The weather can be very unpredictable at the top of a mountain. It is important that we are always prepared even in the summer. I often have a windbreaker jacket with me even though it is very hot outside. A windbreaker jacket can keep me warm and defend me against the wind. Most windbreaker jackets are also rainproof which protects me from the rain as well. I have listed a couple of fantastic windbreaker jackets that are very high quality and affordable. I am happy with my recommendations, I am certain you will be also.
Best Backpacking Windbreaker Jackets – Quick Chart
| Backpacking Windbreaker Jackets | Weight | Material | Water Repellent | Windproof |
| 1. Salomon Men’s Agile Wind Jacket | 6.1 oz | AdvancedSkin Shield | Yes | Yes |
| 2. Arc’teryx Men’s Squamish Hoody | 6.6 oz | Tyono 30 denier shell – DWR treatment – 100% nylon | Yes | Yes |
| 3. Outdoor Research Men’s Helium II Jacket | 6.4 oz | 100% Nylon; 2.5-Layer 30D Pertex Shield Ds Ripstop Fabric W, Clear Laminate | Yes | Yes |
| 4. adidas Men’s Essentials Wind Jacket | 8.8 oz | Recycled polyester | Yes | |
| 5. Marmot PreCip Men’s Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket | 10.6 oz | Marmot NanoPro Waterproof/Breathable Fabric | Yes | Yes |
| 6. Rab Men’s Vital Windshell Hoody | 5.6 oz | Hyperlite lightweight and windproof nylon outer | Yes | |
| 7. The North Face Fuseform Eragon Wind Jacket | 4.94 oz | 100% nylon engineered from ripstop to plain weave | Yes | Yes |
| 8. Under Armour Men’s Storm Launch Run Jacket | 7 oz | 100% Polyester | Yes | Yes |
| 9. Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake Front-Zip Rain Jacket with Hideaway Hood | 12.8 oz | 100% nylon Hydroplus | Yes | Yes |
How To Choose A Windbreaker Jacket
Types Of Outdoor Jackets
Windbreaker Jackets
Windbreaker jackets protect the user from the wind and coldness that the wind brings. These jackets are very lightweight and these are often coated with a DWR finish so that they can repel rain water. Windbreaker jackets are lighter than rain jackets which is why a lot of people prefer to use them.
Rain Jackets
Rain jackets are very popular. These jackets are also very light. They are a little heavier than windbreaker jackets by a few ounces. These jackets are very good at keeping the user dry. There are rain jackets that are coated with DWR and there are also laminated rain jackets. Both types of ways to repel water are very good.
Casual Jackets
These are the jackets that most people use. These jackets are very multipurpose and can be used for work and for hanging out. There are a little bit heavier than rain jackets though since these jackets have a lot of pockets and have a lot of other miscellaneous features. These jackets can be combined with an inner jacket to make it more winter friendly.
DWR Finish
DWR finish is very common in a lot of rain jackets and jackets for the outdoors. DWR finish repels water and prevents the clogging of the fabric. Without DWR finish, the surface of the jacket will get clogged by repeated attacks of the water and then rain water will eventually seep in. A rain jacket’s face fabric or surface exterior becomes waterlogged and heavy and will ultimately allow water to pass through. This will make the fabric damp which tends to sag and cling to the skin.
Choosing The Material
Polyester
If you want amazing windbreaker jackets, then you should check out windbreaker jackets that are made out of polyester. It is not surprising that a lot of companies create items out of this because this material is very durable. Items made from this material are often very water repellent. This is very lightweight and works well for a windbreaker jacket. There are a lot of companies who use this for their items because this is very inexpensive.
Nylon
It is easy to see that there are a lot of windbreaker jackets that are made out of nylon. Nylon has a lot of benefits and this does not cost a lot of money. There are a lot of lightweight windbreaker jackets that are made from nylon. This has water repelling capabilities which a lot of people love. This material is very good and I love that this is also very durable.
Outdoor Activity To Consider
Trail Running
Trail runners will usually use windbreaker jackets because the more weight that they carry, the slower they become. A windbreaker is very light and does not use a lot of energy to be carried. A lot of people who run ultra-marathoners often use windbreaker jackets if they are concerned about their time.
Day Hikes
People that hike during the weekends or casually hike will often use a rain jacket. It is because rain jackets are very multipurpose and they can provide a lot of protection. Day hikers do not worry about time and hiking very fast. They usually take their time. A multipurpose jacket that is very light would be more ideal for them.
Backpacking
Backpackers can use windbreakers or a rain jacket. A lot of minimalists would most likely use windbreakers but most backpackers will use a rain jacket. Windbreakers are very lightweight and they are very easy to carry but a rain jacket is very multipurpose and will definitely keep a person dry. It is easier to have fun even when it is raining when you are dry.
Things To Consider
Comfort
One of the things we need to make sure is that the item is pretty comfortable to wear. There are lots of beautiful jackets that make me look good. However, not all of them are very comfortable to wear. Some are meant for the outdoors but they are just not that comfortable. I wouldn’t be able to hike a lot of miles with them.
Weather Proof
The jacket has to be able to be weather proof. I like that the jacket is windproof and can handle strong winds, but jackets that are also rainproof are even better. So make sure that the jacket can also handle rain and other types of weather. Windproof jackets that are not rainproof are often lighter by a few ounces though. I thought I should mention that.
Weight
The weight of the jacket also matters. Most people who really want to carry as light as possible will ultimately calculate every ounce of weight that they are wearing. This includes clothing. It does add up. A few ounces from clothes can add up to a pound or more. The more weight that you carry, the less energy you will have or the more tired you will be.
Price
We always have to think about the price of the item. There are a lot of rainproof jackets that are very expensive. If you want to get an expensive jacket, then you should go for it. Rain jackets are very important and you will always use them throughout the year. However, if you don’t need it and already have a lot of other jackets, you can just get something affordable.
Style
Style for me is the most important things that we have to think about. I have to look good. Fashion is very important for me. I love jackets. They make anyone look amazing. So I always recommend that people look at how they are going to look with the jacket. Get items that make you look cool. A jacket is one of the best things to get for that purpose.
Best Hiking Windbreaker Jackets
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1. Salomon Men’s Agile Wind Jacket
Weight: 6.1 oz
Material: AdvancedSkin Shield
Water Repellent: Yes
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Blocks cold and blustery winds, but stays breathable, the active fit is contoured for comfortable movement without being tight or restrictive
Short Review: This hiking windbreaker jacket stands out over a lot of other similar items. This features advanced skin active dry fabric efficiently moves moisture away from skin to keep people dry and the front and back vents circulate air to keep you well ventilated and comfortable. The simple design of this item is very good. This is very impressive at protecting the person from the wind and light rain as well. I really like that this can keep the body dry and protect it from the weather. This is very durable and very lightweight.
2. Arc’teryx Men’s Squamish Hoody
Weight: 6.6 oz
Material: Tyono 30 denier shell – DWR treatment – 100% nylon
Water Repellent: Yes
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: High wind resistance, features ultralight minimalist construction, wind resistant fabric that has surprising strength and resilience, light and compressible, hooded windshell
Short Review: We are often looking for several rather excellent hiking windbreaker jackets such as this. This is extremely light and compressible, this hooded wind shell features ultralight minimalist construction and stows in the chest pocket for maximum packability. A great jacket that is extremely versatile high performance designs for diverse activities and conditions. This is very good and very durable. A little bit expensive but this works well. The volume of positive customer reviews that this item has is extraordinary that it is incredibly easy to find the information that you need from them. I have tried lots of items and this is one of the greatest this is the reason why I know that you will really like this a lot. This is very high quality and very comfortable to wear.
3. Outdoor Research Men’s Helium II Jacket
Weight: 6.4 oz
Material: 100% Nylon; 2.5-Layer 30D Pertex Shield Ds Ripstop Fabric W, Clear Laminate
Water Repellent: Yes
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Packs down to the size of a granola bar, windproof and waterproof, stuff pocket w/ webbing loop, compact and lightweight
Short Review: One of the greatest items that I have ever tried is this lightweight windbreaker jacket. This is waterproof, breathable, fully seam-taped, laminated construction, windproof, lightweight. This is constructed out of Pertex Shield material to be both waterproof and windproof. The price is somewhat expensive but definitely worth it. Outdoor Research is a great company and they have created an amazing jacket. This item is amazing and resilient, this is why this has a great deal of positive consumer reviews.
4. adidas Men’s Essentials Wind Jacket
Weight: 8.8 oz
Material: Recycled polyester
Water Repellent:
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Full zip with drawcord-adjustable hood, elastic cuffs and hem, mesh lining
Short Review: One of the best things I have ever tried is this outdoor jacket. This jacket is designed to keep you warm on chilly days. This features a cut in a slim fit, the full-zip design is made of recycled polyester and features a mesh lining. This has a lot of customer feedback which should be sufficient to put men and women in a great position to get a good amount of useful information about this jacket. This is very high quality and feels good on the skin. This is very durable, the fabric looks great and this should lasts for a very long time. A very popular windbreaker jacket that a lot of people love.
5. Marmot PreCip Men’s Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket
Weight: 10.6 oz
Material: Marmot NanoPro Waterproof/Breathable Fabric
Water Repellent: Yes
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: The PreCip Jacket is reliable, value-oriented, full-function rainwear for backcountry and urban travelers alike.
Short Review: I just like this outdoor hiking jacket for the reason that this is amazing. This is shockingly unbelievable and one of the greatest I have tried and I know you a large amount of people who are happy with this as well. The price is very reasonable and this is wonderful. I like this jacket, you can be very protected from the weather with this. There are a lot of factors why people like this item. It can keep the body dry and protect it from the weather which is pretty important however this is also very durable as well. Marmot is an amazing company that creates amazing hiking jackets.
6. Rab Men’s Vital Windshell Hoody
Weight: 5.6 oz
Material: Hyperlite lightweight and windproof nylon outer
Water Repellent:
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Ideal for a wide range of mountain activities, lightweight and packable, offering instant protection from the wind
Short Review: I am delighted to recommend this hiking windbreaker jacket because this is magnificent. This is constructed out of lightweight Atmos nylon fabric that blocks strong winds so you can continue on in comfort. This is a super lightweight hiking and running jacket that shields you from the wind on gusty ridges. I am really happy I found this for the reason that it is amazing. If you want something that is very good while having a low price then this is a good choice. This is an exceptionally good and solid item that is also quite low-priced. One of the best windbreaker jackets that I know of.
7. The North Face Men’s Cyclone Windbreaker Jacket
Weight: 4.94 oz
Material: 100% nylon engineered from ripstop to plain weave
Water Repellent: Yes
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Highly wind resistant, durable water-repellent (DWR) finish, engineered with durable FuseForm construction
Short Review: This windbreaker jacket is among the greatest that I have ever tried. This is constructed out of 100% recycled polyester fabric, is lightweight, durable and packable. It is exactly the kind of windproof, water-repellent, UPF 40+ protection. If you want something that can keep the body dry and protect it from the weather then you should get this jacket. It is awesome as well as durable. I love that the company made this item very light so it will be perfect for us who love the outdoors. The amount of positive consumer reviews that this item has is extraordinary that I know you will almost certainly obtain one. This is incredibly good and the design is amazing. I would get one again if I need another. Absolutely wonderful! This item has blown my mind.
8. Under Armour Men’s Storm Launch Run Jacket
Weight: 7 oz
Material: 100% Polyester
Water Repellent: Yes
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: UA Storm technology repels water without sacrificing breathability, ultra-light, smooth woven fabric
Short Review: I recommend at the very least thinking about this outdoor jacket given that this may be the one that you need. This is constructed with UA Storm technology repels water without sacrificing breathability and comes with tough stretch woven fabric delivers superior comfort & protection. The price of this item is fantastic. I know that you will be extremely content with this for the reason that this has exceeded my expectations. The company did a great job with the design simply because this has a lot of features while remaining to be low-priced. This is very durable and works well at resisting the winds. It can keep the body dry and protect it from the weather while being extremely sturdy. This jacket is wonderful!
9. Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake Front-Zip Rain Jacket with Hideaway Hood
Weight: 12.8 oz
Material: 100% nylon Hydroplus
Water Repellent: Yes
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Omni-Tech fabric for ultimate protection and comfort, softshell exterior and a mesh lining for protection and breathability
Short Review: There are plenty of individuals who acquired this rain jacket since this is fantastic. I like this jacket. This features Omni-Shield® technology creates a barrier that resists light precipitation and stains. This comes with attached, adjustable, stow-away hood and full-zip front closure with interior wind flap. I recommend this item because this is marvelous and durable. I have been using this for a long time now. I love it. It helps keep the body dry and protect it from the weather. I have acquired this a very long time ago and it has absolutely helped me out in my hiking adventures. If I have to describe this item, I will state this has a lot of capabilities and the price tag is pretty low.
10. Helly Hansen Men’s Seven J Waterproof, Windproof, and Breathable Rain Jacket with Hood
Weight: 13.6 oz
Material: 100% PU Face, 100% Polyester Back
Water Repellent: Yes
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Durable Water Repellency (DWR) treatment beads water and fully seam sealed, HELOX+ technology, waterproof, windproof and breathable shell jacket
Short Review: One of the things I love in regards to this waterproof jacket is that it is very high-quality. This has waterproof, windproof and breathable fabrics and constructions. The positive consumer reviews of this jacket are right. This is fully waterproof with a storm flap and convenient quick-dry lining. This is very beautiful, stylish and this protects the user from water and rain. A great item to have if you love the outdoors with lots of positive customer testimonials. I like that this is really durable. The materials that are used in this item are pretty high quality which makes it very sturdy. So heavy duty and very lightweight! One of the best and most beautiful jackets that I know of.
I got the helly jacket. So beautiful, I got so many compliments! TY