The 20 BEST Hiking Jackets To Tackle The Trail (2023)

Are you looking for the best hiking jacket? With a massive range of climates and biomes, there is no one size fits all hiking jacket. With that in mind, we’ve selected our favorite hiking jackets in various styles.

The best hiking jackets should keep the sun off your shoulders during the day, keep you warm in the evening, be comfortable against your skin, and keep you dry during those unexpected downpours. They must be prepared to handle everything that is thrown at them, such as rain, mud, snow, or rock. Oh yeah, and be light and packable enough that you can stuff it in a hiking backpack.

It may seem like a lot to ask from one jacket, but some strong contenders exist. Many of the best hiking jackets will meet all these specifications, depending on the climate. We break down hiking jackets into four categories hard shell, down, softshell, and mid-layer. That way, you can find the perfect hiking jacket.

The Four Types of Hiking Jackets

It’s tough to decide on the proper classification of a hiking jacket. It is particularly true, given that you can hike in any climate. Hiking is just walking in nature, so wherever our two feet can take us is where our clothing needs to go. It’s evident that what constitutes a hiking jacket varies significantly by the climate you go hiking in most regularly.

Hard Shell

A hardshell jacket is what most of us are familiar with in terms of a jacket. These jackets are made from durable, waterproof materials such as Gore-Tex or nylon and often feature a tough outer layer to resist abrasion and damage. Hard shell jackets are typically worn over other layers of clothing to protect against the elements.

Down Jacket

Down jackets pack as much warmth as possible in a lightweight jacket. The jackets pack down exceptionally well, providing decent weather protection and a lot of heat. They are a cold-weather staple and great to have on a backcountry trip as temperatures drop at night.

Soft Shell Jacket

A soft shell jacket is a type of outerwear designed to provide warmth and protection from elements like wind and rain. It is typically made from a stretchy, synthetic, breathable, and water-resistant material. We love soft shell jackets for their versatility and freedom of movement.

Mid-Layer/Synthetic

Mid-layers are a mixed bag category as the jackets here range from synthetic downs to fleeces. The general premise is for them to supply some warmth and water resistance. These are more the everyday jackets perfect for running errands around town.

Hard Shell Hiking Jackets

JacketProsConsPriceArc’teryx Beta LT Gore-Tex JacketLightweight, Waterproof, Premium, Great Features, Room for LayersExpensive$450(Shop)Patagonia Torrentshell JacketReliable Performance, Excellent Price, Durability, PackableLackluster Ventilation, A Little Noisy With Movement$149(Shop)Helly Hansen Odin Worlds JacketExceptional Quality, Durable, Breathable, Waterproof, Value For QualityExpensive, Heavier$450(Shop)Outdoor Research MicrogravityLightweight, Reliable Protection, Excellent ValueLittle Thin$250(Shop)

Arc’teryx Beta LT Gore-Tex Jacket

It’s tough to beat the functionality of the Arc’teryx Beta LT, as it’s built for mountain summits. Easily one of the best hiking jackets, you can rest easy knowing the lightweight jacket has the mountain cred to withstand harsh elements and climates. It features 3L GORE-TEX® that keeps you light, dry, and comfortable no matter the weather.

All the features necessary for protection are included with an adjustable hood, wrist cuffs, and waist hem for a perfect fit in inclement conditions. It’s a top-rated jacket for weatherproofing, so it will stand up to any harsh elements you may throw at it. Thanks to careful attention to fit (streamlined and flattering) and construction, the jacket is equal parts practical and modern, making for a sharp athletic jacket.

It is one of the best light jackets for hiking, but it does come with a high price tag for a jacket with no insulation. That being said, the Beta LT is a solid investment thanks to its exceptional quality and protection. I’d recommend it for active men who enjoy mountain biking, skiing, camping, or hiking. To learn more, read our full review of the Arc’teryx Beta LT.

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket

The Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket is a waterproof and windproof outer layer designed for rainy and wet conditions. Value is a strong point of the Torrentshell, and the performance far exceeds what we expect from a $149 jacket. This is one of the best hiking jackets for the price. In that price, hikers get a 100% recycled nylon exterior shell that is durable and utilizes a 2.5-layer construction. The H2No barrier multilayer design provides decent waterproofing and breathability to keep you dry.

The jacket has a relaxed fit that allows for layering underneath and a hood that can be adjusted for a secure and comfortable fit. It’s roomy where you want but not overly bulky. Multiple pockets, including zippered handwarmer pockets and an interior chest pocket that can be used to store small necessities such as keys, lip balm, or a phone. It’s also got some slick features, such as a stowaway hood and a microfleece neck lining for comfort.

Most importantly, the jacket has a sustainable design with construction from recycled materials and Patagonia’s brand ethos. The Patagonia Torrentshell jacket is a high-quality and reliable choice for wet and rainy outdoor activities. It will not be winning any performance awards in terms of breathability or quality, but we appreciate the superb value of a hiking jacket.

Helly Hansen Odin Worlds Jacket

The Helly Hansen Odin 9 Worlds 2.0 offer superior protection as a robust hardshell jacket. It’s a sharp jacket with a slim cut and a great color selection. Helly Tech Professional fabric is waterproof and breathable thanks to a 70-denier build. It’s obvious when wearing the jacket as it feels and wears like a premium product. Performance is exceptional and is almost guaranteed to remain dry inside.

Innovative features like the underarm vents allow ventilation during high-intensity activities. Additionally, the jacket provides deep front pockets, an adjustable storm hood, wrist adjustment, a waist cinch, and a breast pocket. Pockets are designed to be accessible when wearing a backpack which is great for hiking.

We love that the Odin is sustainably made with Bluesign fabrics and a PFC-free DWR (durable water-repellent) treatment. Due to its robust design, a RECCO reflector, and helmet-compatible hood, the jacket feels suitable for winter activities like backcountry skiing.

While the $450 price tag is certainly not cheap, it offers decent value compared to its competition. Its quality is par with the Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket at hundreds of dollars less. Its only downside is the heavy design due to its uber-robust construction. It’s a well-rounded jacket ready to tackle the most inclement weather.

Outdoor Research AscentShell Microgravity

The Outdoor Research Microgravity hardshell jacket is a budget-friendly option, costing $249 compared to the usual $400 for most hard shells. It uses the brand’s AscentShell membrane rather than Gore-Tex for solid savings. Despite its lower price, the Microgravity has performed well in stormy conditions and is comfortable and breathable.

Don’t expect it to win any performance awards, as it has a relatively thin build with a standard set of features. However, it has a decent fit and provides reliable protection with all the adjustments hikers want. The cuffs, waist, and hood all come with either velcro or drawstring adjustments.

On the plus side, the AscentShell membrane is known for its excellent breathability, making the Microgravity a good choice for shoulder-season activities such as hiking or biking. It is a perfect option for those on a budget that still want high performance. The jacket is an excellent step up from the budget Patagonia Torrentshell without breaking the bank.

The Best Down Hiking Jackets

Down JacketProsConsAvg PriceArc’teryx Cerium LT Hooded JacketSuperior Warmth, Lightweight, Style, Cut, Packable Sack, Insulation, FitPrice, Slim Fit For Some Builds$400(Shop)Patagonia Down Sweater weatherComfortable, Style, Cut, Wardrobe Staple, Casual UseWaterproofing, Not Super Warm$279(Shop)REI Coop Down Jacket 2.0Light, Comfortable, Unbeatable Price.Loose Fit, Warmth$99(Shop)Feathered Friends EOS Down JacketSuperior Warmth, Company Ethos, Lightweight, Super Comfortable, Warm Hood, Cinch Waist, WeatherproofBulky Fit, Not Waterproof, Expensive$409(Shop)Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 Comfortable, Warm, Style, Ultralight,Slim Fit, Not Technical, Not Waterproof, Expensive, Durability Issues$350(Shop)

Arc’teryx Cerium Down Hoodie Jacket

The Arc’teryx Cerium Down Hoodie Jacket is an excellent packable down jacket. It has a sleek design and an exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio. Yet, what stands out about the Cerium is how it manages to supply everything you could want and remain an attractive jacket. It looks and feels as premium as you’d expect from a $400 jacket.

Of course, the price point is detracting. The other drawback is the durability due to the thin denier shell. However, we’ve had ours on plenty of craggy peaks in the Canadian Rockies, and they still look great. That exterior shell is rated 15-D, making the jacket incredibly light, and the premium down inside supplies the warmth.

Warmth is exceptional thanks to 4 ounces of high-quality 850-fill-power down. I love the high-tech design feature of composite mapping. Arc’teryx has effectively added a small amount of Coreloft synthetic insulation to areas prone to moisture. It is on the shoulders and underarms to fight off precipitation and sweat. It is easy to pack down to the size of a water bottle with the stuff sack in the breast pocket.

The Cerium is well-loved by outdoor enthusiasts, who put them through the wringer daily. It shouldn’t be surprising they have a loyal client base. The Cerium jacket would be a solid choice for the more active users. It has become my go-to down jacket and what we use for sports in the Canadian Rockies. It’s easily the best down jacket, but you’ll have to pay for that performance.

Patagonia Down Sweater

The Patagonia Down Sweater has a comfortable design and is well-suited for city wear and weekend trips. In addition to being a great down jacket, the shell is 100% recycled polyester, and the 800-fill-power goose down is traceable. What stands out about the Down Sweater is its versatility and price.

The down jacket uses a nylon 20-D shell on the spec side of the things, and the insulation is 5 oz of 800-fill power goose down. The down does an excellent job of handling wet conditions due to the DWR, which provides a hydrophobic quality. It’s also very good at providing warmth.

It’s been Patagonia’s best-selling product for years because it feels equally at home in the mountains and city while not breaking the bank. It’s an easy pick for a down jacket, and we love the color choices. The Arc’teryx Cerium above is a superior jacket, but hard to say it’s $150 better! Patagonia’s Down Sweater is easily one of the best packable down jackets on the market and the most versatile.

REI Coop Down Jacket 2.0

The REI Coop Down Jacket 2.0 is the most affordable packable down jacket on this list. It’s about as inexpensive as they come in the down jacket world. When REI first released this down jacket, it flew off the shelves and has been in high demand ever since. Its closest competitors in quality come in at about double the price.

The jacket is lightweight at only 10.3 ounces and packs up nicely. Warmth is its only downfall, but the 3 ounces of 650-fill-power down will keep you warm in cool climates. It’s not the warmest jacket on this list, but it gets the job done, especially at the price point.

When it comes time to move to the next destination, the jacket packs up into the left pocket and occupies minimal space in your luggage. It has a water-repellent finish that should handle light rain, snow, and wind.

This is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an affordable, no-fuss jacket that will handle travel, light winter sports, and cool days. It’s a lightweight, packable down jacket under $100; tough not to love that price point.

Feathered Friends EOS Down Jacket

If you need a warm jacket, it’s tough to do better in weight vs. warmth than the Feathered Friends EOS Down Jacket. This down jacket features 4 ounces of 900-fill down with a down hood and an insulated draft tube behind the zipper. The jacket design effectively retains your heat.

While it may not be best for climates with a light chill, it is perfect for cold weather. Our only gripe with the jacket is the slightly bulky fit. It also has a very technical appearance and isn’t as appealing for wear around town. However, for the price, it’s tough to beat the warmth and weight.

When it comes down to packability, this down jacket comes with a nylon stuff sack that is about the size of a Nalgene water bottle. The stuff sack is great for packing down the jacket, attaching the bag to the outside of a hiking backpack or harness, or slipping it into your luggage or backpack.

Feathered Friends is in Seattle, Washington, and produces every jacket upon order. Their goal is to make ethical down garments for those who seek out the best performance. Be warned; it takes up to a week to receive the down jacket, if not longer. However, you’re supporting a passionate outdoor business. Also, you can only order their jacket through their online store (they ship internationally) or in Seattle.

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2

Mountain Hardwear’s Ghost Whisperer 2 can easily take you from the airport to the backcountry. It has less warmth than the competitors but features a slim cut in an ultralight package. The lightweight nature is due to a 7D ripstop nylon shell and 3.0 ounces of 800 fill-power down.

The 800-fill power down has Q.Shield moisture-resistant hydrophobic down. Water-resistant down combined with Mountain Hardwear’s ripstop nylon does a great job protecting from elements like wind and light precipitation.

With darker, more subtle colors, a slim cut, and the classic puffed ribbing, it’s a sharp-looking jacket. While this packable down jacket won’t replace a heavyweight jacket, it is exceptional in its ability to compress. Despite that, it is an excellent jacket for standalone winter travel gear. It’s a perfect option for those obsessed with as light gear as possible.

Soft Shell Hiking Jackets

Softshell JacketProsConsPriceArc’teryx Gamma MX HoodyArc’teryx Fit, High Quality, Durable, PerformanceLacks Insulation$350(Shop)The North Face Apex BionicCasual Style, Warmth, Durable, Price, ComfortBoxy Fit, Lacks Hood$149(Shop)Patagonia Airshed PulloverUltralight, Versatile, Packs in Pocket, Excellent VentilationNo Insulation,Weight, Durability$139(Shop)Black Diamond Dawn PatrolHigh Quality, Durable, Performance, ValueSlightly Off Fit$199(Shop)

Arc’teryx Gamma MX Hoody

Arc’teryx knows how to deliver a premium product and often takes the top spot in categories if not for the price. The Gamma MX is a tremendous soft-shell jacket. It brings fantastic performance with quality materials and a great fit that moves with your body.

The Gamma offers a lot of breathability, comfort, and durability. When it’s cool out, I often feel comfortable wearing the Gamma while hiking uphill. Even in a tremendous hardshell jacket, I still feel a little clammy.

It’s also a sharp-looking jacket that feels at home in the mountains or running errands in town. It’s so great you can even wear it as a ski jacket. We love a piece that feels this universal, thus better value despite a high price tag.

The North Face Apex Bionic

The Apex Bionic is easily the best-selling product from the brand The North Face for a good reason. It is a versatile and stylish outer layer perfect for various outdoor activities. Durable and stretchy, the softshell material allows the Apex Bionic jacket to withstand inclement weather like light wind and rain.

It features a full-zip front with a high collar and a chin guard to protect against the elements, as well as a variety of pockets for storing your essentials. The Apex Bionic jacket is also designed with a relaxed fit and a hem cinch cord, allowing you to adjust the fit and keep out drafts.

Its casual use and price point make it the most popular softshell jacket on the market. However, this jacket stays away from a proper hiking jacket and feels much more adept for everyday life with the occasional weekend hike. We’d suggest it for those just starting to hit the trail.

Patagonia Airshed Pullover

The Airshed Pullover is one of the lightest softshell jackets on the market and has excellent potential. Its super lightweight shell can be layer over anything from a t-shirt to a down jacket to match the climate.

It keeps wind and precipitation out while providing solid ventilation. The Airshed is greatly appreciated when gaining a hill in a shower while trail running or mountain biking. It packs into the pocket for easy storage in a trail running vest or climbing harness.

I love carrying this jacket in my back pocket or water bottle holder when mountain biking if I’m worried about inclement weather or colder days. In particular, this is a terrific option for fast hikers, trail runners, or bikers seeking protection without dying of heat.

Black Diamond Dawn Patrol

Black Diamond has been producing climbing gear for decades and recently started its clothing line. The Dawn Patrol is an excellent softshell hiking jacket and one of their best apparel products. It brings fantastic performance with quality materials and a great fit that moves with your body. The durable fabric can stand up to just about anything, even in winter.

It’s also a sharp-looking jacket that feels at home in the mountains or running errands in town. It’s so great you can even wear the jacket skiing. We love a piece that feels this universal, thus better value despite a high price tag. It’s similar to the Arc’teryx above, but at about $50 cheaper. It has more pockets than the Arc’teryx, but its hood lacks the adjustability found in the Gamma.

Best Hiking Jackets: Mid Layer

Mid Layer JacketProsConsPricePatagonia Nano-AirComfort, Relaxed Fit, Weatherproof, Warm,Not As Warm As Down$249(Shop)Arc’teryx Atom LT HoodySynthetic, Lightweight, Durable Outershell, Weather Resistance, Makes Great Mid LayerPrice, Synthetic Down Not As Warm, Air Permeable$259(Shop)Helly Hansen Lifaloft Insulator JacketSynthetic Down Performance, Excellent FitActive Performance$200(Shop)Patagonia Better Sweater® Fleece JacketSuper Comfortable, Reliable PerformanceFleece Doesn’t Replace Many Jackets$149(Shop)

Patagonia Nano-Air

The Patagonia Nano-Air is a comfortable and flexible synthetic jacket that can be worn as a mid-layer for winter sports or as an outer layer during milder weather. Its stretchiness and breathability make it popular among backcountry skiers and climbers, and the latest version features a more durable shell made of mostly recycled materials.

It is not as warm as some other jackets and not the most packable, but it is lightweight and allows for a good range of movement. It gives you the comfort and warmth of fleece while also being faster to dry than its down jackets. This jacket stands out because it can breathe and move with your body.

Arc’teryx Atom Hoody

Arc’teryx makes this list of hiking jackets a lot, but it does carry a big reputation for a reason. One of their best-selling jackets is the Atom, a tremendously lightweight and warm mid-layer jacket. They’ve taken the stance that it’s not broken, don’t fix it, and the jacket has remained the same for years. The Atom delivers everything you want in a mid-layer between warmth, mobility, and fit.

It has a drawback; the outer shell is excellent at letting heat escape, but it also means that wind cuts through the jacket. Altogether this is an ideal jacket for those who enjoy sports outdoors in cold weather, like hiking, climbing, backpacking, ski touring, or snowboarding.

Helly Hansen Lifaloft Insulator Jacket

A synthetic down jacket like the Helly Hansen Lifaloft Insulator is excellent for warmth in various environments. The jacket has an outer shell of Polyamide, which provides excellent protection against wet weather. Insulation in the jacket is synthetic and placed throughout the jacket with a waffle pattern.

It keeps the insulation evenly distributed across the body and will supply warmth even when wet. While Lifaloft does not perform as well, goose down still supplies plenty of warmth while remaining lightweight. It has a beautiful fit that is flattering as a jacket and is slim enough to work as a mid-layer. The best use for the jacket is for sports in cold weather, like snowshoeing or skiing.

Patagonia Better Sweater® Fleece Jacket

The Patagonia Better Sweater is a perfect fleece sweater and excels as a cozy mid-layer. It’s thick, soft, and slim while still being one of the warmest fleece jackets on the market. Patagonia’s fleece products have always stood out from the market in our years of testing athletic gear.

The jacket’s cost is high compared to a standard fleece jacket. However, the quality and durable material provide some excellent longevity. I’ve had my Better Sweater for seven years and it has seen plenty of use. The Better Sweater comes in either a 1/4 zip pullover or a full zip-up jacket.

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