4 best outdoor jackets

Outdoor jackets are essential pieces of clothing designed to provide protection and comfort in various outdoor activities and weather conditions. They are commonly associated with outdoor recreation and sports and are available in different types and styles. Here's what you should know about outdoor jackets:

  1. Materials: Outdoor jackets are made from a wide range of materials, each offering specific benefits:

    • Down: Down jackets are insulated with natural bird feathers (usually goose or duck down). They are known for their excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and compressibility.
    • Down Alternative: These jackets use synthetic insulation materials that mimic the warmth of down.They are typically hypoallergenic and perform well in wet conditions.
    • Hardshell: Hardshell jackets are designed to be waterproof and windproof. They are made from materials like Gore-Tex and are excellent for keeping you dry in rainy or snowy conditions.
    • Softshell: Softshell jackets are more flexible and breathable than hardshells. They offer a balance between weather resistance and breathability, making them suitable for various outdoor activities.

  2. Insulation: Insulated jackets, such as down or synthetic jackets, provide warmth by trapping air and preventing heat loss. The amount of insulation varies, with some jackets being lightweight for cool weather and others being heavily insulated for extreme cold.

  3. Waterproofing: Some outdoor jackets are treated with waterproof coatings or membranes to keep you dry in rainy or wet conditions. Look for jackets with high waterproof ratings for better performance in heavy rain.

  4. Breathability: Breathable jackets allow moisture and sweat to escape, preventing you from getting too sweaty and uncomfortable during physical activities. Softshell jackets are known for their breathability.

  5. Features: Outdoor jackets often come with various features to enhance functionality:

    • Hoods: Many jackets have adjustable hoods to protect your head from rain, wind, or cold.
    • Pockets: Multiple pockets, both inside and outside the jacket, provide storage for essentials like smartphones, wallets, or gloves.
    • Zippers: High-quality zippers with storm flaps and waterproof seals help keep water out.
    • Adjustable Cuffs and Hem: These features allow you to customize the fit and seal out the elements.
    • Ventilation: Some jackets have underarm zippers or vents to allow for additional airflow when you start to heat up.

  6. Versatility: Outdoor jackets are designed for a wide range of activities, including hiking, skiing, climbing, camping, and everyday wear. Choose a jacket based on the specific needs of your outdoor pursuits.

  7. Layering: Outdoor enthusiasts often use a layering system with jackets to regulate temperature and moisture. A base layer, insulating layer, and outer layer (jacket) work together to keep you comfortable.

  8. Sizing and Fit: Proper sizing and fit are crucial for optimal performance and comfort. Consider the layering you plan to do underneath the jacket when choosing the size.

  9. Care and Maintenance: Follow care instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure the longevity and performance of your outdoor jacket. Regular cleaning and re-waterproofing may be necessary.

In conclusion, outdoor jackets are vital components of outdoor clothing, offering protection from the elements and helping you stay comfortable during various outdoor activities. Choosing the right type of jacket with the appropriate features and materials is essential for a successful outdoor experience.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best outdoor jackets on the market
  

Wantdo Women's Mountain Waterproof Ski Jacket Windproof Rain Jacket Winter Warm Snow Coat

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price
  • Warm fabric: professional waterproof coating, fuzzy lining and durable fabric, using 240 grams of polyester fiber to ensure the best thermal insulation. Loose style, quick-dry material.
  • Machine wash & Hand wash (Recommended)
  • Waterproof: The waterproof raincoat can work under the pressure head above 10000mm. When you are outdoors, keep your body always dry and comfortable, and you can also resist rainy or foggy weather.
  • Windproof: 1) Adjustable hook and loop cuffs can help seal and keep warm. 2) Internal windproof buckle skirt, internal drawstring hem, detachable and adjustable storm hood help avoid wind. 3) The wear-resistant soft shell has high wind resistance.
  • Multifunctional pockets: 2 hand pockets with zippers, 1 chest pocket with zippers (passports or cards can be stored), 1 large internal mesh pocket, 1 internal secure media pocket for keychain, mobile phone, wallet and other accessories.
  • Size description: Jackets are available in standard fits. Please choose US size.
  • Best use: This windbreaker ski jacket is ideal equipment for downhill skiing, snowboarding, snow sports, hiking, rock climbing and other winter outdoor sports.

User questions & answers

Question: I deliver newspapers at night and nost jackets i get dont allow me maneuverability how is this for arms
Answer: There is alot of room in the arms, plus has an extra layer that covers wrist area so even if you raise your arm, the jacket will stay in place and keep you warm
Question: I'm 5'8 and 145lbs, i plan to still have layers since im going to alska. Should i get Large or xLarge
Answer: I have learned clothes made in China, that you need to add 3-4 sizes. Larger. I order’d several things on Amazon made in China nothing worked. I had to get a couple clothing from large to size 3X and 4X ridiculous. I now ask. I will now ask where they are made. We need to supply people this information.. very dissapointed.
Question: Would this be enough protection against NYC’ mid-january weather
Answer: Yes! I went skiing in 7-12 degree weather with active daily snow (and several squalls) with two layers underneath and still managed to sweat.
Question: This jacket is suitable for what temperature
Answer: This is a very warm coat. I live in South Dakota where temperatures reach -35° or lower. This coat will definitely keep you warm in -0° or lower.

Product features

Wantdo women's snow jacket

75D*150D Polyester Shell with PU membrane

This waterproof ski jacket is made from 75D*150D Polyester, which is waterproof, windproof, durable and stain repellent.

Special high-density fabric and coating, film composite process to obstruct the air intrusion effectively and works well on windproof.

The Warm Winter Snow Coat features 240g fuzzy lining to combine max warmth and softness.

Ergonomic 3-structured cutting and fuzzy lining can provide enough warmth for outdoor life.

Detachable Hood

The adjustable removable hood provides added warmth and act as a safeguard against cold wind and frigid temperatures to keep your head and ears cozy and warm.

Zipped side pocket

Side pockets with zippers can safely store large items such as tools. The large side pockets also provide extra space for keeping your hands warm in winter.

Chest pocket

The zippered chest pocket can better secure small items such as keys, cash, cards, etc. The small rope on the zipper can easily unzip the zipper even if you wear a pair of gloves.

Inner warm fleece

Compared to the traditional skiing jacket, the warm fleece is skin friendly and can prevent static electricity. There are warm fleece in the pocket, which can keep your hands warm and comfortable in winter.

Columbia Men's Watertight II Jacket

Columbia Men's Sportswear

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Columbia's rain jackets work around the clock to protect you from the outdoor elements. This Columbia Men's Watertight II Jacket is a rainy-day staple for its lightweight, waterproof and breathable design.

The details of this jacket are essential for any rainy day. Crafted of 100% nylon material, this rain jacket is guaranteed to be waterproof; the seam-sealed construction keeps you dry while sealing the cold air out. Zippered pockets are featured on each side to secure your small items. Adjustable, velcro cuffs and an adjustable drawcord hem help give this jacket a customizable fit. Lastly, the packable silhouette make storing this staple easy.

This packable rain jacket is available in a range of sizes and colors to accommodate many styles and fits. To ensure the size you choose is just right, utilize our sizing chart and the following measurement instructions: for the sleeves, start at the center back of your neck and measure across the shoulder and down to the wrist. If you come up with a partial number, round up to the next even number. For the chest, measure at the fullest part of the chest, under the armpits and over the shoulder blades, keeping the tape measure firm and level.

  • Shell: 100% Nylon; Lining: 100% Polyester
  • Imported
  • Zipper closure
  • Machine Wash
  • ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Columbia Men's Watertight II Jacket is crafted of a waterproof nylon shell durable enough to withstand anything from drizzle to downpour at a moment's notice.
  • HANDY FEATURES: This rain jacket features an abrasion resistant chin guard, two zippered side pockets, elastic cuffs, and an elastic hem.
  • COMFORT & WARMTH: Crafted of a waterproof 100% nylon shell, this rain jacket is lightweight while remaining protective. It also packs into your hand pocket.

User questions & answers

Question: Does this fit well over the Columbia Steens fleece
Answer: The hood does not fold up into the collar. The entire jacket "folds" up into one of the side pockets.
Question: What is the sleeve length in inches of an XLT size
Answer: Mine was about a Nalgene tall and Nalgene wide half Nalgene thick.
Question: does the hood fold up into the collar
Answer: They run true to size, very comfortable.
Question: How big is it when packed? A football/Nalgene/cantalope? Thanks
Answer: The laces are very long. After lacing the boots I have more that 12 inches of study lace. I use a double knot to ensure they stay tied.

Dooy Men's Cycling Jacket Windproof Bike Jacket with Detachable Sleeves Running Vest Lightweight Windbreaker High Visibility

Dooy

Based on 69 reviews Check latest price

Product description

ABOUT US

Dooy provides the service of outdoor cycling and sports clothes, dedicated to bringing better products and experiences to the customer.

Whether cycling, hiking, running, traveling, or other outdoor sports, Dooy cycling jacket with detachable sleeves is an ideal choice.



FEATURE

① Detachable sleeves design can easily convert the cycling jacket to vest base on your like or weather change.

② Lightweight: The bike jacket is lightweight, easily packable, and carries.

③ Breathable: The bike vest with ventilation holes and mesh fabric, bring you the cool-wearing comfort outdoor exercise experience.

④ Windproof: The adjustable hat and hem can effectively prevent the intrusion of winds in the inner.

⑤ Zipper Pockets: On the side and back the hiking jacket with zipper pockets, which can store your key, card, or other little items.

⑥ Reflective Design: On the front and back have reflective elements, increasing the safety of night riding.



SPECIFICATION

Color：Yellow, Grey (New Color)

Composition: 100% polyester

Applicable season: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Function：Windproof, Quick-Drying, Water-resistant, Breathable, UV-resistant, Ultra-light, Anti-static, Tear-resistant.



PACKAGE

1*cycling jacket

1*after-selling card

  • 100% Polyester
  • 【Detachable sleeve】The shoulder of a cycling jacket mens is designed with a convenient zipper, which can quickly detachable the sleeves, use it as a long sleeve jacket, or vest according to the climate change. It has a wider range of use and more cost-effective.
  • Zipper closure
  • 【Ventilation System & Breathable】The cycling jacket for men direct-vent panels in the back provide superior ventilation; And the underarms use the microporous fabric to enhance ventilation, it’s convenient for perspiration, and it can keep you dry during outdoor sports.
  • 【Lightweight & Windproof】The men's cycling jacket is made of 100% polyester, very lightweight, and soft. It can provide UV, wind protection, and prevent water splash, mist, and drizzle. The adjustable hood also can block the wind and protect your head from the sun.
  • 【Reflective Design】Dooy cycling jacket with the reflective element on front and back to keep you safe in darkness. Perfect for cycling, running, hiking, or other outdoor activities.
  • 【Pratical Design & Conveince】This bike jacket is designed to be for all cyclists. The back hem is longer for extra coverage. Adjustable hem design not only can block the wind but also can make sure the running jacket fits your body and perfectly placed.
  • 【Multi-Pockets】Two side zipper pockets and one big pocket on the back of cycling windbreaker to ensure you have enough space for storing phones, keys, money, energy bar, etc. The back zipper pocket is also a storage bag to store the cycling jacket.

User questions & answers

Question: How does the size fit? Loose or tight based on the chart they give you? Thanks
Answer: Most likely. It is an electrical apparatus with wiring and if water were to splash into the vents, well that would probably be disastrous. Not to mention that over time it would probably rust the frame.
Question: What is the size of the jacket when packed down? I would like to store this in my cycling hip pack
Answer: No, this unit either comes with pebbles as an option or logs as an option.

Amazon Essentials Men's Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Puffer Jacket

Amazon Essentials

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

An Amazon brand - Cold-weather style is easy with this versatile water-resistant lightweight puffer jacket featuring a full-zip front and stand-up collar

Amazon Essentials is focused on creating affordable, high-quality, and long-lasting everyday clothing you can rely on. Our line of men’s must-haves includes polo shirts, chino pants, classic-fit shorts, casual button-downs, and crew-neck tees. Our consistent sizing takes the guesswork out of shopping, and each piece is put to the test to maintain the highest standards in quality and comfort.

  • Shell: 100% Nylon; Lining: 100% Nylon; Fill: 100% Polyester
  • Imported
  • Zipper closure
  • Machine Wash
  • Cold-weather style is easy with this versatile water-resistant lightweight puffer jacket featuring a full-zip front and stand-up collar
  • With a stand-up collar, zip pockets and elasticized cuffs; packs neatly into included carrying bag with drawstring closure
  • Outfit the entire family with comfortable, quality clothing from Amazon Family

User questions & answers

Question: Bottom hem adjustable
Answer: Does not seem to be too puffy to me. It might if you stuff alot of things into it.
Question: where is this produced
Answer: I would call it a jacket as opposed to a sweater, but I suppose it has characteritics of both. Does it matter what you call it?
Question: Im 5'6 and 154 pound. What size should I buy
Answer: The pocket is in the front, connected (not (2) pockets) and zippered.
Question: Does this jacket have an inside pocket big enough for a cell phone
Answer: I'm 5'7 190lbs XL fits well for me.

Latest Reviews

View all