Stay Dry During Any Outdoor Activity With the Best Rain Jackets of 2024

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Sometimes the training session or chore just can’t wait until the storm passes. On days like that, you’ll want a raincoat that is up to the task. In this article, we outline our favorite picks for the best raincoats in 2024, and below that you’ll find a buying guide on how to decide which one is right for you. In that buying guide, you’ll find the criteria we used to choose these rain jackets, as well as a discussion of the benefits of having a waterproof layer when you’ll be outside for extended periods of time.

This article explains the difference between a raincoat and a rain jacket, and outlines in detail a few of the important features the jackets have, like taped seams, pit zips, and packability. We also answer common questions people have when buying a rain jacket in, in order to create the most comprehensive guide to choosing the right rain gear for your needs in 2024.

Our Picks for the Best Rain Jacket of 2024:

• Best Women’s Rain Jacket: adidas Terrex MULTI RAIN.RDY 2.5-LAYER Rain Jacket
• Best Rain Jacket for Men: adidas Essentials RAIN.RDY Jacket
• Best Packable Rain Jacket: Patagonia Men’s Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket
• Best Lightweight Rain Jacket: Nike Miler Repel Running Jacket
• Best Running Rain Jacket: lululemon Cross Chill Jacket
• Best Hiking Rain Jacket: Arc’teryx Beta LT Jacket
• Best Golf Rain Jacket: Peter Millar Shield Half-Zip Rain Shell
• Best Cycling Rain Jacket: Pearl iZumi Men’s Summit 3L WxB Jacket

Best Women’s Rain Jacket: adidas Terrex MULTI RAIN.RDY 2.5-LAYER Rain Jacket

Key Features & Specs:

• Price: $160
• Pockets: Two zippered hip pockets and a zippered chest pocket
• Waterproofing technology: adidas RAIN.RDY waterproof membrane
• Softshell or hardshell: Softshell
• Packable?: Yes
• Standout feature: Stretchy fabric that accommodates movement
• Best for: The go-to rain jacket in your coat closet

Designed to be lightweight, breathable and low-volume, the adidas Terrex Multi RAIN.RDY rain jacket offers big coverage in a small package. Toss it in your carry-on just in case, or keep it in your hiking pack so you’re always ready for surprise showers on the trail. To really condense it down, you can stuff the jacket into the right-hand zippered pocket for compact storage in a suitcase or even a purse–and a small loop inside the pocket allows you to clip it onto a backpack so it doesn’t take up precious cargo space.

The jacket’s shell and liner are made of a 100 percent recycled polyester material that stretches with you as you move, making it more comfortable to move around and do yard work in. The “2.5-Layer” in the name refers to adidas’ proprietary RAIN.RDY waterproof membrane, which seals out wind and water by repelling them off the jacket's surface while simultaneously wicking sweat off your body. In their five-star review, Verified Purchaser Finn writes that “This jacket is lightweight and perfect as a waterproof layer on top of a thicker jacket.” Since it’s not insulated, it is ideal for early fall temps but would require more layers to keep you comfortable on a truly cold day. Our tester found the regular cut to be roomy enough to accommodate a full range of motion and long enough to keep her hips covered when reaching overhead, and the design achieved this without feeling like there was tons of extra fabric in her way. She also noticed the material has a small amount of stretch that adds to the comfort and flexibility of the jacket.

Smart details and adjustability of the jacket make it a great choice for various conditions: A two-way zipper lets you zip it up to your chin and then separate it from the bottom to accommodate more leg movement, and an adjustable hood helps keep your head dry and warm too–our tester noted that the stiff brim of the hood directed water away from her face even when it was really coming down. Reflective detailing along the sleeves and chest logo help keep you safe by making you more visible to drivers and other trail users in low light. This season it’s available in a pretty, garnet-toned colorway called shadow red.

What we like:

• Made with 100 percent recycled materials
• Stuffs into attached pocket for packing
• Waterproof and breathable

What to consider:

• Hip length coverage/no drop hem

Best Rain Jacket for Men: adidas Essentials RAIN.RDY Jacket

Key Features & Specs:

• Price: $100
• Pockets: 2 zippered hip pockets
• Waterproofing technology: adidas RAIN.RDY waterproof membrane
• Softshell or hardshell: Softshell
• Packable?: No
• Standout feature: Hood and high-coverage collar
• Best for: Running errands and quick workouts

Built similarly to the adidas Terrex MULTI RAIN.RDY 2.5-LAYER Rain Jacket above, the Essentials RAIN.RDY jacket was crafted from 100 percent recycled polyester and adidas’ proprietary waterproofing membrane. The addition of taped seams and fabric-lined zippers helps keep water and wind from seeping in as you go about your rainy day, and a perfluorinated chemical-free water-repellent finish adds extra protection against the downpour. The elastic cuffs and hood help trap heat when needed, and you can use the adjustable bungee cord hem to regulate airflow around your midsection. It’s available in size small through 2XL, and is available in a classic black color.

With over 60 reviews on adidas’ website, the Essentials RAIN.RDY jacket earned an average of 4.8 stars out of five. Purchaser with username thegoto left a five-star review stating that they

“Got this jacket just before the flooding rain storms came to NY this week…Water just beaded up and dripped off this jacket. Kept me 100% dry. Love the hood. Zips up high to cover neck if necessary. Excellent jacket highly recommend!” Other reviewer GottMitUns remarked that “it folds down small enough I can keep it in my work bag every day.” Dependable, low-volume, and high-coverage, this rain jacket deserves a spot in your closet as your daily driver.

What we like:

• Adjustable bungee cord hem, plus elastic cuffs and hood
• Thin and foldable for packing and carrying
• Waterproof and breathable

What to consider:

• Currently unavailable in tall size options, only available in standard

Best Packable Rain Jacket: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket

Key Features & Specs:

• Price: $179
• Pockets: 2 hip pockets
• Waterproofing technology: 3-layer construction: 3.5-oz 50-denier Econyl 100 percent recycled nylon ripstop face, a polycarbonate PU membrane with 13 percent biobased content, a tricot backer and a PFC-free (does not contain perfluorinated chemicals) DWR coating
• Softshell or hardshell: Hardshell
• Packable?: Yes
• Standout feature: Packs down into one of the handwarmer pockets for compact storage
• Best for: Traveling to the Pacific Northwest, London or Arizona during monsoon season

This simple, sturdy rain jacket is an excellent travel buddy. The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L is made of three layers of protection: A nylon ripstop face with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating means it blocks out the precip, a breathable polycarbonate PU membrane, and a tricot liner, which is textured on one side and smooth on the other, allowing the fabric to be soft and also very sturdy for activewear. The tough and durable jacket stuffs down into one of the hand pockets so you can get it nice and compact for packing in a suitcase, hiking pack or pannier.

But don’t assume you’re compromising on quality or waterproofing to achieve the light weight or small pack-size. The Torrentshell 3L earned an average score of 4.4 out of five stars on Patagonia’s website, with over 50 reviews from hikers, bikers, and backcountry enthusiasts. Verified buyer with the username Jim wrote a five-star review, stating, “I wore it on a recent 230 mile bike tour along the Bay of Biscay coast of France and it delivered—dry + great ventilation. Good value! Lasting quality.” Another purchaser with the username Kyle S. remarked in his review that, “I wore it in a rainstorm and remained completely dry. The fit was slightly snug, sleeves were slightly long but neither was a problem.” Read: To avoid sizing snafus, consider your chest, hip, and arm length measurements on Patagonia’s size guide when selecting a size.

Patagonia is a member of 1% for the Planet, a coalition of businesses donating one percent of their profit to grassroots environmental groups. This means that a tiny portion of your purchase is going to protect your outdoor playground–right on.

What we like:

• Designed for extreme weather but still breathable
• Made in a Fair Trade Certified factory
• Nine gorgeous color options

What to consider:

• Some reviewers mentioned the fit did not match up to what the sizing guide recommended

Best Lightweight Rain Jacket: Nike Miler Repel Running Jacket

Key Features & Specs:

• Price: $90
• Pockets: 2 snap-closure hip pockets
• Waterproofing technology: Waterproof 100% recycled polyester plain weave and PFC-free water-repellent finish (does not contain perfluorinated chemicals)
• Softshell or hardshell: Softshell
• Packable?: Yes
• Standout feature: Lightweight with a classic look
• Best for: Quick Workouts in light precip

When the weather is iffy, this is the running jacket you want–not too much coverage but not too little. Its lightweight fabric is water-repellent, not waterproof, so it’s more ideal for days where you’re trail running under some tree coverage, or it looks like there might be scattered showers as you’re out, rather than long runs in a full downpour. The adjustable hood has internal bungee cords that let you snug it down around your face to block out wind and precipitation. If you are heading off on a long run, you can stuff the packable jacket down into one of its side pockets for compact carrying and stash it into a running vest or hip pack.

On Nike’s website, the jacket has an average rating of 4.3/5 stars from a total of 18 reviews. A reviewer under the username Farmer Joe from Brisbane commented that the jacket is “Light and comfortable, and keeps the wind out. Perfect for chilly mornings or afternoons.” Purchaser Diana297962644 from the U.S. bought the Miler Repel Running Jacket for her son who found it “Perfect…for those rainy days but still warm out.”

What we like:

• Available in standard and tall sizes
• Made from 100 percent recycled polyester fiber

What to consider:

• This jacket is water-resistant, not waterproof

Best Running Rain Jacket: Lululemon Cross Chill Jacket

Key Features & Specs:

• Price: $198
• Pockets: 2 zippered hip pockets and 1 large zippered rear pocket
• Waterproofing technology: Proprietary RepelShell fabric made from polyester and elastane
• Softshell or hardshell: Softshell
• Packable?: No
• Standout feature: Lightly brushed fabric inside for insulation
• Best for: Chilly, wet-weather runs

Brave the drizzly, cold autumn weather in the sleek, waterproof Cross Chill Jacket. In addition to keeping out precipitation, it’s lightly insulated to help keep warmth in. As a running jacket, it is designed to fit snugly to your body to reduce interference with your workout.

Purchaser with the username hithereitsdan commented on the fit and sizing in his 5-star review, stating, “I normally purchase a large and I did notice that this jacket is a bit snug…For reference, I’m 5’ 7” and weigh 180 pounds.” While the four-way stretch fabric does offer a little give, it’s best to size up if you are looking for a more roomy fit.

The snug-fitting hood is designed to sit close to your face to protect against wind and water, though it is not adjustable by cinch cord like other models on this list. Reflective piping on the forearms, upper back, and along the zipper help catch headlights and streetlights to make you more visible to drivers, bikers and other runners in the dawn or dusk light.

On the coldest days, tighten the drawstring on the cinchable hem to help keep heat from escaping. On days where you need more ventilation, the two-way zipper allows you to dump heat quickly from the top or bottom. Because of the slim-fit design, some wearers also found it helpful to unzip from the bottom to increase their range of motion during more dynamic workouts. A rear zip pocket on the right hip keeps larger items from getting in the way of your stride as you run stairs. It comes in sizes XS to XXL in colors bone and black.

Out of 74 reviews, the Cross Chill Jacket earned an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Lululemon’s website. One reviewer with the username Wheezer67 wrote, “ I’ve worn it multiple times during exercise and in the rain already and have to say that I am extremely impressed by the build quality, materials and functionality of this jacket.”

What we like:

• Sleek profile for minimal drag while running
• Slightly fuzzy interior lining for light insulation

What to consider:

• Hood not adjustable
• Slim fit tends to run small

Best Hiking Rain Jacket: Arc’teryx Beta LT Jacket

Key Features & Specs:

• Price: $450
• Pockets: 2 zippered hip pockets
• Waterproofing technology: 3-layer GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable membrane
• Softshell or hardshell: Hardshell
• Packable?: No
• Standout feature: High-performance GORE-TEX construction and pit zips
• Best for: Long days in inclement weather

Arc’teryx pulled out all the stops for this one. As the only Gore-Tex model in our list, it’s the frontrunner in terms of durability and integrity. According to the Gore-Tex website, the fabric is “designed, tested and developed to be durably waterproof, totally windproof and breathable.” The site promises it’s “guaranteed to keep you dry.”

On top of its breathable Gore-Tex construction, the Beta LT Jacket is loaded with features to help keep its wearer dry and comfortable. Among these notable features is the hood, which is designed to be roomy enough to fit over a helmet. It’s adjustable from both the collar and back of the head to snug around your face to keep water out if you’re not wearing a helmet. Plus, the upper edge on the hood opening is stiffened so it behaves like a small hat brim to keep water from dripping directly onto your face.

The front zipper is fully waterproof, but the external pocket zippers are only water resistant, so maybe keep your phone on an inside layer. Waterproof underarm zippers (aka pit zips) can be opened for ventilation if you start to overheat. The adjustable velcro cuffs and hem let you cinch them down to dial in the fit and trap in warm air if necessary. The Beta LT is available in eight colors including some subtle shades and some high-visibility options.

The Beta LT earned a score of 4.6 out of 5 stars on REI.com with over 300 reviews. Purchaser Benjamin wrote in his five-star review, “Built an igloo and must say, for the high exertion of energy it required, did not get wet anywhere. Super breathable so I wasn’t sweaty, it was snowing and raining and the Gore-Tex does an amazing job at keeping the wet out and dry in.”

What we like:

• High-performance Gore-Tex fabric
• Helmet-compatible hood
• Waterproof and breathable

What to consider:

• Expensive price tag

Best Golf Rain Jacket: Peter Millar Shield Half-Zip Rain Shell

Key Features & Specs:

• Price: $200
• Weight: Unavailable
• Pockets: One kangaroo pocket
• Waterproofing technology: 100 percent nylon with PU Laminate rain shell
• Softshell or hardshell: softshell
• Packable?: Yes
• Standout feature: Separate stow pouch allows you to pack it down and keep it in your golf bag
• Best for: Breezy, misty days on the golf course

Peter Millar, a luxury golf and lifestyle clothing brand, designed this jacket to keep players dry if it starts sprinkling when they’re out on the course. The high-tech performance nylon jacket is fully waterproof yet breathable, with taped seams that block water from seeping in. In addition to putting up a barrier against the rain, the two-way stretch fabric is designed to be soft, comfortable and easy to move in so it doesn’t hinder your stroke. It’s also thin and light enough that you can stuff it down into an included stow pouch for low-profile storage in your carry on or golf bag.

The “classic fit” is designed to be roomier than a slim or athletic fit. Purchaser Rob from Houston, Texas writes a five star review that states, “I’m 6’5” & 210 pounds. I ordered the XL & it fits well…played a round in the rain and kept me dry. Adjustable wrists are a plus.” If you are looking for sizes even bigger, the Shielded Half-Zip Rain Shell is available in Big and Tall size options as well.

What we like:

• Lightweight and packable
• Lots of size options
• Classic colors

What to consider:

• No hood

Best Cycling Rain Jacket: Pearl iZumi Men’s Summit 3L WxB Jacket

Key Features & Specs:

• Price: $185
• Pockets: Two zippered hand pockets
• Waterproofing technology: Recycled 10k/10k waterproof 3-layer fabric and Durable Water Repellent treatment
• Softshell or hardshell: Hardshell
• Packable?: Yes
• Standout feature: Lightest jacket on this list
• Best for: Rainy bike commutes and rides

One of our favorite jackets for biking in the rain is the Pearl Izumi Men’s Summit 3L WxB Jacket. When you’re riding a bike, not only do you have to contend with the precipitation that’s falling from the sky, but also the water that’s getting sprayed up at you from the ground by cars and your tires. The Summit 3L WxB does double duty–even if it’s stopped coming from the sky, the jacket keeps you dry, warm and protected from all angles.

The relaxed fit allows you to wear a couple layers underneath it if the temps outside are really dropping. Reviewer on Pearl Izumi’s site with the username Zachary C. says, “Took this jacket out on a full deluge day and it kept me dry from the outside and well ventilated from within. It is slightly thicker than just a shell so if you don't layer properly, it provides a bit of heat.”

The main zipper is waterproof as well, to keep water from seeping in from there, and a drawstring hem allows you to cinch the jacket around the bottom to trap in heat. Or if you need to let heat out on a climb, the two-way zipper allows you to unzip it part way from the bottom, while still keeping the jacket tight around your shoulders. Reflective details add visibility in low light, which is a bonus if you’re commuting in traffic, but you should still always use lights when riding at night.

This piece is also part of Pearl Izumi’s Pedal to Zero initiative. According to the company, if you ride your bike 38 miles instead of driving your car, you will have offset the climate impact of this garment, which is a pretty cool concept. This rain jacket is also available in a women’s model.

What we like:

• Helmet-compatible hood
• Designed for on-the-bike position, so won't expose your low back
• Two way zipper makes it more versatile

What to consider:

• Traps heat well for cooler temps

Why Buy a Rain Jacket

If you work or exercise outdoors, it's likely that at some point you’ll encounter some inclement weather. Whether you’re in the backcountry or on the back nine, staying dry is a crucial part of keeping yourself warm and safe through prolonged exposure to precipitation.

According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology that measured the difference total body heat storage loss between people wearing wet and dry clothing, researchers found that body cooling rates for subjects wearing wet clothing were significantly greater than rates observed with dry-clothed subjects. Essentially, when you’re wearing wet clothing, you’re losing body heat at a much faster rate, which is not only uncomfortable, but can be dangerous.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that “prolonged exposure to cold will eventually use up your body’s stored energy.” This was also apparent in the previously mentioned study. Researchers found that metabolic increase due to wearing wet clothing was 54.7 percent, which means a body in wet clothing is working much harder to keep warm, using more calories than usual. In extreme cases, this can cause hypothermia, but most likely will at least sap you of your energy until you can get warm again and eat something. So if you can put on a rain jacket and stay mostly dry, you’ll feel much more comfortable, potentially have more energy and even have a safer time working out in rainy conditions.

How to Choose the Best Rain Jacket for You

Choosing the best rain jacket for you is going to greatly depend on what you want to do while you’re wearing it, and what non-negotiable features you are looking for.

Activity 

Many jackets are designed with a specific activity in mind, like cycling (the Pearl Izumi Summit 3L WxB Jacket), golf (the Peter Millar Shielded Half-Zip Rain Shell) or running (the lululemon Cross Chill Jacket), while others have more general application. Because waterproof fabric is so high-tech and sometimes stiffer, it can often be more comfortable to run in a jacket that was designed to accommodate the movement of running (or to ride in a cycling jacket, or golf in a golfing one).

Waterproofing

Based on how long you’re going to be exposed to the rain, consider whether you’ll need a water-resistant jacket or a waterproof one. Water resistant fabric can withstand water up to a degree, but will eventually allow moisture to pass through to your skin, so it’s best for shorter tasks/workouts in warmer weather. A waterproof fabric will be impermeable to water, making it more suitable for long, cold days of exposure. And a good waterproof jacket will still be breathable, so you don’t get wet from sweat.

Price

The rain jackets we selected for this list range in price point from $90 to $450 in order to accommodate a variety of budgets. While a high-quality rain jacket is designed to last a long time, the more affordably-priced options can be just as effective and lasting with proper care.

Features 

Consider which details you’d like your rain jacket to have while you’re using it: Pockets for tools and snacks? An adjustable hood that fits over a helmet? Two-way or underarm zippers for ventilation? Light material that packs down into a pocket? Make a list and keep your eye out for what features will make the jacket most useful to you.

Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Rain Jackets

To select the jackets in this list, we primarily considered the materials used and the waterproofing technology of the fabrics and dwr treatment. We also considered small details and features like pockets, fit and adjustability, packability and overall weight. We used online purchaser reviews and ratings to get a sense of the general strengths and considerations for each jacket.

Best Rain Jacket FAQs

Are any rain jackets actually waterproof?

Technically, no. Waterproof refers to the ability to completely block out water, and while the fabrics that the jackets in this list do achieve that, the jackets themselves do not—they have huge holes for your arms, head, and waist. So, if you were to submerge yourself in water wearing one of these waterproof rain jackets, you would definitely still get soaked. The accolade “waterproof” in this context refers to the material it is constructed from, not its guarantee to keep water from reaching your body.

How much should you spend on a rain jacket?

However much the rain jacket is that fits within your budget and fits your needs! A more expensive model isn’t necessarily better if it isn’t designed to be used in the conditions you plan to wear it for.

What's the difference between a raincoat and a rain jacket?

Sometimes the terms are used interchangeably, but traditionally a raincoat or slicker refers to the style of waterproof outerwear that comes down to the wearer’s mid-thigh for extended coverage, and is not designed for movement or activities. Rain jackets, on the other hand, are typically a bit more high-tech in terms of features, and are designed to accommodate physical activities.

Should a rain jacket be tight or loose?

Because of the nature of waterproof material (stiff with minimal stretch) a looser rain jacket can offer a better range of motion. However, a looser jacket is typically warmer because it traps a pocket of air between the material and your body, where a tighter jacket won’t hold quite as much heat.

Takeaway: Is a Rain Jacket Really Worth It?

If you work or play in heavy rain, a waterproof jacket is a smart investment. It will allow you to stay drier and warmer so you can be out in the elements longer, and your adventure plans or training schedule won't suffer just because the weather isn’t cooperating. Use our buying guide to narrow down which functions and features will best suit the types of activity you’ll be doing, and browse our list of the best rain jackets to find the one that’s right for you.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.