Whether you’re embarking on a challenging mountain trek, a leisurely day hike, or need protection from the elements during your outdoor escapades, the right hiking jacket is essential.
The best women’s hiking jackets come in different styles, materials, and features with one common goal: ensuring warmth, dryness, and comfort as you venture into the wilderness. To help ease your decision-making, we have compiled a list of the 7 best women’s hiking jackets on the market;
Be sure to make it to #1 for our take on why Columbia Women’s Heavenly Vest is the best pick.
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7. Regatta Womens Pack-It III Waterproof Packaway Jacket
Material: Polyamide
Weight: 223 grams
Water resistant: Yes
Price: $18+
Introducing the Regatta Women’s Pack-It Jacket: Crafted from waterproof/breathable Isolate 5,000 Polyamide Fabric, this jacket offers versatile features. It boasts an adjustable hood, a sleek snap fastening, two practical pockets, and a handy stuff sack for compact storage.
The Pack-It III women’s waterproof jacket is your perfect companion for various adventures. With its waterproof Isotex 5000 fabric, the jacket is tailored for hiking, walking, festivals, and outdoor activities.
This lightweight, waterproof wonder conveniently packs into its bag, making it an ideal choice for easy, on-the-go portability. And for added protection, pull up the hood. Several colors are available.
Pros
- Great price point
- Incredibly breathable
- It is versatile for multiple outdoor excursions
Cons
- It is not as sturdy as other jackets on this list
6. Berghaus Elara Gemini 3-in-1 Jacket
Weight: 761 grams
Water resistant: Yes
Price: $173+
The versatile 3-in-1 Elara jacket is designed to keep you comfortable no matter what Mother Nature has up her sleeve. Crafted with waterproof Hydroshell® fabric and an adjustable fixed hood, this jacket ensures you stay dry regardless of the weather. You will discover the plush fleece inner layer with cozy hand-warmer pockets inside. Wear them separately for a lightweight single layer, or combine them for ultimate warmth.
The jacket features a drawcord hem and adjustable cuffs to ward off sneaky drafts, making it your trusty ally against the harshest elements. Unzip the fleece and sport the waterproof shell if temperatures rise during your adventure. Conversely, you can opt for the fleece, packing away the outer layer.
The outer layer’s four-way stretch truly shines when the fleece isn’t in use. But the combination is perfect for leisurely walks and offers a structured hood with ample adjustability at the hem and cuffs.
Pros
- Keeps you dry regardless of weather
- Very comfortable
Cons
- Not as sturdy as other jackets on our list
5. Fjallraven Vardag Hydratic Anorak
Weight: 7.05 Ounces
Water resistant: Yes
Price: $163+
The Women’s Vardag Hydratic Anorak is a versatile jacket designed for year-round use, whether hiking, traveling, or commuting. Crafted from recycled polyester with a PU membrane and PFC-free impregnation, this waterproof, breathable 2.5-layer Hydratic anorak offers eco-friendliness and performance.
Featuring a comfortable fit that allows for easy layering and is equipped with convenient side zippers, it’s a breeze to put on or take off. The side zippers also serve as built-in ventilation for added comfort. To keep the front and back sections together, a handy button at the hem does the job.
Its classic baggy anorak style (size down for a closer fit) gives it a relaxed and casual look. On gusty days, a drawcord at the hem allows you to cinch it in for added protection. Plus, it’s highly packable, folding neatly into its pocket, making it easy to carry around town or on a walk.
The Vardag Hydratic Anorak’s hood is adjustable for a customizable fit, and the half-elasticated cuffs provide a low-profile, comfortable feel. For storing your essentials, there are two zippered hand pockets to carry your phone, keys, or favorite snacks, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your adventures.
Pros
- It is incredibly versatile
- Has a hem to offer more protection on windy days
- It is comfortable
Cons
- It doesn’t have adjustable cuffs
4. RAB Downpour Eco Waterproof Breathable Jacket
Weight: 9.88 Ounces
Water resistant: Yes
Price: $112+
Crafted from upcycled 2.5-layer Pertex® Revolve fabric furnished with an eco-friendly fluorocarbon-free DWR treatment, the Downpour Eco is a breakthrough in eco-conscious design. It distinguishes itself as a single-polymer waterproof jacket, setting new standards for sustainability.
Embodying this commitment, the jacket features a polyester outer shell and membrane, ensuring it is composed entirely of recycled materials. It is far more recyclable at the end of its lifecycle than multi-polymer layer waterproof fabrics.
Adaptable to your needs, the Downpour Eco offers adjustable hems and cuffs, accompanied by generously sized pit zips for optimal fit and ventilation in changing conditions. The polymer peak hood is two-way adjustable, enhancing visibility, and the spacious zippered handwarmer pockets conveniently accommodate items like maps.
Weighing in at just 9.88 ounces, this jacket is lightweight and packable. It stands as the preferred choice for environmentally-conscious hikers without compromising on performance. The hood, featuring a super-soft chin guard, zips up high to provide essential face protection.
Toggles on the hood and hem offer additional customization. Storm guard flaps guard the front and pocket zips and those under the armpits, ensuring that ventilation is readily available when needed. However, the jacket lacks internal pockets, and the external ones may be prone to condensation, making them unsuitable for carrying electronics such as phones.
Nonetheless, the jacket’s tapered fit allows for layering underneath, making it suitable for spring and summer hikes. For colder conditions requiring more layers, consider sizing up. An added convenience is the jacket’s ability to pack into its pocket, making it effortlessly stowable when not in use.
Pros
- It is committed to sustainability
- It is lightweight and easy to store
Cons
- Doesn’t have internal pockets
3. Helly-Hansen Womens Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket
Weight: 15.9 Ounces
Water resistant: Yes
Price: $450
The Helly-Hansen Infinity Shell has a perfect score, catering to backcountry skiing, hiking, and mountaineering enthusiasts, emphasizing durability, breathability, and waterproofing. These features are executed flawlessly, which naturally reflects in its price.
With its premium cost, it’s no surprise that the fit and freedom of movement are exceptional. It boasts compatibility with helmets, backpacks, and harnesses and includes a RECCO transponder, a battery-free reflector that aids search and rescue efforts in case of an avalanche incident.
Also, the jacket provides excellent coverage by zipping up well over your mouth, and its hood strikes a balance between size, stiffness, and adjustability at the front and back. The jacket excels in blocking out the wind, and its hem and waist toggles ensure it stays in place even in gusty conditions.
The generously sized and deep pockets are equipped with double zips, offering convenience and security. For added ventilation, armpit zips are included, although, surprisingly, they might not be necessary even during strenuous uphill climbs.
Pros
- Offers great breathability
- State-of-the-art technology to assist rescue missions
- Offers excellent comfort compared to most hard shells
Cons
- It is very heavy
2. Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket
Weight: 5.76 Ounces
Water resistant: Yes
Price: $105+
In 2020, Outdoor Research gave its highly sought-after ultralight rain shell a facelift. The latest iteration, Helium II, largely adheres to the tried-and-true formula while introducing enhancements in durability and fit, all without affecting the weight or its price.
The Outdoor Research Helium II rain shell is a featherweight solution that offers reasonable comfort and excels at repelling rain and snow when in a tight spot. This should be your starting point if you’re hunting for an ultralight shell that won’t break the bank. Rain shells are not typically designed for severe alpine conditions or enduring relentless day-long downpours.
The same applies to the Outdoor Research Helium II. Crafted from a 2.5-layer Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse construction and utilizing thin materials, this jacket’s outer layer can become overwhelmed in a heavy downpour. In such conditions, it may absorb moisture and press against your shoulders and forearms, particularly noticeable if you wear short sleeves.
Nonetheless, the Helium II provides an admirable level of protection for emergencies during most backpacking excursions or day adventures from late spring to early fall.
The jacket has a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating that effectively sheds moderate precipitation. Its fully taped seams ensure that water entrance is a minimal concern, and the water-resistant zippers on the front have proven their worth by keeping leaks at bay.
Also, the hem of the jacket can be cinched along the right side, providing a tailored fit, and the hood can be easily adjusted to sit snugly around your head and face with a single pull at the back. Many users find wearing the Helium II with a hat more comfortable for added coverage, although the hood comes with a small bill to prevent moisture from trickling onto your forehead and face.
Pros
- Has a hood
- Very tough despite its thin construction
- Has an excellent trim that works well with or without mid-layer
Cons
- It has no hand pockets
Outdoor Research starting at $105
1. Columbia Women’s Heavenly Vest
Weight: 4.8 Ounces
Water resistant: Yes
Price: $77+
The Columbia Women’s Heavenly Vest offers a unique blend of college pride, an active design, and cutting-edge thermal technology to ensure you stay warm and dry. This vest was meticulously made with a water-resistant outer shell, complemented by the Omni-HEAT thermal reflective lining, and generously insulated with synthetic down. When the temperature drops, you can rely on this vest to keep you cozy and comfortable.
What sets this vest apart is its thoughtfully tailored design, which sits perfectly at your hips, providing an ideal balance between warmth and freedom of movement. Despite its lightweight feel, the reflective lining technology keeps you exceptionally warm, and it’s not bulky like some other options on the market.
The collar of the Heavenly Vest lays flat and won’t cause any discomfort around your neck, even during prolonged wear. This makes it an excellent choice for layering with light to mid-weight shirts, ensuring you’re prepared for varying temperatures. The fully zipped collar is lined with a plush pile fleece that’s nice to touch.
Functionality is at the forefront of this vest’s design. It boasts an interior security pocket for your valuable items and two zippered front pockets to keep your hands warm and essentials secure. The simple yet effective vest design prioritizes core warmth while allowing you to stay active across various temperatures.
This versatile vest is suitable for spring, fall, and winter and is available in various sizes, ensuring a comfortable fit with our Active Fit style. With the Columbia Women’s Heavenly Vest, you can enjoy both fashion and function, staying warm and stylish during your outdoor adventures.
Pros
- It has Omni-HEAT thermal reflective lining
- It is a versatile jacket for various seasons
- It has a flattering silhouette cut
Cons
- Doesn’t cover your arms
What to consider when buying a hiking jacket
Before embarking on your quest to find the perfect hiking jacket, evaluate the environmental challenges you anticipate during your outdoor adventures and your needs. When it comes to picking out a hiking jacket, there are several critical factors to take into account. Below are some of them to help you make your decision;
Material
One important factor you must consider is the material of the jacket. The ideal jacket should be breathable, waterproof, and durable. Hiking jackets are often made from materials such as Gore-Tex, eVent, and HyVent, purposefully engineered to ensure your comfort and dryness, regardless of the weather conditions.
Fit
Assessing the right fit for a jacket can pose a challenge when shopping online. Sizing up might be a good idea if you plan to layer thicker shirts underneath. Conversely, with the emerging trend of oversized jackets, downsizing could be a smart move to avoid a boxy appearance.
It’s essential to find a jacket that not only suits you but also allows for unrestricted movement. Seek out jackets featuring adjustable cuffs, hems, hoods, sleeves, and shoulders designed for flexibility. These features will guarantee that you can hike with ease and comfort.
Functionality
Hiking jackets have various features to enhance your hiking experience, offering comfort and convenience. Here are some key elements to consider:
- Ample Pockets: Seek out jackets with many pockets to stow your gear and keep your hands toasty.
- Ventilation: Hiking often results in heat and sweat, so opt for jackets featuring ventilation features such as pit zips or mesh-lined pockets.
- Protective Hood: A hood can offer added shelter against the elements. Look for jackets with adjustable hoods that can snugly encompass your head.
- Visibility: For hikers venturing out in low-light conditions, consider jackets with reflective detailing to ensure you remain visible and safe.
Investing in a high-quality women’s hiking jacket is crucial for enjoying outdoor adventures while staying comfortable and protected from the elements. Carefully consider your specific needs, the weather you will likely face, and the jacket’s features to make an informed decision. With the right hiking jacket in your arsenal, you will be well-prepared for your next hike, no matter the conditions.