20 Best Waterproof Jackets For Hiking (2023 Updated)

TL;DR: – Water repellant failed on first use after 2hrs of consistent mod/heavy rain. Held up until that point – Jacket fit true to size for me (size: Medium, Height: 5′ 7″, weight: 160lbs) – Seemed to breath well, no problems with sweating – Lightweight & packable – Stopped mild winds, even after becoming compromised Recommend to/for: Day hiker, light passing rain NOT recommend to/for: Thru hikers, Very wet climates, Multiple day backpacking trips ======Full read======== Me: 30 something; avid backpacker & hiker; was looking for a light weight jacket to bring on the PCT I just recently purchased this jacket (Blue).

We had some large rain storms over the holiday weekend so I decided to put the jacket through a test. (Rain actually caused major flooding wear I live) I did a small 8. 5 mile day hike that was a mixture of being in the green tunnel and exposed with no tree cover.

The rain was constant and moderate and heavy volumes coming down, wind was 10-15 mph, temperature ~70. ===Water proofing/resistance==== After about 1 1/2 to 2 hrs into my hike the jacket failed and I started to become wet.

By the end of the hike (an hour later) I was soaked under the jacket. Things to note; I was keeping my pace slow to prevent/reduce sweating & this was the first time wearing this jacket. I took it out of the packaging that morning before leaving to hike.

===Breathing=== Side note on sweating this jacket seemed to breath well for me and I did not feel like I was trapped in green house. ===Wind breaker=== The jacket does a good job when it comes to stopping wind, even once it was compromised and letting water through.

Though wind conditions were pretty tame maxing out at around 10-15 mph. Will be testing this further in the White Mountains in the near future. ===Jacket Fit=== I am 5′ 7″ 160lbs and bought the Medium jacket.

I normally wear mediums as I have very broad shoulders. The medium fit true to size as I am use to with other jackets that are labeled as mediums. ===Durability=== If you are use to light weight gear & light rain jackets this feels normal.

I wouldn’t recommend using a jacket like this to preform prolonged rough tasks or to take a beating. Might not want to do long bush waking treks with it. This is much like any other light weight jackets on the market.

===Conclusion=== All in all I would recommend this for use in short exposures to passing light/moderate rain storms. I believe this product would do well for the average day hiker, shorter overnight backpacking trips.

The jacket should hold out long enough for you to find shelter or weather a quick passing rain storm. If you are going to purchase this it might work better if you treat it with DWR yourself before use.

You may get better results? I would NOT recommend this for thru hiking or longer backpacking trips. Reason being if you get wet on a long trip it could be very problematic.

If you want a straight-forward, very practical rain jacket that will keep you dry in just about any rainy weather, look no further. That said, this is not necessarily a jacket that will keep you too warm as it does not have any real insulation — there are other Columbia jackets that would probably tick that box at a slightly higher price range.

The material is very breathable so you don’t have to worry about getting uncomfortably clammy and ultimately more wet than if you were to try and stay dry during some warm weather drizzles. It also works fairly well as a windbreaker.

I used this as a shell over some fleece and it warded off some of those sharp wind chills pretty effectively. This also seems like it would be a good option for commuting cyclist who might need some protection from the elements but not get completely soggy with sweat.

There are no pockets other than the front hand pockets, which might be a downside for some folks, but it’s not really a big deal as the front pockets have ample room and zippers to seal off important items.

Sizing seems pretty accurate. It looked and felt great in my size whether I added layers underneath or didn’t. The jacket folders into one of the hand pockets if you need it to be really compact for traveling.

All in all, great jacket.

Actually waterproof and the mesh lining keeps the breathablity intact. Two complaints: the pocket zippers are installed upside down, msking the pockets unable to be closed partway to keep hands warm and water out.

With your hands in the pockets, the wright of your hands fully unzips the pocket. The hood needs a velcro adjustment strap on the top rear side. Without a visor cap on, the hood nearly covers my face.

Jacket kept me dry in a downpour. Its light weight and packability makes this a keeper.

I think this is a good jacket if you’re looking for something to wear mostly around town and want something affordable. I tried it out on a 20 km hike with a decent amount of rain and it held up well.

I did not get wet from the rain, just the sweat from the lack of ventilation. Compared to my other (much more expensive hiking jackets) this was heavier and bulkier but I feel like this one is for daily wear.

It feels quite sturdy and the only thing I’m worried about ripping is mesh inside which shouldn’t impact the functionality. I wish the hood was better, I much prefer the style where it helps shelter your eyes from the rain.

I’m a size 10-12 and I ordered a large. I would have been better off with the medium.

I have 2 of these jackets: Black & Navy. My best friend loves my jacket so I bought her one for christmas. Jacket keeps you dry- it’s a “real” rainjacket vs all the others that leak through material.

It’s lightweight and comfortable. Some rain jackets feel like plastic. this jacket fits good and doesn’t feel like a plastic bag. I would highly recommend it to anyone. If I had any negative it would be to improve the hood- if it had an elastic cloth hoodie attached to the main hood, it would stay forward on your head better and keep the rain off your head better.

I also wish they would offer other colors, like Pink, turquoise , etc.

6?1, 200, Medium I purchased the Venture2 for some mountain hiking. This jacket is awesome. There?s enough room for a thermoball jacket and a few other layers underneath. As some have already stated in the reviews, it runs a little big as it?s designed for the purpose of layering.

But even without layers, it still fits nicely since there are drawstrings to adjust the waist. It?s packable, lightweight, has great ventilation under the arms, and looks great. If you?re debating what kind of wind/rain shell to get for your outdoor adventures, this is the one.

Get it!.

The Taupe Green/TNF Black is a great jacket. It’s a replacement for my original Grey/TNF white that has been losing it’s HyVent lining around the neck/hood area. There are some minor differences between the two but they kept the pit-zips which is what I wanted in a rain jacket.

The North Face doesn’t seem to advertise this jacket on their web site anymore so this might be the last of them. I hope not because it is a good jacket.

It’s exactly what you looks like. Rain jacket with all the basic needs. Arm pit vents, pockets, cinches, hood. Not as quality feeling as my Arcteryx, but it’s a fraction of the price. The pocket placement is better and I like that this one was actually a normal price.

I’m 5’9″ thin/athletic 140 lbs Small fit perfect.

I ordered a medium size raincoat a month ago for a trip to Iceland (and for rainy days in general). It was great protection against the rain and wind. I ordered a medium (I’m 5’2” 130pounds) and typically find myself in small or medium.

The medium was a bit big but it worked out great because I can easily wear layers without it being too tight. I also read previous comments about people not liking the placements of the zippered pockets.

I actually love them – they’re a bit higher than the norm (think bellybutton level). Color was true to photo (I ordered the tea green and have received multiple compliments). Would recommend!.

In the interest of giving an accurate description, let me say that I live in Texas. I found that the reviews from the frozen North tend to be a little generous with cold weather gear as those folks are more used to it.

We had a cold snap that dropped below 20 for a few days. I wore the parka and the bibs working outside for several hours each days with moderate movement. They were toasty warm. I read the reviews about them not being quiet, and I really can’t believe them.

The outer shell is a really soft, fleece like material, that produced not sound I could discern. If I had a complaint, is that they are too soft. I doubt they would survive any encounter with barbed wire.

The insulation is thick and heavy, around the forearms and wrists is bunches significantly. I wore them with boxers and a T-shirt underneath, so no problem. If you are planning to layer underneath, I would say, nothing with sleeves or buy a size bigger.

During the experiment, it was raining softly. I didn’t get wet, but I would not consider that a really assessment of the waterproofing.

This parka has every feature I was looking for in a hunting parka, and more. Here in Mississippi, I can wear just the outer shell for first two months of deer season. Add the liner for the cold in December and January.

It has all the pockets I want: front bellows for carrying stuff, hand warmer pockets behind the bellows, and zip chest pockets for the cell phone. The rear game pocket is great for carrying a light fleece pullover that I can put on if I get cold, or take off and store there if I get too warm.

The two way zipper is needed to keep the jacket from bunching up when sitting in a tree stand. This parka was well designed by someone who understands hunting.

Waterproof shell is loud. Not the outer fabric, but the waterproof layer underneath. It almost squeaks against the outer layer when you move. Not a problem during active rain or wind, but too loud for bow hunting on calm conditions.

I have other coats with waterproof membranes that are more quiet. Pocket layout on outer shell is great. Inner liner coat is good and warm. Liner coat should be nylon on inside of sleeves, its fabric and it is a bit tough to get on compared to nylon.

Decent coat for the price point.

I wear a size large in most North Face clothing, but this jacket is VERY large. The arm length is super long. I’ll need to return it and get a proper fitting jacket, it’s like wearing a balloon — no shape or form.

Not sure about its ability to shed water as I need to return it.

This is my second time purchasing this jacket! Material is durable. The jacket is packable, lightweight, great ventilation (pit zips). I have a long torso so it fits me true to size. I am still able to wear my Arcteryx Atom LT Hoody underneath and remain comfortable.

If you’re looking for an outdoor shell THIS IS IT!.

This is a nice general purpose rain shell. I use it as my go-to jacket for wearing around town on a rainy day. It also does well on the trail as long as you aren’t doing anything too rigorous. It’s durable and very waterproof.

It’s not the most breathable material out there but for the price point is pretty good.

This is my go to rain parka. Men’s medium (not the Eco). Great durability, great breathability, pockets are perfect. Pit zips still excellent. This is my family’s 7th. Only issue is weight. I use this for all Colorado 3 season use + short training hikes on the AT.

For the summer AT section hikes (avg ~240 miles) where the AT is not overgrown, w minimal technical needs, I’m using the EE Visp (for weight only) instead of the Marmot Precip. My EE Visp is a 2020 EE Visp, and it doesn’t have pockets (really miss the Precip pockets).

For all Colorado climbing/14er work (Nolan’s 14) I use the Precip. I didn’t choose the Eco Precip (I understand it is great) – an article or two stated the Precip material might be slightly more robust than the Eco Precip’s mtl.

Another great feature of the Precip is, the price & availability. Plus you can get it in several different colors. One con of the Precip jacket is, the internal membrane delaminating after 6 to 8 years of use (really though – that life period, for a $100 to $140 waterproof parka, is hard to beat.

I’ve use the Minimalist jacket many times, but recently had the chance to take it along on a backpacking trip in Utah’s Uinta Mountain Range. We had rain daily, and one day was particularly wet. The Minimalist jacket was perfect for the conditions, and stayed dry throughout.

I bring this jacket along on so many trips. It folds down pretty small, and it still looks brand new after all the places its been. Not as light as some water proof coating products, but the GoreTex really does its job.

Another thing I really like is the hood. It is adjustable for my head, and really goes well if I’m wearing a cap under the hood. It has a clean fit, but the bill of the hat keeps the hood up and the rain off my face.

I think it would work well without a cap, but it’s so good with a cap that I have learned to gear up with a cap when using the hood.

Been out with my nine year old too many times; clouds come around, or night falls, wind picks up; whatever; and we’ve got to head back to the car or go hide in some shelter for a while. No excuses anymore; out comes this thing; and swoosh; instant additional 20 degree protection from the elements.

Me? I feel like a proper parent; because I’m now able to pop this thing out of the backpack. Haha, other parents looking over at me like I’m super dad when I whip this thing out of the pack; kids looking at me like I’m Captain Outdoorsman or something.

Nothing beats the bright eyed full pupil dilation look from a kid either. Highly recommended++ My kid is 55″; and el chunko at 105 pounds; evenly distributed top bottom; arms legs chest waist etc. The size L fits him; with just a little bit of wiggle room when worn over a t-shirt/long sleeve shirt combo.

*add a small “S” clip to the hanging loop – makes it too easy to hang to a tent strap, or inside the camper*.

I am preparing for my trip to Alaska next April. Should find myself in a lot of rain. This jacket is perfect. Proud to wear North Face products. Fit is great. I am planning to wear a smaller puffer under as necessary and this will work.

Color is outstanding.

This is my secret bad Marmot packable rain shell. I still have my first but it’s been claimed by my Misses! I researched and compared a whole selection of products to get the most highly rated gear after all it for me by me.

I couldn’t find my criteria at an acceptable price. I wanted packable, wind and rain protection, pit zips, Velcro cuff, storable hood and pockets. My wife and I travel and find out of the way places to explore on bike or hike.

This jacket is priced right. There are other Great jackets out there but backpacking wasn’t our focus. Lightweight and functional and a good price. I picked up the jacket one size larger again for layering.

This is a replacement for an old Precip jacket that was the same in all ways except that the velcro closures are a little bigger now. The previous iteration travelled globally for at least 15 years before the interior waterproof lining started to peel off at the top of the shoulders.

In all that time no waterproof treatment was reapplied and it worked perfectly to keep me dry. It makes for a great wind and waterproof layer over a thin puffy jacket or other warm layers, but also feels nice over a t-shirt.

It’s a nice lightweight material that packs well. For this relatively lower price point, compared to other high end brands, I have no complaints about having to buy a new one after all this time and did not hesitate to get the same one!.

This is a really nice jacket. I would consider this a mid-weight windbreaker that is similar to another black one I have. I find I can wear these pretty much through every season, even in winter unless it’s bitterly cold out but the fabric is substantial that it protects from wind & water, thus, with a long sleeve shirt, sweater or hoodie, AND, that I’m warm blooded anyway, it’s great for cold days as I often find a winter coat too warm if going in/out to the grocery, etc.

It’s almost too warm for summers in the midwest but that’s ok. I do find that Columbia women though do run small so I always have to go into the plus size, usually a 2X for non-restricting comfort even though I’m typically a XXL misses.

The 2X fits perfect with room for a sweater or hoodie.

I ordered a medium size and noticed right away that it runs a little big, especially the sleeves. This is OK if you’re wearing a thick sweater underneath. Maybe the fit is purposely roomy to allow air to circulate? I tested the jacket to see if it’s really waterproof, and so far it is.

Time will tell if, wash after wash, the waterproof finish will last. I really like the Deep Marine color and the jacket seems well-made. Fit is not the best for my taste, but I guess I’ll get used to it.

Overall, this seems like a decent rain jacket.

I haven’t actually worn the jacket yet, but I do like the color and style. Bought 2 colors because I couldn’t decide. I am planning a trip to Italy in the fall and wanted a nice looking jacket that could protect against light rain if needed.

I originally ordered a size up as recommended. I ended up trying to return/exhange because they were too big. I am 5’9″ and weight approx 160. The large is just fine. I had ordered XL. They no longer had a size L in the turquoise blue so I am just keeping the XL.

A little bigger than I wanted but I can make it work since I am taller than average. I don’t think these run small. Wish I would have just ordered L based on the size charts.

Well made jacket and liked the navy and orange version. Unfortunately, it runs too large even with a thick long sleeve shirt to fit well. My son runs between a L and XL. The XL is too baggy.

Bought this for some backpacking and 14ers in Colorado for a couple of weeks. Lots of rain and this coat got the job done time and time again. Fits well, arms are a bit long but fits well with a backpack.

No issues with waterproofing or leaking. Hiked almost 4 miles in moderate rain and it held up great!.

Lost count; either my 3rd or 4th in the last 20 years. XL size seem to run a little bit bigger this time around. But thats ok i can use it in the New England winters as a shell over multiple layers. Still placed another order for a L as my edc in my backpack.

i gave up my pickup truck 4 years ago and walk about 5-6 miles a day.

For under $30. 00, I wasn’t expecting much. maybe a single use item. This item exceeded all my expectations, and then some. It’s a bit stiff at first, but the material does loosen up over time. When they say waterproof and breathable , they mean it.

I was in constant heavy rain for three long days. this jacket performed as well as or better than my goretex. Not one drop of water got through and I was totally comfortable because the material does breath.

Very durable as well. I purchased this so I wouldn’t risk damaging my expensive rain gear. now, this is my favorite. My only regret is that I didn’t buy the pants when I had the chance.

Before Use: Great value for the product. Will serve our needs as it is light weight. After Use: Sad to say, the suit did not hold up in rainy weather. My son went backpacking with his Troop at Philmont in New Mexico for two weeks.

There were three other boys with the same rainsuit. All of them were drenched for the two weeks, as it rained nearly every day. Those that had other gear were much dryer and warmer. I would only recommend for light drizzle weather or snow, not rain.

I bought these to use on my kayak and keep with me to keep me dry and use as a wind block on milder days. I have used and abused them for several years now and for the price they are ok and did what I needed them to.

The jacket has held up better than the pants though. The pants busted the seams out of the bottom after just months of abuse. 14 hours in a kayak is an extreme way to test these out so It’s hard to say under normal usage how they would do.

The jacket is still usable but I have ripped the bottom of the zipper off the fabric trying to go over my life jacket instead of under it. I did buy an extra large (size up) to allow for layers. In my opinion where these really shined were as a wind block.

Layers underneath with the jacket as a wind block worked really good on some pretty cold day in the 40’s. I would buy again but expect to replace every couple years.

I bought this to replace an old one I bought 3 years ago. The waterproofing works very well and is comfortable to wear in warm and cold weather alike. There have been some stock issues recently but it was well worth the wait – the cobalt with green highlights is my favourite colour.

One star docked just because the old one’s colour has definitely faded a little despite only ever using tech washes, and the taped seams started to come off (though this might be because I did not set my machine to slow spin).

But overall a very good coat – I have bought it twice after all!.

We’ve just bought our third Navy Rudi Jacket! Our son had one in preschool & reception of school, one in years 1 & 2 and we’ve just bought a bigger one as he’s in Juniors and his last one is getting a little short.

They’re lovey and warm, comfortable and easy for them to zip up (no flap over lapping the zip, which is tricky on some coats). Our son is 7. 5 and of average build and height. The jackets come up a little big.

This third one we’ve just bought us age 7/8. His age 5/6 still fits in the body on him but is too short now. Jacket also has a smooth lining inside the sleeves, which stops school jumpers getting caught up.

Each one he’s grown out of we’ve been able to pass to someone else, as they really keep in good condition too. Would definitely recommend for a smart, warm, waterproof jacket.

Loved the colour when it arrived as not bright pink as I expected more a winey pink. This was to replace my old pacamac which I have worn out. Got an 2XL as same size as old one unfortunately I wouldn’t have been able to wear anything underneath so had to go back.

Returned to shop in Glasgow Fort but could only get a refund and told to order bigger size online again. I await a refund for returned item. Got the bigger size through and it’s fab.

What attracted me to this jacket was the unzip-able arm pits for ventilation. Only thing better is if it had a ventilated back too. Make sure to order a size DOWN. Bought a 2x and had to order an xl to replace it.

This jacket is not waterproof and is not breathable. It is not comfortable on bare skin. I expect more from North Face.

I bought it fir a Father’s Day present for my dad. He loves it for the Oregon coast. Loves it. Keeps him warm and dry

Stylish super lightweight without being stiff. Adjustable velcro wrist band to cinch the sleeves if sleeves are always too long. Belt has stiffener in it so that it can create that belted silhouette.

No idea how well it turns rain. But I do not plan to wear this on long hikes and it will work well enough for short walks and running errands. In a heavy coldish wind, it did afford decent windbreaker protection.

And I appreciate the slightly longer length. The dark navy called Dark Nocturnal is truly dark, and I liked that. The zippers in the pockets are a nice functional detail. Size up if you plan to layer under this piece, but I plan to wear this in spring/summer/fall so I bought my true size to just wear over tee shirts.

I love the style of this jacket. The material is just what I was looking for, lightweight and unlined. I got the Flint Grey which is beautiful, it has tan undertones. The sleeves are too long by a good inch however there are Velcro tabs so they can be adjusted.

The zipper is a little touchy but I just take it slow and so far it’s worked fine. At full price it should be perfect, however, I got it on sale and since I love the style and color I’m keeping it. So far I’ve worn it in light rain and on a windy day and it has performed well.

I’m 5’5” and 220lbs and got the XXL.

I live in Chicago, where rain protection is needed, and umbrellas are pointless. Enter this jacket. It is a great windbreaker and handles light rain as long as you aren’t out for extended periods of time, but I’ve gotten caught in a deluge more than once that the rain went straight through all the seams, including on the chest, where it looked as though I had been lactating straight through my clothes.

Not a good look on your way to work! I’ll keep wearing it as a windbreaker, but I’m gonna need a legit rain coat, now, too.

I bought this product from KOHB metro connect. I visited KPHB Manjeera Mall store. I was advised that this jacket is usefull for riding in the rain. As stick was not available i went to Metro Connect store and bought it.

Day on was good. Day two i started to observe water leakage near abdomen and pockets. Disappointed with this product. 2999 and now advised to take a 5999 one for water protection. I will get a better riding jacket at that price.

I really want to return this product. Muthu Rajendra has tried his best to solve this but it is not in his hands how the product performs. I need a return of this product.

I have used it only few times so far. Bought for a trip to Peru Inca Trail trek. Didn’t actually need it on the trail as we had good sunny weather and fleece was enough of an extra layer. However, I did use it for day trip to Rainbow Mountain and it was a perfect garment.

While we still had sunny weather, the winds are strong there. This jacket provides good wind protection with fleece under it. I like that it is not very flimsy, it has a bit of substance to it, it’s not very thin which I like as it can be used as a warmth layer and not just for rain/wind.

The hood is very substantial as well with good coverage all around. The whole jacket feels good as long as what you want is more than a poncho. I only used once in a quick walk thru a fairly substantial rain for 10minutes, it provided good protection for that purpose, my pants still got all wet though, lol.

Anyway, like the jacket, definitely looks to be useful for any future hiking needs.

In terms of waterproofnes, the jacket does just fine. It does require an ocasional re-spray with that special water-repellent spray, but even without it, you will not get wet. With the spray on, the jacket itself almost does not get wet.

The under arms zippers are useful when you feel like over-heating, which does happen with this jacket as it is not very breathable. It did it’s job during my 9 day rain hike.

Bought this jacket for my husband and he gives it 5 stars! Ideal for shopping trips and walks. Good waterproof jacket.

Well fitting and very waterproof, I’m 5’11 and 173lb and the large fits like a glove enough space for movement

Incredibly priced piece of kit, just a little tight if anything, and I’m quite a slim Medium

I wear this pretty much year round in the UK, as it can be a light raincoat or a full winter jacket. The pockets are great and the armpit zips are handy for helping let out some steam. The warm liner can be a bit sweaty if you’re moving fast so I tend to use wool layers instead, but still a very good buy.

I loved this jacket since I saw it in store! It is super conferrable and really warm. I love the concept of 3 in 1 and that it is detachable! 100% recommend

I’m waiting for new color for the last 2 years. By the way my old one is 5 years old the only problem is the right side pocket has broke. I need a new one asp.

I purchased the nano-air because of all the reviews saying how breathable it was. Since I run warm all the time, I was looking for a warm layer for high output activities below 32F/0C with only a t-shirt or a LS lightweight or midweight base layer.

I’ve worn it with only a t-shirt, LS lightweight or LS midweight capilene baselayer backpacking in temps between 10F/-12C to 40F/4C and found it too warm and not as breathable as reviewers have indicated.

Even in wind gusts, it hasn’t felt drafty. The jacket is nice and soft. It isn’t overly compressable, but is manageable not taking over lots of space in my 20L backpack. If I am strolling around or walking the dog, I find it plenty warm with just a t-shirt when it’s 20F/-7C.

Again, I run warm, though. The cuffs are cut weird, and I would rather have had thumb loops. The hood is comforable and I like when zipped it can cover my mouth. When zipped I roll the hood and it becomes like a warm neck gator.

It is a comfortable lounging around jacket, too.

Bought mine in 2015. It was expensive but has been excellent but. I climb, ski, hike, mountain bike, camp, and work in the woods. This jacket has been with me on every hike, every camping trip, every field day, and pretty much every other mission that requires good technical gear since I bought it.

It’s quite breathable but is very warm once you stop moving. The hood is perfect, the pockets are perfect, mine has 2 small chest pockets on the outside that are great for lip balm, earplugs or other small items you want easy access to when you’re on the go.

The outer fabric has been the only weak point and the jacket now has about 20 holes in it, some big ones, but I covered them with tenacious tape (provided for free at the Patagonia store!) and it should last another bunch of seasons.

Can’t say I’m surprised the fabric has ripped as I’ve done so much bushwhacking with this thing.

Im an active cyclist & walker and have a range of jackets/tops that fall on either end of the warmth spectrum. I wanted something in between that was overly bulky or made me do the ‘jacket on jacket off’ scenario.

I got this on sale and ordered the xs. The amount of loft/bulk is great, doesn’t swarm my petite frame and the material super soft. Feels great against skin & so far has demonstrated good insulation.

Only problem is Patagonia sizing. It’s really inconsistent. I’ve had to return xs in other styles as they are just too big & cut square. This is slim fit so I expected it to be tighter (what I want) but it’s really tight across the chest.

I’m near flat chest/A cup so good luck to anyone with boobs!.