take up too much space in our packs for extended backcountry trips and most don’t provide quite enough warmth for truly cold days. Optimally you would have both, but if you’re only in the market for a single jacket, there’s simply no better insulator than down. For a more detailed explanation of this topic, see our article on down vs. synthetic insulation . Back to Our Top Down Jacket Picks   Back to Our Down Jacket Comparison Table

Learn More About Outdoor Gear

How to Choose a Down Jacket

Outdoor Gear Reviews

Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody Review

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 Hoody Review

REI Co-op Stormhenge Down Hybrid Jacket Review

Feathered Friends Eos Down Jacket Review

Best Synthetic Insulated Jackets of 2024

Best Winter Jackets of 2024

Best Fleece Jackets of 2024

Mobile Menu

Megamenu - desktop hamburger menu.

• Hiking Gear
• Backpacking Gear
• Biking Gear
• Camping Gear
• Footwear Reviews
• Climbing Gear
• Skiing Gear
• Winter Gear Reviews
• In-Depth Gear Reviews
• Hiking Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Trail Running Shoes
• Mountain Bike Shoes
• Approach Shoes
• Climbing Shoes
• Beginner Climbing Shoes
• Mountaineering Boots
• Winter Boots
• Rain Jackets
• Down Jackets
• Synthetic Jackets
• Fleece Jackets
• Hardshell Jackets
• Softshell Jackets
• Windbreaker Jackets
• Ski Jackets
• Winter Jackets
• Hiking Pants
• Hiking Socks
• Trekking Poles
• Baby Carriers
• Running Vests
• Backpacking Tents
• Backpacking Packs
• Backpacking Sleeping Bags
• Backpacking Sleeping Pads
• Backpacking Stoves
• Backpacking Food
• Water Filters
• Altimeter Watches
• Handheld GPS
• Mountain Bike Helmets
• Mountain Bikes
• Mountain Bikes Under $1,000
• Mountain Bikes Under $2,000
• Gravel Bikes
• Bike Brands
• Kids' Bikes
• Hitch Bike Racks
• Camping Tents
• Rooftop Tents
• Camping Sleeping Bags
• Camping Mattresses
• Camping Chairs
• Camping Stoves
• Duffel Bags
• Rock Climbing Shoes
• Climbing Helmets
• Climbing Harnesses
• Climbing Quickdraws
• Belay Devices
• Climbing Ropes
• Climbing Backpacks
• Winter Gloves
• 4-Season Tents
• Ski Helmets
• Ski Goggles
• Ski Backpacks
• All-Mountain Skis
• Ski Bindings
• Backcountry Skis
• Backcountry Ski Boots
• Skis for Beginners
• Hardpack Skis
• Mirrorless Cameras
• Full-Frame Cameras
• DSLR Cameras
• Point-and-Shoot Cameras
• Travel Cameras
• DSLR Lenses
• Mirrorless Lenses
• Lofoten Islands
• Lofoten Hiking
• Hardangervidda
• Jotunheimen
• 10 Great Norway Hikes
• Public Huts
• Torres del Paine
• Chalten and Glaciares
• Lake District
• Patagonia National Park
• Milford Sound
• Abel Tasman
• Marlborough
• Great Walks
• Adventure Towns

Add adventure to your inbox

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

© 2024 Switchback Travel. All Rights Reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission.

Find anything you save across the site in your account

The Best Blazers Make Every Fit Stronger

By Gerald Ortiz

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

If you really want to add some panache to an outfit, the best blazers for men can do that and then some. Tailoring now is vibrant, vast, and, thankfully, the most fun it’s been in decades. From a classic gold-buttoned navy blazer that's invulnerable to trend cycles, to swaggering sport coats with exaggerated shoulders and flowy fabrics that recall Giorgio Armani’s golden era to slim-fit jackets that have stuck around since the 2010s (see patron saint John Mulaney ), men’s blazers have more range—and energy—than ever. (And yes, we know we're using “blazer,” “sport coat,” and “jacket” interchangeably; more on that here .)

The Best Blazers Shopping Guide

• → The Best All-Around Blazer: Sid Mashburn Kincaid No. 3 Jacket , $1,450
• → The Best Budget Blazer: Uniqlo AirSense Jacket , $80
• → The Best Casual Blazer: Alex Mill “Mill” Blazer , $225
• → The Best Travel Blazer: Bonobos Jetsetter Unstructured Italian Wool , $400
• → The Best “Actually, It's a Sportcoat” Blazer: J.Crew Kenmare Blazer $498
• → The Best Double-Breasted Blazer: Polo Ralph Lauren Doeskin Jacket , $1198
• → The Best Linen Blazer: Todd Snyder Italian Linen Sutton Jacket , $498
• → The Best Blazer for a Big Night Out: Gucci GG Cotton Viscose Formal Jacket , $3,900

A lot of that is because the blazer's been revived as its most versatile self. As ever, you can wear one with a dress shirt and tie, but blazers and sport coats are returning to their casual roots. T-shirt and jeans, fuzzy sweater and wide-wale corduroy pants , no shirt and some leather pants—the blazer’s range is only limited by your closet and your imagination. It’s the one garment that can get you into a fancy restaurant, land you a dream job, and round out a streetwear-heavy outfit that'll be immortalized in mood boards forever.

While you're working up your next great blazer-based looks, don't forget to accessorize freely: kooky jewelry is cool, while a tie is even cooler. A trucker hat is kosher—ditto a ribbed beanie . Pair a sport coat with everything from knit polos to vintage tees (or go full Richard Gere and buy one just a smidge oversized ), and no one will assume you're phoning it in on a casual Friday .

The best blazers for men have got a Meryl Streep-level of range of utility, which is the whole selling point. We've done the hard work of finding the ones you can trust: quality craftsmanship for the price, a dialed-in fit (whether that's intentionally oversized to ride the 2024-slash-1992 wave, or more tailored), and right-now details. (You can read more about fit, styling, and terminology down here .)

Below you'll find the absolute best blazers for men on the market right now, from capital-D designer versions to fresh-vibed options from undersung menswear upstarts. It's time to blaze up, baby.

The Best All-Around Blazer: Sid Mashburn Kincaid No. 3 Jacket

Sid Mashburn

Kincaid No. 3 Jacket

We've extolled the virtues of Sid Mashburn's tailoring at length for years now, and the Atlanta haberdasher's signature Kincaid blazer is exactly why. No design flourishes or distracting aesthetic tics—it's built with the kind of sartorial details that quietly demonstrate tailoring mastery, like full canvassing, pick stitching, spalla camicia sleeves. (And the Italian fabric—mamma mia!)

The Kincaid No. 3 is slightly less structured than the other jackets in the Sid Mashburn repertoire, and that more natural-shouldered fit lends itself towards easy mixing and matching. A Kincaid No. 3 in navy English high-twist wool is the kind of does-it-all blazer that belongs in every man's closet (though Mashburn also makes it in flannel and mohair). Most importantly, its timeless design and quality construction means it'll look just as good tomorrow as it will ten years from now—and ten years from then, too.

The Best Budget Blazer: Uniqlo AirSense Jacket

AirSense Jacket

Your buddy's wedding is this weekend and the “semi-casual” dress code (what even does that mean) requires you to do more than chinos and an Oxford. Or you get the call back for that in-person job interview and…it's tomorrow. You need some respectability in blazer form. Rather than speedrun the mall and drop $300 or more on a sport coat of dubious quality and debatable future utility, do the smart thing and hit up Uniqlo. Problem solved in 20 minutes, max. The Japanese retailer's sport coat is made with a lightweight polyester that is by no means Italian-made wool, but does read as more expensive than it is. The classic—but not frumpy—silhouette and broad sizing range means you can probably avoid a tailoring rush job (though it wouldn't hurt if you've got the cash or the time). For less than $100, it's the rare quick fix you'll actually reach for again (and again) in the months that follow.

The Best Casual Blazer: Alex Mills “Mill” Blazer

"Mill" Blazer

Okay , you might be thinking to yourself.  I get it. I need a blazer I can wear with more than just dizzying geometric ties and pebble-grain brogues .  But I’m still struggling to wrap my head around this whole “casual tailoring” thing . We hear you and we see you, friend—and that’s exactly where Alex Mill’s rough-and-tumble riff on the sport coat comes in. The Mill blazer's silhouette skews closer to a chore coat than a tux, particularly because it's cut from the same garment-dyed cotton that the brand uses to make its famous chinos . The fabric is crisp but soft, the fit is structured but not stuffy, and the Mill comes in a duo of easy-wearing colors that could become the bedrock of your casual tailoring rotation. Think of it as putting a little bit of workwear in your work wear.

The Best Travel Blazer: Bonobos Jetsetter Blazer

Jetsetter Unstructured Italian Wool Blazer

Bonobos' tailoring has always been a noble go-to pick for the office, and its best-selling Jetsetter suits and blazers show off what the brand does best: value-priced clothes with thoughtful specs and no-funny-business style. As the Jetsetter's name suggests, it's especially well-fashioned for frequent flyers who need to feel comfortable on the plane and still look presentable when the wheels touch the tarmac.

The jacket's Unstructured version—available in three fits—is our favorite of the group, since the natural shoulders and lack of lining keep things light and spry. The button sits right at the natural waist (as it should), and the 3.25" lapel is trend-proof—neither too wide nor too narrow, so the jacket should last for years. (Whether you'll still fit into the same jacket in a few years is another question.)

The Best “Technically a Sport Coat” Blazer: J.Crew Kenmare Blazer

Kenmare Relaxed-fit Blazer

For well over a decade, J.Crew's Ludlow suit defined—and reigned over—the affordable suiting category, and for good reason. The fabrics well-sourced (shoutout mall-brand economies of scale), the fit impeccable, the construction impressive, the price point just right. GQ editors spent an entire decade telling their suit-needing buddies to just get a Ludlow.

But as tailoring proportions gradually swung away from slim-and-snipped, the Ludlow lost some luster. Wisely J.Crew quietly introduced the Kenmare, a few seasons ago as a response. Its looser, more relaxed silhouette appeals to anyone who both needs to wear a suit and wants to wear a suit. The cut is still trends preppy enough to pair with an Oxford-cloth shirt and brogues (c'mon, this is still J.Crew we're talking about), but its less-tailored shape and ever-rotating roster of high-energy herringbones and plaids naturally lends the Kenware jacket to solo duty, paired with a faded pair of jeans and cowboy boots or a scuzzy mohair cardigan and derbies. As with the Ludlow in its heyday, the Kenmare's price-to-quality ratio is only matched by its panache.

The Best Double-Breasted Blazer: Ralph Lauren Doeskin Blazer

Polo Ralph Lauren

"Doeskin" Jacket

Ralph Lauren

In the finger-wagging parlance of classic menswear, a blazer is a specific thing, defined by two distinguishing details: a solid-colored cloth, often in navy, and contrasting metal buttons, often in brass. Ralph Lauren's expertly-crafted wool blazer, as per usual, is both the platonic ideal and a subtle departure. Cut with soft shoulders and brash peak lapels, the brand's double-breasted blazer also features a lower button stance that makes for a universally flattering shape, no matter your build. It's a high-quality riff on an enduring American silhouette that'll anchor your most formal fits just as ably as it'll elevate your most casual ones. In other words, it's quintessential Ralph.

The Best Linen Blazer: Todd Snyder Sutton Jacket

Todd Snyder

Italian Linen Sutton Jacket

Todd Snyder's top-notch tailoring is like watching your favorite band play all the hits. You've got the classic starter suit , the glitzy red carpet tux , the endless variations on a sport coat , and a set list that keeps heating up. And when things are literally heating up, you'll be grateful that Todd Snyder's linen take on its stalwart Sutton is available. The breathable all-linen fabric is woven in Italy and cut into an unstructured jacket that pairs with some billowy vacation pants, jeans, shorts, or the matching pants to class up your warm-weather outfits while making sure you don't boil. It's yet another banger from Snyder.

The Best Blazer for a Big Night Out: Gucci GG Formal Jacket

GG Cotton Viscose Formal Jacket

It’s a balmy evening and you’re staring at a closet jammed haphazardly with the clothes that helped you survive winter. The Aperol’s flowing freely, Robyn’s wailing balefully about her ex on the speaker, and the air is sweaty with opportunity…to get a really big fit off. When that time comes, Gucci's got what you need: a tour de force of sexed-up tailoring doused in the brand’s signature ‘70s glamour—all somehow channeled through the comfortable, airy fabric of our lives. The pitch-black cotton canvas is covered in a tonal GG motif that’s just iridescent enough to catch the club's lighting. Those broad, roped shoulders and nipped waist give the wearer (you!) the unbridled power of a disco icon, all gyrating hips and groovy moves. Just don't leave Gucci's blazer out on the dance floor alone: this thing's crying out for flared trousers and sleek boots—and a “night's not over until the sun rises” attitude.

Plus 9 More Blazers We Love

Banana Republic

Signature Italian Twill Suit Jacket

J.Crew's not the only mall brand enjoying a renaissance. Banana Republic's comeback is very real, and its range of tailored jackets—often cut from top-notch fabrics sourced from pedigreed European mills—is a big part of the reason. The Signature Suit Jacket reads as a classic blazer with the usual notch lapel, flap pockets, and tailored fit—but the Italian twill brings wrinkle-resistant properties and a dash of elastane-based stretch for ease-of-movement without making you look like an influencer for an athletic brand.

Unstructured Blazer

Too many men (in our opinion) believe that black suits are best reserved for the extremes of dressing: funerals and weddings. But the right option is absolutely an every-day affair, and this take from COS is that option. The brand's Unstructured blazer is relaxed and unstructured, but still defined. It's the rare black blazer that can elevate a plain white tee without making you look like an investment-seeking tech CEO.

Double-Breasted Unstructured Cotton Blazer

Ryan Reynolds may have championed Barena's popular shirt-jackets, but the Italian label's tailoring is a head-turning proposition that can compete with the big boys of the tailoring world. Where a lot of cotton tailoring fees too relaxed or—weirdly—too uptight, Barena's double-breasted blazer walks the dividing line like a Cirque du Soleil performer on a tight rope. It's the kind of blazer you'd see on a deeply confident older dude who's just minding his own business (in first class). With some luck and this blazer, you could too.

Patch Pocket Blazer

Mohawk General Store

The cult of Mfpen continues to grow as the Scandinavian brand infuses its distinct branch of minimalism with corp-core sensibilities. Who knew that officewear could look so geezer-y and so cool? This patch pocket blazer from the brand's latest collection eschews the usual navy, grey, and tan, opting for a desaturated chocolate color—an unsung tone that's quickly ascending to “staple” status. Not unlike Mfpen.

Garment-Dyed Stretch-Cotton Twill Blazer

In the same vein as the Alex Mill “Mill” jacket, Mr P.'s chore-coat-leaning blazer is among the most casual options on the market. The cotton-twill fabric and high button stance aren't built for a dress shirt and tie—they're here for hardy work pants, denim, or vacation-ready shorts and sandals. Ideally soaking in the sun off the coast of Italy.

Italian Three-Season Wool Graduate Blazer

Buck Mason has been on a tear for the past several seasons, and still team GQ's eyes went wide when the Graduate blazer showed up. It’s difficult to enter the arena of classic navy blazers and compete against the stalwarts on the first shot, but Buck Mason swished it. The fabric is a three-season Italian wool, cut into a classic silhouette with a full-canvas construction and slick Bemberg lining. (The 3-roll-2 button front—get your terminology down here —and soft shoulder will impress any Ivy style obsessives.) Oh, and it comes with matching trousers, too, if you want the full fit. Trust us, you do.

Thom Browne

Classic Sport Blazer

Thom Browne's obsessive iteration on the gray suit has earned him legions of fans and unending praise from the fashion industry. The shrunken silhouette made waves in the 2000s when Browne first launched his label— and 20 years later remains fresh and singular, unaffected by fashion's shifting tides. It's a testament to what makes a jacket like this worth the money: you'll always stand out, but never look like a trend-hopping sucker.

The Kensington Slim-Fit Velvet Two-Button Blazer

Paul Smith’s royal accolades aren’t just fluff. The iconic British designer honed his tailoring skills on Savile Row, and it shows. If you’re headed to a formal event,but a tuxedo seems aggressive, this velvet single-breasted blazer will look fabulous in a full red-carpet-worthy get-up—yet can easily transition into less glamorous situations. The Kensington jacket is slim but not skinny, and would look just as smashing with a starched dress shirt and proper trousers as it would a graphic tee and vintage Levi’s 501 jeans.

Slim-Fit Silk and Cashmere-Blend Blazer

Saman Amel's elite-level tailoring boasts generous lapels, easy (but not limp) shoulders, and hand-finished details throughout. The cashmere is stunning. This is what quiet luxury actually looks like: impeccable, top-notch, flawlessly crafted, but not at all boring.

All the Questions You Have About Blazers, Answered

Glad you asked. If you posed the question above to five different people, you'd get six definitions—none of them all that helpful. The terms tend to be used interchangeably—though, as the most knowledgeable and/or pedantic menswear obsessives will point out, that's not technically the case. Here's the historical breakdown.

By Matthew Roberson

By Tyler Chin

By Grant Rindner

Blazers : Menswear purists will insist that a blazer should be cut from solid navy wool with gold- or silver-tone buttons. This is the archetypal blue-blooded joint your boat shoe-wearing college roommate rocked to his family reunion at the yacht club. These days, though, the word “blazer” is often used to refer to any standalone tailored jacket that's not paired with matching pants.

Sport coats : For simplicity's sake, let's say that sport coats are just like blazers—they don't have matching pants—but patterned. They also skew a bit more casual, so they're particularly well-suited (sorry) to wearing with jeans, chinos, or your flashiest pair of trackpants, Richie Tenenbaum style.

Suit jackets : Suit jackets are the part of the suit you don't put your legs through. They're also the most formal of the tailoring options here, and in general, we wouldn't suggest wearing a suit jacket that's sold only as part of a two-piece set by itself. Suits sold as “separates”—where you can mix-and-match the sizing of on a matching jacket and pants—are often made from fabrics that let the individual pieces work as well solo as they do together.

The trick to wearing a blazer is treat it like any other (non-formal) jacket you own. A classic white button-up and a pair of well-fitting, non-freaked-out pants will steer you right for most moments when the dress code is asking you to look nice but not fully formal. When you're wearing a blazer just because (in our opinion, the best time to wear a blazer), then just about anything goes. Graphic tee, polo, dress shirt or mesh shirt, tank top (or maybe no top!); jeans to cords to high-waisted trousers; any shoe in your rotation short of your toasted errand-running sneaks—the blazer really can handle it all.

Travel blazers (and, by extension, travel suits ) are made for, well, traveling. That means they’re built for comfort when you’re crammed in coach 35,000 feet up. They’ll likely be unstructured, without much shoulder padding (if any) and without the internal canvas layer that usually gives suit jackets a distinct shape. Modern travel blazers also tend to use blended fabrics that resist wrinkling and weave in a bit of stretch (not unlike some jeans) so that the jacket feels—and moves—more like a shirt. The caveat is that a travel blazer that's gone too far done the athleisure road can look chintzy and look too much like a shirt, to the point that it's not really elevating your outfit the way a better blazer could.

We cover this in-depth in our great big guide to suiting , but we'll give the TL;DR here. The two most important details of any tailored jacket are the shoulders and the chest. Those are the most difficult areas for a tailor to alter, so a jacket that doesn't fit right in either place isn't a jacket for you.

Shoulders can be tricky: where the seam lands can be a function of the construction: unstructured jackets that hug the body should have a seam that sits right on, or just beyond, the edge of your shoulder. A more structured jacket may put the shoulder seam there, or slight outside the shoulder, give a more squared-off and formal look. What you never want is a shoulder seam that's much more “in” on your body than the edge of your shoulder, or so far out that you could be in a Talking Heads video. Broad-shouldered or bigger-bodied folks should keep an eye out for “athletic” or “classic” cuts.

For the chest, you need enough room to allow your arms to move freely, but not so much room that you have lots of airspace when you button the jacket—or so little room that buttoning the jacket makes your lapels bows out. It’s very common to have your tailor take in or let out the waist, but you should make sure that you can fit a thumb in your jacket while it’s buttoned without the jacket pulling. And don't forget that blazers come in different lengths, usually short, regular, and long. The back and front hem should cover your rear and line up right around your dangling knuckles.

If you're not sure how to size, here's how you can zero in on the right fit. First, measure your chest with a tape measure. That number should get you to your approximate chest size. As for length, guys under 5'8" will likely need a short size, and dudes above 6'2" will likely need a long size. Keep in mind these are just guidelines to help you narrow down the right size. What matters more is not the number on the tag, but the actual fit of the garment. Try on as much as you can. Go a size up and a size down. Definitely don't assume you'll be the same jacket size between brands, or styles.

More Great Suiting Recommendations from GQ

The Best Suits Under $1000 Are Crisp, Classic, and Downright Fun

The Best Suits for Men : The 4 Essential Styles That GQ Editors Swear By

The Best Wedding Suits for Men Deserve a Spot in Your Regular Rotation

The Best Linen Suits for Men Will Keep You Cool While You Bust a Move

Not a subscriber? Join GQ to receive full access to GQ.com

Advertisement

• Closet and laundry

The Best Clothing Steamers

By Jackie Reeve and Zoe Vanderweide

A good clothing steamer can have your garments looking polished and wrinkle-free in mere minutes. It’s often a more appealing option than pulling out the iron, and because a steamer smooths without scorching, it’s a better tool for delicate fabrics like silk and wool.

We’ve tested dozens of steamers since 2016, and our current favorite for regular home use is the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Garment Steamer . Its powerful blasts of steam, comfortable grip, and smart features make it the one we grab over and over. We also recommend an inexpensive compact steamer that’s ideally suited for travel, plus a heavy-duty steamer with a larger water tank for folks who frequently tackle bigger jobs.

Everything we recommend

Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Garment Steamer (GS38R)

A powerful steamer with clever features.

This steamer melted wrinkles without spitting water on our fabrics—rare among the models we tested. It’s also comfortable to hold and has standout features, like an aluminum steamer plate and dual steam settings.

Buying Options

Budget pick.

Conair CompleteSteam Hand Held Fabric Steamer (GS2X)

For occasional use.

This small, inexpensive steamer is best suited for travel and occasional home use. It does leave some wet spots on fabrics, but it’s better built and more efficient than the other portable steamers we tried.

Upgrade pick

Reliable Vivio 500 GC Professional Garment Steamer

For marathon steaming sessions.

For serious steamers, this pricey, supersized floor-standing model will make getting the job done a lot more pleasant. Its steam head is the comfiest to use for extended periods, and it holds the most water—just be careful when rolling it across the floor with a full tank, because it can splash.

Like most of the midsize handheld steamers we tested, the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Garment Steamer (GS38R) produced ample steam for the job, and it was easier to hold and more thoughtfully designed than the competition. It was also one of the only handheld steamers that didn’t leave wet spots on test fabrics. The Conair Turbo steamer weighs just under 2.75 pounds with a full water tank (other midsize steamers we tested weighed between 2.5 and 5 pounds), making it among the lightest and most comfortable to maneuver. The heat-up aluminum steamer plate glides over fabric, helping to smooth wrinkles nearly as effectively as a traditional iron. It also comes with several accessories, including a silicone band attachment for pulling fabrics taut, a mesh bonnet for protecting extra-delicate items, and a bristle brush for loosening fibers to allow for better steam penetration. Plus, with two settings, the Conair Turbo steamer was one of the only models we tested that allowed us to control the heat and force of the steam: We used the “steam” setting for smoothing delicate silks, while the more powerful “turbo” setting was effective for tackling heavier cotton shirts. It has a one-year limited warranty.

If you want a steamer on hand to occasionally freshen up a garment, or to pack in your suitcase, you probably don’t need anything fancier than the Conair CompleteSteam Hand Held Fabric Steamer (GS2X) . It’s around half the price of the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Garment Steamer , and it was more effective at smoothing wrinkles than any other steamer we tried in its price range (most of which were junky). It was also one of the only steamers of this size (often called “portable” or “travel” steamers) we tested that didn’t pour water out of the spout when tipped over. It has a relatively small water tank (5 ounces; the portables we tried ranged from 5 to 8 ounces), and it did spit some water when in use, but it left fewer wet spots on clothes than the other portables we tried. If you think you’ll use a steamer regularly, invest in the well-made Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam, but if you just need to smooth a wrinkle now and then—at home or while traveling—the Conair CompleteSteam fabric steamer is a solid choice. It has a one-year limited warranty, which is typical for small, inexpensive steamers.

If you do a lot of steaming, or if you find handheld steamers too heavy or uncomfortable, the Reliable Vivio 500 GC Professional Garment Steamer is a pleasure to use, and it may be worth the (considerable) investment. It’s nearly 6 feet tall, with a base about the size of a canister vacuum; despite its cumbersome size, it was our favorite steamer to use in testing. The tank holds a gallon of water (the most of any steamer we tried), it heats up quickly, and its steam head was much more comfortable for extended use than the handheld steamers that we tested. Be careful rolling the Vivio across the floor when the tank is full—it can splash water. This steamer comes with a three-year limited warranty, which was average for the ones we tested.

The research

Our favorite steamer: conair turbo extremesteam garment steamer, a budget pick for occasional use: conair completesteam hand held fabric steamer (gs2x), an upgrade pick for steaming marathons: reliable vivio 500 gc professional garment steamer, why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked and tested, the competition.

They say the devil is in the details, but with the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Garment Steamer , the details were downright heavenly. The Conair Turbo steamer checked every box on our list: It was effective at vanquishing wrinkles, didn’t leave wet spots on test fabrics, and felt comfortable to hold. It heated up in under a minute and provided more than 15 minutes of continuous steam, and we found its long, 10-foot cord convenient. But the smart details—like the aluminum-quilted steam plate and the two steam settings—pushed the Conair Turbo steamer above its competitors to make steaming an enjoyable chore.

The bursts of steam from the Conair Turbo steamer smoothed out a silk dress in seconds and a rumpled cotton pillowcase in under a minute. Several steamers we’ve considered have multiple holes for the steam to escape, but the Conair Turbo has a thin, long slit, which results in a more targeted sheet of steam. It took more wrinkles out of crumpled button-down shirts than the other handheld steamers we tested (although the most stubborn wrinkles, on the sleeves and the bottom hems, still needed an iron). Also, many steamers we tested spit droplets of water along with the steam, leaving wet marks on test fabrics. The Conair Turbo steamer didn’t; out of eight handheld steamers we tried, only the Conair Turbo and the (now discontinued) Sunbeam Power Steam Fabric Steamer left clothes completely dry.

Handheld (aka midsize) steamers can be uncomfortable to use after a few minutes—of the three steamer types we tested, they were the heaviest to hold. The Conair Turbo is among the lightest and most comfortable handheld models, for both vertical and horizontal use. It weighs about 2.75 pounds with a full tank (the handhelds we tested ranged from 2.5 to 5 pounds), so while it can still feel heavy after prolonged use, it’s lighter than most in its category. It wasn’t as comfortable to use as the floor-standing Reliable Vivio 500 GC Professional Garment Steamer , but it’s about a quarter of the price and far, far easier to store.

Its 7.3-ounce water tank is one of the smaller water tanks among our handheld test group. Nevertheless, in testing it produced more than 15 minutes of continuous steam, and we were able to smooth a dress, a jacket, a pair of slacks, and three heavily wrinkled cotton button-downs with water left to spare. The Conair Turbo steamer’s water tank is also easy to remove and replace—simply slide up the release switch to unlock the tank, then click it back into place—which is handy if you do need to refill it in the middle of a big job. And it stands up on its own, meaning it can be filled while resting on the counter.

The Conair Turbo steamer has a heat-up aluminum head that glides smoothly and helps to push steam into the fabric’s fibers (similar to what an iron does). This feature was enormously helpful for unwrinkling heavier fabrics, especially when used horizontally against a flat surface. It also comes with three snap-on attachments: a bristle brush to ensure steam penetrates fibers for a perfect press, a silicone bar for pulling fabrics taut, and a mesh bonnet to protect your most delicate textiles. But for quickly removing heavy wrinkles, this steamer performs best all on its own. The Conair Turbo steamer also gave us more control over the amount of steam than most other handheld steamers, with two settings: “steam,” for freshening up lighter items, and “turbo,” for blasting the wrinkles out of weightier fabrics.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The relatively small water tank makes the Conair Turbo steamer weigh less than the competition when full, but it also means you’ll need to refill it if you’re doing a lot of steaming. And because of the tank’s small opening, it was challenging to fill from a gallon-jug of distilled water. (This is pretty common with handheld steamers, and can be easily remedied by using a funnel.) Plus, the small opening means it takes a long time for the tank to dry fully after use. Finally, we found the built-in creaser tool fiddly and awkward to use. If you want to make sharp pleats, use an iron.

Portable (aka travel-size) steamers are not the most impressive examples of modern engineering—most of them leak, and they’re not that powerful—but the Conair CompleteSteam Hand Held Fabric Steamer (GS2X) is the best one we’ve found, and it even outperformed some bigger, pricier models. If you need to use a steamer only occasionally, for an outfit or for a trip, the small CompleteSteam is effective, affordable, and lightweight.

In our testing the Conair CompleteSteam not only beat all of the cheap portable steamers, it also was easier to fill and left fewer wet marks on clothes than midsize handhelds from Rowenta and Black+Decker . The Conair CompleteSteam didn’t produce as much steam as our main pick, the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam, so it needed more passes over the fabric to flatten wrinkles, and it wasn’t as effective on tough creases—but it’s also less than half the price. The Conair CompleteSteam is just right for light jobs and travel, and it’s more comfortable to use than a heavier midsized steamer if you don’t have much to steam. It did leave some water spots when used too close to fabrics. But the CompleteSteam can also be used horizontally (not a given in this category); it dribbled only a few droplets, which was a win compared with others that poured water everywhere.

The Conair CompleteSteam (like most of the five portable steamers we tried) looks like a small watering can, and it weighs about 2.5 pounds when full. It was the heaviest of the portable steamers we tested, yet it has one of the smallest water tanks. Empty it’s just over 2 pounds, and the tank holds 5 ounces of water. By comparison, the Hilife Steamer weighs 1.5 pounds when empty and has an 8-ounce water tank. You can steam two, maybe three, outfits with the Conair CompleteSteam before you’ll need to refill.

Conair’s one-year warranty is comparable to those of most of the other inexpensive portable steamers we considered. The price and quality of portable steamers indicate to us that these are not meant to last forever.

If you have a lot of steaming to do (like helping a wedding party get dressed or tackling a mountain of laundry), if you prefer to steam clothes spread out on a table or bed instead of hanging upright, or if you don’t find heavy handheld steamers comfortable to use, the floor-standing Reliable Vivio 500 GC Professional Garment Steamer is a solid alternative that left its four competitors in the dust. A flexible hose makes this steamer the most comfortable of our picks to use. It releases a steady, effective flow of steam; it’s smartly designed; and its 1-gallon tank was still steaming long after we ran out of fabric to smooth. It does, however, cost nearly four times as much as the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam .

For big jobs, the handheld Conair Turbo steamer will build up your biceps but test your patience; the Reliable Vivio, on the other hand, has a lightweight hose (like all floor-standing steamers) that was more flexible than others we tried and easier to glide across fabrics. (It’s like using a vacuum-cleaner hose.) This also made the Reliable steamer the best of our picks for steaming horizontally, if that’s what you prefer. It was as effective as other full-size steamers at smoothing wrinkles (and also similar to the handheld Conair Turbo in this regard), but it was the only one that didn’t spit any water.

All floor-standing steamers have an attached pole to hold the steamer head and a garment. The Reliable Vivio comes with its own hanger, which keeps your clothes steadier while you steam than models like the PurSteam and the Jiffy , neither of which included one. The Reliable Vivio’s design sets it apart, but it did require more setup than other floor-standing steamers we tested—we had to get out a screwdriver. Another standing steamer we tried, the Pure Enrichment Pure Steam , also came with a snap-on hanger, but it was harder to move around (an important consideration when you’re trying to steam the front and back of a shirt).

Like those of all floor-standing steamers we tried, the Reliable Vivio’s removable tank was easy to fill, with a screw-on cap and a wide opening that fit under a faucet. It held more water (a gallon) than any other steamer we tested, but it still heated up in about two minutes. You don’t have to empty the tank after each use, so once it’s set up, it’s a breeze to wheel out and start using. The Reliable Vivio’s wheels were better on hardwood floors than those of any other full-size steamer we tried, but be careful when storing the steamer or moving it around. If the base tips backward, some water will dribble out of the tank. Leaking is a common issue, and this wasn’t the worst offender during testing. It comes with a three-year limited warranty.

Wirecutter senior staff writer Jackie Reeve has spent the majority of her waking life working with textiles, and that means dealing with wrinkles. She has written our guides to cotton sheets , flannel sheets , bed blankets , throw blankets , pajamas , robes , bath towels , and duvet covers , among others. In the course of doing the research for those pieces, she has done so much laundry that she must hold the company record by now. Jackie also wrote our guides to irons and ironing boards . For this guide she also built on the research of Camille Perri and Tim Heffernan.

Zoe Vanderweide is a Wirecutter senior staff writer covering style, so she’s constantly wearing, washing, styling and generally fussing over clothes. At any given time, she has between 30 and 40 garments in her testing queue to keep clean and wrinkle-free. In her off-hours, she’s also a type-A neatnik who considers a marathon garment-steaming session the ideal way to spend an evening in.

If you own a lot of delicate fabrics, or if you just need to freshen up the occasional piece of clothing or linen, a steamer will be a solid addition to your laundry arsenal, and it might even be a replacement for an iron . Over time, a steamer can also save you money normally spent at the dry cleaner. If you choose to hand-wash your delicate items at home ( we have guidelines on what can and can’t skip the dry cleaner ), a steamer can smooth out wrinkles and help everything look professionally cleaned and pressed. Steamers generally heat up in a couple of minutes, and the top ones we’ve tested melt away wrinkles with very little effort. They work best—and fastest—on thinner fabrics like silk and polyester, which you probably don’t want to iron anyway for fear of scorching them. Steamers are also a convenient way to smooth wrinkled curtains or drapes without having to take them down. We tested three basic types of steamers for this guide: midsize handheld models, which look like small dumbbells and are a good choice if you steam semi-regularly; small portable models (shaped like a pitcher), which hold a few ounces of water and are best for light use; and full-size, floor-standing models (similar in size to a vacuum cleaner), which have a rod to hang your garments on and the biggest tanks, so you can steam for long stretches without refilling.

Don’t rely on a steamer to create sharp pleats or creases, or to flatten seams. Some we tried came with special tools for that purpose, but they were time-consuming and fiddly, and they made us wonder why we hadn’t just gotten out the iron. In testing we also found that steamers were less effective than irons on stubborn folds and wrinkles, particularly on the hems of heavily creased shirts, jeans, and cotton sheets. If you wash and dry dress shirts—or any button-down shirts—at home, an iron is a better tool for keeping them crisp. A steamer can be helpful if you want to avoid storing a big ironing board in a small apartment, but that’s only realistic if your laundry isn’t that wrinkled. (We recommend options for small-space living in our ironing boards guide .)

We used these criteria to choose the best steamers:

Effective: The steamers with the strongest bursts of hot steam flattened wrinkles the fastest. We wanted to be able to steam an outfit in minutes and get out the door.

Non-leaking: A water stain can ruin a delicate, expensive fabric, and dribbling water can also be a safety hazard with a plugged-in appliance. We looked for steamers that didn’t drip, spit, or leak.

Big water tanks: The bigger the tank, the longer you can use your steamer before having to refill it. We looked at three different size categories and prioritized roomy water tanks for all of them.

Comfortable to use: Midsize handheld steamers can be especially top-heavy and awkward to hold. Since steaming involves a fair amount of arm lifting, we looked for steamers that were comfortable enough to use for several minutes at a time. We also favored steamers that could be used both vertically and horizontally, for people who are more comfortable using a steamer on a flat surface. And we looked for longer cords, which are helpful if you’re tall, or if your outlets aren’t in a convenient spot.

Protected by a warranty: Over the years, we’ve learned that irons and steamers can break easily. For one person, a steamer might last for years, and for someone else, the same model might conk out after two months. We considered only models with solid warranties, in case they give up the ghost too soon.

In addition to relying on our own deep knowledge of steamers (gained from a long history of testing them), we considered opinions from The Strategist and Good Housekeeping , and checked star ratings on Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, Target, and other retailers to compile a list of 28 candidates. We narrowed the list by reading user reviews from those same retailers, checking for things like customer service concerns and for reports of steamers that didn’t last long, and we looked at each steamer’s specifications—warranty, water-tank size, and useful features. We included well-reviewed steamers, favored brands that have proved to be reliable in the past, and covered household names that are easy to find. In the end, we decided to test 17 steamers in three categories: portable, handheld (aka midsize), and floor-standing.

We tried each steamer on a variety of items, including cotton sheets, button-down shirts, and silks, noting which models met the above criteria. We used them vertically (on clothes hung from hangers) and horizontally (spread out on an ironing board), and we measured the length of the steamers’ extension cords and the size of their water tanks.

This is not a comprehensive list of everything we tested in previous iterations of this guide, just what’s still available.

Handheld (aka midsize)

The   Beautural 1200-Watt Steamer for Clothes  smoothed wrinkles on thin silk but struggled with thicker cotton, and it spit some water onto fabrics.

The Black+Decker Advanced Handheld Steamer (HGS200) was a dud. We had to push the power button several times to get it to work, and it was the slowest steamer to heat up in our testing. Also, it didn’t produce much steam, and it made strange—even alarming—noises, so we unplugged it after just a few minutes. It did have the largest water tank (13.5 ounces) of any handheld we tried, though.

In past years, we’ve also tested and dismissed other handheld steamers, including the Jiffy Esteam Travel Steamer .

The Hilife Steamer for Clothes leaked water, couldn’t be used horizontally, and didn’t get very hot.

In previous years we also tested and dismissed a number of other portable steamers, including the Conair Travel Smart and the Pure Enrichment PureSteam Portable Fabric Steamer .

Floor-standing

Our former floor-standing pick, the J-2000 Jiffy Garment Steamer , has a simple design, and it emitted strong steam, but it was the worst offender in our testing when it came to water leaks from the tank. When we tried to roll the Jiffy’s stiff wheels across the floor, water poured out of the base, covering the cord and plug. We had to halt testing this steamer until it was dry enough to plug in, and it leaked again when we moved it after testing.

The Pure Enrichment Pure Steam XL Standing Steamer was the least expensive full-size steamer we tried. Although it has some nice details, overall you get what you pay for. It spit on our test fabrics, and it wasn’t as powerful as our Reliable Vivio 500 GC floor-standing pick. The clip-on hanger kept garments still, but it was fussy to unclip and turn around to steam the garment’s other side. Plus, it had the smallest water tank of the floor-standing group.

The PurSteam Full Size Garment Fabric Steamer has a dial to control the force of the steam. This is a nice (and rare) feature, but the steamer leaked on all the test fabrics. Also, the hose was stiff to use until the steam loosened it up after several minutes.

In previous years we tested and dismissed several other floor-standing steamers, including the Conair Ultimate Fabric Steamer (GS28) and the Steamfast SF-510 Fabric Steamer .

This article was edited by Ingela Ratledge Amundson and Jennifer Hunter.

Editors, The Best Clothes Steamers on Amazon, According to Hyperenthusiastic Reviews , The Strategist , May 10, 2019

Sarah Bogden, These Are the 10 Best Garment Steamers to Buy , Good Housekeeping , December 7, 2018

Meet your guides

Jackie Reeve

Jackie Reeve is a senior staff writer covering bedding, organization, and home goods at Wirecutter since 2015. Previously she was a school librarian, and she’s been a quilter for about 15 years. Her quilt patterns and her other written work have appeared in various publications. She moderates Wirecutter’s staff book club and makes her bed every morning.

Zoe Vanderweide

Zoe Vanderweide is a senior staff writer reporting on style and accessories at Wirecutter. She has been wearing things for over three decades, and she has spent years covering streetwear, luxury, art, and design. Off the clock, you can find her painting the town rainbow with her (devastatingly stylish) daughter.

Further reading

If You Hate Ironing, Try This Handheld Steamer Instead

by Elissa Sanci

An iron isn’t the only way to blast away wrinkles.

The Best Clothing Iron

by Jackie Reeve

After testing dozens of irons (and researching many more), we think the Black+Decker Allure Steam Iron D3030 is the best clothing iron for most people.

11 Cheap(ish) Laundry Aids to Help Your Clothes Look Better and Last Longer

by Zoe Vanderweide and Dorie Chevlen

The right tools can keep your clothing looking better for longer. Here’s what you need to wash, dry, and spruce up your favorites.

Wirecutter’s 100 Most Popular Clothing Picks of 2023

by Wirecutter Staff

These stylish items were some of Wirecutter’s most-loved clothing and accessory picks in 2023.

13 Of The Best Leather Jackets For Men, According To Our Review

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

The best leather jackets are wardrobe staples that never go out of style. The different looks—from racer, moto and bomber to field jackets—have the same staying power as your classic jeans and work boots. High-quality leather jackets don’t come cheap, though, (prices can exceed $2,000), so you’ll want to find options that are truly worth the spend in terms of style, durability, comfort and versatility.

The best leather jackets for men are stylish, rugged and made to last.

At Forbes Vetted, we spend a lot of time reviewing and testing fashion, including menswear. To compile this guide, we focused on leather jackets from brands known for a high level of craftsmanship, and ideally, specialize in leather goods. Our top pick, Schott’s Waxed Natural Pebbled Leather Jacket , is made from hand-cut leather, for example, and Belstaff’s V Racer is the most authentic café-style racer jacket we’ve found. Ahead, all the best leather jackets for men that we recommend.

• Best Leather Jacket For Men Overall : Schott’s Waxed Natural Pebbled Cowhide Cafe Leather Jacket
• Best Affordable Leather Jacket For Men : Cole Haan Men’s Lambskin Leather Jacket
• Best Racer Leather Jacket For Men : Belstaff V Racer Jacket
• Best Motorcycle Leather Jacket For Men : Buck Mason Bruiser Leather Moto Jacket
• Best High-End Leather Jacket For Men : Todd Snyder Italian Burnished Leather Dylan Jacket
• Best Stylish Leather Jacket For Men : John Varvatos Sorcha Jacket
• Best Vintage-Inspired Leather Jacket For Men : Billy Reid Blake Jacket
• Best Leather Bomber Jacket For Men : J.Crew Flight Jacket
• Best Faux Leather Jacket For Men : Levi’s Varsity Faux Leather Bomber Jacket

Best Leather Jacket For Men Overall

Classic, comfortable and stylish, schott’s waxed natural pebbled cowhide cafe leather jacket.

Sizes : S to XXL | Colors : 2 colors total, including Brown and Black | Materials : 100% cowhide leather

Schott NYC began designing leather jackets back in 1913 with an emphasis on functional, rugged styles. Most notably, the brand was the first to put zippers on jackets. Their Waxed Cowhide Cafe Leather Jacket has clean lines, a durable cowhide construction and smart details (including a flannel lining). Given the attention to detail, the price for this leather jacket is reasonable as well.

What the reviews say : “The leather feels soft. The stitching and details are all high quality. Feels broken in. Large is the perfect fit for me. Can wear a shirt and light-medium sweater.” — Huckberry

Best Affordable Leather Jacket For Men

High-quality, lambskin leather for a great price, cole haan lambskin leather jacket.

Sizes : S to XXL | Colors : 2 colors total, including Black and Java | Materials : 100% lamb leather

Crafted from lamb leather and fully lined, Cole Haan’s Lambskin Leather Jacket is proof that you don’t need to spend a lot of money for a well-fitting and stylish jacket. The leather is buttery smooth and there are two side pockets, and while this jacket is well-made, it might not last for decades, like others on our list.

What the reviews say : “The jacket fit perfectly. It's comfortable and has a sleek look to it. I received several compliments the first day I wore it.” — Amazon

A Roomy Option With Ribbed Cuffs And Hem

Nordstrom leather bomber jacket.

Sizes : XS to XXL | Colors : 2 colors total, including Black and Brown Mole | Materials : 100% leather

For another affordable option, Nordstrom’s Leather Bomber Jacket is a warm, 100% leather jacket that’s ideal for all seasons. It’s cut more like a varsity jacket—which means that it doesn’t hug the body as closely— so it’s great if you want something with more ease of movement. The zippers and metal hardware are not as stylish as our best overall pick, but they’re functional.

What the reviews say : “This is a well made bomber with quality leather and it’s thin and well tanned. It’s very comfortable and the knot collar and cuffs are also high quality. This is a nice casual or slightly dressed up jacket.” — Nordstrom

Best Racer Leather Jackets For Men

Slim, flattering cut and durable hardware, belstaff v racer jacket.

Sizes : 44 to 60 | Colors : 1 color total, Black | Materials : 100% lamb leather

One of the most popular silhouettes when it comes to men’s leather jackets, the café racer was originally worn by motorcyclists in the ‘50s and ‘60s as they drove between cafés. The style is characterized by its slim fit and sleek, uncomplicated design (it has fewer pockets and diagonal zips than a motorcycle jacket). Belstaff’s racer jacket is the most expensive of the three options on our list, but its superior leather, durable hardware and flattering fit justify the price.

A Versatile And Clean-Cut Silhouette

Rag & Bone

Rag & Bone Archive Leather Café Racer

Sizes : XS to XXL | Colors : 2 colors total, including Black and Brown | Materials : 100% lamb leather

​​Racer jackets are known for their clean and lean design in addition to their versatility—they look great with chinos and loafers, but can be dressed down with jeans and a plain tee. Rag & Bone’s version is supremely soft and comfortable from the first wear, and the sleeve zippers add some edginess.

What the reviews say : “So happy with this purchase and expect to be wearing it for many years to come. Light and amazingly soft and comfortable.” — Rag & Bone

Layers Well Over Almost Everything

Hugo boss extra slim fit leather jacket.

Sizes : XS to XXL | Colors : 1 color total, Black | Materials : 100% lamb leather

Hugo Boss’ racer jacket is also made of soft lamb leather, but has subtle cutlines throughout the jacket for added interest. Similar to the Rag & Bone option it boasts silver hardware, which feels fresh and modern. Note that it has an extra-slim fit, so you might need to size up.

Best Motorcycle Leather Jacket For Men

Lived-in look with plenty of pockets, buck mason bruiser leather moto jacket.

Buck Mason’s take on a leather motorcycle jacket stays true to the original style with an asymmetrical front zipper, side pockets, notch lapels and slightly cropped body. It’s cut from semi-vegetable tanned lambskin, which has a soft hand feel and rich texture that already looks lived-in. Pair this jacket with a plain tee and jeans, or layer it over a crewneck sweater during the colder months.

Best High-End Leather Jacket For Men

Excellent leather and a style that goes with everything.

Todd Snyder

Todd Snyder Italian Burnished Leather Dylan Jacket

Sizes : XS to XXL | Colors : 2 colors total, including Black and Olive | Materials : 100% Italian leather

This luxury-level leather jacket is reminiscent of a classic jean jacket with two chest pockets, front snap-closure buttons and a flat collar. The leather is burnished (a process that involves polishing and buffing the material), which gives the jacket a textured appearance that will only look better over time. Note: This style is unlined, so you might need to add layers for warmth.

What the reviews say : “I've been buying Todd Snyder products for years, including several of the Dylan suede jackets, and this might be my favorite piece yet. The initial quality is on another level—the color looks incredible in person and the leather seems durable yet light and malleable in a way that just feels right. This will be my go-to leather jacket for warmer months for the foreseeable future.” — Todd Snyder

Best Stylish Leather Jacket For Men

Rich, brown leather and weathered look.

John Varvatos

John Varvatos Sorcha Jacket

Sizes : 44 to 58X (44 equates to an XS) | Colors : 1 color total, Brown | Materials : 100% sheepskin leather

This rugged, well-fitting jacket from John Varvatos has clean lines and polished hardware to complement the rich, brown leather. The overall look has an aged and weathered feel, which is great if you want an already broken-in jacket. Note: The brand’s sizes are not listed in traditional letter sizes. For reference, size 44 equates to an XS in letter sizes.

What the reviews say : “Overall great jacket. Looks great, fits great, very comfortable. Zipper could be a little sturdier. Would recommend.” — Bloomingdale’s

Best Vintage-Inspired Leather Jacket For Men

Like you've already worn it for years, billy reid blake jacket.

Sizes : XS to XXL | Colors : 2 colors total, including Black and Saddle | Materials : 100% lamb leather

For a stylish leather jacket that resembles a vintage piece, Billy Reid’s Blake Jacket features zippered sleeve gussets, custom zipper pulls throughout and washed leather that ages well over time. (The washing process submerges the fabric in water to soften the feel and color.) There’s also an inner pocket for stashing valuables like a wallet and phone.

What the reviews say : “Everything from fit to quality is top notch. Dress it up or down it’s for every occasion. Can’t wait for some cooler weather to wear it.” — Billy Reid

Best Leather Bomber Jacket For Men

An iconic design with fresh details, j.crew flight jacket.

Sizes : XS to XXL | Colors : 1 colors total, Black | Materials : 100% Italian leather

Bomber jackets, or flight jackets, were worn during World War I and II to keep pilots warm in open cockpit. This pick from J.Crew strikes the right balance between stylish and functional. The Italian leather is durable and warm, and the knit cuffs and hem (a key design element for bombers) keep you insulated during the winter months. Reviewers mention that the material feels stiff at first but it soften over time and develop a rich patina.

What the reviews say : “A jacket with simple, timeless style. Leather quality is very good and it fits well. Very happy with the purchase.” — J.Crew

Best Faux Leather Jackets For Men

Richly textured fabric feels like the real thing, levi’s varsity faux leather bomber jacket.

Sizes : S to XXL | Colors : 3 colors total, including Black and Sand | Materials : 100% polyurethane

Faux leather is a great option if you’re working with a budget or prefer not to wear leather. Levi’s Varsity Faux Leather Bomber Jacket maintains the same silhouette as the classic bomber (think, ribbed collar and cuffs, a comfortable body for ease of movement) but it’s made from washable polyurethane. Plus, it’s fully lined and has multiple pockets.

What the reviews say : “This faux leather jacket... look[s] fresh and retro at the same time. It’s made out of quality material, you’ll feel comfortable in it, and it fits true to size.” — Levi’s

Casual Option With Removable Hood

Hood crew men’s faux leather zip-up motorcycle bomber jacket.

Sizes : S to 4X | Colors : 11 colors total, including Black and Blue | Materials : 100% polyester

With a removable hood that gives you some extra warmth if you need it and plenty of pockets, this highly-rated faux leather option is versatile and easy to wear. It comes in 11 different finishes, so you have a lot of options to match your look and style.

What the reviews say : “I was looking for a new jacket to wear when I'm out on my motorcycle and took my chances on this. Fit is perfect and I love that I can take the hood off if I decide I don't want it on that day.”  — Amazon

The 9 Best Waffle Towels That Are Lightweight And Absorbent

The best linen dresses to make your summer effortless, why trust forbes vetted.

Here at Forbes Vetted, we approach all of our product recommendations with transparency and a critical eye. As a team, we've tried on, evaluated and put a lot of clothing and accessories through the wringer to rate the performance, quality and value for your money. We’ve reviewed and rated everything from the best jeans for men to the best wallets for men to the most comfortable dress shoes . To make sure you get the most accurate information possible, we regularly update this list with relevant details. This story was last updated in October 2023.

How We Chose The Best Leather Jackets For Men

To determine the best leather jackets for men, Forbes Vetted’s commerce editor Katherine Louie read hundreds of product reviews and evaluated options from both established and newer-to-market brands. We ultimately chose the best leather jackets for men by considering a few key factors, including options that were top-rated (ideally 4 stars or higher) based on a multitude of verified reviews, and those that received high marks for leather quality, durability, style, comfort and versatility. We also considered if the jackets were available in a wide range of sizes and prices. Finally, senior fashion editor, Kari Molvar , oversaw this article, and has been covering fashion and lifestyle topics for more than 20 years. She has written extensively about men’s fashion, from the best golf shorts to the best work pants . The products on this list reflect several weeks' worth of in-depth research and vetting.

More Menswear Stories To Shop:

• The Best Fall Jackets For Men
• Warmest Winter Coats For Men
• The Best Work Pants For Men
• The Best Jeans For Men

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

What to Wear in Russia

Top style tips for russia.

• Russia is fairly conservative, and if you choose to wear bright colors – particularly in the winter months – you will stand out.
• Jeans are always popular here and, teamed with lighter layers for the summer and warmer ones for the winter, will serve as a versatile base to your wardrobe.
• Add in a smarter outfit for more formal occasions , such as the ballet or opera. Whilst it's not compulsory, the locals do dress up for these events and you'll feel more comfortable if you do the same.
• The attitude towards wearing fur is very different in Russia compared to Western Europe. Fur is very common and relatively cheap, and you will see a lot of people wearing it.
• If you are looking for a highly versatile travel jacket to bring along we recommend the  SCOTTeVEST  range. Their range of jackets have been specifically designed with traveling in mind and include RFID security (to protect your passport information), 23 secure pockets and personal connectivity integration.

Shoes to pack for Russia

• If you're intending to see as many sites as possible during your trip (and there are a lot to see) you'll be doing a good deal of walking – so be sure to pack some comfortable walking shoes . We love Hotter shoes , for total comfort along with style.

Pack for the weather

• November, December, January, February and March are freezing so be ready to dress warmly. Our advice would be to pack warm layers.
• For extra warmth pack some long thermal underwear – you'll be grateful you did.
• light wool is a good choice to wear against your skin as it naturally helps to regulate your body temperature . It keeps you warm in the cold, wicks away moisture when it's hot, and doesn't retain odours – even after prolonged wear.
• Muscovites wear a lot of fur in the winter – for a reason. Whether your preference is for fake or the real thing, you are well advised to have a very thick warm coat, gloves and scarf. A hat and/or ear muffs are also a very good idea. A furry lining or trim will keep you even cosier.
• Wear really good boots with soft rubber soles . It's important that you get soft rubber soles because even medium soles get really hard in the freezing cold. Make sure too that they have large spaces between the tracks, or the snow will get stuck in them and make them very slippery.
• Dressing in layers will help you with the temperature changes during the day, whatever time of year you visit.
• Be sure to pack your swimwear if you want to join in the winter time ritual bathing in hot and cold pools, steam rooms and saunas.
• We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂

Clothing tips for women

• Moscow and St Petersburg are very much like any other cosmopolitan city ; women love to dress up and are rarely seen without make-up and high heels.
• But, with all the sightseeing to do, we suggest you save your high heels for the evenings.
• A few well chosen pieces of costume jewelry will transform any outfit.
• And a pashmina is a versatile piece too that will dress up any outfit – try it with a simple smart dress.
• If you are planning to visit an Orthodox Church be sure to cover your head with a scarf, and cover up bare arms and legs – your pashmina or wrap can come in handy for this too.
• If you are in Russia on business, pack a conservative skirt-suit with tights or stockings and smart shoes.

Clothing tips for men

• If you are in Russia on business men are expected to wear a dark, well tailored suit and tie, with smart shoes.

Regions of Russia

• No trip would be complete without sight of Moscow's palatial metro (underground) dripping with chandeliers.
• For travel on the Trans-Siberian railway you'll need to dress in layers. The train itself is very warm inside, but for the frequent half-hour stops you'll need to put on boots, warm coat, hat and gloves as it can be freezing outside. There are power outlets for charging your phone etc, but don't leave it unattended and you'll need an adaptor. Take soft drinks with you – it will be much cheaper than buying them on board, and snacks will be useful especially in the winter when there are fewer sellers on the platforms.

Other things to pack

• You'll need a visa for Russia, and arrange it well in advance to avoid paying a premium at the last minute. Remember too that you must carry your passport with you at all times.
• If you don't buy Russian Rubles before you go, take US dollars or Euros as they are far easier to change once in the country.
• To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug , and also a step down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for Russian voltage (220V) .
• A lightweight day sack or shoulder bag will come in handy to carry your sightseeing essentials.
• If you tend to buy bottled water , consider carrying a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle – fill up from any source and get clean, safe drinking water without wasting plastic bottles.
• Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! The ‘ Mastryoshka ‘ nesting dolls are famous of course, but look out too for amber jewelry and beautiful lacquer boxes . If you want to stock up on vodka , remember you will need to pack it in checked-in luggage unless you buy at the airport duty-free.
• And a final tip – note that it's considered bad luck to whistle indoors !

Community photos of Russia

© Copyright 2019 | What To Wear On Vacation | All Rights Reserved

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser .

• Guide to Russia
• Travel Tips

How to Pack for a Trip to Russia

What should i pack for russia.

• Clothes for winter : Layers, thermal underwear, a long coat, hat, scarf and gloves, warm shoes and socks
• Clothes for summer : Breathable clothing, lightweight jacket and jumper, sunglasses and sunhat
• Clothes for going out : Nice shirt and smart trousers for men, smart trousers and top or dress for women
• Personal items : Insect repellent and sun-cream, wet wipes and hand sanitiser, medications, extension cords, earplugs and an eye mask

One of the biggest questions before travelling anywhere, is what to pack. But for those going on a Russian tour, this can be simpler than expected because essentially, Russia only has two seasons, winter and summer. The leaves turn golden for a mere two or three weeks before the temperatures rapidly drop and winter begins, and spring is more of a melting period, with snow and ice seen even as late as May.

Read on to find out what to pack, and how to be comfortable and prepared in every situation.

What clothes to wear in Russia?

Clothes for winter.

Russia is spectacularly beautiful in the wintertime. A dusting of snow covers the palaces, churches and museums, and the icy forests truly look like something out of a fairy tale. But regardless of the magical atmosphere, the outside world is generally very cold. In the cities you will most likely be visiting, winter temperatures are in the range of -10 to -20 degrees Celsius, or 14 to -4 degrees Fahrenheit, but can be even lower.

Layers are vital. For maximum comfort (and safety), bring sweatshirts or hoodies, warm long trousers or extra thick tights, and thermal underwear. A long, warm coat is highly recommended. Not only will it keep you insulated from the cold, but if you slip on the ice it will cushion you and protect your clothes. And of course, it goes without saying that you must bring a hat, scarf and gloves. Ideally, very warm gloves, a fur or wool hat which covers your ears, and a scarf which can be wrapped around your face as well.

Even if the outside world is an icy -30, the inside of Russian buildings remain toasty and warm - heating is generated in a centralised location and switched on in September/October, providing automatic and constant heating for all the buildings in the locality and Russians like it very warm indoors. So, make sure to also bring indoor clothes and lighter layers - a suitcase full of only thick jumpers will do you no favours when you’re inside.

One of the most vital items on your list should be a warm pair of waterproof shoes, as Russia’s sidewalks and streets transform into a quagmire of slush and snow during winter. Shoes should have grippy treads as ice is often more problematic than snow, and the pavement can turn into an uneven mountain of black ice. Make sure to bring warm socks, preferably those sold in hiking/outdoor shops.

For those travelling to Siberia , the weather will be significantly colder, so pack accordingly. If you plan on doing activities such as skiing or snowboarding then bring waterproof trousers, and sunglasses are a good idea if you will spend a lot of time outside in the snow.

Clothes for summer

Despite its reputation, Russia isn’t always covered in snow. Summer is the perfect time to explore the country. Take a stroll any time of day or night, appreciate the White Nights in northern Russia, or go on a camping trip. Temperatures are generally in the range of 20 - 30 degrees Celsius, or 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Air conditioning is not a common sight in Russia, and Russian people have an innate fear of drafts so even on public transport in the middle of summer, windows are often kept shut. Lightweight and breathable clothing is your best bet, and a sunhat and sunglasses are essential items.

The weather can still be unpredictable, so bring a lightweight jacket and jumper for cooler evenings, and an umbrella too, especially if you’re visiting St. Petersburg . Russians dress modestly so you may feel uncomfortable in anything very short or low cut. To be respectful when visiting Russia’s churches, bring a scarf to cover your head and shoulders and a bottom layer of modest length.

Clothes for going out

There is a famous saying that ‘good clothes open all doors’ - and it’s safe to say that Russians dress impeccably when going to the theatre, a nice restaurant, or a nightclub. You do not have to bring a tuxedo or an evening gown, as low-key elegance is better than extravagance. For men, a nice shirt, smart trousers and shoes won’t go amiss. And for women, smart trousers and top or an elegant dress, and heels or nice boots. In winter, it is perfectly normal to change shoes at the theatre cloakroom if you don’t want to risk your high heels on the ice. Upmarket Russian nightclubs often have strict ‘face control’ who turn away those who they consider to be badly dressed, so bring a stylish outfit.

TRAVELERS ASK: Can you wear jeans in Russia?

It’s perfectly acceptable to wear jeans in Russia. Denim is enormously popular among Russians and you will be allowed into museums, churches and restaurants wearing jeans. However, Russians love to dress up, so wear smarter clothes for upmarket restaurants, nightclubs or the theatre. Jeans alone are insufficient for the Russian winter, so pack thermal underwear or tights accordingly.

Personal items and toiletries

You should bring insect repellent if visiting during summer, especially when travelling to Siberia - mosquitoes and horseflies have a voracious appetite. And don’t forget your sun cream!

Bring tissues, wet wipes and hand sanitiser. Public toilets are not very hygienic anywhere in Russia.

Russia has plenty of toiletry and cosmetic shops, so you won’t be in trouble if you forget your favourite shampoo or makeup. But make sure to bring any medication that you may need, as you may not be able to get it when you’re in Russia. Also, it’s a good idea to double check that your medication is legal in Russia - see Russian Customs Rules .

Bring a few different bags. A travel belt is the best way to safely carry your money and passports, and a small handbag or daysack will allow you to comfortably explore any Russian town or city. Russia uses two pin plug sockets (same as Europe) so remember your travel adaptors. One of the best tips for travelling abroad is to bring an extension cord from your home country with an adapter. Learn more about voltage in Russia . 

For travelling on the Trans-Siberian Express or other long distance trains, a good quality portable charger will prove a lifesaver. Bring sleeping clothes which you would feel comfortable wearing while in a public space, slippers or sandals, and earplugs and an eye mask.

And lastly, don’t forget to pack your favourite book by one of Russia’s great writers. There is absolutely no better place to enjoy Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, or Bulgakov than when you’re in Russia - immersed in their culture and history!

Photos by  @freestocks   @katherine_xx11   @aliciasteels   @larisabirta

Related Tours

Imperial St. Petersburg

This is our most complete St. Petersburg tour package. Besides visiting all of the major sights within the city and three Imperial summer residences, you will also see the Yusupov Palace and learn about the life and murder of Rasputin, one of the most mysterious figures in Russia’s history.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

Jewels of Two Capitals

It is our most complete and popular tour of Moscow and St. Petersburg. In addition to visiting all the emblematic places, you will also have free time for your own discoveries. On your free nights you can watch the shows at the Bolshoi and Mariinsky Theaters or a folkloric show.

Winter Fairy Tale

One of the best times to visit Russia is winter. At this time of year, all of Russia becomes festive and full of activity, the streets and parks turn into wonderlands of snow and frost with families out and about strolling and taking in the beautiful nature.

Our travel brands include

Express to Russia

Join us on Facebook

We invite you to become a fan of our company on Facebook and read Russian news and travel stories. To become a fan, click here .

Join our own Russian Travel, Culture and Literature Club on Facebook. The club was created to be a place for everyone with an interest in Russia to get to know each other and share experiences, stories, pictures and advice. To join our club, please follow this link .

We use cookies to improve your experience on our Website, and to facilitate providing you with services available through our Website. To opt out of non-essential cookies, please click here . By continuing to use our Website, you accept our use of cookies, the terms of our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service . I agree

What to Wear in Moscow in Winter: Surviving Freezing Temps

Europe Packing List , Travel Packing Lists

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Wondering what to wear in Moscow in winter? Follow these tips on clothing, shoes, and accessories to learn how to survive a cold Russian winter!

What to Wear in Moscow in Winter

Written By: Julia K

Going to Moscow for the holidays? You’re in luck! 

Why? Because there are no lines to the major tourist spots, there are fewer people in general, and you get the best prices. You can also get bragging rights that you have visited Moscow, Russia during its famous winter.

Winter in Russia lasts about five months. It gets snowy and cold going into negative Celsius at the end of October beginning November. Spring begins in mid-March and lasts till mid-May. Summers are hot and sometimes humid.

Always check the weather forecast before your trip. Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating your winter  travel capsule wardrobe , which should fit in your suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing.

The first thing to know as you plan what to wear in Moscow in winter is how to pack for the weather.

Read these guides to get started, then read the specific details below for outfit ideas for various activities in Moscow:

• How to Pack for Cold Weather
• How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
• Extreme Cold Weather Clothing Strategies
• The Secret to Packing Light in Winter

Local women look their best anywhere and everywhere they go. Do pack nicer items and bring your makeup, too .  The following suggestions are based on a two week itinerary and contain three to four looks for the following activities:

• museums, walking around,
• going to a theater or ballet,
• going out to a restaurant and club, or
• getting invited to a random dinner at someone’s apartment, because it can happen!

Traveling to other parts of the country? Read this guide on what to wear in Russia !

Tight  |  Boots  |  Down Coat  | Thermal Top  | Shawls

Walking around the downtown area

Going to Moscow is a very unique experience. Walking around Red Square , New and Old Arbat, and visiting the ice skating rink in VDNH or Gorky Park will require warm attire.

Bring a long, warm winter coat that goes to your knees and has an attached hood. Choose a down jacket like these for optimal warmth.  Russian women love fur coats–not just as a fashion statement but due to their functionality in the cold.

Add warm winter accessories such as a big, warm blanket scarf that you can also use as a hood. Don’t forget a warm hat, thermal underwear , and mittens (not gloves).

Find out why thermal underwear for women is absolutely essential for cold weather travel!

As you plan what to wear in Moscow in winter be prepared for icy conditions; bring comfortable shoes with a thick sole that are appropriate for the snow and slush. Here are a few warm waterproof leather boots  suggested by our readers. Don’t forget to wear them with warm wool socks !

General tip: wearing layers will give you more freedom in the outside-inside situation. It gets very warm in the subway underground and inside some buildings, compared to the cold outdoors. 

It’s important to note that during winter, the temperature varies from -2°C/28°F to -28°C/-18°F, which is exceptionally cold! The average is around -15°C / 5°F.

Kate Spade Knot Earrings | Kate Spade Square Studs

The one easy way to tell a tourist from a local is if they’re wearing heels and makeup. Generally speaking,  Moscow ladies take fashion, makeup, hair, and style very seriously. Bring your best attire and a splash of bling for a bit of glam.

A simple set of stud earrings can easily elevate an outfit from drab to chic. From outdoor adventures to city breaks, wear a set like  this for any trip!

Jeans | Boots | Poncho  | Sweater  | Crossbody

Going to a museum

When planning what to wear In Moscow in winter (or anytime), keep in mind that sloppy attire is frowned upon. While looking your best when traveling is always a given, you might be refused service or be simply ignored in certain places. People may treat you differently depending on how you dress. 

To a museum, wear dark denim, boots or booties, a  crossbody purse , jacket, and a shirt. Don’t forget to do your makeup and hair.

Many places may require you to check your coat so you should still have the appropriate layers to wear inside without feeling uncomfortably warm or cold. Checking your coat also allows you to stay warm when you’re outdoors but move freely indoors.

Learn how to layer clothes !

Places to visit are Diamond Fund , Red Square, the  Gum department store (pronounced like goom), and  Armoury Chamber , Tsentral’ny Dom Khudozhnika ,  Pushkin Museum and Tretyakov Gallery .

Black Dress |  Drop Earrings  | Dress Pump

To a theater or ballet

Winter is the time to visit the world famous Bolshoi Theater. If you’re lucky enough to get tickets, then The Nutcracker is the one to see! I would advise getting there one hour early, order some champagne and sandwiches, and check out the crowd. There are plenty of other theaters that are not as famous but equally as good.

Floor length gowns aren’t necessary or practical, so bring a cocktail dress, shoes, evening clutch, jewelry, and do your makeup and hair. Tip: gorgeous jewelry can dress up a versatile LBD.

Do not wear denim to an opera or ballet!

Jeans | Boots |  Dress  |  Crossbody Bag

If you are a guest in someone’s house

Russians do like to invite people into their homes. Dress modestly but with great attention to detail as a well dressed appearance is always appreciated. You can wear dark denim jeans, a sweater, jewelry, a nice bag, and boots.

Please remember to always take off your shoes when in someone’s house. It is considered rude to walk in street shoes at home. So pack your party socks or tights!

Top  |  Pants |   Earrings |  Dress Pump

Moscow is a hub of amazing places to eat. One thing’s for sure–you’ll never be hungry. It caters to all budgets and styles. If you’re eating on a budget, then your daytime attire will suit you perfectly.

If you plan to dine at nice restaurants or visit clubs, wear a  cocktail dress, black tights, heels, and a clutch. Alternatively, wear leather pants with a flattering long sleeve blouse and jewelry. 

General tip : If you plan on dining out, do make a reservation on Fridays and weekends. Otherwise there are plenty of places to choose from. Local favorites include Chaihana , Valenok , Ludi Kak Ludi and any cafe in Kitai Gorod.

Moscow is a non-stop hub of an always-moving machine. You should definitely go and enjoy yourself even during winter! A post on what to wear in Moscow during summer is coming up soon. Stay tuned!

What are your tips on what to wear in Moscow in winter? Share in the comments!

Please note: Most of Europe’s budget airlines have this carryon bag allowance: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airline’s baggage rules in advance.

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

For more tips, please read these Europe packing lists:

Suggested travel resources:

• Lonely Planet Russia (Country Guide)
• Travel Shoes for Europe
• The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe

Please read our Ultimate Packing List for Europe featuring stylish outfits and travel tips for 9 countries.

I hope you liked this post on what to wear in Moscow in winter. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio: Julia K is a travel blogger who believes in utilizing every item in her luggage 101%. When at home, she likes to explore what’s new in the world of travel fashion, food, and travel gadgets. Follow her on Instagram ,  Facebook , Twitter and her blog .

11 Comments

Hello! I am Gong yo travel yo Moscow soon but I dont wear pants too much just once in a week , so could you tell me what dresses can I wear or skirts and how can I be warm and if boots or booties can combined with dresses. Another question is How can I walk with highheels in winter if there is snow?

Hi Avril, thank you for reaching out. Have a look at this article for ideas for how you can layer and accessorize your dresses strategically to keep you warm: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/versatile-dresses-one-dress-many-ways/ You might also find this article interesting about how to style your outfits with ankle boots: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-wear-ankle-boots/ If you have any more questions about packing for Moscow, I would recommend that you join TFG’s free facebook community and post them there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It is a fabulous group of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and suggestions to share. Hope this helps answer your question. Have an amazing time! ?

Traveling to Moscow end of March and first of April. Do women wear fur coats at this time of year? If yes, does the colorof the fur matter. Would it be lighter coats–snow leopard, silver saga fox or is a dark coat of fake cur acceptable? Or would a puffer coat be advisable with a beanie with fox fur pompom? Or would a wool full length cap be appropriate? Thanks

Hi Leslie, fur coats are a common fashion style, because they keep you toasty and warm, and look fantastic. It would depend on the temperatures, I would recommend that you check the weather forecast closer to your departure dates to ensue you have packed the most appropriate clothing for the weather. Our readers are the best at answering questions like yours, so to get you as much feedback as possible, I have gone ahead and scheduled your question to appear on TFG’s facebook page. Please keep you eyes out for our readers replies from Wednesday: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/ Hope this helps. Have an incredible trip!! 🙂

Hi Leslie, here is the response from facebook for your question: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/posts/2250868851603437 Hope this helps!

I’m a girl who has only lived in warm weather. I have never experienced winter like in moscow. I have dumb questions about shoes and attire. If going to the ballet with heels, do you bring your boots to walk outside and inside?

Also, can you wear winter snow boots inside a university for a long time? I bought the sorels Joan of arctic and winter carnivals. Will they be too hot for inside? Do I need to bring extra pair of shoes?

Hi Ninotchka, thank you for your question. Let me look into this for you! 🙂

Would love to see a packing list for a river cruise to Russia in the spring!!

Will keep it in mind for a future post!

Thanks so much for this article! It is so hard to find advice for winter/snowy travel. It is still about layering! Leggings under my skinny jeans. I wear my winter boots (Sorel with fur trim) on the plane, and my marmot long “down defender” water resistant coat Squishes down in the packing cubes.

Thanks for sharing Alanna! Glad you found this article helpful!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.