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8 Best Rain Jackets for Men, Tested and Reviewed
Non-sweaty picks for unexpected summer showers.
Whether you're commuting, hiking, or making an unexpected mad dash through the rain, you need a jacket that will protect you from even the worst downpours. To guide you to the right choice, our team of editors and experts rigorously tested an array of top-rated rain jackets from beloved brands like Patagonia, The North Face, Arc'teryx, and L.L. Bean to find the best 8 options.
We evaluated each style on durability, breathability, comfort, and waterproof capabilities to identify the jackets that will actually keep you dry. So, regardless of whether you're navigating rain-soaked city streets or tackling rugged terrain, these top-tier rain jackets – and don't forget waterproof shoes–have got you covered.
Pros
- 4-Way Stretch
Cons
- Can run small
This windbreaker-style rain jacket is made for the great outdoors. Crafted with over 80% recycled materials, it has a weather-resistant coating, a full zip front, and a cinched hood for additional coverage.
One buyer said, "I immediately had to have this jacket. It fits me great and looks amazing!"
| Sizes | 2XS-3XL |
|---|---|
| Colors | 3 |
| Materials | 85% Recycled Polyamide, 15% Elastane |
Pros
- Has a RECCO reflector embedded to aid in search emergencies
Cons
- Higher price point
Made with durable face fabric and a light, strong, and PFC-free gore-tex membrane, this rain jacket by Arc'teryx delivers lasting waterproof, windproof, and breathable protection. While this style is pricier than other options on this list, it's the type of investment you'll have for years to come. Plus, it comes in five colors to fit a mix of style preferences.
One reviewer said, " I was extremely impressed with the lightness of the fabric and breathability. I love the cut of the jacket as well."
| Sizes | XS-3XL |
|---|---|
| Colors | 5 |
| Materials | Gore-Tex Fabric |
Pros
- Breathable laser-cut placket
Cons
- Can sell out quickly
While you might not be chasing storms like the name of this jacket implies, just know that it will keep you dry if you do. Engineered with exceptionally hard-working tech details, this option from Mack Weldon has a fully seam-sealed interior, six bonded pockets, and an adjustable hood and micro-Velcro wrist cuffs. So whether you're commuting home or voluntarily find yourself in the eye of the storm (à la Jim Cantore style), it will get you from point A to B without getting wet.
One reviewer said, "I put this jacket to the real test in a Houston downpour, and it performed great."
| Sizes | S-2XL |
|---|---|
| Colors | 2 |
| Materials | 65% Polyester, 35% Cotton |
Pros
- Made with an adjustable drawcord hem
Cons
- Only available in two colors
With a polyester mesh-lining body for breathability, a full-zip front, and secure snap pockets, you'll be begging for the rain to stay instead of going away. Even better, it's a trusted brand and you can get it delivered fast with Amazon Prime.
One buyer said, "This jacket is easy to put on and take off and light enough to shake the rain off easily before entering the house."
| Sizes | S-4XL |
|---|---|
| Colors | 2 |
| Materials | 100% Nylon |
Pros
- Venting pit zips with storm flaps for maximum breathability
Cons
- Not the most stylish option out of the list
Throughout this process, we've tested a lot of rain jackets (good thing we're based in NYC, where precipitation isn't a stranger), and this Patagonia option is a force to be reckoned with. With three layers of protection, a two-way hood, and a snag-free front zipper with internal and external storm flaps, this triple-layer style is built for downpours. Plus, when the weather finally clears, it folds up small enough to fit into your pocket or snap onto your pack.
One reviewer said, "This is the best rain jacket I've ever owned. I especially like how portable it is."
| Sizes | S-2XL |
|---|---|
| Colors | 3 |
| Materials | 100% Recycled Ripstop Nylon |
Pros
- Has long-sleeved button cuffs
Cons
- The most expensive option on this list
Moncler's rain jacket was designed in full water-repelling nylon shell and lining, a stand collar, button-front closure, and an internal drawstring at your waist that won't let a little rain ruin your parade—probably because you'll be too distracted by how good you look.
One buyer said, "This is the most stylish rain jacket I have ever worn."
| Sizes | S-4XL |
|---|---|
| Colors | Blue |
| Materials | Nylon |
Pros
- Comes in the colorways
- Internal pocket
Cons
- The zipper can sometimes snag during wear
This best-selling rain jacket from Patagonia is a fan-favorite, and there's a big reason why. With a weather-resistant material that will keep you comfortable on the trail and off, it's the perfect pick for just about any activity. It also has elastic cuffs, a zippered internal pocket (so you never have to worry about your wallet getting wet), and a cool, rugged-chic look.
One buyer said, "This jacket is up to the task! I’ve taken it fishing to keep the sun off me as well as worn it on windy beaches at night. It is very lightweight but is made very well and will be around for years to come."
| Sizes | S-3XL |
|---|---|
| Colors | 3 |
| Materials | Wind- and water-resistant supplex nylon fabric |
Pros
- Machine washable
Cons
- Can be hard to spot clean
Rain-resistant for work commutes or spy work (you probably shouldn't tell us which one), this Bonobos jacket has real mother-of-pearl buttons and interior welt pockets. For added warmth, the water-resistant shell is backed by a quilted lining. And if that doesn't sell you, maybe the high-end luxurious Italian fabric will.
One reviewer said, "I never thought a rain jacket could look this good. I don't want to take it off. This style is warm enough to keep me comfortable in the rain, but also lightweight enough so I'm not sweating while commuting. It's a must-have."
| Sizes | XS-XL |
|---|---|
| Colors | Stone Beige |
| Materials | 51% Polyamide, 7% Elastane, 42% Polyester |
Other Notable Mentions
- Lululemon Waterproof Full-Zip Rain Jacket, $169: While we loved how this option from Lululemon came with adjustable cuffs, underarm vents, and plenty of room for layering, some of the other options on this list had more features for a similar price.
- REI Trailmade Rain Jacket, $70: Another great option, this rain jacket from REI is made with durable water-proof material, elasticized sleeve cuffs, and adjustable bungees, but we didn't think it was as durable as the others we tested.
Tips for Choosing the Best Rain Jacket
When looking for the best rain jacket, consider the following:
Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant: Waterproof is the best option for heavy rain conditions. This will ensure no water seeps through the outer shell, keeping you dry and comfortable. However, a water-resistant jacket will suffice for a sprinkle or a summer shower, as it'll repel a not-too-aggressive shower but it's not durable enough to keep a lot of water from seeping through the fabric. We've included both options on this list.
Breathability: While the outer shell helps keep moisture out, it can also keep moisture from escaping. A breathable fabric ensures the jacket won't leave you sweating.
Material Quality: Look for durable materials such as Gore-Tex for longevity, to avoid the painstaking task of buying a new rain jacket every year.
Fit and Size: Choose a jacket that fits well but allows for layering underneath, especially in those colder months.
Weight: Lightweight jackets are good for a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing, while heavier ones will provide you with more warmth.
Features: Check for adjustable hoods, cuffs, multiple pockets, and ventilation options. This will help ensure you have a full range of movement in your rain jacket.
Packability: For travel, a packable rain jacket is ideal. And trust us when we say, you should always bring a rain jacket with you just in case.
How We Chose the Best Rain Jacket
Finding the best rain jackets for men was no easy task, so here are a couple of the things we considered when narrowing down the final list.
Fit: A rain jacket should fit comfortably over your normal clothing, allowing room for layering but not being excessively loose. So, when looking for the best options, we searched for styles that allowed for an easy range of motion but still had a trim-cut silhouette. We also looked for sleeves that were long enough to cover your wrists but not so long that they interfere with hand movements.
Fabric: The best fabric for rain jackets is typically Gore-Tex, known for its exceptional waterproof and breathable properties, so we sought out options made with this type of material. Additionally, we looked for materials like nylon and polyester—which, although they aren't as water-repellent as Gore-Tex, are lightweight, breathable, and still made to keep you dry.
Additional Features: While every option on this list is unique, to narrow it down to the final contenders, we made sure they each had important additional features like a drawstring hood or waist, internal and external pockets, and underarm zippers, which are essential for enhancing breathability and preventing overheating during physical activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between water-resistant rain jackets and water-proof rain jackets?
Waterproof materials are designed to completely block water from penetrating, making them ideal for heavy rain and prolonged exposure to wet conditions. Whereas water-resistant materials can repel water to a limited extent but may become saturated with prolonged exposure, making them more suitable for light rain or brief periods of wetness. Choosing between waterproof and water-resistant materials depends on the intended use and the intensity of the weather conditions you'll face. So, in other words, always look at your weather app ahead of time.
Can rain jackets be completely submerged in water?
While rain jackets made from waterproof materials can effectively repel rain and keep you dry during heavy downpours, they are not designed to be fully submerged in water. Submerging a rain jacket can allow water to seep through seams, zippers, and other openings, and in case you haven't guessed, you'll get wet.
Why You Can Trust Esquire
We're not going to say something is great unless it's actually great. Every product in Esquire's roundups is carefully chosen by our fashion and e-commerce teams.
When it comes to the best rain jackets, you can rest assured that we're hand-selecting styles that we've personally tried, tested, and loved, along with options that the rest of our stylish colleagues here at Esquire endorse. We've had to go through a lot of trial and error, and these rain jackets are the ones that beat the rest.
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