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10 Best Breathable Rain Jacket 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

COOFANDY Golf Rain Jackets for Men Waterproof Breathable Packable Rain Shell Men

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,294
Waterproof Rating
Weight and Packability

Most important from
4936 reviews

Waterproof Rating
Waterproof, keeping dry during rainy days.
Weight and Packability
The COOFANDY Men's Packable Rain Jacket is a fantastic purchase! Lightweight, easy to pack, and carry.

The COOFANDY Golf Rain Jacket for Men is designed to offer a blend of waterproof protection and breathability, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. The high-quality waterproof and windproof fabric ensures you stay dry in wet conditions, while the breathable material helps prevent overheating, which is essential for comfort during physical activity.

The jacket also features an adjustable drawstring hood and a relaxed fit, allowing for a customizable and comfortable experience. Additionally, it is packable, coming with a carrying pouch that makes it easy to store and transport, making it ideal for travel or outdoor adventures where space is limited.

This jacket is versatile and suitable for all seasons, and it can be machine or hand washed, though ironing is not recommended as it could damage the waterproof layer. This jacket is a good fit for users looking for a practical and convenient rain jacket for light to moderate outdoor activities.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,294
Waterproof Rating
Weight and Packability

Most important from
4936 reviews

Waterproof Rating
Waterproof, keeping dry during rainy days.
Weight and Packability
The COOFANDY Men's Packable Rain Jacket is a fantastic purchase! Lightweight, easy to pack, and carry.
#2

Columbia Womens Arcadia II Waterproof Rain Jacket, Moonvista/Fig, Small

Rating
9.8
Waterproof Rating
Fit and Adjustability

Most important from
1623 reviews

Waterproof Rating
This jacket keeps you 100% dry even in torrential downpours and strong winds.
Fit and Adjustability
The fit is perfect and it blocks the wind perfectly, making it ideal for layering with a sweatshirt or sweater.

The Columbia Women’s Arcadia II Waterproof Rain Jacket offers a lot of features that make it a solid choice for those needing reliable rain protection. It boasts Omni-Tech waterproofing and fully seam-sealed construction, ensuring you stay dry in wet conditions. The breathability of this jacket is also notable, helping to keep you comfortable during extended wear.

The fabric combination of Nylon and Polyester keeps the jacket lightweight, which is convenient for packing away into its own hand pocket, making it great for travel or hiking trips. The adjustable storm hood and drawcord adjustable hem provide a customizable fit, enhancing comfort and protection against the elements. Zippered hand pockets add to its functionality by keeping your essentials dry and secure.

The jacket may not provide as much ventilation as some other models, which might be a downside in warmer, more humid conditions. Additionally, while it is designed to be packable, some users might find it a bit bulky compared to ultra-lightweight options on the market. If you prioritize waterproofing and sturdiness, the Columbia Arcadia II is a dependable and practical rain jacket option.

Rating
9.8
Waterproof Rating
Fit and Adjustability

Most important from
1623 reviews

Waterproof Rating
This jacket keeps you 100% dry even in torrential downpours and strong winds.
Fit and Adjustability
The fit is perfect and it blocks the wind perfectly, making it ideal for layering with a sweatshirt or sweater.
#3

Columbia Youth Boys Glennaker Rain Jacket, Mountain Blue, X-Large

Rating
9.8
Waterproof Rating
Breathability Rating
Fit and Adjustability

Most important from
3534 reviews

Waterproof Rating
Ideal for layering due to its lightweight and waterproof design.
Breathability Rating
Perfect raincoat for warm weather, breathable and thin yet durable.
Fit and Adjustability
Fits true to size, zips easily, and is super affordable considering how fast kids grow.
Weight and Packability
The perfect lightweight raincoat for humid rainy days, especially great for sensory-particular toddlers.

The Columbia Youth Boys Glennaker Rain Jacket in Mountain Blue (X-Large) is designed to keep young adventurers dry and comfortable. Its waterproof rating is solid, thanks to the 100% nylon taffeta shell, which offers reliable protection from both light drizzle and heavy downpours.

The jacket features a single-layer fabric, which contributes to its lightweight and packable nature, making it easy to carry around for unpredictable weather. For fit and adjustability, the inclusion of elastic cuffs helps keep the elements out, and the hood adds extra protection against sudden showers. The reflective details are a thoughtful addition for safety in low-light conditions.

One of the jacket’s strongest points is its durability, with Columbia’s reputation for high-quality materials and craftsmanship ensuring it lasts through many rainy seasons. This jacket is ideal for boys who need a reliable, lightweight, and easy-to-carry option for everyday use in wet weather, though it may not be the best choice for high-intensity outdoor sports or extremely heavy rain without additional layers.

Rating
9.8
Waterproof Rating
Breathability Rating
Fit and Adjustability

Most important from
3534 reviews

Waterproof Rating
Ideal for layering due to its lightweight and waterproof design.
Breathability Rating
Perfect raincoat for warm weather, breathable and thin yet durable.
Fit and Adjustability
Fits true to size, zips easily, and is super affordable considering how fast kids grow.
Weight and Packability
The perfect lightweight raincoat for humid rainy days, especially great for sensory-particular toddlers.

Buying Guide for the Best Breathable Rain Jacket

When choosing a breathable rain jacket, it's important to find a balance between protection from the elements and comfort. A good rain jacket should keep you dry from the rain while allowing moisture and heat to escape, preventing you from feeling clammy and sweaty. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting the best breathable rain jacket for your needs.
Waterproof RatingThe waterproof rating of a jacket indicates how well it can keep water out. This is usually measured in millimeters (mm) and refers to the amount of water a fabric can withstand before it leaks. Ratings typically range from 5,000mm to 20,000mm or more. For light rain and short periods outdoors, a rating of 5,000mm to 10,000mm may suffice. For heavy rain or prolonged exposure, look for ratings of 15,000mm or higher. Consider your typical weather conditions and activities to determine the right level of waterproofing for you.
Breathability RatingBreathability is measured in grams (g) and indicates how much moisture vapor can pass through the fabric in a 24-hour period. Ratings can range from 5,000g to 20,000g or more. A higher breathability rating means better moisture management, which is crucial for high-intensity activities like hiking or running. For low to moderate activities, a rating of 5,000g to 10,000g may be adequate. For high-intensity activities, look for ratings of 15,000g or higher. Choose a breathability rating based on how active you plan to be while wearing the jacket.
Fabric LayersRain jackets can come in 2-layer, 2.5-layer, or 3-layer constructions. A 2-layer jacket is typically lighter and more affordable, suitable for casual use and light rain. A 2.5-layer jacket adds a protective coating, making it more durable and slightly more breathable, ideal for moderate activities. A 3-layer jacket offers the best protection and breathability, with a separate inner layer that enhances durability and comfort, perfect for intense activities and harsh weather conditions. Consider how often and in what conditions you'll use the jacket to choose the right fabric layer construction.
Seam SealingSeam sealing is the process of covering the seams of a jacket to prevent water from seeping through. Fully seam-sealed jackets offer the best protection, ensuring no water can penetrate through the seams. Critically seam-sealed jackets only have the most exposed seams sealed, which may be sufficient for light rain and short periods outdoors. If you expect to be in heavy rain or for extended periods, opt for a fully seam-sealed jacket. For occasional use in mild conditions, a critically seam-sealed jacket may be adequate.
Ventilation FeaturesVentilation features, such as pit zips or mesh-lined pockets, help increase airflow and improve breathability. Pit zips are zippers located under the arms that can be opened to release heat and moisture. Mesh-lined pockets can also serve as vents when left open. These features are particularly useful for high-intensity activities or in warmer weather, as they help regulate your body temperature and keep you comfortable. Consider how much ventilation you need based on your activity level and the climate you'll be in.
Fit and AdjustabilityThe fit and adjustability of a rain jacket are crucial for comfort and effectiveness. A well-fitting jacket should allow for a full range of motion without being too tight or too loose. Look for adjustable features like cuffs, hems, and hoods, which can help you customize the fit and seal out the elements. If you plan to layer clothing underneath, make sure the jacket has enough room to accommodate additional layers. Consider your body shape and the types of activities you'll be doing to find a jacket that fits well and can be adjusted as needed.
Weight and PackabilityThe weight and packability of a rain jacket are important for convenience and portability. Lightweight jackets are easier to carry and pack, making them ideal for activities like hiking or travel. However, they may offer less durability and protection compared to heavier jackets. Packable jackets can be compressed into a small size, often fitting into their own pocket or a small pouch, which is great for saving space in your backpack. Consider how often you'll need to carry the jacket and how much space you have available to determine the right balance between weight and packability.

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