As I rode a quad bike out of Go Dirty Tours’ lot in Nadi, Fiji, it was only mildly overcast. But as we started our return from Yuvana Village, sprinkles started to fall, so I whipped on my Janji Rainrunner jacket. Minutes later, I was speeding through the island’s countryside in torrential downpour, even some hail, oddly empowered by the thrill of biking through the elements. But that might not have been the case without my trusty rain jacket.
Ever since suffering from unbearable chafing after running a rainy half marathon, I’ve always traveled with a packable, lightweight rain jacket. The Janji one also saved me from a passing shower in Taiwan’s Jiufen, while a heftier Columbia jacket shielded me in the Italian Apennines. And as I jet off to a work trip in Thailand, I’ve packed the Lululemon one that passes for both business and casual.
Finding the best rain jackets can be a daunting task since you never know how effective they are until you’re in the elements. But here, we’ve rounded up 15 rain jackets that are primed for travel, both lightweight and durable—a little rainfall should never stop the adventure ahead.
FAQ:
What is the difference between a water-resistant jacket and a waterproof one?
Both water-resistant and waterproof jackets will offer some level of protection from unwanted raindrops and moisture. Typically those marked as water-resistant will wick away light rain or steady rain for a short period of time, but will reach a level of penetration where they soak through. Waterproof jackets have special coating, often Gore-tex or other durable waterproof repellent (DWR) coating, but it’s important to make sure they’re free of forever chemicals like PFAS. While waterproof jackets will seal out moisture, they also tend to be less breathable than water-resistant ones.
How do I wash a rain jacket?
While most rain jackets can be thrown in the washing machine on a gentle setting, always check the brand’s website or the jacket’s tag for any specific cleaning instructions. If you are machine washing, prevent ripping or damaging the waterproof coating by choosing a delicate cycle and limiting it to a quick wash if possible. Several jackets I looked at warned that the rain repellency does wear off with washes. While some can be tumble dried on low (again, check the instructions), since they’re meant to be quick-drying, in most cases, you can probably get away with hanging it to air dry.
Are packable rain jackets worth it?
Jackets can be heavy, bulky, and take up a lot of precious packing space. Travelers will benefit from buying a lightweight, packable rain jacket that can be folded up tightly to fit inside a carry-on or backpack. Some options below can even be packed into their own pocket, like the Brooks High Point waterproof jacket and the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L rain jacket, making them super compact.
How should a rain jacket fit?
It’s a safe bet to buy your true size in a rain jacket, or slightly larger to accommodate layers. Ideally, your rain jacket should be fitted and snug enough to keep you warm and protected on its own, but roomy enough to wear a sweater underneath it on chilly nights.
Top picks:
Best for running
Brooks Running High Point waterproof jacket 2
Columbia Sportswear
Reign No Shine jacket
Ever since I picked up my first Columbia jacket, it’s been my go-to brand for outerwear of every kind—and its cleverly named Reign No Shine is no exception. Made without PFAS, every thoughtful detail is designed specifically to outlast downpours. The brand’s OutDry Extreme technology features the impenetrable surface of its recycled nylon shell, plus a water-blocking zipper and reinforced seams to double down on fighting drops from seeping in. But my favorite aspects are its chafe-proof chin guard, extra drop-tail coverage, and adjustable cuffs and hood that all provide that extra dose of coverage that make me feel protected.
Janji’s Zephyrunner redefines packability, folding down into its chest pocket so compact, it’s slightly bigger than an iPhone and weighs 4.3 ounces for women’s small and 4.4 ounces for men’s medium sizes. Even so, the lightweight layer is made of durable nylon with PFC-free water repellency. Designed to power through windy conditions, the shell also strikes the balance of being breathable and keeping you warm. In short, it’s the pocket-sized companion that will protect you through passing showers.
Editor’s note: The brand’s popular Rainrunner Pack jacket will be available in October 2025 and is completely waterproof.
Brooks Running
High Point waterproof jacket 2
A little rain should never slow down a runcation, whether it’s a casual morning jog or a destination marathon. Running company Brooks understands those needs, designing a semi-fitted jacket with a back pleat so roomy it can go over a small pack or hydration vest. The carbon neutral product has back vents to help release pent-up heat, too. The zipper pocket at the chest also makes it simple to get to your essentials while the rain is falling—and the entire jacket packs into that pocket. Perhaps its most unique feature: The hooded visor can accommodate a headlamp in case you’re going for a run before dawn or after dark.
A technical gear brand dedicated to mountain sports, Arc’teryx is all about durability so that you can focus on the road ahead. Its Beta line features jackets for every condition, but the most packable is its SL, which stands for super light, featuring a Gore-Tex ePE layer, which it calls “next generation” for its ability to be both light and strong while still being free of PFC. The trim-fit jacket is prepped for extreme conditions with a helmet-compatible storm-ready hood, as well as reflector aids to stay visible in dim situations. Plus it was one of the brand’s first products to be Fair Trade Certified.
The North Face
Daybreak rain jacket
While rain jackets can often feel weighty, The North Face keeps it short and sweet with this cropped-length jacket that still features all the waterproof technical specs needed to keep you dry. Lightweight, breathable, and made of recycled content, every bit from the adjustable three-piece hood to the cinched waist to the drop-tail hem provide necessary coverage along with a non-PFC DWR coating.
There’s a simplicity to the Bonatti jacket that nearly obscures its fine details, from its micro-porous waterproof membrane to its innovative smart-vent button on the front that keeps air flowing. Its minimalist approach goes all the way up to the hood, which stays in place without the need for drawstrings. With a slim fit and a chest pocket to stow into, the shell jacket also comes in soothing shades of pink and purple, as well as more neutral tones.
Uniqlo
Pocketable UV Protection parka
At less than $50, Uniqlo’s utilitarian polyester parka is a budget-friendly choice, with water-repellent material suitable for light rainfalls and UPF 50-plus protection on sunny days. The stretchy fabric and relaxed, oversized fit make it feel like an invisible layer; when you’re done using it, it folds easily into a drawstring pouch that attaches to the inside of the jacket.
Patagonia
Torrentshell 3L rain jacket
Whether you’re exploring a new city or heading into the office, the Torrentshell rain jacket is equally practical and polished. It features a two-way-adjustable hood and a micro-fleece-lined neck to deliver a comfortable waterproof yet breathable barrier. It packs up to fit in its front pocket, so you can easily toss it in your carry-on or weekender bag last minute. Made of recycled content, this bestseller is available in men’s and women’s sizes and various colors, including black, blue, green, and red.
Lululemon
Rain Rebel jacket
This sleek option from Lululemon proves rain jackets can be both stylish and functional. Not only does the trench-inspired look have an adjustable cinched waist to customize the silhouette, but it’s made with a windproof and waterproof exterior and a sweat-wicking liner, making it a perfect year-round jacket. With a classic fit that hits right at the thigh, the breathable waterproof option offers more coverage than your average rain jacket. There are also several zippered pockets, a hidden phone sleeve, and an adjustable hood to help ensure the perfect fit.
The Nike team wasn’t taking any chances when designing the ACG Morpho—so much so that the brand took this jacket and tested it in Costa Rica, wearing it throughout 46 miles of rainforest and coastline in Corcovado National Park through rain, wind, and humidity to guarantee it could withstand the toughest of conditions. Among its unique features are its two-way front zipper and protective pocket flaps. Naming the nylon jacket after the forest’s Morpho butterfly, the jacket then flutters away into its chest pocket.
Athleta
Rainout Ridge trench
Now here’s a rain jacket that’s got you covered. Athleta’s long trench stretches down to the mid-thigh, but despite the extra surface area, the recycled polyester jacket is still lightweight and roomy to give you space to move. Breathable and wind-resistant, its true superpower is in keeping you dry, while also looking totally chic, whether it’s to yoga class or date night. Order it in black or bone.
L.L.Bean
Trail Model jacket
There’s a reason this is the outdoor wear company’s best-selling rain jacket: With 2.5 layers of lightweight, breathable TEK fabric, the L.L.Bean staple flatters with a slightly fitted shape that falls below the hip and comes in an array of appealing shades, like a minty green or soft periwinkle for women and creamy blue or forest green for men. Made of recycled nylon, it’s packable and weighs less than a pound, and has a reasonable price tag—what more can you ask for?
Cotopaxi’s trademark color-block designs make for a fun splash of color while keeping you dry with its three-layer construction, thoughtfully made from recycled post-consumer plastic waste. Free of forever chemicals, the packable layer has customizable cuffs, hem, and hood (with a laminated visor for extra protection), plus two-way stretch to get you through adventurous days. Through the company’s Guaranteed for Good program, the product comes with a lifetime warranty and repairs.
Zero Restriction
Olivia jacket
This polyester women’s rain layer is a statement piece, with a track jacket design plus a hood that stows away to double down on that style. Most importantly, its teflon DWR finish does its job providing a waterproof membrane. Available in its standard form in five shades, the jacket also comes in special university editions to show off your school spirit, including Syracuse, Duke, and Georgetown.
Coalatree
Whistler windbreaker
Finding durability in a lightweight rain jacket can feel like an oxymoron, but Coalatree has found the secret in its self-healing HiloTech fabric. The Whistler windbreaker shows off this magic: Whether you’ve got a puncture or tear, just rub your fingers over the rip and the heat and friction will cause it to mend on its own. (I was skeptical until I purposefully punched a hole in the interior pocket to test it—it worked!) Even better, the unisex jacket is DWR-coated and weighs just seven ounces.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.