Waterproof Jackets
Need a hard shell to keep out the rain or snow and keep you dry? See our top picks in waterproof shells and jackets below, thanks to hundreds of independent reviews and ratings by hikers, backpackers, alpinists, backcountry skiers, trail runners, and paddlers.
The best waterproof jackets, reviewed and curated by the Trailspace community. The latest review was added on March 14, 2024. Stores' prices and availability are updated daily.
Recent Waterproof Jacket Reviews
U.S. Military ECWCS Gen I Parka
Go to shell when the forecast calls for steady rain I bought this at a church rummage sale, paid $29.99 (which is more than I normally spend for Boy Scout camping gear. I see from previous reviews, I got a GREAT deal. This is my go-to shell when it is calling for heavy rain or wet snow. Plenty of space underneath for insulating layers. The only defect on the coat was a melted spot on the sleeve. Fixed it with a little dab of RTV. We are Scout camping this weekend, and it will be in my… Full review
U.S. Military ECWCS Gen I Parka
Literally lasted me 20+ years till I lost it to an ex. Trusted my life to it many times over. I purchased my first in 2003 used off in near new condition. I camp, did mineral prospecting in the field and was in the army. I spend a lot of time outdoors. I've taken this jacket to the north pole and to Dubai. Although I didn't actually need it in Dubai... I've been in snow storms, ice storms, thunder storms and hurricanes in the gen 1 parka. It never failed. Ex just won't give it back. Circa… Full review
Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket Stormhood
The Beta AR is a medium to heavy Gore Tex hard shell that can deal with rain and wind all year for many years - great quality. It’s a full-cut jacket that runs true to size. It’s a pretty simple jacket, but it has features and adjustments that I think are pretty helpful when you’re outside a lot. It’s expensive, and the fabric can be noisy on windy days. I’m very happy with it. Taken this morning before it started pouring. BASIC INFORMATION My men’s size XL weighs 16 ounces. There… Full review
Lands' End Classic Squall Jacket
I have had a Squall Jacket for years and it is great. The new 2023 version is not good. I ordered this jacket (item #539907-A7X) directly from Lands End. I am returning it because of the cons that are listed. It is also shorter than the one that I have and it is the same size, only a different color. I paid $62.50 on sale for about half price. I need to take it to a Lands End store for a refund to avoid the return fee. I do not know if I will get a full refund, or only store credit. Full review
Arc'teryx Theta AR Jacket
The seams on the wrists, the waist and the hem came completely unglued. Arcteryx wouldn't warranty my Theta jacket. They offered me $100 on a new purchase and I had to send in the jacket. I had an Outdoor Research jacket and they warranted it without any hassle. It's nothing special; GoreTex is overrated. There are better breathing waterproof fabrics now. Full review
Lands' End Classic Squall Jacket
Poor quality, not the Classic Squall of old. Rude and ineffective customer service when trying to return a defective product. Absolute junk in 2023. Poorly made, poor quality off-brand zippers, loose threads at tack points. Inside pocket is now so small you cannot fit a standard size cell phone. Company wants me to pay shipping both ways for a defective, poorly made jacket in order to return it. The Classic Squall USED to be the standard. It is cheap junk now and the company's customer… Full review
Fjallraven Keb Eco-Shell Jacket
Jacket is waterproof but the chest pockets are not. There is a seam and no waterproof seam tape! Poor QC! Living on the we(s)t coast and living with a working dog means I am out rain or shine. I finally got tired of getting soaked and bought a pair of waterproof pants. Saw a jacket that I liked and bought it as I liked the pants so much. The jacket and pants are both from fjallraven. The jacket is a Keb Eco-Shell and the pants were the Hydratic (I think). After several walks, I noticed the pockets… Full review
Rab Phantom Waterproof Pull-On
An über lightweight (3.5 oz) hardshell jacket—that works! Rab's Phantom Waterproof Pull-On is a purposefully designed jacket aimed at trail and mountain runners, but I believe it has applications beyond that. It's lightweight (3.5 ounces!), packs small, and is waterproof, fending off moisture very well. Because of this, I think it also is worth considering if you're a day hiker or even an urban commuter. Use I've used the Phantom Waterproof Pull-On for roughly three months (June through August)… Full review
Beyond Clothing ARX 2.0 L6 Rain Jacket
This robust expedition-fit rain jacket is not only built to last, but is also designed for hard working functionality in inclement weather. A three-layer rainshell, it easily allows for layering underneath, yet is trim enough to not obstruct movement. From outside work to commuting, this highly durable jacket is ideal for someone who is looking for durability over weight savings. It is ideal in cool and cold weather, but can be sufficient in warmer weather during downpours. ARX 2.0 L6 during a long… Full review
Other Types of Jackets
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