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The Best Rain Jackets for Men
Whether you plan on hitting the hiking trail or getting work done around your yard, rainy weather can quickly turn your plans upside down. Before heading outdoors, make sure that you have a reliable rain jacket to keep you dry and comfortable. These are the best rain jackets for men.
Selecting the right rain gear will depend largely on your plans. A pair of waterproof hiking shoes or boots may be a great choice for hitting the trails, while a pair of rubber boots may be better suited for a day of fishing. But, there is one item that is universal when it comes to deciding what to wear outdoors on a rainy day – a comfortable and functional rain jacket. Is the weather forecast not clear? Why not throw a lightweight, packable rain jacket in your hiking backpack just in case?
Choosing the right rain jacket may seem easy, but there are many key features to consider. To help you get started on your search, we have put together this list of high-quality rain jackets for men.
Best Rain Jackets for Men
| Columbia Men’s EvaPOURation Jacket | Carhartt Men’s Dry Harbor Jacket | Eddie Bauer Men’s Cloud Cap Rain Jacket | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | |||
| Brand: | Columbia | Carhartt | Eddie Bauer |
| Sizes: | Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X, 6X, both in Regular and Tall | Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, Big & Tall Available for Larger Sizes | Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, Both Regular and Tall |
| Material: | 100% Nylon | 100% Nylon | Nylon |
| Available Colors: | Black, Azul, Bright Indigo, Collegiate Navy, Columbia Grey, Spruce | Black, North Woods, Tarmac, Bold Orange | Black, Smoke Heather, Storm, Marigold |
The Best Rain Jackets for Men
- Editor’s Pick: Columbia Men’s EvaPOURation Jacket
- Best Overall Runner Up: Carhartt Men’s Dry Harbor Jacket
- Best Lightweight Rain Jacket: Eddie Bauer Men’s Cloud Cap Rain Jacket
- Best Sustainable Rain Jacket: The North Face Men’s Venture 2 Waterproof Hooded Rain Jacket
- Best Rain Suit: RainRider Waterproof Hi-Vis Rain Gear
- Best Budget Rain Jacket: Arctix Men’s Storm Rain Jacket
- Buyer’s Favorite: Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket
- Honorable Mention: Marmot Men’s PreCip Jacket
Editor’s Pick: Columbia Men’s EvaPOURation Jacket
Designed with outdoor adventurers in mind, this jacket features Columbia’s Omni-Wick quick evaporation technology. This wicks away any sweat and moisture on the surface of the skin quickly and effectively to keep you comfortable regardless of the weather. It has sealed seams, Velcro adjustable cuffs, an adjustable storm hood, and an adjustable drawcord hem with a drop tail to better protect you from the elements.
Pros:
- Omni-Tech waterproof technology
- Omni-Wick quick evaporation
- Breathable nylon for active lifestyles
Cons:
- Heavier weight than many alternatives
Key Specs:
- Brand: Columbia
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X, 6X, both in Regular and Tall
- Material: 100% Nylon
- Available Colors: Black, Azul, Bright Indigo, Collegiate Navy, Columbia Grey, Spruce
Best Overall Runner Up: Carhartt Men’s Dry Harbor Jacket
Featuring a lightweight nylon shell with Storm Defender waterproof, breathable technology, and a two-layer Rain Defender water-repellent membrane, this jacket offers reliable rain protection. The jacket has a drawcord adjustable hood, a drawcord hem, and adjustable Velcro cuffs to allow you to customize the hems a comfortable fit. An attached hood with a visor makes it easy to stay dry regardless of the weather conditions.
Pros:
- Storm Defender and Rain Defender technology
- Inside drop-in pockets for important belongings
- Breathable design for active lifestyles
Cons:
- Some buyers report items in outside pockets get wet despite storm flaps
Key Specs:
- Brand: Carhartt
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, Big & Tall Available for Larger Sizes
- Material: 100% Nylon
- Available Colors: Black, North Woods, Tarmac, Bold Orange
Best Lightweight Rain Jacket: Eddie Bauer Men’s Cloud Cap Rain Jacket
This jacket is an incredibly lightweight and portable design. A size medium jacket weighs just 9 ounces and can be packed into a 6-inch by 6.5-inch pouch. This makes it a great option for backpackers and outdoor travellers looking for something that can be thrown in their gear without taking up a lot of space. It features the company’s ultralight WeatherEdge 2.5-layer waterproof and breathable nylon with a waterproof front zipper.
Pros:
- StormRepel durable water-repellent finish
- Adjustable hem and cuffs
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Light rain protection not suitable for heavier rain
Key Specs:
- Brand: Eddie Bauer
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, Both Regular and Tall
- Material: Nylon
- Available Colors: Black, Smoke Heather, Storm, Marigold
Best Sustainable Rain Jacket: The North Face Men’s Venture 2 Waterproof Hooded Rain Jacket
As an outdoor lover, you may be searching for a more sustainable option for your outdoor wear. This jacket is the perfect solution! Made from 100% recycled polyester, it will keep you dry while minimizing your environmental footprint. The DryVent performance tech fabric is coated with a Durable Water-Repellent finish for better protection. It includes adjustable Velcro cuffs and pit zips for better comfort.
Pros:
- Made from 100% recycled materials
- Seam-sealed DryVent 2.5L waterproof fabric
- Inside pocket for important belongings
Cons:
- Buyers report jacket runs large
Key Specs:
- Brand: The North Face
- Sizes: X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large
- Material: Recycled Polyester
- Available Colors: 45 Colors Including Black, Aviator Navy, Military Olive, Dark Grey Heather, Tandoori Spice Red, and more
Best Rain Suit: RainRider Waterproof Hi-Vis Rain Gear
If you know that you are going to be outdoors for an extended time in wet weather, you may be looking for additional protection to stay dry and comfortable. This two-piece rain gear set includes a jacket and matching rain pants. 150D filament Oxford polyester material is very durable. In addition to the PU water repellent coating, it also features heat-sealed seams and double cuffs to prevent unwanted moisture from getting in.
Pros:
- Water repellent PU coating
- Reflective strips for night visibility
- Full coverage rain suit
Cons:
- Buyers report the product runs small in the shoulder straps
Key Specs:
- Brand: RainRider
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large
- Material: 150D Filament Oxford Polyester
- Available Colors: Navy, Fluorescent
Best Budget Rain Jacket: Arctix Men’s Storm Rain Jacket
With a minimalistic nylon shell and mesh liner, this simple rain jacket is a great option for those searching for a budget-friendly solution. Waterproof coating and taped seams keep you dry in wet weather. Vents on the back of the jacket provide much-needed airflow to minimize sweating and overheating. If you’re carrying anything important, like keys or a wallet, zipper pockets keep them safely contained.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly price point
- Mesh lining for comfort
- Back vents to minimize sweating
Cons:
- Shell is not breathable for activity or warmer weather
Key Specs:
- Brand: Arctix
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large, 4X-Large
- Material: 100% Nylon
- Available Colors: Ink, Bamboo, Black, Khaki
Buyer’s Favorite: Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket
This lightweight rain jacket is made from waterproof and breathable nylon. It features Columbia’s proprietary Omni-Tech technology and is fully seam-sealed to offer reliable protection in even the heaviest of rains. The jacket is customizable in its fit with adjustable Velcro cuffs, a drawcord adjustable hood, and a drawcord adjustable hem. When not in use, this jacket can be easily packed into the zippered hand pocket for storage.
Pros:
- Omni-Tech proprietary technology
- Lightweight
- Zippered pockets to secure your belongings
Cons:
- Design is oversized, meaning it runs large
Key Specs:
- Brand: Columbia
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X, 6X (Tall available for sizes Large to 5X)
- Material: 100% Nylon
- Available Colors: Black, Bright Indigo, City Grey, Collegiate Navy, Columbia Grey, Deep Marine, Graphite, Harvester
Honorable Mention: Marmot Men’s PreCip Jacket
Made to protect the wearer from rain, snow, and wind, this jacket features the company’s breathable NanoPro waterproofing technology. Vented pit zips further help to regulate your temperature. An adjustable hood easily stows away into the collar when not needed. The jacket also offers a DriClime lined chin guard, providing added protection for your neck and chin. When you’re done for the day, it’s machine washable for easy cleaning.
Pros:
- DriClime lined chin guard
- 100% seam taped to prevent leaks
- 5-Layer performance NanoPro fabric
Cons:
- Some users report sweat gets trapped inside the jacket
Key Specs:
- Brand: Marmot
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large
- Material: 100% Nylon
- Available Colors: Blue Sapphire, Arctic Navy, Black, Gargoyle, Green Lichen
Best Rain Jackets for Men Comparison Table
| Rain Jackets for Men | Brand | Sizes | Material | Available Colors | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia Men’s EvaPOURation Jacket |  | Columbia | Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X, 6X, both in Regular and Tall | 100% Nylon | Black, Azul, Bright Indigo, Collegiate Navy, Columbia Grey, Spruce |
| Carhartt Men’s Dry Harbor Jacket |  | Carhartt | Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, Big & Tall Available for Larger Sizes | 100% Nylon | Black, North Woods, Tarmac, Bold Orange |
| Eddie Bauer Men’s Cloud Cap Rain Jacket |  | Eddie Bauer | Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, Both Regular and Tall | Nylon | Black, Smoke Heather, Storm, Marigold |
| The North Face Men’s Venture 2 Waterproof Hooded Rain Jacket |  | The North Face | X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large | Recycled Polyester | 45 Colors Including Black, Aviator Navy, Military Olive, Dark Grey Heather, Tandoori Spice Red, and more |
| RainRider Waterproof Hi-Vis Rain Gear |  | RainRider | Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large | 150D Filament Oxford Polyester | Navy, Fluorescent |
| Arctix Men’s Storm Rain Jacket |  | Arctix | Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large, 4X-Large | 100% Nylon | Ink, Bamboo, Black, Khaki |
| Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket |  | Columbia | Small, Medium, Large, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X, 6X (Tall available for sizes Large to 5X) | 100% Nylon | Black, Bright Indigo, City Grey, Collegiate Navy, Columbia Grey, Deep Marine, Graphite, Harvester |
| Marmot Men’s PreCip Jacket |  | Marmot | Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large | 100% Nylon | Blue Sapphire, Arctic Navy, Black, Gargoyle, Green Lichen |
What Should You Consider When Buying a Rain Jacket?
Materials
The first thing to consider when looking at the many rain jacket options is the materials that they are made from. This will influence many important factors, including the weight, durability, breathability, and how reliable they will be in a heavy rainstorm.
There is no single best option to look for. Instead, you will need to consider what features are most important for you and allow that to guide your decision. Lightweight jackets are generally made from thinner materials that may tear easier or wear out faster. On the other hand, more durable and long-lasting jackets are often made from materials that are heavier and less breathable.
Weight & Packability
There are many situations where you may want to have a rain jacket close at hand without having to wear it the whole time. But carrying your jacket all day can be cumbersome and annoying. The good news is that many lightweight rain jackets are designed to pack away in a compact pocket or carry bag for easy portability. This allows you to toss your jacket in your backpack or stash it in your vehicle where it is going to be close at hand when it matters most.
Breathability
If you are planning to wear your rain jacket while enjoying a more physically demanding activity or during hotter temperatures, this is an important factor. If you are sweating inside your jacket and that sweat can’t escape, you will still end up feeling damp even if your jacket keeps the rain at bay. Breathable materials allow for this unwanted moisture to escape. Some jackets will also include vents on the back of the jacket or pit zips to improve the ventilation further.
Comfort
While there are some situations where your rain jacket is just a quick, short-term solution, you may end up having to wear it for a longer time until you can get out of the rain. For longer use, the comfort level of the jacket quickly becomes an important feature. Most jackets offer some level of adjustment to better fit your unique body shape. This includes elastic or Velcro cuffs, drawstring hems, and adjustable drawstring hoods. A wider variety of sizes will make it easier to find a jacket that fits you properly. Finally, check to see if your jacket includes any lining. Some materials will stick to your skin without the use of a liner.
Rain Jacket Buying FAQ
Do I need a hood on my rain jacket?
Many rain jackets will include a hood to keep your head dry, but they aren’t always necessary. If you want to have the option of a hood when needed, but not be stuck with one, there are options. Some jackets allow the hood to be rolled up and concealed in the collar, keeping it close at hand. Others have the option of a removable hood that snaps on or zippers on when needed.
Do all rain jackets have pockets?
The placement and number of pockets is also an important consideration when shopping for a rain jacket. This will allow you to easily carry your keys, wallet, or other gear. For valuable items like your keys, you will need a deeper pocket or one that zips up to keep the items from falling out while you’re moving about. For exterior pockets, make sure that they are made with a waterproof zipper or that they include a rain flap to keep moisture out of the pocket. Another option is to choose a jacket with internal pockets for these items.
What’s the difference between waterproof vs water-resistant?
While these two terms are often used interchangeably, there are some important differences to consider. Especially when you are shopping for rain gear that you are going to rely on to keep you dry.
Most lightweight jackets and windbreakers are rated as water-resistant. This means that they will effectively block water in light rain conditions, but they aren’t designed to hold up to heavy or ongoing exposure to moisture. These are the most common rain jackets because they are more budget-friendly and offer a more compact travel size.
Waterproof jackets have been constructed with a coating or specialized layer that will block outside moisture from coming through to your close entirely. They are often given a rating of how well they will perform represented by a number that ranges from 0 to 20,0000 mm or more. This rating refers to the amount of water that the material can withstand in a 1-inch-diameter vertical tube before it shows any evidence of leaking. Waterproof jackets are often heavier and carry a higher price tag.
How do you clean a rain jacket?
If your jacket is looking a little dirty or worn, it may be time to wash it. But you want to do this carefully to avoid damaging the waterproof or water-resistant qualities of the jacket. Always read the label on the jacket carefully to find out if there are specific instructions for the materials used.
Most jackets can be machine washed in warm water with a liquid laundry detergent. To make sure that there is no residue left behind interfering with your jacket’s performance, run it through a second rinse cycle. Hang your jacket or lay it flat to dry.
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