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Best Lightweight Jacket For Hiking (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for the perfect outdoor jacket for your next hiking adventure, you might consider a lightweight jacket. It's the ideal option to keep you warm during your trek without feeling weighed down. When choosing the right lightweight jacket for hiking, there are a few factors you should consider.

First, think about the weather conditions you may encounter on your journey. Will you be hiking in cold or wet weather? If so, you'll want to look for a jacket with insulation and that is rain-resistant. Also, check to see if the jacket is breathable since hiking can be a sweaty endeavor. And finally, consider the fit of the jacket. You'll want one that allows for layering and movement, as you’ll likely wear it over other clothing layers.

Are you worried about packing too much weight for your hike? A lightweight jacket for hiking is the perfect solution. It's designed to offer warmth and protection without adding weight, making it an essential outdoor accessory. But how do you choose the right jacket for you? What materials should you consider? And what features are essential for a good outdoor jacket? Keep reading to find out our top tips for choosing the perfect lightweight hiking jacket!

Are you looking for a jacket that can keep up with your active lifestyle? Do you want to stay warm and comfortable on the trails without worrying about adding extra weight? Then a lightweight jacket for hiking may be just what you need. Check out our guide to choosing the perfect jacket for your next outdoor adventure.

10 Best Lightweight Jacket For Hiking

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts engaging in activities such as hiking, climbing, and skiing.
2
This product is ideal for protecting against rain and wind during outdoor activities or daily commutes.
3
It is ideal for women who need a lightweight and waterproof rain jacket for outdoor activities like hiking and travel.
4
Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and climbing, as well as everyday wear in cold weather.
5
The product is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and running, providing warmth and breathability.
6
Ideal for outdoor activities in cool weather, such as golfing and hiking, due to its lightweight and thermal properties.
7
Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and traveling due to its lightweight waterproof design and hooded feature.
8
This product is ideal for outdoor activities in cold weather, such as hiking, hunting, and camping.
9
Ideal for women who want a versatile shirt jacket with a stylish design, suitable for wearing in open country areas.
10
The product is ideal for keeping warm and comfortable during outdoor activities in cold weather.
This product is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts engaging in activities such as hiking, climbing, and skiing.
This product is ideal for protecting against rain and wind during outdoor activities or daily commutes.
It is ideal for women who need a lightweight and waterproof rain jacket for outdoor activities like hiking and travel.
Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and climbing, as well as everyday wear in cold weather.
The product is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and running, providing warmth and breathability.
Ideal for outdoor activities in cool weather, such as golfing and hiking, due to its lightweight and thermal properties.
Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and traveling due to its lightweight waterproof design and hooded feature.
This product is ideal for outdoor activities in cold weather, such as hiking, hunting, and camping.
Ideal for women who want a versatile shirt jacket with a stylish design, suitable for wearing in open country areas.
The product is ideal for keeping warm and comfortable during outdoor activities in cold weather.

1. Rab Women's Microlight Alpine Down Jacket For Hiking, Climbing, And Skiing – Black – Small

Looking for a down jacket that can keep up with your mountain pursuits? Look no further than this packable and warm option. With a high warmth-to-weight ratio and impressive packability, this jacket is a go-to for adventures at altitude. Plus, it's made with eco-friendly materials, including recycled fabrics and ethically sourced recycled down.

The 700-fill RDS recycled hydrophobic down is lofty and warm, trapping body heat and drying quickly. And with a water-repellent treatment, this jacket can handle light flurries and chilly gusts thanks to the highly durable Pertex Quantum Ripstop outer material. But what really sets this jacket apart is the zoned baffling. The combination of micro and nano baffles increase warmth where it matters without adding bulk.

So if you're looking for a down jacket that can keep up with your mountain pursuits while also being eco-friendly, this is the perfect option for you.

Pros

  • High warmth-to-weight ratio
  • Impressive packability
  • Made with recycled fabrics
  • Insulated with ethically sourced recycled down
  • 700-fill RDS recycled hydrophobic down is lofty and warm
  • Water-repellent treatment
  • Highly durable Pertex Quantum Ripstop outer material
  • Zoned baffling increases warmth without adding bulk

2. Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket, Black/grill, Xx-Large

The Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket is a must-have for those who want to stay dry and comfortable in wet weather. It is made with Hydroplus waterproof nylon fabric, providing excellent protection against the rain. The jacket also has an attached hood that can be stowed away when not in use, as well as zippered hand pockets, adjustable sleeve cuffs, and a drawcord adjustable hem to keep you dry and prevent water from getting in.

This rain jacket has a versatile fit that is perfect for rainy days. It is also compact and packable, making it easy to store in its own chest pocket. The jacket is built to last with high-quality materials and expert stitching and craftsmanship, ensuring that it will be a long-lasting jacket you will enjoy for many seasons to come.

The Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to stay dry and comfortable in wet weather. Its convenient features and high-quality construction make it a great investment for anyone who needs reliable rain protection. With a center back length of 29 inches and Omni-shield advanced repellency, this jacket is sure to keep you dry and comfortable through any storm.

Pros

  • Hydroplus waterproof nylon fabric provides excellent protection against the rain
  • Attached hood can be stowed away when not in use
  • Zippered hand pockets, adjustable sleeve cuffs, and drawcord adjustable hem keep you dry and prevent water from getting in
  • Versatile fit that is perfect for rainy days
  • Compact and packable, making it easy to store in its own chest pocket
  • Built to last with high-quality materials and expert stitching and craftsmanship
  • Center back length of 29 inches and Omni-shield advanced repellency keep you dry and comfortable through any storm

3. Travel-Ready Women's Waterproof Windbreaker – Mosaic Blue

Experience ultimate protection from harsh weather conditions with this waterproof and windproof jacket. The DWR Finish and PU coated membrane offer superior waterproof performance, keeping you dry and comfortable in wet weather. The jacket is also critically seam-sealed to prevent water from seeping through. The attached hood with peripheral cord is highly adjustable and can be rolled into the collar when not in use. Hook-and-loop cuffs and an elastic drawcord hem block out wind and provide a secure fit. The lined chin guard adds to the comfort factor. A storm flap with a Velcro closure covers the center front zip, ensuring that no water or wind can penetrate the jacket. The jacket is also lightweight and breathable, with a strong mesh lining that adds to the breathability and transfers moisture away quickly, keeping you warm and dry without bunching up or weighing you down. The jacket is versatile and perfect for any outdoor activity, including traveling, hiking, sailing, fishing, camping, and daily wear. It also features secure-zip hand pockets and an inner pocket to safely store your phone and wallet while you're on the move.

Pros

  • Waterproof and windproof jacket with DWR Finish and PU coated membrane for superior waterproof performance in wet weather
  • Critically seam-sealed to prevent water from seeping through
  • Attached hood with peripheral cord can be rolled into the collar when not in use
  • Hook-and-loop cuffs and elastic drawcord hem block out wind and provide a secure fit
  • Lined chin guard for ultimate comfort
  • Storm flap with Velcro closure covers the center front zip to prevent water and wind from penetrating the jacket
  • Lightweight and breathable with strong mesh lining for added breathability and moisture transfer
  • Versatile jacket suitable for any outdoor activity and daily wear
  • Secure-zip hand pockets and inner pocket for safe storage of phone and wallet

4. Super/ds Women's Insulated Jacket – Mountain-Ready

Stay warm and comfortable in the high alpine with the lightweight and warm puffy midlayer. The 700-fill RDS-certified goose down retains maximum loft and warmth, while the insulated hood provides additional warmth without restricting peripheral vision. The stretch woven body offers nonrestrictive movement and durability, making it the perfect choice for outdoor activities.

The woven baffles increase durability while keeping down in place, ensuring that you stay warm even in the harshest conditions. The zippered hand and chest pockets offer storage for essentials, so you can keep your belongings safe and secure while you explore the great outdoors. The continuous channel design traps more heat than standard construction, providing excellent warmth retention.

Designed for ease of layering, the alpine fit is trim and close to the body, allowing the fabric to perform at its best. Whether you are hiking, climbing or skiing, this midlayer is the perfect addition to your outdoor wardrobe.

Pros

  • Lightweight and warm puffy midlayer
  • 700-fill RDS-certified goose down retains maximum loft and warmth
  • Insulated hood provides additional warmth without restricting peripheral vision
  • Stretch woven body offers nonrestrictive movement and durability
  • Woven baffles increase durability while keeping down in place
  • Continuous channel design traps more heat than standard construction
  • Zippered hand and chest pockets offer storage for essentials
  • Designed for ease of layering

5. Little Donkey Andy Women's Hybrid Hiking Jacket.

Stay warm and comfortable in colder weather with this hybrid design jacket. The quilted panels sewn into the front parts retain the warmth of the core area, while the breathable knitting materials on the side and back panels wick away moisture quickly to keep you dry. The brushed fleece lining provides extra warmth. It is lightweight, weighing only 330g (approx, Size S), so you can easily pack it away when not in use. The sleeves, side and back panels are made with 5% Spandex synthetic materials which stretch well, providing freedom of movement. Whether you're climbing or engaging in other activities that require free movement, this jacket is perfect for you. It's a great mid-layer that doesn't feel bulky under a hard shell coat in extreme cold conditions. It is versatile and can be used as a 3-season jacket in fall, winter, and spring. The jacket also features two side-entry hand warmer pockets with zippers for added security, two interior pockets for outdoor essentials, and a drawcord adjustable hem for a flexible fit.

Pros

  • Hybrid design with quilted panels sewn into front parts to insulate cold air and retain warmth of core area
  • Breathable knitting materials on the side and back panels wick away moisture quickly to keep you dry
  • Brushed fleece lining provides extra warmth
  • Lightweight and packs small for easy storage
  • Sleeves, side and back panels are made with 5% Spandex synthetic materials which stretch well
  • Great mid-layer that doesn't feel bulky under a hard shell coat in extreme cold conditions
  • Versatile as a 3-season jacket in fall, winter, and spring
  • Features two side-entry hand warmer pockets with zippers for added security, two interior pockets for outdoor essentials, and a drawcord adjustable hem for a flexible fit

6. Lightweight Men's Thermal Golf Pullover

Stay warm and comfortable during everyday excursions with this Men's Fleece Quarter-Zip Pullover. This midweight fleece fabric is soft and super-warm brushed fleece wicks away moisture to keep you warm and dry. With a standard fit, you can wear undershirts for additional warmth in colder weather. The quarter-zip front with a stand-up collar extends coverage and provides a custom fit, while the zipper with chin guard lets you adjust ventilation. The elastic binding at the cuffs and hem help provide an insulated feel during chilly nights and morning hikes. The flatlock seam construction minimizes rubbing and chafing, ensuring optimal comfort. It is perfect for any occasion, whether you're skiing, camping, hiking, training, running, or climbing. Please note that this Men's Fleece Quarter-Zip Pullover runs relatively smaller, so it's recommended to choose one size up if you prefer a loose-fitting.

Pros

  • Soft and midweight fleece fabric keeps you warm and delivers comfort
  • Super-warm brushed fleece wicks away moisture
  • Standard fit allows for wearing undershirts for additional warmth in colder weather
  • Quarter-zip front with a stand-up collar extends coverage and provides a custom fit
  • Zipper with chin guard lets you adjust ventilation
  • Elastic binding at the cuffs and hem help provide an insulated feel during chilly nights and morning hikes
  • Flatlock seam construction minimizes rubbing and chafing
  • Suitable for any occasion, including skiing, camping, hiking, training, running, or climbing

Cons

  • – The sizing runs relatively smaller, so it's recommended to choose one size up if you prefer a loose-fitting

7. Otu Women's Waterproof Rain Jacket Lightweight Hooded Raincoat For Hiking Travel Outdoor Pink L

Stay dry and comfortable with this waterproof and windproof softshell rain jacket for women. Featuring a superior water-resistant shell fabric and Watertight IV, this jacket proves to be highly effective in keeping you dry during rainy or overcast days. Its lightweight mesh lining effectively wicks sweat away from your body, ensuring that you feel fresh and dry all day long. Made of 100% polyester fabric, this jacket is not only breathable but also lightweight, making it easy to move around in.

With an adjustable fit, this rain jacket is perfect for everyone. Its attached tuck-away hood with adjustable drawstring provides extra guard and warmth while the adjustment drawcord hem and hook & loop cuffs seal out the cold wind and offer a flexible fit. The detachable hood provides different ways of wearing, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you are hiking, sailing, fishing, camping, or just going about your daily routine, this jacket is perfect for you.

This jacket also boasts of large capacity with its 2 zippered slash hand pockets with flap overlap and 1 inner chest pocket, which guarantees enough room for your essentials. Stay active and comfortable with this softshell rain jacket for women.

Pros

  • Waterproof and windproof
  • Breathable and lightweight
  • Adjustable fit for everyone
  • Large capacity pockets
  • Suitable for various occasions

8. Heat-Boost Puffer Coat For Outdoorsmen

Stay warm and comfortable even in harsh winter weather with Venustas Men's Heated Puffer Jacket. Filled with 90% white duck down and 10% white duck feathers, this jacket boasts excellent thermal insulation performance. The water-resistant nylon fabric shell provides added protection against the elements.

Equipped with 5 heating zones, Venustas Heated Jackets deliver superior heating performance. The chest and back heating zones heat up your core body area, while the pocket heating zones warm your belly. You can choose from 3 heating levels by simply short-pressing the power button on the chest.

Powered by a 7.4V power bank, the heating elements of the jacket heat up within seconds of powering on, providing quick and long-lasting warmth. With a full-charge battery, the heating will last for 3 hours at high level, 5 hours at medium level, and 8 hours at low level. The USB ports on the battery also allow you to charge your phones or other smart devices.

The heated down jacket features a practical design with 4 zipper pockets (2 belly zipper pockets, 1 chest zipper pocket, and 1 inside zipper pocket) for quick access. The stand-collar, adjustable hood, and wrist maintain the heat within the jacket. The hood's drawstring is even hidden in the lining, giving the puffy jacket a neat and stylish look.

This heated coat comes with a pack that includes 1x heated puffer jacket for men, 1x battery pack, and 1x travel bag, making it an ideal gift for your loved ones. After removing the battery pack, the down coat is machine washable and can endure 50+ machine wash cycles, making it easy to care for.

Pros

  • Excellent thermal insulation performance with 90% white duck down and 10% white duck feathers
  • Equipped with 5 heating zones for superior heating performance
  • Quick and long-lasting warmth powered by a 7.4V power bank
  • Practical design with 4 zipper pockets and a hidden hood drawstring for a neat and stylish look
  • Easy to care for with machine washable down coat

Cons

  • – Requires a power bank to operate heating elements
  • – Battery life may not be sufficient for extended outdoor activities

9. Legendary Whitetails Women's Standard Open Country Shirt Jacket, Glacier Bay Plaid, Medium

Introducing the Soft Cozy Shirt Jac, the perfect addition to any wardrobe. This shirt jacket is designed to keep you warm and comfortable during the colder months. The shirt jac is lined with soft poly fleece, providing a comfortable and cozy feel. The quilted, satin-lined sleeves add a touch of elegance to the jacket, making it perfect for any occasion. The side seam pockets are convenient for keeping your hands warm or storing small items. This shirt jac is a great layering piece, perfect for adding an extra layer of warmth to your outfit.

Made with high-quality materials, this shirt jac is durable and long-lasting. The soft poly fleece lining is breathable, allowing air to circulate while keeping you warm. The quilted sleeves are designed to keep you comfortable, even during long periods of wear. The side seam pockets are deep enough to hold your phone, keys, or any other small items you might need. The shirt jac is easy to care for and can be machine washed and dried.

Overall, the Soft Cozy Shirt Jac is a must-have for anyone looking for a comfortable and stylish jacket. With its soft lining, quilted sleeves, and side seam pockets, it is the perfect layering piece for any outfit. Whether you are running errands or going out for a night on the town, this shirt jac will keep you warm and comfortable all day long.

Pros

  • Soft poly fleece lining provides a comfortable and cozy feel
  • Quilted, satin-lined sleeves add a touch of elegance to the jacket
  • Side seam pockets are convenient for keeping your hands warm or storing small items
  • Great layering piece, perfect for adding an extra layer of warmth to your outfit
  • Made with high-quality materials, durable and long-lasting

10. Columbia Men's Hart Mountain Ii Half Zip Jacket, Black, Large

Stay warm and stylish with the Columbia Men’s Hart Mountain II Half Zip pullover. This sueded fleece layer is perfect for everyday use, especially when the temperatures are on the cooler side. The zippered collar allows for adjustable warmth, while the easy fit provides a wide range of motion. The classic cut design features comfortable cuffs and hemline, available in a wide range of sizes to choose from.

Made with a soft suede fleece construction, this cozy pullover provides fleece warmth that is perfect for a cool-weather hike, post-workout warmth, or a cozy recovery day indoors. It is made from 60% cotton and 40% polyester, providing a comfortable stretch that makes it a great layering option under a shell or as the top layer for those cooler days.

Columbia is known for its attention to detail, which is what sets this apparel apart from others. The highest quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and durable stitching are used to ensure that this garment is reliable and lasts for seasons to come. Stay warm and comfortable in style with the Columbia Men’s Hart Mountain II Half Zip pullover.

Pros

  • Zippered collar allows for adjustable warmth
  • Easy fit provides easy range of motion
  • Made with a soft suede fleece construction
  • Available in a wide range of sizes
  • Provides comfortable stretch that makes for great layering
  • Expert craftsmanship and durable stitching ensures a reliable garment

Best Lightweight Jacket For Hiking FAQs

Can a lightweight hiking jacket provide adequate protection from rain and wind?

A lightweight hiking jacket can provide adequate protection from rain and wind if it is made of high-quality materials and has the proper features. Look for a jacket that is waterproof and windproof, with sealed seams to prevent water from seeping in. In addition, a good hiking jacket should have a hood that can be adjusted to fit snugly around your head, and cuffs that can be tightened to keep out the wind. It's also important to consider the breathability of the jacket, as you don't want to get too hot and sweaty while hiking. Overall, a lightweight hiking jacket can be a great option for protecting you from the elements, as long as you choose one that is designed specifically for hiking and has the features you need.

How do I choose the right size and fit for a lightweight hiking jacket?

Choosing the right size and fit for a lightweight hiking jacket is important for comfortable and efficient outdoor activities. Firstly, determine your body measurements and compare them with the size chart provided by the manufacturer. This will give you an idea of which size to choose. However, keep in mind that different brands may have different size charts, so it's always best to double-check.

Next, consider the fit of the jacket. A lightweight hiking jacket should fit snugly but not be too tight. It should allow room for layering if necessary, but not be too bulky. Pay attention to the length of the jacket as well – it should be long enough to cover your lower back and not ride up when you move.

It's also important to try on the jacket and move around in it to ensure that it allows for freedom of movement. Check the functionality of the jacket's features, such as the zippers, pockets, and hood, to make sure they meet your needs.

Lastly, consider the material of the jacket. Look for a lightweight and breathable material that will keep you dry and comfortable during your hike. By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose the right size and fit for a lightweight hiking jacket that will enhance your outdoor experience.

What are the benefits of wearing a lightweight hiking jacket on the trail?

Wearing a lightweight hiking jacket on the trail comes with numerous benefits. Firstly, it protects you from the elements. When you are hiking, you never know when the weather will change. A lightweight hiking jacket can protect you from sudden rain, wind or cold temperatures. Secondly, it is easily packable. Lightweight jackets are often designed to be compact and easy to pack, which makes it convenient when you need to take it off and store it. Thirdly, it is breathable. A good quality lightweight hiking jacket will have air vents or mesh lining to help regulate your body temperature and prevent you from overheating. Fourthly, it can serve as a layering option. Lightweight hiking jackets can be worn over or under other layers, depending on the weather and your personal preference. Lastly, it can provide you with pockets for storage. Many lightweight jackets come with multiple pockets which can be used to store your essentials such as your phone, keys, wallet, or snacks. Overall, investing in a lightweight hiking jacket is a wise decision that can make your hiking experience much more comfortable and enjoyable.

What are the key features to look for in a lightweight jacket for hiking?

When looking for a lightweight jacket for hiking, there are several key features to consider. First and foremost, the jacket should be made from a durable and high-quality material that can withstand the wear and tear of outdoor activities. Additionally, the jacket should be breathable to ensure that you stay comfortable and dry, even during intense physical activity. Look for jackets that have ventilation features such as zippered vents or mesh panels to help regulate your body temperature.

Another important feature to consider is the jacket's water resistance. Depending on where you will be hiking, you may encounter rain or other forms of precipitation, so having a jacket that can keep you dry is essential. Look for jackets with a waterproof or water-resistant coating, sealed seams, and a hood to protect your head.

Finally, consider the jacket's weight and packability. A good lightweight jacket should be easy to pack and carry, taking up minimal space in your backpack. Look for jackets that can be compressed into a small size and are lightweight enough to wear for long periods without feeling weighed down. By considering these key features, you can find a lightweight jacket that will keep you comfortable and protected during your next hiking adventure.

What materials are best suited for a lightweight hiking jacket?

When it comes to choosing the best materials for a lightweight hiking jacket, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the material should be lightweight and breathable to avoid overheating during strenuous activities. Secondly, it should be durable enough to withstand the rough terrain and potential weather conditions. Lastly, it should be packable and compressible to fit easily into a backpack for convenience.

Some of the best materials for a lightweight hiking jacket include nylon, polyester, and Gore-Tex. Nylon is known for its durability and abrasion resistance, making it a great option for rugged hikes. Polyester is lightweight, quick-drying, and moisture-wicking, making it ideal for hikes in humid or wet conditions. Gore-Tex is a breathable, waterproof material that can repel rain and snow while still allowing sweat to escape.

Ultimately, the best material for a lightweight hiking jacket will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's important to consider the climate and terrain of your hiking destination, as well as the level of physical activity involved, to make the best choice.

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