When nature calls you into her wilderness, the right jacket should feel like she’s embracing you back. These carefully chosen hiking jackets offer comfort, resilience, and protection—each designed to move with you while keeping the elements out. From waterproof shells to breathable layers, each pick blends thoughtful design with earthy practicality. Whether you’re treading misty trails or navigating wind-swept ridgelines, these jackets feel like coming home—wherever you roam.

1. Patagonia Men’s Torrentshell 3L Jacket

The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket offers a 3-layer H2No® Performance Standard shell, providing waterproof and breathable protection. Its microfleece-lined neck enhances comfort during extended wear.

Designed for durability, this jacket is suitable for various hiking conditions. Its packable nature allows for easy storage when not in use.

Pros:

• 3-layer waterproof/breathable H2No® shell

• Microfleece-lined neck for added comfort

• Adjustable hood with laminated visor

• Ventilating pit zips

• Fair Trade Certified™ sewn

Cons:

• No insulation for cold weather

• Limited color options

• May feel stiff initially

• Higher price point

• Not designed for extreme cold

Price: $179.00

2. The North Face Women’s Venture 2 Jacket

Pros:

• Waterproof and windproof DryVent™ fabric

• Adjustable hood for better coverage

• Pit-zip vents enhance breathability

• Packable into its own pocket

• Velcro® storm flap over front zipper

Cons:

• No insulation for cold temperatures

• Fit may be boxy for some

• Limited stretch in fabric

• Hood lacks a visor

• May not be as durable as heavier jackets

Price: $200.00

3. Arc’teryx Men’s Beta AR Jacket

The Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket utilizes GORE-TEX Pro fabric, offering exceptional waterproof and breathable performance. Its helmet-compatible hood and articulated patterning cater to technical hikes.

Designed for versatility, this jacket suits various alpine conditions. Reinforced areas enhance durability in high-wear zones.

Pros:

• GORE-TEX Pro for superior weather protection
• Helmet-compatible StormHood™
• Articulated design for mobility
• Reinforced shoulders and elbows
• WaterTight™ zippers prevent leaks

Cons:

• Premium price point
• No insulation layer
• Limited color selections
• May be overbuilt for casual hikes
• Requires care to maintain waterproofing

Price: $600.00 

4. Outdoor Research Women’s Helium II Jacket

The Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket is crafted from Pertex® Shield+ fabric, providing lightweight waterproof protection. Weighing only 5.5 ounces, it’s ideal for minimalist hikers.

Its compressibility allows it to pack into its own pocket, making it convenient for unpredictable weather. An adjustable hood adds extra coverage.

Pros:

• Ultra-lightweight at 5.5 ounces

• Waterproof and breathable Pertex® Shield+

• Packs into its own pocket

• Adjustable hood for better fit

• Reflective logos for visibility

Cons:

• No hand pockets

• Limited durability for rugged use

• No pit zips for ventilation

• Slim fit may restrict layering

• Not suitable for cold temperatures

Price: $180.00

5. Marmot Men’s PreCip Eco Jacket

The Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket features NanoPro™ Eco fabric, offering waterproof and breathable performance with a focus on sustainability. Its packable design is suitable for various hiking conditions.

PitZips provide ventilation, while the adjustable hood and hem ensure a customizable fit. The jacket stuffs into its own pocket for easy storage.

Pros:

• Eco-friendly NanoPro™ fabric

• PitZips for added ventilation

• Adjustable hood and hem

• Packs into its own pocket

• Durable water-repellent finish

Cons:

• No insulation for cold weather

• Fit may be snug for some

• Hood lacks a visor

• Limited stretch in fabric

• May not withstand heavy abrasion

Price: $120.00

6. Columbia Women’s Arcadia II Jacket

The Columbia Arcadia II features Omni-Tech™ waterproof/breathable technology with full seam sealing to shield against rain. Its mesh lining enhances interior airflow, keeping the body cool during hikes.

This jacket folds into its own pocket for packability. The adjustable storm hood and drawcord hem provide flexible coverage in wet weather.

Pros:

• Omni-Tech™ waterproof/breathable fabric

• Fully seam-sealed construction

• Adjustable hood and hem

• Packs into hand pocket

• Mesh-lined interior for comfort

Cons:

• No insulation for cold climates

• Slightly stiff fabric feel

• Limited breathability under high exertion

• No pit zips for ventilation

• Fit may run large

Price: $80.00

7. Black Diamond Men’s StormLine Stretch Rain Shell

This jacket utilizes BD.dry™ technology with stretch fabric, offering weather protection and mobility. The gusseted underarms and adjustable cuffs cater to active movement during mountain hikes.

Its helmet-compatible hood and zippered armpit vents make it suitable for alpine activities, yet it remains compact for everyday carry.

Pros:

• BD.dry™ waterproof/stretch technology

• Gusseted underarms for mobility

• Helmet-compatible hood

• Zippered pit vents

• Packs into its own pocket

Cons:

• Not insulated

• Slightly heavier than ultralight options

• Limited casual styling

• Sleeves may be long for some

• More technical than needed for easy hikes

Price: $189.00

8. Cotopaxi Women’s Cielo Rain Jacket

The Cotopaxi Cielo Rain Jacket is made from 100% recycled polyester with a PFC-free DWR finish. It combines sustainability with a functional design, including large hand pockets and a relaxed fit.

The three-piece hood is adjustable, while the front zip with a storm flap provides enhanced protection in wet environments.

Pros:

• Made from recycled polyester

• PFC-free DWR finish

• Adjustable hood with storm flap

• Relaxed fit for layering

• Zippered hand pockets

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than similar shells

• Boxy silhouette may not appeal to all

• Hood lacks stiff brim

• Limited ventilation features

• Fewer technical details

Price: $145.00

9. Mountain Hardwear Men’s Exposure/2 Paclite Plus Jacket

Pros:

• GORE-TEX Paclite® Plus for high-end waterproofing

• Lightweight and packable

• Adjustable hood and cuffs

• Durable construction

• Breathable for active use

Cons:

• Premium price

• No front storm flap

• Not ideal for very cold conditions

• May feel crinkly

• Lacks internal pocket

Price: $180.00 

10. REI Co-op Women’s Rainier Rain Jacket

This REI Co-op jacket uses a 2.5-layer recycled nylon shell with a durable water repellent finish. It’s well-ventilated via pit zips and features an adjustable hood with rear toggles.

It balances eco-conscious materials with dependable wet-weather performance, making it a good everyday hiking shell.

Pros:

• Made with recycled materials

• Underarm pit zips for airflow

• Adjustable hood and hem

• Packable into its own pocket

• Affordable price

Cons:

• Not ideal for high-exertion treks

• Slightly boxy fit

• Less technical than premium brands

• Fabric may feel plasticky

• Limited color range

Price: $99.95