Best Men's Windbreaker Jackets of 2024
windproof, water resistant, lightweight, windbreakers—for hiking, camping, running, cycling, skiing
May 1st, 2024
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We’re blessed with a lot of high-performing windbreakers available these days. We’ve seen windbreakers become more popular for casual use as an extra, lightweight, compressible layer stored in a pocket or bag when heading outside. We’ve also seen more people discover their outdoor versatility while hiking, running, cycling, and skiing.
To find the best men's windbreakers, we tested these jackets in conditions where a base layer isn’t enough, but a fleece or insulating puffy jacket is too much (climbing, car camping, etc.). Windbreakers are that “just enough” layer, easy to take on any trip, just in case.
The primary function of windbreakers, as the name suggests, is to break the wind since wind causes convective heat loss. Just as 45°F can be comfortable with sun and no wind, the same goes for a 72° day with a lot of wind. Throwing on a wind jacket when the shade hits can bridge that gap. Wearing a wind jacket on the downhill portion of a run in the shade can be all you need. Windbreakers especially shine when cycling or skiing downhill.
We considered all this while we tested windbreakers in the Eastern Sierra (about 5,000 feet elevation) during fall and winter when snow levels were high and sunshine was abundant. We ran, hiked, went to town, ski toured, and gravel biked. We found which windbreakers breathed and didn’t, which jackets broke the wind the best, which hoods fit over our helmet, and which jackets were more comfortable or technical. We chose a long-term tested windbreaker, the original Patagonia Houdini, as our Best Overall Windbreaker Jacket for Men.
Looking for women’s windbreakers? See our Best Women’s Windbreakers guide.
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Windbreaker jackets comparison table
| WINDBREAKER | TREELINE AWARD | PRICE | SIZES | FIT | FABRIC | WEIGHT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Patagonia Houdini | Best Overall Read why |
$109 | XS - XXXL | Standard to slim | 1.2oz 100% nylon | 3.7 oz (M) |
| Katabatic Gear Crest Windshell | Best Ultralight for Thru Hiking Read why |
$119 | S - XL | Standard | 0.55 oz Pertex Quantum Air | 1.8 oz (M) |
| Cotopaxi Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker | Best Affordable Read why |
$80 | XS - XXXL | Regular | 100% polyester | 4.35 oz (M) |
| Black Diamond Distance Windshell | Best Lightweight Read why |
$140 | S - XL | Standard | 100% ripstop nylon | 3.5 oz (M) |
| Montbell Tachyon | Best Hiking Read why |
$139 | S-XL | Regular, but runs small | 7d Ballistic Airlight ripstop nylon | 2.5 oz (M) |
The winners
Best windbreaker jacket for men: Patagonia Houdini (Original)
Available sizes: XS - XXXL
Fit: Standard to slim
Fabric: 1.2 oz 100% nylon
Weight: 3.7 oz (medium)
Best for: Everyday use indoors and out, aerobic activities
What we liked: Tremendous value. Well-rounded and versatile use for those looking to own a single windshell
What we didn’t like: Can fall short on breathability for high-output activities, but it may be a sweet spot for many users
The original Patagonia Houdini has classic status at this point. For the price, it’s unmatched in terms of fit, feel, durability, adjustability, coverage, weight, and volume; the finish is what we’ve come to expect in quality gear from Patagonia. We’re confident that the Patagonia Houdini is the best windbreaker jacket for men, especially those looking to use it in various applications.
We’ve tested this men's jacket since 2019, and it’s seen us across humid and dry environments across the US for running, cycling, hiking, and lots of casual use. While living in Colorado at elevation, it was often the perfect layer to cut the chill outside, and we found ourselves wearing it almost daily.
You'll find the Houdini listed as one of Treeline Review's top gear items ever in our Treeline Review Writers Share their Favorite Gear for the PCT. It's also in numerous guides to thru-hikes, including the Pacific Crest Trail, John Muir Trail, and Arizona Trail, as well as bike touring packing lists for trips like the Great Allegheny Passage.
PATAGONIA HOUDINI (Original)
We’ve used the Patagonia Houdini at work, cycling, skiing, on mountain runs, at social events, and as “just in case” layers on hikes. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
FABRIC
The original Houdini has a more casual, softer fabric than other windbreakers. Specs can be more nuanced than a simple number, especially if the only specs reported are the actual weight of the fabric. The difference between the fabrics of the Patagonia Houdini and our winner for the Best Hiking Windbreaker, the Montbell Tachyon, is even starker with Tachyon’s 7d ripstop nylon, a highly technical build.
BREATHABILITY
As far as breathability, the Houdini is average to above average. For harder runs in temperatures above 40°F, it may not be enough. That’s around where we notice more sweat build up in the creases of our elbows and the upper back under where the hood rests when not worn. However, the original Houdini rises to the occasion when hiking, cycling, or wearing a jacket around town above 40 °F, up to about 70°F.
The Houdini breathes a little less than the similar Houdini Air (now discontinued), but it provides more wind resistance, and the value and versatility of the original Houdini are unmatched. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
WATER-RESISTANCE AND PFC-FREE
The Houdini uses a PFC-free, Durable Water Repellent (DWR)—referring to per-fluorinated and poly-fluorinated chemicals (why this matters). Patagonia recognizes that given the current technology of DWRs, those that include PFCs are the only ones that meet the highest performance requirements for water-resistant and weather-resistant garments. So yes, the Houdini water resistance would benefit from a PFC DWR treatment, but it’s not meant for the most technical of pursuits.
However, it is worth noting that we did not find the Houdini unacceptable for the water protection one should expect from a non-waterproof garment. All this considered, Patagonia is working to eliminate PFCs from their entire product line by 2024.
HOOD
The standard Houdini fits slightly smaller than other windbreakers. We couldn’t quite pull it over our climbing helmet without some force, which can put tension on the zipper and cause damage to the fabric or zipper over time. However, Outdoor Gear Lab found that the Houdini fit over a climbing helmet, so either Patagonia may have reworked the latest model, or that reviewer’s helmet could be smaller than ours. This factor is no knock to the Houdini, though. In our eyes, this keeps with the Houdini's more casual, versatile build.
More on the hood—we love its simple cinch to remove some volume on the crown for a secure seal around the face. Wearing a typical billed hat, it’s a perfect, unrestricting seal. The wrist cuffs have elastic on the underside only, which we like because it creates a balance of security and airflow and allows us to slide the top part back over our watch easily.
HEM AND POCKETS
The Houdini has a slightly dropped hem, which is nice for coverage, especially when bending over. Lastly, for those who like to pack things neatly or are also looking to clip a lightweight jacket to their climbing harness, the Houdini has a chest pocket that the jacket stuffs into, using the zipper to close everything up.
FIT AND SIZES
We commend Patagonia for sizing offerings on the Houdini, offering a range from XS-3XL. We’d love to see the Air version of the Houdini be offered in the exact sizing, as it’s limited to XL on the upper end. Patagonia claims a slim fit for the Houdini. We would mostly agree, though it’s not a tight-fitting garment.
Reviews point to most people using the Houdini for hiking, running, cycling, and casual wear, which is what we spent most of our time doing while wearing it. Some reviewers don’t find it the most breathable jacket, but it’s also not particularly stuffy. Some reviewers with more broad shoulders say their usual size fits a little snugly, but sizing up solved the problem without the jacket being too baggy elsewhere.
DURABILITY AND CARE
One review mentioned that the men's jacket didn’t hold up well in the wash, by that may depend on exactly how the jacket was cleaned. For reference, we've had no problem in 4 years. We’ve always hand washed it once a season, but when summer comes, we’ll give it a proper machine wash following Patagonia instructions, which suggest cool water on a gentle cycle and drying on low heat.
The only thing the Original Houdini lacks is specificity. We don’t think that’s a fault, as it still does plenty, and really well. Its build construction, performance, and the name behind it give us the confidence to recommend the Patagonia Houdini as the best overall windbreaker. And don’t forget; it’s backed by the same well-known warranty and customer service. For many of us, it’s the only wind jacket we’ll need.
Best ULTRALIGHT Windshirt For THru Hiking: Katabatic Crest Windshell
Available sizes: S-XL
Fit: Standard
Weight: 1.8 oz (M)
Fabric: Pertex Quantum Air
Best for: Thru hiking, backpacking, trail running
What we liked: Incredibly light, excellent DWR, drop tail hem
What we didn’t like: No self stuff sack
When every ounce matters, our top choice is the Crest Windshell from Katabatic Gear. For thru hiking, backpacking, or trail running, at 1.8 ounces (size medium), the Crest is the lightest we've found – without sacrificing performance or comfort. We're not sure how they did it, but Katabatic packed a lot into that 1.8 ounces.
In addition to thru hiking, our tester also used the Crest as a vapor barrier in aerobic winter activities, such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in sub-freezing temperatures. He found it extremely effective, with a nice balance of wind resistance and breathability.
Katabatic Crest Windshell
Our tester loved the Crest's drop-tail hem. When you're wearing a backpack, that extra coverage makes a huge difference. There's nothing worse than a jacket that bunches up underneath your hip belt. The bottom hem also has a cinch closure to lock it down even more if needed.
The Crest is made with Pertex Quantum Air fabric. Quantum Air is water-resistant, and, according to the Pertex website, retains an 80 point water repellent rating after 20 washes – which is considered "excellent" in the DWR world. Our tester has not washed his jacket 20 times yet, but he has not noticed any loss of water repellency yet.
Our tester was a fan of the feel of the Quantum Air fabric as well. He found it soft and not clammy (especially compared to the Montbell Tachyon) – even when damp.
The Crest does not have any pockets, so there is no way to stuff it into itself – and we're ok with that. We almost never stuff our windshell into itself on a thru hike – it takes too much time! It's a feature we never used anyway, so we're happy to save that weight.
Overall, the Crest is the perfect windshell for a thru hike or extended backpacking trip. With the same weight as a Snickers bar, you'll never notice it in your pack.
Best affordable windbreaker jacket: Cotopaxi Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker
Available sizes: XS - XXXL
Fit: Regular
Fabric: 100% polyester
Weight: 4.35 oz (medium)
Best for: Casual use and hiking
What we liked: Affordable, kangaroo pocket, wind resistance
What we didn’t like: Overbuilt for some uses, breathability is lacking
$80 is an attractive price for a lightweight windbreaker in 2024; the Cotopaxi Teca Half-Zip windbreaker offers value for the full amount. This windbreaker is casually styled with some versatility for uses beyond your daily jacket. When measured primarily on the metric of wind resistance, the Cotopaxi excels. It’s also packable and lightweight compared to many other bulky and heavier jackets that we tested, even with some extra external features found on the jacket. Plus Cotopaxi’s Teca collection is made of 100% recycled materials or remnant materials.
After testing the Cotopaxi for daily wear, neighborhood walks, day hikes, and running, we found the Cotopaxi in its element during more casual activities, plus day hiking. It’s not the best running gear, but if you’re using this jacket primarily for lower-output activities with a lesser emphasis on breathability, consider the Teca Half-Zip from Cotopaxi.
As a bonus, Cotopaxi is a certified B Corporation, scoring well beyond the requirements for the certification as they practice their original mission to reduce poverty and make “Gear for Good’. The Teca Half-Zip is the best for the price, so we’re giving it our best affordable windbreaker title. You'll find it won our Best Affordable Running Jacket award in our Women's Running Jackets guide.
COTOPAXI TECA HALF-ZIP WINDBREAKER
The Cotopaxi Teca Half-Zip has the most unique and casually functional pockets out of all of the jackets we tested, including this kangaroo, or full pass through, pocket. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
FABRIC
The Teca Half-Zip is made from 100% repurposed polyester taffeta and ripstop with no specific details provided regarding denier. It’s not the thinnest nor most robust jacket fabric, but it does inspire durability.
Overall, this fabric feels and sounds (swish!) like the primary fabric found on the Smartwool Merino Wool UL jacket, our winner for the best cycling windbreaker. The Cotopaxi is 100% polyester as opposed to the nylon shell of the Smartwool jacket, though, and slightly less breathable overall. You can’t always tell by looks and feel alone! A deep dive into testing often reveals product nuances that help explain price differences.
The Cotopaxi can serve running and hiking duty, but we also enjoy this windbreaker while hanging out and grinding some coffee on the tailgate. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
ZIPPER
The zipper on the Cotopaxi is the biggest of all the jackets we tested, and we’re not complaining. It comes with an equally large zipper pull and some nylon cord tied on to keep finding and operating the zipper just as easily with or without gloves. Removing gloves with a heavy wind blowing isn’t optimal, and thoughtful zippers like this don’t go without some appreciation.
POCKETS
The pockets are the most unique of any of the jackets we tested. Rather than two handwarmer pockets found on most windbreakers, the half-zip design allows a complete pass-through, “kangaroo” style tunnel pocket so your hands can rest relaxed and share warmth. Layered over that kangaroo pocket is a generously-sized zipper security pocket for keys, gloves, a warm hat, or any other lightweight item you want to store inside. A phone easily fits and works well when walking, but it will hang away from you a little when cycling and bounce while running.
The cuffs on the jacket are fully elastic around the wrist. Cotopaxi strikes a good balance on our smaller wrists, but we can see it being snug on larger forearms. However, the sleeves' fit are neither baggy nor slim. This fit follows the general cut of the jacket, on the looser side compared to some of our other more technical jackets, but by no means a baggy fit. We approve.
HEM AND STYLE
Lastly, the hem also has a fully-elastic, non-adjustable design. This feature creates a nice seal without constricting, and there’s no hardware to break. We also found that it encourages the fabric to billow just slightly over the hem—it looks great and avoids a technical look for wearing around town and as everyday wear.
BREATHABILITY AND DRAWBACKS
There are a couple of drawbacks to consider when checking out the Teca Half-Zip. It’s not the most breathable jacket on our list, scoring somewhere on the average to below-average scale. For casual use, this is fine because it means more warmth for a lightweight, packable garment. For higher output activities where sweating is inevitable and you’re producing excess heat, the Teca doesn’t excel in managing it. Lastly, while we love the zipper, we did find that it tends to catch at the very top of the zipper when it hits a chin guard flap sewn into the inner fabric. This flap keeps the zipper off your face, but to avoid catching it, you’ll need to pull out, then up, when zipping it fully. We got used to managing it and don’t think it’s a big deal.
VALUE
Despite some minor complaints, we’re blown away with the jacket we get for the price. It’s a company devoted to social and environmental responsibility, has one of the more inclusive sizing offerings, is a beautiful, functional jacket, and does its primary job of cutting the wind perfectly. There’s no question that it’s the best affordable windbreaker that we tested.
Best lightweight windbreaker jacket: Black Diamond Distance Wind Shell
Available sizes: S-XL
Fit: Standard
Weight: 3.3 oz (medium)
Fabric: 100% ripstop nylon
Best for: When weight, compactness, and wind protection over helmets are a priority
What we liked: Excellent wind protection for such a small and light garment
What we didn’t like: Not the best DWR out there
For what you’re carrying, the Black Diamond Distance pulls its weight in spades. It keeps the wind out, breathes well, and helps trap heat when used in a layering system. It’s one of the most technical-looking wind shirts we tested, akin to the performance fabric look of nylon hiking shelters, sleeping bags, and other lightweight outdoor gear. If we’re heading out into a challenging, dry, but cold day like running and skiing (and beyond), we want the Black Diamond Distance on our backs, and that’s why it’s our winner for the best lightweight windbreaker.
If you’re commonly out in chilly, high, or persistent winds, consider the Black Diamond Distance Windshell. It's an excellent windshell for those who run cold and want to keep the chill away while also keeping down the weight and volume of gear.
The Black Diamond Distance Windshell is similarly wind resistant as our best overall jacket, the Patagonia Houdini, and it packs the smallest of our test jackets at a minimal 5.75” x 3.75, which you could further compress for smaller compartments. That's one reason the women's version is also a winner in the Best Women's Running Jackets guide.
BLACK DIAMOND DISTANCE WIND SHELL
The Black Diamond Distance Wind Shell on a ski tour day in the Eastern Sierra backcountry. Photo by Jared Plummer
WINDPROOFNESS
Once we had a few runs, hikes, and skis in each of our top-performing windshells, we made it a point to wear them on a run the evening before a snowstorm near home when the winds were blowing in. Temperatures were just below freezing, with gusts that made us want to stop and turn our faces away. Our other jackets relieved some of the bitter cold winds, but the BD Distance was our top defense.
A bonus of the Black Diamond Distance is that it fits over an M/L rock climbing/ski touring helmet for those who want a jacket for rocky mountain scramble runs when a helmet is merited. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
FIT AND SIZING
The hem on the BD Distance is on the long side compared to our other test jackets. We found this a pro for additional weather protection, but the zipper does feel pretty far away when reaching for it!
The overall fit of the Distance shell is standard to slim or “athletic”—wider in the shoulders and tapered slimmer at the waist. We were worried that the lack of stretch compared to some jackets would result in a restrictive feel, but the extra space up top where the articulation happens paired with the slick fabric makes for a well-articulating jacket.
FEATURES
The hood has a low profile elastic binding on the front hood edges, an intuitive rear barrel lock, and an elastic shock cord for securely bringing the hood around the head and face. Once we found where we wanted the shock cord set, the elastic edges on the hood allowed enough give in the hood to stretch it over our running hat and around the face. We didn’t have to worry about re-adjusting with gloved hands, which is nice because removing gloves in exposed cold areas is something we try to avoid.
The Distance jacket also has a locking zipper, which we found helpful when pulling the hood over when cinched, as it can otherwise come down and remove the seal, an issue we ran into testing the Brooks Canopy and the Arc’teryx Squamish.
You can find a lighter, more compact windbreaker out there, but for the versatility, windproofness, and features, the Black Diamond Distance is the best light windbreaker we tested.
Best hiking windbreaker jacket: Montbell Tachyon
Available sizes: S-XL
Fit: Regular, but runs small
Fabric: 7d Ballistic Airlight ripstop nylon
Weight: 2.5 oz (medium)
Best for: Hiking
What we liked: Lightweight, Backpacking-specific zippered pockets, front hood adjustment points
What we didn’t like: Sizing options are limited
Our reviewer used the Montbell Tachyon nearly every day of their hikes on The Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Vermont Long Trail, and other shorter backpacking trips. Its light weight, packability, and backpacking-specific design make the Montbell Tachyon the best windbreaker for hiking and longer backpacking trips.
The Tachyon’s thin fabric and simple design keep the bulk down, and it is an excellent piece for cool day hikes; for breaks on mild days; for summiting a chilly, windy peak; or hiking in before and after sunrise during your more ambitious days out. Where we found the jacket to shine is on multi-day backpacking trips—no matter the climate. It keeps the warmth while hiking when the wind makes an otherwise mild weather day. You'll find it listed as an ultralight backpacking favorite gear item in our guides to the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and John Muir Trail as well as our Bikepacking gear list.
MONTBELL TACHYON
The Montbell Tachyon has backpacking hipbelt-specific tall pockets so that the hipbelt doesn’t nullify the value of the pockets when hiking. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
VERSATILITY
We’ve used the Montbell Tachyon over our base layer, over a fleece, and at camp paired with our puffy jackets when every bit of warmth is crucial. Our reviewer also uses his, in conjunction with the Montbell Tachyon pants, as emergency layers when all other hiking layers (except his insulated jacket) are soaked. The 7 denier ripstop nylon doesn’t make for the most pleasant next-to-skin layer on a damp night, but dry is dry, and dry is safe!
The author in his well-loved yellow Montbell Tachyon, descending 2,000ft of talus on the Nolan’s 14 route in Colorado on a windy late May day. Photo by Trey French
UPDATES ON THE MONTBELL TACHYON
The specs: Let's address a few things that have changed on the Tachyon from our older version.
The newest version has a full zip. Our original jacket has a half zip, which is a nice compromise between a quarter zip and full zip for taking the jacket on and off and lending some extra venting over a quarter. The half zip saves a small amount of weight, but we think the full zip is worth the change for max venting.
Montbell also added some tall zippered hand pockets. Rather than making them tall to store a bunch of gear, which we don’t recommend doing on a featherweight jacket like the Tachyon, the pockets are high on the jacket to keep it functional while wearing a hipbelt. Many handwarmer pockets on windshells and other jackets are rendered inaccessible and often uncomfortable under a backpacking hipbelt. Montbell has solved this problem. Now, you can keep your hands warm inside the pocket whether you use a hipbelt or not.
Montbell added three small mechanical venting holes under the arms where we create a lot of heat. Except when lifting our arms into wind gusts, which feels nice when running warm, we can’t tell much of a difference with this change. But there’s no downside to having some extra breathability built in.
A well-loved yellow Montbell Tachyon “half zip” windbreaker from 2017 after about 250 days of use next to its friend, the latest full zip model in blue. Montbell has made some positive, nuanced design changes over the years. Photo by Trey French
To offset some of these additions, Montbell has removed some features. The first is that there is no longer a shock cord inside the waist hem to adjust the jacket to be tighter around the waist to seal in heat. Most people wear hipbelts when hiking, so there’s an argument for the adjustment feature being redundant.
Change in adjustment tab. One change we’re not as excited about, which seems to save 2-4 grams at most, is that the newest 2023 Tachyon omits the old velcro adjustment tab on the rear of the hood. We especially like this feature on the older model, as the hood on the jacket is on the large side, and using the tab allowed the hiker to essentially decrease the depth of the hood by folding the fabric inside the velcro loop. It was a “one and done” adjustment that helped accommodate different-sized heads, hairstyles, and use with or without a hat. Montbell did retain its front hood adjusters, though, which we’re a fan of for its ease of use and precise tautness. A simple cinch on each side of the hood can be seen when adjusting—no fiddling with glove hands on the rear when you’re trying to get going in the morning!
The author wearing the Montbell Tachyon on his thru-hike of the Continental Divide Trail. Here, he’s on the summit of Parkview Mountain in Colorado.
BREATHABILITY
The Tachyon sports a thin, durable, breathable 7d ripstop “ballistic” nylon. It’s not as breathable as other windbreakers and not as suitable for higher output activities like running (but still works pretty well). The Tachyon does, however, provide more protection from the wind. Take it from Shawn Forry, for example. He used the Montbell Tachyon during his winter thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail alongside Justin Lichter, where they hiked, snowshoed, and backcountry skied. Though long-time sponsored by Montbell, Cam Honan, perhaps the most hiked person alive, has seemingly worn his Tachyon on every long hike he’s been on. Sponsored or not, it seems to be taking care of him on hikes worldwide.
The author on a ridgewalk in Colorado during his thru-hike of the Continental Divide Trail wearing the Montbell Tachyon.
Despite very few gripes about the Montbell Tachyon, we still think it’s the jacket to pick up for hiking and backpacking trips. After all of the use we’ve put it through going in and out of our packs and occasionally ripping through sharp stuff on off-trail pursuits, we have two tiny holes that we’ve simply patched with Tenacious Tape. The zipper is solid, and there’s no fraying. The jacket just keeps going. Cam Honan says he gets 10,000 miles out of a Tachyon. For the price, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better alternative readily available on the market.
Best cycling windbreaker jacket: Smartwool Active Ultralight Jacket
Available sizes: S-XXL
Fit: Standard
Fabric: Main Body: 100% Recycled Nylon. Trim/Lining: 53% Merino Wool 47% TENCEL™
Weight: 4.75 oz (medium)
Best for: Cycling, when you prefer no hood
What we liked: No hood collar, airflow through the armpits and back
What we didn’t like: Not the most breathable on steep climbs
Although the Smartwool Active Ultralight Jacket is not designed as a cycling jacket by a cycling brand, it stood out among the windbreakers we tested as the most suitable for use on the bike. Rather than purchasing a cycling-specific jacket that might be limited in its versatility, consider something like the Sport UL jacket. For a cycling jacket, we prefer a collar style like the one on the Sport UL jacket or a jacket with a removable hood.
Though some jackets have hoods that fit over helmets, going no hood at all will have less drag or, at minimum, less annoyance by not having a hood flapping in the wind next to your ear. The Smartwool Sport UL has more wind protection than many wind shells, and you can open it up entirely on uphill climbs. Bonus points, the Smartwool Merino Sport UL Jacket looks great! While we didn’t find a lot of benefit in the merino usage in the jacket for running or hiking, the merino shines when cycling. It's a great benefit when worn on the downhill on a bike, and that’s why we’re giving it our Best Cycling Windbreaker title.
SMARTWOOL SPORT ULTRALIGHT JACKET
We had about 2 weeks of mild weather riding in between winter storm cycles in the Eastern Sierra to really push the Smartwool jacket into bike service after giving it a longer test for running. - Photo by Kellen Krasinski
Fabric
Smartwool doesn’t divulge the details of their nylon fabric (everything that’s the color red in our photo). From our testing, we found that it blocks wind better and breathes a little less than some of the other windbreakers we tested. Paired with the Merino Tencel makeup of the underarm gussets and rear upper back panel, we think it breathes well when unzipped for the uphill bike climb. For the downhill, it’s a quick, no-fuss zip without the zipper getting stuck. That's why you'll see a similar Smartwool jacket (now discontinued) on our Bike Touring Packing list for long cross-country rides.
Zipper
The pull tab on the zipper is more robust than others we’ve seen, but if you plan to wear thick cycling gloves for cooler weather, you might still benefit from adding some string to create a more easily maneuverable pull tab.
The Smartwool UL Merino wasn't the most breathable windbreaker, but it has well-placed zippered pockets, a comfortable hoodless collar, and merino gussets. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
Pockets
For pockets, the jacket has two zippered handwarmer pockets, which we used to keep our gloves secure on the uphill climb. It was much easier to remove them from a zippered hand pocket for use on the downhill instead of having to fish them out from one of the bags on the bike, or a hip pack when not using bike bags.
Collar
The collar on the Sport UL jacket is secure around the neck and lined with Merino Tencel fabric for a soft next-to-skin feel. Like the Merino Tencel base layer we loved from Ibex in our Best Running Jackets for Men review, the merino panels under the arms and on the back are a little warmer-weather friendly than standard Merino. Still, they offer the temperature-regulating properties of merino.
Breathability
This stuff is pretty air permeable, which we liked on the bike, at least for our mild winter riding, where we were also mostly wearing shorts and a ¾- length tights. The merino Tencel gussets allow some air to pass through to our core when our hands are on the handlebars. It encourages some cooling, and we appreciate it.
Most of the time, the vents provided just enough cooling without getting chilled. One caveat that we might give is if you’re riding long descents down big mountain passes where you’re losing 3000 ft+ of vertical descent, you might want something with more protection.
Packability
The Merino Sport UL packs small like other windbreakers, despite using merino wool, which can sometimes add bulk relative to using only nylon or polyester. We often put it in our small top tube snack bag or half-frame bag in the middle of the bike. We don’t own any bike jerseys, but we see no issue stuffing the jacket in a rear pocket on those. Mountain bikers can easily stow it in hip packs or hydration backpacks.
The Smartwool Merino Sport UL fits comfortably in our small top tube bike bag for quick access on day rides. Photo by Kellen Krasinski
We don’t have much to complain about regarding the Smartwool Merino Sport UL jacket. However, it may not be the most versatile windbreaker for some since it doesn’t have a hood. You may want a hood when running, hiking, or anything else besides cycling.
We’re excited to see more Merino Tencel in the outdoor world, given our positive experiences with it so far. Seeing it paired with traditional windbreaker materials is no exception. The way Smartwool has styled it seems to just work for cycling, even if it wasn't intended for that. In summary, Smartwool is making innovative use of its merino expertise by pairing it in a way that makes it a high-performing cycling piece, and we recommend it.
Best waterproof windbreaker jacket: The North Face Summit Series Papsura FUTURELIGHT
Available sizes: S-XXL
Fit: Standard to slim
Fabric: 3L FutureLight
Weight: 7.95 oz (medium)
Best for: Whenever balancing rain protection, weight, and packed volume
What we liked: Ultralight, packable jacket that strips extraneous features while sticking to the primary function of the jacket—keeping a waterproof jacket comfortable while it’s raining
What we didn’t like: Too minimal for some for its price; some users will prefer a more generously cut jacket
The North Face Summit Series Papsura FutureLight is one of the exceptions in the windbreaker world that manages high-output activity and wet weather rather effectively. It keeps water out and minimizes moisture buildup from sweating. Its innovative 3-layer fabric prevents internal moisture buildup from starting and prevents it from soaking us from the inside.
The North Face Papsura is our best waterproof windbreaker winner for its excellent weather protection and breathability balance. We think that same performance makes it the Best Waterproof Windbreaker for all high-output activities that don’t require special abrasion resistance like mountaineering or climbing.
THE NORTH FACE FLIGHT SUMMIT SERIES PAPSURA FUTURELIGHT JACKET
42°F and dumping rain, running alongside the creek and Juniper Pines. Photo by Trey French
Our reviewer recreates in the rain, but it’s his least favorite condition. Not because of the rain itself but because managing rain is difficult when producing a lot of body heat. Despite claims of being waterproof and breathable, many rain jackets are just plain stuffy. The North Face Futurelight is the exception to the trend in waterproof windbreakers.
We tested the Futurelight by heading up to altitude for early season snow spitting in the Sierra on hikes and runs. We altered scheduled times to head out when the sky dropped cold and heavy rain. We took it for a rainy run and several hikes in Tennessee to see how it performed in different climates. Our findings were that this 3L waterproof windbreaker has a feel and performance that gives it the edge over other windbreakers marketed as waterproof jackets that we tested, and that’s why it’s our winner for the best waterproof windbreaker.
One of the more smooth sliding zippers on TNF Futurelight. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
WATERPROOFING
The North Face states that the Futurelight uses “premium waterproof-breathable technology,” and we believe it. It’s a 20D 81 g/m² face fabric, fully recycled polyester with a soft, tacky feel, unlike most slick and swishy rain jacket fabrics.
The Futurelight fabric is similar to a softshell but has better rain protection. During a 1-hour rainy run in Tennessee, our reviewer built up some moisture below the elbows and some mid-back sweat after incorporating several higher-intensity strides. In mild, humid conditions at higher intensities, it’s hard to avoid minor moisture buildup, but the Futurelight jacket liner kept things comfortable and not clammy like other rain jackets. Although not specifically marketed as a rain jacket, the Futurelight is the best rain jacket in this guide.
FEATURES
Due to the minimal design, this jacket has no pockets other than the jacket-stowable mesh one on the inner back. We’re neutral on the near-pocketlessness; it can be nice to have pockets, but adding them to a minimalist jacket can feel extraneous. The zipper is waterproof, and unlike some zippers, we weren’t annoyed trying to zip and unzip this one!
The cuff only has partial elastic on the underside of the wrist. It’s a balance of water protection and ventilation. Not having the elastic on top with some room built in also helps pull the cuff away to check the watch.
The hood on this one is non-helmet specific, on the smaller side compared to some jackets. That said, it’s plenty big for wearing your typical hat, and the elastic shock cord and tensioning piece are minimal but not finicky; they stay out of the way when needing to cinch the hood tightly over your face for maximum weather protection.
There’s a stitch line above the elbow where the lower sleeve is pieced to the upper. Paired with the already stretchy Futurelight fabric, we found that this break in the construction facilitated non-restrictive movement despite being a reasonably slim garment.
REFLECTIVE DETAILING
For those who value reflective detail, The North Face made a point to add reflective features on the front and back of the jacket. However, it would be better to have additional reflection if you’re someone who prioritizes being seen. If you do a lot of night outings or in low-light conditions, look into some accessories that can augment the reflective details of any jacket.
One drawback of this windbreaker, again, might be the price. We get it if you’re hesitant to spend this much on a rain jacket. But this might be the jacket for you if you’re looking for ways to make going out in the rain more comfortable. If you’re not going to be out for multiple hours of hard rain, a more affordable jacket with just slightly less water resistance, the Rabbit Treeline might be a better fit. Plus, it has a lot of reflective detail! The slim nature of the jacket doesn’t accommodate much more than a thinner fleece jacket, but once it’s cold enough not to be raining, you can always switch to a non waterproof windbreaker.
The Flight Futurelight has a slim fit but still allows for some stretch at key points. Stopping for a photo while it was raining half an inch an hour. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
Customer and professional reviews highlight the jacket’s breathable fabric at running activity levels, minimal build, and surprisingly effective water protection. For those who bought it for rain running and general non-technical mountain activities, the feedback is positive. The complaints typically stem from those wanting to use it as a general jacket, which we don’t strongly recommend due to its minimal design.
You can find more affordable options if you want a light rain jacket for other activities like wearing around town. But if you spend a lot time in the rain for more specific activities like hiking and running, and need a well-ventilated jacket, we highly recommend The North Face Futurelight jacket for wet weather.
Other windbreaker jackets we tested
Arc’teryx Squamish HOODIE
Available sizes: XS-XXL
Fit: “Fitted” and slim, and more slim tapering around shoulders
Fabric: Tyono™ 30 denier shell 100% Nylon
Weight: 4.9 oz (medium)
If you’ve heard of any of the jackets on our list, the Arc’teryx is likely one of them. The Squamish windbreaker (there are others in the Squamish line) lives in the class with our best overall windbreaker and is the overall winner in our Best Men’s Running Jackets guide.
We want to be clear that our testing reveals a lot of positives. It’s more wind-resistant than the other windbreakers. It’s more breathable than the original Houdini but not as wind resistant. It’s got a great balance of wind resistance and breathability.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE ARC’TERYX SQUAMISH HOODIE
The fit among all three jackets is similar in hem length and the standard-to-slim cut. The Arc’teryx does seem to taper more snuggly in the shoulders. Still, it’s also gusseted under the arms to encourage unrestricted upward arm movement, complemented by a stretch nylon fabric (that feels great against the skin) which is in line with the jacket being marketed as an alpine rock climbing jacket. Moreover, there are no extra hand pockets to get in the way of a harness, and the bottom hem has an adjustable cinch to keep out the wind.
About 22°F with 25 mph winds, a cold storm moving in from altitude. A long sleeve lightweight merino under the Squamish was just enough to get by for a short outing but just on the edge of beyond what many will be comfortable with. Adding a thin fleece or heavier base layer might be advised in these conditions. Photo by Trey French
One aspect of the Squamish that swung us over to giving the Patagonia windbreakers and not the Arc’teryx category wins is that it doesn’t have a locking zipper. While the brim on the hood's end is stiffer than most of the jackets we tested, the zipper doesn’t lock. When pulling the zipper apart once sealed to the top of the neckline, it unzips. You might not find this a big deal until you try to squeeze the shell over a climbing helmet, and the pressure pulls the zipper apart, and the hood comes off when you’re trying to place some gear on the wall.
Stoked to be testing the Arc’teryx Squamish. Photo by Trey French
Contrary to some other reviews, we didn’t find that the hood fit over our M/L Petzl helmet. Technically we could pull the hood on, but it’s too snug for any articulation and is overall too restricting. The hood’s on the small side, and we didn’t find the need to use the cinch on the rear of the hood. While the hood is stylish and may not require cinching for some users, we prefer a larger hood that can cinch down, like the Black Diamond Distance windbreakers.
We’ve noticed Arc’teryx making somewhat regular adjustments to the Squamish, and we hope to see some tweaks address these minor issues.
Available sizes: S-XL
Fit: Standard
Fabric: 66% nylon, 34% polyurethane
Weight: 6.4 oz (medium)
One thing we liked about the rabbit Treeline is that it has the best reflective detailing out of all tested jackets, with a bright reflective detail down the entire front of the zipper. This detail is ideal for those going out in low-light conditions or near road traffic.
We like the length of the Treeline, with a slightly longer hem, similar to the Arc’teryx Squamish and Black Diamond Distance jacket, compared to other jackets of the same size, which will better protect your back from mud and more in messy conditions. We found the hood less comfortable when fully zipped than other adjustable hood systems, especially under the chin and neck below the ears.
RABBIT TREELINE
The reflective zipper on the Rabbit Treeline is a nice touch and reminds us of the need to be seen when among traffic. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
We weren’t sure at first if the rabbit Treeline was a wind shirt or a rain shell due to its sealed seam construction and low-waterproof rating. The lining material was not nearly as comfortable as on other jackets.
Despite having no mechanical venting, the Treeline is on the breathable side for a rain jacket, and this may have something to do with the low-end waterproof rating of 10k. At that level, you can expect to stay dry from most rain storms, but if you ever wear a pack over it, the pressure from the pack may be enough to force the moisture through the membrane onto your back. It’s a well-performing 2.5L jacket with clear limits, but it’s a great contender option for many fans of the reputable rabbit brand.
Available sizes: S-3XL
Fit: Standard
Fabric: 100% polyester
Weight: 11 oz (medium)
Before anything else, we noticed how visible we felt wearing the Baleaf Hooded Windbreaker in the color we tested, making it an attractive layer for traffic-adjacent running. The low ~$50 price, especially compared to other jackets in our lineup, and the extensive sizing range made us hopeful that we had a budget winner.
Unfortunately, the Baleaf Triumph is a windbreaker with the comfort of a heavy, high-volume rain jacket. Though the price is attractive, we decided it’s worth saving for a higher-performing jacket if you can swing it.
BALEAF LIGHT HOODED WINDBREAKER
Closing out an even final mile near the trailhead after having the Baleaf on the trail in the eastern Sierra, CA. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
Available sizes: XS-XXL
Fit: Standard to Slim
Fabric: 100% recycled polyester
Weight: 5.3 oz (medium)
The Brooks Canopy was a frequent choice for our runs and walks near home on evenings when the sun was starting to set, and a simple base layer just didn’t quite cut it. The more we used it, the more we liked it.
In some ways, the Brooks Canopy is reminiscent of the traditional Patagonia Houdini (not the Air version). The difference is that it breathes better with a sacrifice in wind protection. The Brook’s Canopy is actually our Best Affordable Running Jacket, but it is almost too breathable for many users who don’t want a running-specific windbreaker. We encourage you to check out our running jacket guide if you're mostly running. If you're looking for more versatility in your windbreaker for hiking, climbing, or hanging out, we think our other winners will serve you better.
BROOKS CANOPY
The Brooks Canopy jacket has hood storage to keep the hood in place when not used, which stops the hood from flapping loosely! Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
Available sizes: S - XXL
Fit: Standard
Fabric: 100% Nylon Pertex Quantum Diamond Fuse
Weight: 5.3 oz (medium)
The Outdoor Research Helium Wind Hoodie is the windbreaker counterpart to the lauded Helium Rain Jacket. We enjoyed running, hiking, and skiing with the OR Helium Wind Hoodie. However, we couldn’t place it as a category win among its closest company, the Patagonia Houdini series, where the breathability and wind resistance, much like the Arc’teryx Squamish, rests.
The Pertex Diamond Fuse fabric is frequently the recipient of much praise, and our reviewer has used many quality products from Pertex. We instantly stained this jacket, though, possibly from sunscreen or other balms we use outdoors. Despite heavily sunscreening ourselves on every outing at altitude, this is the only jacket that is stained like that. If you’re a fan of the Helium series (we can’t blame you!), consider going for one of the darker colors, just in case.
OUTDOOR RESEARH HELIUM WIND HOODIE
The casual shuffle in the OR Helium Wind Hoodie. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
We took the Houdini Air (now discontinued) on runs in California’s Bishop, Mammoth, Alabama Hills, and San Diego. Given its excellent breathability, we also tested it in Tennessee on rainy runs and steep uphill ski tours. This photo shows us testing this running jacket in the Eastern Sierra. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
Buying Advice
Fabric
Like most outdoor gear, synthetics are the main fabric choices for wind-resistant jackets. The main choices are polyester and lightweight air-permeable nylon fabrics for windproof jackets. You may also find jackets with a blend of other fabrics, such as elastane and spandex, which might be added to give the garment more stretch in particular places or throughout the jacket. The best windbreakers use high quality materials that cut wind while reducing the chance you will overheat during exertion.
In our testing, we also saw Smartwool use merino wool panels on the back and under the arms to add venting to the windshell.
Some manufacturers will design jackets with similar panels for breathability on wind-resistant jackets but typically use a light grid fleece or super thin nylon.
Some fabrics have a habit of staining. Not usually a problem if it’s just for sport use, but may be a bigger deal if for social applications. Photo by Trey French
Fabric Weight
Fabric weight is a broad spectrum for windbreakers; some wind jackets are as light as 2 oz or even less, and others weigh as much as 6 oz or more. Weight also depends on features such as pockets, zippers, flaps, elastic bindings, and elastic cuffs. Most manufacturers won’t list the actual weight of the fabric, reported in square meters or yards. Instead, they will report the overall weight of the jacket only.
Once jackets start incorporating fleece panels and heavier fabrics, the windbreaker's overall weight (and volume) will creep up. One thing we’ve noticed is that sometimes, a jacket's overall weight can indicate how much weather protection you get (almost none from featherlight wind shells). In contrast, heavier rain jackets not covered in this review might protect in a downpour.
Fit and sizing
When shopping for a windbreaker jacket, you may run into terms of slim, standard/regular, and athletic fit.
SLIM
Slim fit is straightforward; it will fit the most tightly around your body. The jacket will likely flap around less, and it will generally be more lightweight, but it will also be less versatile and allow for less layering underneath.
You might find that layering is an asset if you’re in variable conditions. Layering helps with being able to add and subtract layers, while the aerodynamics of a slim jacket will likely go unnoticed.
STANDARD/REGULAR
Standard/Regular fits will be the most common. These suit many people’s tastes and allow for layering underneath without being baggy. Standard fits will typically have the same straight fit throughout the arms, shoulders, and jacket body with little to no tapering.
The fit on the Black Diamond Distance allowed for plenty of room throughout the jacket to layer over a base layer and fleece for ski touring. A synthetic puffy fits under there on us, too! Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
ATHLETIC FIT
Regarding athletic fit—firstly, athletic is not a body type. Athletes come in all body compositions. That said, athletic fit typically refers to a particular jacket tapering. This fit might mean broader shoulders and underarms for mobility in a men's jacket. It might also mean that the jacket accommodates more mass up top while tapering at the arms and waist to save weight or keep a particular aesthetic.
EU AND ASIAN FIT
Lastly, while shopping from brands originating in European, Asian, or other countries, you may see garments described with alternative sizing charts. These garments may run smaller in all dimensions than a North American sizing rubric. Some companies go by an EU or “Asian Fit,” which may also have a bearing on the hem length or general dimensions and fit of a jacket.
The Houdini Air (discontinued) was similar to the original Houdini, but it’s more breathable, comfortable against the skin, and versatile for a broader range of conditions. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
Wind Resistance
The fundamental function of a windbreaker is wind resistance. Wind often removes body heat faster than we want, so we use a lightweight, compressible garment like a windbreaker to slow that process down. Windbreakers balance between wind resistance and waterproofness.
Water resistance
When you’re reading the marketing details of a jacket and see the terms “water resistant” and “water repellant,” just know that you’re still going to get soaked in a downpour.
These terms typically apply to wind shell jackets meant for warmth without protection from sustained precipitation other than what a durable water repellent (DWR) can provide. DWR coating is a synthetic hydrophobic coating that helps water bead up and roll off of fabric rather than soak through instantly.
DWR coating can only do so much, and they also wear off over time, with mixed results when washing a DWR coat back into the garment.
We can get away with DWR water-resistant wind shell in a faint mist or light, dry snow. A windshell should be used primarily to hold warmth in cold temperatures or cut wind on exposed mountain ridgelines. You should not expect it to do much more to repel moisture.
Breathability
Wind shell jackets will have varying levels of breathability. For the truly curious, you could deep dive into CFM ratings, or how much of a 30 mph wind penetrates the fabric, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). You could also blow through the fabric and see how much goes through it.
These are both scientific and not-so-scientific approaches to seeing if the air will get through the fabric, which translates to how much heat will be contained in the jacket and how well you’ll be defended from ripping winds. You want a balance of heat retention and breathability to keep the sweating to a minimum and keep your base layer dry.
Sometimes more breathability at the cost of some wind resistance is preferred for aerobic, lower-speed activities like hiking and running. You may sacrifice more breathability for wind protection for skiing, cycling, or anything sustained in an alpine environment.
Temperature can be tough to manage. Sometimes we just open up a windshell completely when we’re not getting enough breathability out of it, but a base layer isn’t enough on its own. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
Stretchability
Many windbreakers will have a little stretch incorporated into the fabric design. The stretch could be mechanical (ex/ using gussets and panels like the Arc’teryx Squamish). Stretch can also come from alternative fabrics like the merino wool in the Smartwool Merino Sport UL Jacket. Having some stretch can help produce a comfortable, non-restricting garment, which is good for casual wear at a minimum, but can also be critical for technical movements in sports like rock climbing. Windbreakers won’t stretch like fleece or your base layer, but they’re usually not static, either.
Packability
The beauty of windbreakers is that they’re likely the most packable layer you’ll carry.For the weight and volume, they may be the best value out of all the layers you carry in your pack. Many of them won’t even pack up to 1L in size (the size of a Nalgene water bottle). Many windbreakers have a pocket that the jacket packs down into, usually found on the chest pocket, or an internal hip pocket with a carabiner loop for convenience.
These pockets are handy if you need to keep the jacket neat for something like rock climbing. Still, for most applications, we’re okay with simply stuffing the jacket loose somewhere or storing it in a dry bag with other items if it needs protection from rain and other moisture. You can store them in a running pack, running belt, clipped to a climbing harness, in another ski jacket pocket, and even in many running short pockets if they’re on the larger side.
Reflectivity
This may be a minor emphasis for some and major for others, depending on where and when you’re wearing your jacket. None of the jackets we tested are flashy in the reflective sense, except for the Rabbit Treeline. In our experience, it’s a minor emphasis in the windbreaker world. If you need something reflective, we get more into that in our Best Men's Running Jackets guide. If visibility is a central concern, we’d recommend incorporating additional reflective elements like a reflective tape from Gear Aid or wearing a reflective vest when needed. Alternately, stick with your windbreaker of choice and see our Best Reflective Gear for Running in the Dark for other gear items like hats and socks that can do the trick.
The now discontinued Houdini Air’s raised grid double weave material from Pertex® seems to create just enough air pocket separation between the base fabric and the skin, or base layer, along with some slight stretch. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
Care and maintenance tips for windbreaker jackets
Taking proper care of your windbreaker jacket is essential to ensure it remains a reliable companion during windy and rainy days. Here are some care and maintenance tips tailored to help you keep your windbreaker in top-notch condition:
Regular cleaning
Cleaning your windbreaker will help maintain the material’s integrity, since dirt and oils can wear down the effectiveness of the materials. We recommend Nikwax for cleaning shells, but first read the manufacturer’s care instructions prior to use. To learn more about cleaning your windbreaker or other shells, check out our How to Clean and Repair Gore-Tex and Other Shells guide.
If you want to use a washing machine, first be sure your windbreaker is safe to machine wash, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Try to use a front-loading washer without an agitator, and use the correct cleaning agent. Do your best to remove all the residue from other agents prior to washing since these can impact breathability of technical fabrics.
Zip up and turn inside out during washing
Prior to washing, zip the zippers all the way closed and turn the windbreaker inside out. This will help prevent damage to the zippers and any reflective elements or decals that are heat sensitive. Use warm water on a gentle cycle, unless otherwise noted in the manufacturer’s instructions.
Stain Removal
Do not use stain removers, since those can compromise the material of the windbreaker. If you need to remove a stain, use Nikwax or a similar technical wash.
Avoid fabric softeners
Don’t use fabric softeners when washing your windbreaker, as they compromise the effectiveness of the membrane.
Thorough rinsing
Leftover residue from cleaning agents can wear down the material, so be sure the windbreaker is thoroughly rinsed out after cleaning.
Air dry
While some windbreakers allow for low heat tumble dry, we recommend air drying them to keep them in their best shape for longer. If you air dry, hang or lay it down flat somewhere out of direct sunlight. Some jackets have a small loop at the back of the neck for easy hanging.
Reapply water repellent coating
Over time, the durable water repellent (DWR) on your jacket can wear off, so we recommend periodically reapplying a coating. A sign your jacket could use a touch up is when it starts “wetting out,” which is when water spreads across the fabric and becomes less breathable and effective. Find more tips for reapplying DWR to your windbreaker in our How to Clean and Repair Gore-Tex and Other Shells guide.
Proper storage
Hang your windbreaker or lay it flat when not in use. Also try to keep it out of direct sunlight and extreme heat as much as possible, as that can compromise the material’s effectiveness.
Minimize abrasion
Abrasion occurs when the fabric rubs against itself, or against something else. You can’t avoid abrasion entirely–it’s a normal part of wearing your windbreaker in the outdoors. You can, however, try to minimize unnecessary abrasion by avoiding scrunching up your windbreaker and stuffing it in a pack with other items, or by taking off your pack when you don’t need to wear it. Any way you can reasonably reduce abrasion will improve the longevity of your windbreaker.
Inspect seams and zippers
To keep your windbreaker in good shape for as long as possible, examine it regularly to look for signs of damage. In particular, check along seams, zippers, pockets, and anywhere that rubs against a hydration pack.
Special features
If your windbreaker boasts special features such as removable hoods or liners, check the label to see if there are specific care instructions for those components.
A windbreaker is often the difference between chilly and comfortable ski tour descents in overcast conditions by cutting wind when layered over a fleece garment and base layer. Photo by Jared Plummer
FAQ
What is a windbreaker jacket?
A windbreaker, often called a wind jacket or windshell, is a low-volume, water-resistant (but not waterproof) garment. It is worn primarily for protection against wind and cool temperatures. You can wear it over a base layer or all of your insulating layers as an additional defense against the elements. The best windbreaker jackets are more breathable and lower weight than a rain jacket, though it’s not as effective at protecting against rain.
The best windbreaker jackets will also be more packable than a synthetic or down insulation layer. However, it doesn’t provide as much warmth in a static setting, like sitting at camp, belaying your climbing partner, taking a break on an alpine run, or transitioning on a ski tour.
Do windbreaker jackets keep you warm?
Technically, a windbreaker is not an insulating jacket. However, its primary purpose is to preserve the warmth you create from your body by shielding it from convective cooling, which happens when moving wind steals your heat.
When should I wear a windbreaker?
You should wear a windbreaker whenever you need just a little more insulation than your base layer can provide. It’s a great “just in case” layer to bring on almost any hike, run, climb, ski, or neighborhood walk when unsure whether your shirt will suffice to keep you comfortable. Wind jackets prove their worth in windy conditions by protecting your body heat, but sometimes they simply take off the edge in somewhat chilly conditions.
You can use a windbreaker to supplement other layers by layering it over a fleece, under a synthetic puffy, or over your layers as a shell.
How to wash a windbreaker?
Many windbreakers' care tags suggest machine washing on a gentle cycle on cold and either tumble drying on no heat or hang drying. We recommend zipping up the pockets and the jacket itself to prevent zipper snags or any other part of the jacket snagging in the machine. To extend the life of the jackets, we like to wash ours in Nikwax Tech Wash to avoid harming the DWR on the jacket with traditional detergent. We often wash the jacket in the sink instead of the washer, rinsing it several times to ensure the detergent is washed out. A hang-dry works well and ensures your dryer doesn’t overheat the garment.
You might think that forgoing washing it altogether, or rarely washing it, would make the jacket last longer. This is not the case. DWR coatings often degrade or, at minimum, don’t function as well when the jacket is clogged with environmental dirt and body oils.
Some jackets we tested used elastic under the cuffs and not on the top. The Houdini Air (now discontinued) balances warmth retention and mechanical breathability with this. It also aids in accessing watch data without fuss by being able to pull the fabric back. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
Windbreakers vs. Softshells, Running Jackets, Rain Jackets, and Hard Shells
Windbreakers block the wind and hold a little bit of body heat in while softshells might be better suited for when you need actual down or synthetic insulation. For instance, windbreakers might be more suitable for when you’re moving while softshells may be better suited for static use like when you’re resting during an activity, or your car camping. Softshells are usually more bulky and weigh a lot more, but they also provide a fair amount more warmth. See our Best Softshell Jackets guide for more information on this highly mobile jacket.
All windbreakers can be running jackets, and we see more windbreakers come from running companies than any other. A close second is in the backpacking and hiking world along with cycling. Sometimes running-specific windbreakers will value higher breathability over max wind protection. See our Best Men's Running Jackets guide for more information.
Rain jackets do function as windbreakers, but to make them rainproof they must also have extra layers of fabric built in to stop the water from coming through the jacket. Windbreakers that aren’t waterproof are typically a single layer of fabric while rain jackets are 2-3L layers of fabric. The result is that windbreakers that aren’t waterproof weigh less, pack smaller, and breath better. Rain jackets offer more weather protection, but at the cost of weight, volume, and breathability. To learn more about lightweight rain jackets – the kind that is closest to a waterproof windbreaker – see our Best Lightweight Rain Jackets guide.
A hard shell is like a rain jacket but with even more weather protection. These are typically reserved as “3 layer jackets,” which means that they have a liner, a waterproof membrane like Gore-Tex, and face fabric that is coated with a durable water repellent. They’re usually used in wet climate backpacking, skiing, alpine climbing, and other uses where rain and water protection is paramount for warmth and safety. They are also usually heavy and have are high volume for packing. You can learn more about these kinds of jackets in our Best Men's Ski Jackets guide and Best Women's Ski Jackets guide.
How we tested
We tested windbreakers in the Eastern Sierra (about 5,000 feet elevation) during fall and winter when snow levels were high and sunshine was abundant. We ran, hiked, walked around town, ski toured, and gravel biked. We found which windbreakers breathed and didn’t, which jackets broke the wind the best, which hoods fit over our helmet, which ones held up against rain, and which jackets were more comfortable or technical. Some let a little or a lot of wind through. Some fit slim vs more standard to roomy. Some were more stripped to the essentials while others were feature rich.
At 10K altitude in the Eastern Sierra, mid-fall. Running from the storm in The North Face Futurelight waterproof jacket. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour
About the author / Why you should trust us
Wind blows, literally. It won’t leave you alone on solitary summits, pushes you backward going downhill on a bike, and frosts fingers on ski tours. It seems like tailwinds are always in lower supply than headwinds, but at least there are windbreakers to ease the stress. Our reviewer always carries one unless it’s 80°F or above with no relief in the forecast.
Around 9,000 miles of combined running and hiking miles, some time sliding around on skis, two-tired bike trips, and some casual climbing with buddies inform his approach to gear testing—from hikes of the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Long Trail, and other self-made routes, to runs across the Grand Canyon, trail races, and obscure lines drawn on a map up or down the side of a mountain. Trey firmly believes that a piece of gear should facilitate experiences rather than discourage folks from getting out the door. Keep it simple, keep it functional, and keep it fun!
Based above Bishop, CA, at 5,000ft, Trey adventures in all seasons—for mental health, fitness, and preparing a base for big mountain adventures, come the spring melt.
You can read more of Trey's work at his blog or on his author page.
