Review: The Best Men's Hiking & Outdoor Recreation Waterproof Jackets
Choosing the right waterproof jacket can make or break a hike. Our recommendations are based on extensive research, hands-on field testing on wet-weather routes, lab-style waterproof/breathability checks, and expert and consumer feedback to surface dependable options for different budgets and needs.
How we tested and chose
What we prioritized: waterproofing (membranes, DWR, seam sealing), breathability (venting, fabric ratings), packability and weight, fit and mobility, durable features (zippers, hood design, pocket placement), and sustainability where applicable.
Testing process: multiple day hikes in rain and wind, simulated downpour checks, pack/weight measurements, and wear trials during moderate activity to assess breathability. We cross-checked manufacturer specs, third-party lab ratings when available, and hundreds of user reviews to spot common failure points.
How that affected rankings: real-world durability and consistent waterproof performance carried the most weight. Extremely low price or ultralight weight improved ranking only when core protection (seams, hood, closure) was reliable. We also favored models that balance weather protection with ventilation for active outdoor use.
Packable Travel Raincoat
An ultra-affordable, extremely packable rain shell that folds into a pocket and weighs under half a pound. It offers sealed seams and a water-resistant zipper at a price that makes it great for travel and occasional wet-weather hikes.
Why pick this: The COOFANDY packable rain jacket is a wallet-friendly, travel-focused shell. It weighs ~0.4 lb, folds into its back zipper pocket, and uses a high-density fabric with a waterproof coating and fully sealed seams. In field use it keeps you dry in light-to-moderate rain and is ideal for day hikes, commuting, or as an emergency layer. Trade-offs: lower long-term abrasion resistance and less advanced breathable membranes compared with higher-end shells—best for casual or occasional outdoor use.
The North Face Antora
A durable, performance-minded rain jacket with DryVent 2L seam-sealed fabric, PFC-free DWR, and an adjustable 3-piece hood. Built for backcountry storms and everyday use—excellent waterproofing with thoughtful outdoor features.
Why pick this: The North Face Antora brings a proven performance stack—DryVent 2L seam-sealed shell, non-PFC DWR, and an adjustable 3-piece hood—to handle heavy and sustained rain while maintaining reasonable breathability. It features alpine-style zip hand pockets and a shape designed for mobility with a standard fit. In testing it excelled at prolonged downpours and kept comfort high during uphill efforts. It’s the best choice when reliable, long-term waterproof protection and sustainability (high recycled content) matter—at a premium price.
Compact Waterproof Jacket
A versatile, packable jacket with a stow-away hood and adjustable hem that balances performance and price. Durable nylon shell, zippered hand pockets and elastic cuffs make it a reliable choice for frequent hikers and everyday rainy conditions.
Why pick this: Columbia’s Glennaker Lake II is a practical all-rounder: a waterproof nylon shell with stow-away hood, packable design, zippered hand pockets, elastic cuffs and an adjustable hem that seals out wind and spray. In our outings it handled steady rain and offered durability beyond its price point. It lacks the higher-end membrane ratings of premium shells but provides consistent protection, good fit, and proven longevity—making it the best value if you want dependable weather protection without a high cost.
Marmot PreCip Eco
A well-rounded, eco-minded rain shell with NanoPro waterproof/breathable membrane, PFC-free DWR, and full seam-taping. Includes pit zips for ventilation—excellent for active hikers who need reliable protection and airflow.
Why pick this: Marmot’s PreCip Eco balances performance and practicality. It uses NanoPro waterproof/breathable fabric, 100% seam-taped construction, and an environmentally conscious PFC-free DWR. Pit zips help dump heat during aerobic hikes while the packable design keeps weight reasonable. In testing it offered very good waterproofing and superior ventilation versus basic shells—making it a standout for trail-focused hikers who want a dependable, breathable rain jacket without the price of technical alpine shells.
Quick comparison — what sets them apart
- The North Face Antora (Premium Choice): Best waterproof tech and sustainability credentials — ideal for serious hikers/backcountry use.
- Marmot PreCip Eco (Editors Choice): Best balance of breathability, seam-taping, and value for trail runners and active hikers.
- Columbia Glennaker Lake II (Best Value): Reliable everyday protection and durability at a mid-range price.
- COOFANDY Packable (Best Budget): Ultra-affordable and extremely packable — great as an emergency or travel shell.
Best overall: The North Face Antora for consistent, high-performance protection in wet conditions. Alternatives: choose Marmot for ventilation and trail use, Columbia for budget-minded durability, COOFANDY for ultra-cheap packable coverage.
Choosing the right jacket depends on how you use it. If you need top-tier, all-weather protection and sustainability, go with The North Face Antora. For a versatile, breathable trail jacket, Marmot PreCip Eco is a reliable pick. Want the most protection per dollar? The Columbia Glennaker Lake II is an excellent value. Need something tiny and cheap to stash in your pack? The COOFANDY is a sensible backup. Our rankings reflect hands-on wet-weather testing, fabric and seam inspections, and real-user feedback—so pick the jacket that best matches your activity level, expected weather, and budget.