Last updated on October 21st, 2021
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A waterproof jacket is an essential piece of gear for hiking in the countryside. It’s something that will keep you warm and protect you from the elements during your outdoor excursions. You will know that long trips in wet weather can be extremely dangerous for your health if not just uncomfortable, hence the need for a good waterproof jacket. For hiking, in particular, you will want one with excellent breathability as the exercise tends to end up with you breaking into a sweat. It also needs to be lightweight enough not to weigh you down as well as easily fit into a backpack.
Our focus today is on the men’s category and we’ve reviewed some top quality jackets that are worth considering for anyone seeking the best waterproof hiking jacket for a man. Let’s be clear that there is an ever-growing variety of styles, materials and features, all of which make it difficult to know the right jacket to buy. But don’t fret, this post includes a buyer’s guide that has all the basics you need to select a decent hiking jacket.
Of course, waterproof jackets are not created equal and in our opinion, the North Face Men’s Sangro Outdoor Hooded Jacket stands out from the crowd. Made from DryVent fabric, this waterproof, windproof and breathable jacket is reliable in almost any weather. It also benefits from durable water repellent coating for added protection and it comes at a great price. Furthermore, the jacket is made by a trusted manufacturer of outdoor gear. Read on to learn more about this and other products in the product review section.
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Top 6 Men’s Waterproof Hiking Jackets Reviews
1. North Face Men’s Sangro Outdoor Hooded Jacket
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Pros
- Top-quality design with the best materials for a full waterproof jacket that many simply cannot compete with.
- Engineered using DryVent technology for unbeatable waterproofness, windproofness and breathability.
- Guaranteed protection in both cold and warm weather.
- Comes with an adjustable hood that is convenient to use.
- Machine washable at 30 degrees Celsius, saving time and effort to handwash it (we still recommend hand washing).
- A wide range of colour selection for every taste.
- Sold at a fair price when you compare the quality to other similar jackets from top brands.
The North Face Men’s Sangro Outdoor Hooded Jacket is an item that is designed to offer the utmost weather protection and last longer to ensure value for money. Featuring DryVent fabric technology, this jacket is highly waterproof, windproof and breathable, ensuring maximum protection and comfort come rain or shine. DryVent garments are also fully seamed and fully taped, something that enhances their waterproof properties.
Moreover, the outer layer features what is called durable water repellent (DWR) finish. This means that if the coat gets rained on, it helps to form droplets and repel moisture from the surface. This high-quality finish is really useful in wet weather.
The inner layer is engineered to let body moisture out to the outside world so that you remain comfortable when it gets hot. The outer construction itself includes tightly woven fibres to help prevent wind from passing through.
As the title suggests, there is a hood to shield your head from the rain and the good thing is that it is adjustable around the collar, allowing you to tighten it completely and leave no room for cold chills to enter. When not using it, simply store the hood into the collar.
What’s more, the jacket has two hand pockets for cold hands or any small essentials. An adjustable hem and cuffs allow for a tighter fit of this long-sleeved jacket and after a couple of uses, you can throw it into a machine for cleaning. As it is made from polyester, you can expect no wrinkles or quicker abrasion as a result of washing.
While the DryVent technology is expected to be expensive, this top quality jacket is actually fairly priced, which gives more reason to go for it. Great value for money and well worth considering if you are willing to invest a little bit more for a top-quality jacket.
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2. R Runvel Men’s Waterproof Mountain Jacket
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Pros
- Ideal for winter and autumn use.
- Suitable for a variety of outdoor activities such as walking the moors, hiking in the countryside or general walking out and about.
- Features a two-layer Performance Shell thus weatherproof and breathable.
- Durable, tear-resistant construction ensure it is robust.
- Includes two handwarmer pockets as well as two inner pockets, offering plenty of storage.
- Adjustable hem and cuffs for maximum protection against the wind.
- Fleece lined interior and hood offer great comfort on cold days.
- Well priced compared to other outdoor jackets and offers excellent value for money.
Waterproof hiking jackets are not made equal; some are just suitable country walks while others are geared towards demanding, harsh environments. The R Runvel Men’s Waterproof Mountain Jacket certainly fits the second part, particularly being perfect for use in high altitude areas where rain and cold are the order of the day but is just as at home when walking the dog in the rain or for a stroll through the lakes.
The item is marketed as a winter jacket and rightly so, it’s made of thick layers that guarantee warmth and rain protection, while remaining lightweight enough. This is down to the inner layer that’s made of a thick fleece lining, which helps to trap the warmth between its pockets. The exterior is waterproof and windproof and effectively sheds off water from the surface to keep you dry. Its dual-layer Performance Shell is also breathable, allowing sweat to leave so that you stay comfortable during warm weather.
To ensure a snug fit, the bottom hem and the cuffs are all adjustable. This lets you tighten the jacket close to your body, shutting any cold vents in so doing. The hood is also adjustable and detachable, so once it does its purpose in the rain, you can remove it and store it in your backpack if the weather looks dry but cold. It is also very warm because it has a fleece lining. There are two handwarmer pockets plus two interior pockets for storage.
Another thing you can count on is the jacket’s tough, tear-resistant outer. It features rip-stop face fabric that ensures top-notch performance in the cold as well as durability. So all things considered, this waterproof jacket is a god sent to tackle the cold winter days no matter the activity; mountaineering, hiking, fishing, working outside and more. This jacket is probably one of the best lower-priced jackets we have seen and considering the price, it is amazing they are able to sell this jacket at such an affordable price.
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3. Helly Hansen Men’s Crew Hooded Midlayer Waterproof Jacket
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Pros
- Suitable for a range of outdoor activities; walking, working, backpacking and sports such as sailing.
- Comfortable from inside and outside due to two play construction.
- Easy to maintain because its machine washable as well as quick drying.
- Made of lightweight and breathable fabric for unbeatable performance.
- Has a warming collar and hood for additional protection from chills.
- Comes in a variety of colours and sizes.
The Helly Hansen Men’s Crew Hooded Midlayer Waterproof Jacket is popular amongst hiking and backpacking enthusiasts but it is better known for sailing enthusiasts, proving it is a reliable waterproof jacket for outdoor use. It features the innovative Helly Tech protection that makes it waterproof and breathable for top-notch comfort.
The outer layer benefits from a Durable Water Repellent finish that will keep it dry, even in the harshest of rain. The jacket is waterproof with fully sealed seams and this Helly Hansen scores well in that department. Water won’t pass through the stitching at all.
The inner features a cleverly designed material that lets moisture escape so you can stay cool and fresh in hot conditions. On cold days, an inner Polartec fleece lining offers insulation that is essential for comfort. This kind of double functionality makes this garment suitable for use in different seasons.
You’ll love the jacket’s fleece-lined warming collar that extends all the way to the chin area. Combined with a detachable hood and adjustable cuffs, there is literally no room for the cold getting in. Elsewhere, the bottom hem is adjustable to allow a tight or snug fit and there are multiple outer and inner pockets that offer plenty of storage room.
This trendy jacket comes in a variety of colours and sizes; S to 3XL, meaning there is something for every gentleman. When it comes to cleaning, this item is machine-friendly and this saves time and effort. Overall and considering the price, this Helly Hansen Men’s Crew Hooded Midlayer Waterproof makes a decent upgrade garment.
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4. Berghaus Waterproof Long Cornice Men’s Jacket
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Pros
- Made from Hydroshell fabric for waterproof and breathable properties.
- Comes with two front zipped pockets for storage and hand warming.
- With dual drawcord hem and elasticated, adjustable cuffs to help find an ideal fit.
The Berghaus Waterproof Long Cornice Men’s Hooded Jacket has everything you need to face the weather and enjoy maximum protection throughout the day. The thing that makes it stand out is the Gore-Tex material Berghaus is known for. As you probably know, Gore-Tex fabrics are the leading in terms of waterproof and breathability combination, making this jacket highly reliable no matter the outdoor conditions.
The exterior of this garment is engineered to repel water so that you stay dry in torrential downpours and its hood offers added protection. In mild conditions, the hood can be removed and stored. On the cuffs, there are adjustable velcro straps as well as a dual drawcord for tightening or loosening the fit depending on the weather. There is also a hand pocket on each side and they offer storage for essentials because they have zippers. You also get an inner pocket for keeping your map nice and safe.
This one has no fleece lining and for that, it offers a lot of room to wear extra layers underneath especially when the weather turns. If you’re keen on colours, this item is only available in Deep Forest and Dusk. This is also one of the few jackets with storm flaps that increases waterproofness.
All in all, this one is a great rain jacket for use when going to work, walking the dog or even camping. Just that it’s quite expensive than other versions on our list, but we like that it’s a little longer in length.
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5. Trespass Men’s Corvo Windproof & Waterproof Jacket
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Pros
- Waterproof to 5000mm with taped seams for increased protection.
- Breathable to 5000mvp for better comfort when things get hot.
- Includes multiple outer and inner pockets, offering a lot of storage.
- Adjustable hem drawcord and adjustable cuffs help adapt the fit.
- Comes at a decent price.
The Trespass Men’s Corvo Windproof & Waterproof Jacket will have you ready to take on any outdoor excursion, thanks to its outer fabric which is waterproof to 5,000mm, has seal-taped seams and is breathable to 5000mvp. This combination makes a great garment that will shield you against moisture and wind. The jacket is made from 100% polyamide, which is a much more tear-resistant material than polyester.
The central zipper is covered by a storm flap that has lock buttons at the top and bottom for secure coverage. There are two handwarmer pockets plus a chest pocket, offering plenty of storage and they all have zippers to prevent water from getting in. There is even an inner pocket for hiding away your most crucial items. A hem drawcord and adjustable cuffs help with the fit whether you want it tight or snug. You’ll also love the adjustable grown on hood.
On the inside, a mesh lining does the magic of helping you stay cool and fresh by encouraging the flow of air and expelling sweat. This allows you to take a range of demanding activities. For the overall look, you can add a fleece-line mid-layer, a pair of hiking trousers and walking boots to this waterproof jacket. Sizes range from 2XS to 3XL, and there are multiple colours to choose from and is one of the more affordable waterproof jackets on the market.
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6. Trespass Qikpac Waterproof Jacket
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Pros
- Designed to fit into a small pouch, thus great on the go and packing away as a backup incase the weather turns.
- Waterproof, windproof and breathable outer shell for maximum performance.
- Includes an inner storm flap for added protection against leaks.
- Available in a variety of colours.
- A lot more affordable than other jackets.
This Trespass Qikpac Waterproof Jacket is actually suitable for both men and women and is probably the best waterproof jacket for hiking on a budget, for those looking for a coat you only need to throw on during unexpected showers. With a water column of 5000mm and a breathability rating of 5000mvp, this jacket will keep you comfortable on both wet and warm days. The shell material features 100% polyamide coating for increased resistance against abrasion and wrinkles, while the seams are taped to completely prevent rain from passing through.
Designed with portability in mind, this jacket can flawlessly be folded down and packed into a backpack, making it perfect for unpredictable conditions. In addition, this Qikpac includes an inner storm flap plus a ventilated back yoke, which allows air circulation and prevents over-heating.
There are two exterior pockets and it has an elasticated collar with an attached hood. The bottom hem has a drawcord and the cuffs are elastic for fit adjustment. A nice benefit of this waterproof jacket is that it comes in a variety of colours, so you are certain to find one that compliments your own personal style and taste. Overall, this waterproof jacket is perfect for going out where patches of rain will be expected but you don’t need a full-blown, thick and ultra-warm coat.
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Waterproof Jacket For Men – Buyer’s Guide
To find the best waterproof jacket for hiking that suits your needs, it is crucial to consider the various features of the garment and how useful they will be to you. Let’s take a walk through the key considerations:
Understanding materials and their qualities
The jacket you choose ought to be made from good quality material so that it will withstand the elements and last longer, which also means that it offers better value for money. Waterproof jackets that are made from waterproof, windproof and breathable fabric are the best, this goes without saying. For that, go for brands that use Gore-Tex or DryVent material. These combine different layers to create the desired effect.
For hiking on hills or high altitude regions, if you’re that brave, you will want a fleece-lined inner for insulation. Thicker, tougher waterproof jackets will offer better protection for outdoor excursions but if you want an extra layer to cover you from light rain, a thinner material will be okay.
Breathability to help reduce sweat
It is important that your jacket has some level of breathability as things might get hot inside. A breathable fabric lets sweat escape to the outer surface and this results in you feeling cool and fresh. If you’re going to be involved in activities that break a sweat, then you will definitely need a breathable jacket. Things such as a mesh inner are good indicators.
Comfort and ease of movement over long periods of time
The first thing that determines how comfortable the jacket will be is the fit. You will want to leave some room for adding layers underneath the jacket. It is also important that you can adjust the fit, especially around the bottom. Make sure you can walk around easily without your arms being restricted, though this is only possible if you’re buying the jacket from a physical store, however, most online stores will let you return it for free in exchange for a different size if needed.
Waterproofing and materials used
One of the factors to distinguish a cheap waterproof jacket from a more expensive one is the type of technology it utilises to keep you dry.
Some jackets feature a waterproof coating known as Durable Water Repellent also known as (DWR). This treatment allows water to form droplets on the surface and trickle off. Such jackets tend to be less expensive but provide little breathability. They also require re-proofing from time to time.
Other jackets feature a waterproof membrane, typically a thin layer of tiny pores that are large enough for moisture to escape out, but small enough that rain droplets cannot pass through them. Generally, a breathable membrane will offer better moisture control than a DWR coated jacket. Gore-Tex is the most widely used membrane, supporting the likes of Berghaus and had proved very reliable.
Comparing prices
When it comes to buying waterproof jackets, the old saying of “you get what you pay for” applies. Expensive jackets are made from high-quality materials, employ advanced waterproofing technologies, can withstand serious weather conditions and have plenty of waterproofing features. However, there is no point in going for the most expensive garment if you are only going to use it for walking the dog, so think about how you intend to use your waterproof jacket. It is also worth noting that many branded coats also have a premium price attached because of the branding.
Hand wash if possible
The worst enemy of your waterproof jacket is a washing machine, though some products are machine washable at certain temperatures. Thing is, detergents destroy the waterproof coatings and some conditioners clog the fibres that allow the fabric to breathe. In any case, waterproof coatings and membranes become less effective over time, but there are products you can use to keep the jacket performing as new. We recommend hand washing jackets even if they say they can be washed in a washing machine. This is because they still lose their waterproofness over time.
Features of a waterproof jacket for hiking
Taped seams – this is a must-have feature for any waterproof jacket. Tape sealing the inside seams adds an extra level of protection against leaks.
Storm flaps – a storm flap is a thin material that runs across the main zip. It covers the zippers so that water cannot get in through them.
Hood – a hood obviously covers you from the rain and wind. A good one is adjustable to allow a snug or tight fit and a peak can also be useful at directing rain away from your face. Jackets with removable hoods are also handy.
Adjustable hem and cuffs – these help a lot as far as the fit around your waist and wrists are concerned.
Pockets – outer pockets are good for warming your hands whilst inner pockets provide room for essentials such as maps and documents.
Final Conclusion
A good waterproof jacket is essential for the hills, no question. Some are even practical for year-round use, functioning exceptionally as waterproof jackets while being suitable as casual wear on wet days. We believe our buyer’s guide can help anyone find the best men’s waterproof jacket for hiking with the right waterproof features and breathability.
All the models reviewed above are also worth trying as they are made from high-performance materials such as Gore-Tex fabrics. So don’t get caught out in the rain and wonder what would have been if you had a waterproof jacket, stay prepared by getting one today.
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