The 18 Best Rain Jackets for Running, Hiking, Cycling, and Beyond

Photo: Getty Images/Sveitkd
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Wherever you live, it's good to have a good rain jacket you can rely on, especially if you're out running, hiking, or cycling. The scene: You've hit trail (or road, or golf course) and you're ready to break a sweat when out of nowhere, it starts to rain. Suddenly, your plans to workout are foiled. Or, you power through, only to get sopping wet and freezing cold by the end of your journey.

Best rain jackets at a glance

We've all been there—the rain can throw our workout plans for a giant loop. It doesn't matter what outdoor activity you're doing—when the rain starts to fall and you're unprepared, it can really ruin your day. The solution? A good rain jacket for running and hiking (or whatever outdoor activity you fancy).

Whether it's a dreary light drizzle or a random all-out summer storm, wearing a rain jacket while on your runs, hikes, and other outdoor adventures can be a game-changer when rough weather hits. Next time the forecast looks a bit finicky, swap your standard sports bra for something a little more protective. Scroll to see our picks for the best rain jackets for running and hiking from brands like Nike, Patagonia, and Lululemon. Plus our picks for cycling, golfing, and general outdoor fun.

Best rain jackets for hiking

Best everyday rain jacket: Chrome Storm Salute Commute Jacket — $190.00

Whether you’re headed to the office or out on the trail, Storm Salute will keep you dry in the elements. It features two layers of water-resistant fabric, plus fully-taped seams to keep moisture out. As for features, there’s an interior pocket and back cargo pocket for storing your stuff, reflective detailing, and thoughtful ventilation for extra breathability.

What reviews say: “This jacket fits so well! I love the interior material. It really shows quality and weather proofing unlike a few jackets I’ve had from other companies. Great jacket!” — Chrome customer

Specs

  • Material: 100% polyester
  • Fit: Regular
  • Colors: black

Pros

  • 10k mm/ 10 mvp waterproof rating
  • Drop-tail hem
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Adjustable hood

Cons

  • Only in black
Best eco-friendly rain jacket: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket — $104.00

For all things outdoors, you can’t go wrong with Patagonia. Built with three-layer construction, the Torrentshell is durable and weatherproof without being bulky or in the way. The adjustable hood and fleece-lined neck allow maximize comfort even more. When the sun comes out, fold it into it’s self-folding pocket for easy storage on the trail.

What reviews say: “I hike as part of my fine art photography outings… I wanted something weather resistance, warm but breathable, and that allowed fluid movement. This jacket was a homerun! It just feels right.” — Paul, Patagonia customer

Specs

  • Material: H2No (3-layer)
  • Fit: Regular
  • Colors: 9 colors

Pros

  • Breathable
  • Environmentally-friendly construction
  • Hood rolls up
  • Underarm vents

Cons

  • Some reviewers say fabric is stiff
The North Face Antora Rain Hoodie
Best relaxed fit rain jacket: The North Face Antora Rain Hoodie — $76.00

The Antora Rain Hoodie is designed with waterproof, windproof, and breathable fabric, so you’ll stay dry but won’t break a sweat. It’s loaded with features, including secure-zip hand pockets, a drop-tail hem, and a fully adjustable hood to pull up during a squall.

What reviews say: “Bought this rain jacket for a trip to Olympic National Park. The jacket exceeded my expectations. Kept warm in and rain/snow out. I wore it over layers but even though it feels thin, it definitely keeps you warm.” — Stephanie, The North Face customer

Specs

  • Material: DryVent™ 2L shell
  • Fit: Relaxed
  • Colors: 10 colors

Pros

  • Drop-tail hem
  • Windproof
  • Adjustable hood and hem

Cons

  • Some reviewers say the hood is small
Marmot PreCip Women's Rain Jacket
Best travel rain jacket: Marmot PreCip Rain Jacket — $100.00

Lightweight and packable, this Marmot rain jacket can be taken with you wherever you go without adding a ton of extra weight to your bag—you can stuff the whole thing into its inner pocket. It’s both waterproof and breathable, with a coating that prevents water from coming in but also lets vapor out.

What reviews say: “The Marmot Pre-Cip’s adjustable hood stows in the collar when not in use (a big plus), & the 2-part collar & hood are both more open feeling, yet also provide more coverage, than 1-piece versions do. This jacket is extremely light, & packs down small in its own pocket, which is great for travel. In part this is b/c it lacks the mesh lining some other jackets have. But it doesn’t need it, b/c it doesn’t stick to your skin or feel clammy when the temp rises ~ it’s waterproof, but also really breathable.” — Pat, Marmot customer

Specs

  • Material: 100% nylon
  • Fit: Regular
  • Colors: 32 colors

Pros

  • Microporous coating repels water
  • Vented pits
  • Adjustable hood
  • Stuffs into its own pocket

Cons

  • Thin material
mountain hardwear rain jacket
Best stretch rain jacket: Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Jacket — $200.00

This Mountain Hardwear jacket has four-way stretch so it can move in any direction you’re heading, and there are large vents under the arms to keep you cool. The hood is adjustable, so you can keep your body and head dry, and there’s a stash pocket on the chest to store anything you need to easily access.

What reviews say: “This jacket kept me dry through a week of rainy hikes with no overheating. Packs up small and dries quickly, super lightweight.” — jla22, Mountain Hardwear customer

Specs

  • Material: 50D Stretch Ripstop 2.5L
  • Fit: Regular
  • Colors: 13 colors

Pros

  • Abrasion-resistant
  • Underarm vents
  • Adjustable hood
  • 4-way stretch

Cons

  • Some reviewers say it’s not very fitted

Best rain jackets for running

Nike GORE-TEX INFINIUM Trail Running Jacket
Best trail running rain jacket: Nike GORE-TEX INFINIUM Trail Running Jacket — $190.00

Out for a run in the rain? This slick trail running jacket’s water-resistant fabric keeps the water off while you run, while the removable balaclava and brimmed hood shield your face and keep you dry. Once the weather clears, fold it into its self-folding pocket, throw it in a backpack (or carry it), and continue on your run.

Specs

  • Material: 88-100% polyester/0-12% spandex
  • Fit: Loose
  • Colors: 3 colors

Pros

  • Detachable balaclava
  • Side vents
  • Made with at least 75% recycled polyester fibers

Cons

  • Pull-over may be harder to put on and take off
lululemon Cross Chill Jacket RepelShell
Best road running rain jacket: lululemon Cross Chill Jacket RepelShell — $198.00

The Cross Chill Jacket RepelShell has it all—it’s waterproof, windproof, and constructed with four-way stretch fabric. It’s sleek and fitted, just relaxed enough for layering over your running clothes without being too baggy. Special features include a drawstring bottom for easy adjusting, zippered pockets, and even a hidden phone sleeve for protecting your electronics.

What reviews say: “I love this jacket!! Great for fall or spring. Great for rain or wind. Nice pockets and reflective details. Perfect for the active on the go person.” — Katg, lululemon customer

Specs

  • Material: RepelShell™ fabric
  • Fit: Slim
  • Colors: Wasabi, purple, white, black

Pros

  • Thumbholes
  • Reflective details
  • Cinchable hood

Cons

  • Some reviewers say the fabric pills
Best splurge running rain jacket: On Waterproof Anorak — $360.00

For serious protection out in the elements, invest in the Waterproof Anorak made by On. In addition to its durable materials, it’s loaded with features that keep water out, like an elasticated pull on the hood, tightly sealed half-zip design, and hidden vents that allow for airflow but not moisture.

What reviews say: “Great jacket to stay dry in fast-changing conditions in the mountains! And on top super light!” — Dana M., On customer

Specs

  • Material: Three-layer membrane
  • Fit: Relaxed
  • Colors: white, black

Pros

  • 20,000 mm waterproof rating
  • Windproof
  • Hidden vents
  • Packable
  • Adjustable hood

Cons

  • Expensive
Brooks Canopy Jacket
Best lightweight running rain jacket: Brooks Canopy Jacket — $130.00

Whether you’re going out in the wind or rain, the Brooks Canopy Jacket will keep you warm and dry. It’s lightweight and breathable, and it packs up into a built-in backpack to make it easy to carry hands free.

What reviews say: “I REALLY like this jacket. The material is so light for a rain jacket/wind breaker. I wouldn’t recommend it in heavy rain, but lighter rain yes. But it packs down so small it’s easy to stick in your vest or just wear with the backpack straps on it so it’s there if any wind or storms pop up.” — Rachel P., Brooks customer

Specs

  • Material: DriLayer® Seal fabric
  • Fit: Regular
  • Colors: Rum raisin, ice blue, black, golden hour

Pros

  • Made with 100% recycled materials
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Adjustable and stowable hood

Cons

  • Some reviewers say it’s a little short
New Balance Impact Run AT Waterproof Jacket
Best adjustable running rain jacket: New Balance Impact Run AT Waterproof Jacket — $190.00

You’ll hardly notice you’re wearing an extra layer with this lightweight jacket while running, but it’s effective in keeping you warm and cool while protecting you from the elements. It has a waterproof fabric, zippered pockets, and reflective trims so you can stay visible in low light conditions.

Specs

  • Material: 100% recycled polyester
  • Fit: Athletic
  • Colors: Black

Pros

  • Sealed seams
  • Reflective trims
  • Adjustable hood and waist

Cons

  • Only in black
Hoka Ultralight Waterproof Jacket
Best packable running jacket: Hoka Ultralight Waterproof Jacket — $160.00

This Hoka jacket is super light, packable, and quiet, so you can move around without any extra bulk or noise. There are underarm gussets, a drawstring hood with a visor built in, and a reflective logo on the back to make sure you’re easily spotted.

Specs

  • Material: Pertex® 2.5L
  • Fit: Regular
  • Colors: Blue, black

Pros

  • Super lightweight
  • Packable
  • Adjustable hood

Cons

  • Expensive
Under Armour UA Cloudstrike Shell Jacket
Best windproof running rain jacket: Under Armour UA Cloudstrike Shell Jacket — $60.00

Don’t let the rain prevent you from enjoying your outdoor runs. This color block UA jacket is 100 percent waterproof and has fully taped seams to make sure no water sneaks inside, and it’s also breathable so you don’t overheat. The hood is adjustable and there are zip hand pockets to keep your valuables dry as well.

What reviews say: “I love this jacket. It is light weight, waterproof and it fits into small spaces.” — VIpaddler, UA customer

Specs

  • Material: 100% nylon
  • Fit: Regular
  • Colors: 7 colors

Pros

  • 10k waterproof rating
  • Windproof
  • Storm flap in front
  • Dropped side hem
  • Adjustable hood

Cons

  • Some reviewers say it runs small

Best rain jackets for cycling

Best commuter cycling rain jacket: Showers Pass Transit Jacket CC — $235.00

If you’re hitting the road in the rain, be sure to throw on this extra-tough rain jacket. With three layers of waterproof materials, you’re sure to stay dry on the bike. It’s lightweight and easy to pack up, designed to maximize comfort while you ride. There’s also reflective detailing and a drop-down tail to keep you shielded from road sprays.

What reviews say: This jacket is wonderful at this time of year. Stylish, practical on the bike, Long enough to keep dry and cosy at the back. Not so tight you can’t put an extra layer underneath.” — Ann O., Showers Pass customer

Specs

  • Material: Artex™ ripstop fabric
  • Waterproof rating: N/A
  • Fit: Regular
  • Weight: N/A

Pros

  • Core and rear vents
  • Dropdown tail with beacon light compatibility
  • Reflective trims
  • Packable

Cons

  • No hood
  • Expensive
Best convertible cycling rain jacket: Pearl Izumi Quest Barrier Convertible Jacket — $130.00

This two-in-one jacket converts into a vest, so on warmer days, you can adapt to changing conditions as needed. The ripstop material is tough enough to stay dry through the drizzle, but isn’t stiff or stuffy, so you won’t get sweaty. It’s also got all the features you want out of a cycling rain jacket, like reflective detailing, mesh vents, and ample zip pockets to safely store your valuables.

What reviews say: “A great jacket that really blocks the wind when cycling. Love that I can take the arms off in warmer weather. It’s packable and I feel safe riding, as it’s very visible (great color).” — Darlene K., Pearl Izumi customer

Specs

  • Material: 100% recycled material with DWR repellent
  • Waterproof rating: N/A
  • Fit: Relaxed
  • Weight: N/A

Pros

  • Snap on/off sleeves
  • Rear upper mesh panel
  • Two-way zipper

Cons

  • Not fully waterproof
Sweaty Betty Commuter Waterproof Cycling Jacket
Best lightweight cycling rain jacket: Sweaty Betty Commuter Waterproof Cycling Jacket — $174.00

Stay dry inside and out this sleek, road-friendly rain jacket. There’s an adjustable hood to fit over your helmet, and a dipped back hem to protect you from any spray from your wheels. Jersey cuffs keep the rain out, and reflective details will help you’ll stay visible on dark streets.

What reviews say: “For quite some time I’ve been looking for a waterproof jacket good for cycling but also going out and about, and this is it! The fit is lovely, very flattering, and quite comfortable. You’re good to go on an adventure or for a stroll into town.” —BeGreta, Sweaty Betty customer

Specs

  • Material: 100% polyester
  • Waterproof rating: N/A
  • Fit: Regular
  • Weight: N/A

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Dipped back hem
  • Reflective details

Cons

  • Some reviewers say it runs small

Best rain jackets for golfing

callaway golf jacket
Best stretchy golf jacket: Callaway Waterproof Tonal Panel Golf Jacket — $152.00

Elegant but hardy, Callaway’s Tonal Panel Jacket is designed to keep you dry during all 18 holes. Although it’s waterproof, it’s also stretchy enough to allow for a better range of motion on the course. Plus, there’s tons of pockets, giving you easy access to all of your things.

What reviews say: “It’s just warm enough for cold rainy days. The color is lovely. The design and make of the garment are first rate.” — Carla H., Callaway customer

Specs

  • Material: 73% viscose; 24% nylon; 3% elastane
  • Waterproof rating: N/A
  • Fit: Regular
  • Weight: N/A

Pros

  • Adjustable cuffs
  • Breathable
  • Stretch fabric

Cons

  • No hood
Best fitted golf jacket: Athleta Run With It Jacket — $129.00

While technically a running jacket, this piece from Athleta works just as well on the golf course. It’s semi-fitted, tight enough to keep water out but relaxed in all the right places, never compromising your swing. When the sun comes out, fold it down into the foldable pocket for simple storage.

What reviews say: “Fit is perfect. Soft stretchy fabric that lays beautifully. Looking forward to cooler weather so I can show this off.” — Kelly G., Athleta customer

Specs

  • Material: Recycled polyester/spandex
  • Fit: Semi-fitted

Pros

  • Breathable
  • UPF 50+
  • Abrasion-resistant

Cons

  • No hood
helly hansen rain jacket
Best waterproof golf jacket: Helly Hansen Women's Seven J Rain Jacket — $60.00

When it comes to rain gear, few make pieces as durable as Helly Hansen. This breathable rain jacket is crafted to maximize comfort, keeping you dry but never sticky or sweaty. Great for golfing, running, hiking, biking, or whatever rainy day activity you want to do.

What reviews say: “I am absolutely in love with this jacket!! The fit is perfect, it’s an attractive cut without getting in the way of functionality.” —Christine H., Helly Hansen customer

Specs

  • Material: 100% Polyamide
  • Fit: Fitted

Pros

  • Windproof
  • Front storm flap
  • Adjustable hood and cuffs

Cons

  • Some reviewers say it runs small

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Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission.

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