Looking for the perfect hiking jacket that is lightweight, waterproof, and warm yet breathable can be easily overwhelming.

I’m sure you’ve wondered exactly how much insulation you need. Is it lightweight enough while still being warm enough… Exactly how “water-repellent” is DWR or why do all these jackets make me have a square shape?

These are all probably things you’ve considered when looking for the best women’s hiking jacket.

We’ve tested dozens of hiking jackets and recommending our favorites based on comfort, packability, and performance.

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases at no extra cost to you.

Hiking Jackets Womens

-Editor’s Top Picks-

Best Rain Jacket: REI XeroDry GTX Jacket

Backpacking Jacket: Mountain Hardwear Ghost Shadow

Best Down Jacket: Outdoor Research Helium Jacket

Types of Hiking Jackets

Rain Jackets: are great for Spring showers and Summer monsoons when you are definitely going to want a hiking jacket that is waterproof, not just water-resistant. Gore-Tex is the best material for rain jackets, but we’ve also listed some of our other favorites below.
Synthetic Insulated Jacket: is best for the lightest weight to warmth ratio. Think summer backpacking trips, cold morning hikes that turn into warmer summit temps, and when there is a chance of rain in the forecast as the synthetic fibers allow you to stay warm even when wet. Synthetic jackets are also great as mid-layers during cold winter hikes.
Down Insulated Jacket: while the bulkiest of hiking jackets, down jackets are also the warmest hiking jackets. All the down jackets we list below are very warm yet lightweight, treated with water-resistant DWR to keep out light rain and snow, and most importantly can easily pack down into your pack when not in use. Down jackets are best as the outermost layer.

Jump to Things to Consider for details on DWR, GORE-TEX, and Synthetic vs Insulated

Best Hiking Jacket

The best kind of jacket for hiking should be water-resistant, wind-resistant, and lightweight enough to pack down into your backpack in case it starts to warm up on your hike.

Below you’ll find 5 categories of hiking jackets:

Rain Jackets
Synthetic Insulated Jackets
Down-fill Insulated Jackets
Fleece Jackets
Hiking Vests

I would highly recommend at least having both a rain jacket and an insulated jacket for hiking.

Hiking Rain Jackets

Rain Jackets are great when conditions call for consistent rainfall and you don't need much warmth.

REI XeroDry GTX Hiking Jacket

Top Feature: most versatile and most affordable GORE-TEX® jacket

best hiking rain jacket — **SPECS**
Resistance: Waterproof & windproof
Weight: 10.6 oz
MSRP: $169
**PROS**
GORE-TEX® Paclite® is the best at being windproof and waterproof
Pockets are mesh lined to double as core vents
Stretch fabric to easily move with you

**CONS:** no pit zips to vent air

Review: Editor’s Top Choice! Once you’ve experienced wearing GORE-TEX, there is no going back because nothing else will be as lightweight, windproof, and durable.

This is my go-to jacket for hiking in 3 seasons. I’ve worn this jacket during extreme wind in the desert, rain in the Olympic Peninsula, and sunrise hikes in the Appalachian.

This jacket isn’t bulky at all and still has plenty of room for me to layer a long sleeve underneath if needed. Additionally, this jacket easily packs into my backpack once it heats up, and is stylish enough to wear out on a normal day in town.

After 5 years and hiking over 500 miles in it, I only have one small snag. You can’t beat the quality at this price point.

Buy on REI

Black Diamond StormLine Stretch Rain Shell

Top Feature: quickest-drying, packable rain jacket

hiking rain jacket — **SPECS**
Resistance: Waterproof & windproof
Weight: 7.9oz
MSRP: $170
**PROS**
100% Waterproof, fully seam sealed
Armpits have zippers for venting
Easily packs down
Underarm gussets for full range of motion

Review: If you need a seriously waterproof rain-jacket, this should be your first choice. The fabric on the Stormline Stetch Rain jacket is one of my favorite materials ever made.

It’s durable, yet very lightweight and more breathable than most rain jackets. The fabric is also very stretchy and between the roomy underarm gussets and pit zips, you don’t need to worry about sweat building up as you’re hiking.

For some reason, zippers seem to be an issue for a lot of fully waterproof jackets, but I’ve never had an issue with the zipper on this jacket and it feels much nicer than any other waterproof zipper on any jacket I own.

Once the rain lets up, just fold down the jacket into its own pocket to easily store away.

I will admit Black Diamond sizing can be off from one piece of clothing to the next, but I normally wear a size Large in all jackets and the size Large was perfect for me in the Stormline Stretch jacket as well.

Outdoor Research Aspire Trench Jacket

Top Feature: when you need a longer rain jacket for those extra rainy hikes without adding any additional weight.

womens rain hiking jacket — **SPECS**
Resistance: Waterproof & windproof
Weight: 12.7 oz
MSRP: $249
**PROS**
made with GORE-TEX® Paclite®
thigh-length for max protection
Chest and hand pockets with YKK® AquaGuard® zippers
Flattering silhouette with adjustable drawcords
high-low hem for extra coverage in back

**CONS:** not as packable

Review: if you’re ever hiking in the PNW or Asheville where it can poor rain without a moment’s notice, then you will love this longer rain jacket by O.R.

The Aspire jacket is made with GORE-TEX so you know it’s going to be top-performing in wind and rain. Additionally, this jacket is very durable and incredibly lightweight for its size.

I honestly really love the fit and hem of this rain jacket too so it doesn’t have to only be for hiking. The waist has a cinching cord to give you a fit and flare style and the back has a longer hem than the front to make sure your bum is fully covered from the rain.

→ Read next — 7 Amazing Women’s Hiking Pants

Synthetic Insulated Hiking Jackets

When you are hiking in colder, humid climates or want to keep moderately warm without the bulkiness of a down-filled jacket.

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Shadow

Top Feature: Warmest insulation for being so light.

warm hiking jacket — **SPECS**
Resistance: water and wind resistant
**Weight:** 10.5 ounces
**Back Length**: 26.5 in
**MSRP:** $230
**PROS**
80g of insulation
very lightweight to warmth ratio
durable water repellent (DWR) finish to repel moisture
zippered pockets and internal chest pocket
relaxed and flattering fit

**CONS:** hood only option and not as many color choices

Review: This light and packable jacket is perfect for hiking in colder temperatures and ideal for layering under and over additional clothing.

Most insulated jackets around this price point are only filled with 60g of insulation and this one has 80g.

It does only come with a hooded version, but it is light enough to not get in the way.

Most reviewers also comment that the jacket is cut a bit wider for curvier figures or for those who know they like to layer.

Buy on REI

Fjallraven Expedition X-Latt Insulated Jacket

Top Feature: Perfect outer layer in Spring and Fall or as a mid-layer in winter.

best hiking jacket women — **SPECS**
Resistance: water-repellent & windproof
Weight: 10.6 oz
Back Length: 26.5 in
MSRP: $229
**PROS**
60g of insulation
3 zippered pockets
DWR finish to shield light rain and snow
stuffs into own zippered pockets
beautiful color options
**CONS:** not as durable as we’d like

Review: This is a go-to jacket for those chilly Fall and Spring mornings when you know you’re going to heat up at some point on the hike, but still need some extra warmth to start the hike.

I use this jacket as my outer layer in 30°F to 60°F and because it is so lightweight, it easily packs down into your pack without taking up much space at all.

The cut isn’t boxy at all allows for full-range of motion, even with a long sleeve underneath.

This jacket is also perfect for a mid-layer during winter hiking or skiing.

I really like the non-hood option when pairing it as a mid-layer since your outer-layer will have a hood. Additionally, for any of you backpackers, this is so comfortable to sleep since it’s so light, warm, and there isn’t a hood bunching up behind your head.

Additionally, this jacket does fit true to size

Last, but not least, the flattering women’s cut and colors options for this jacket ARE SO GOOD! I may like camping and hiking, but I still want to look as good as I feel!

Buy on REI

Down-filled Hiking Jackets

If you are looking for extra warmth that is still packable, these down-filled hiking jackets are our top picks.

Outdoor Research Helium Down Jacket

Top Features: Flattering Fit, Superior Warmth *Editor’s Choice*

best hiking jackets — **SPECS**
Resistance: wind and water-resistant
Down-fill: 2.9oz of 800 fill goose
Weight: 12.6 ounces (non-hooded)
Back Length: 27.75 in
MSRP: $280

**PROS**
Superior quality and warmth
Durable, abrasion-resistant fabric
Hooded and non-hooded options
Zipper pockets, packs down into a small bag
Plus-sizes available at O.R. online

Review: Outdoor Research is highly rated for their cold weather clothing and gear, and honestly, they are becoming one of my most favorite brands for hiking clothes altogether.

If you are planning to hike in the Rockies or Sierras from Fall to Spring, you are going to want a warmer down-filled jacket like this one.

This down jacket has the perfect amount of fill for warmth without being bulky and unflattering. I also wear this as an outer layer when snowshoeing or skiing in Colorado’s sunny winter days.

The details are what make this jacket phenomenal. For example, the side pockets are lined with a cozy fleece and the fit and flare don’t make you look like a box.

You won’t see much warmer or high quality down at an 800 fill, especially in this fitted or packable jacket.

→ Read next — 10 Best Women’s Hiking Shirts

Patagonia Down Sweater Jacket

Top Feature: Very flattering fit and incredibly comfortable

Review: If you’ve ever tried on down jackets, you know that while very warm and comfy they aren’t always the most flattering. I mean how many times I look more like Humpty Dumpty in a down jacket is disappointing.

Needless to say, the stitch work and pattern make a hell of a difference and somehow Patagonia got the details perfect with this jacket! It actually shows I have curves while not being too fitted.

I can layer just about anything under this jacket comfortably (if I even need to with that 800 fill down).

Don’t forget Patagonia’s one of the highest-rated B-corp brands thus far so it feels damn good to support them and know I’m getting a lifetime jacket as well.

Buy on REI

The North Face Breithorn Down Hoodie

Top Feature: Ideal for Alpine Hiking and Climbing

hiking jacket winter — **SPECS**
Resistance: wind and water-resistant
Down-fill: 3.5oz of 800-fill
Weight: 14.1 oz
Back Length: 25.5 in
MSRP: $380

**PROS**
Ultra-warm for how lightweight
Has great arm mobility for thickness
Zippered pockets
Great in cold, windy weather
**CONS:** doesn’t pack down that small

Review: This is the jacket for those of you who live somewhere with colder winters like Minnesota or Montana, but still have an active lifestyle, even in winter.

It’s definitely thicker than the Outdoor Research or Patagonia down jackets listed above, but it is also much warmer without being too heavy or not stretchy enough.

This jacket was made for alpine climbing in winter so it is also ideal on those icy accents.

Additionally, this jacket is incredibly comfortable for skiing (downhill and XC) in colder climates when there isn’t active snowfall.

— Read next: 7 Incredible Women’s Hiking Shorts

Fleece Hiking Jackets for Women

Fleece jackets are great for dry and cool hiking days or when you want to layer underneath a heavier insulated hiking jacket during winter.

REI Hyperaxis Fleece Jacket 2.0

Top Feature: 4-way stretch and sweat-wicking

best women hiking jacket — **SPECS**
Fleece Weight: medium
Back Length: 26 in
MSRP: $139

**PROS**
Sweat-wicking and quick-drying
Super soft plush fabric on inside
Very breathable
Zippered pockets to secure belongings
Hand pockets are compatible for pack hipbelt
**CONS:** not as soft and plush as Patagonia

Review: A very soft fleece jacket that you won’t want to take off, except when you start heating up from that hike.

I don’t typically like to hike in fleece because you can get hot quick, but I like that this has a full zipper to let in more air.

The 4-way stretch on this fleece jacket is ideal for hiking so you have the freedom to move without the weight of fleece. This jacket is also sweat-wicking and quick-drying which is pretty rare in fleece jackets.

While this fleece isn’t ultra-plush, the composition makes it really easy to layer and pack down in a day pack when you don’t need it.

Buy on REI

Women’s Hiking Vests

For when you want only a little extra warmth when hiking or want a bit more warmth added under your heavyweight winter jacket.

Columbia Women's Heavenly Vest

Top Feature: Light but very warm

women hiking jacket — **SPECS**
Resistance: Water-resistant
Weight: 3.2 ounces
MSRP: $100
**PROS**
Omni-Heat™ Reflective lining
Thermal reflective lining designed to keep you extra warm
Flattering silhouette cut

**CONS:** not sustainably sourced materials

Review: A closet staple in my opinion. A perfectly cut vest that sits right at your hips and even though lighter than most, it keeps you very warm with their reflective lining technology.

The collar is also really nice as it lays flat and doesn’t rub on your neck like some others can. It’s great for layering light to mid-weight shirts underneath.

Buy on Amazon

Athleta Downtown Vest

Top Feature: Very Warm and Flattering Fit

best hiking vest — **SPECS**
Resistance: Water-repellent
Weight: unknown
MSRP: $179
**PROS**
Abrasion Resistant
Lightweight and breathable
RDS down is water-repellent and retains loft and shape
High collar for added warmth
Longer length than most hiking vests

**CONS:** too bulky to wear with a backpack

Review: I love the durability of this hiking vest from Athleta and that it is abrasion-resistant. It’s also a very trendy vest too that can be worn every day so if the price is in your budget, I can just about guarantee you will love this vest!

My favorite details are that the front and back are longer than the sides to give a flattering hemline and the jacket has just the right amount of down-fill to keep you warm without looking too oversized.

Bonus- you can machine wash and dry this vest! This vest also comes in petite and tall sizes as well.

I usually wear a large in jackets, but I prefer a medium in this vest and I still have plenty of room to layer thick sweaters under.

Buy on Athleta

→ Read next — 8 Best Hiking Bras [A to DD+]

Things to Consider - Buying a Hiking Jacket

Fit:

As you are probably well aware, it’s not always easy determining the fit of a jacket when online shopping. Sometimes you may need to go up a size if you plan to layer thicker shirts underneath or with the new trend of oversized jackets, you may actually want to go down a size so you don’t look like a box.

Material:

The material of the jacket will determine breathability, stretch, and whether it’s waterproof or water-repellent. Typically, polyester is the most common fabric for hiking jackets.

You will notice a lot of hiking jackets are made with DWR, which stands for Durable Water Repellent, it is a treatment they add to the filling to help resist water and eventually can wear down over time.

If your jacket is made of GORE-TEX, then you probably paid a higher price, but it is because GORE-TEX has the waterproof technology built right into the fabric and weaving so it will last much longer than DWR.

Down vs. Synthetic Fill:

The key difference you will see between down and synthetic fill is that down is incredibly insulating and much warmer than synthetic.

On the other hand, synthetic is made from polyester fibers and is designed to imitate down properties so it has the plus of being able to retain warmth even when wet, whereas down fill doesn’t dry fast or retain warmth when wet.

Synthetic is also easier to wash and usually more affordable. The higher the down fill the warmer the jacket will be, for example, 750 fill is going to be much warmer and quality made than a 500 fill.

Quality:

I know it’s tempting to want to just find a cheaper jacket on Amazon, but know that you will not be getting the same quality, constructed, and produced jacket as if you buy from someone like Patagonia, Athleta, or REI.

The biggest thing we can do to help our planet is to reduce, and if you must buy new then try to use fabrics from recycled plastics and materials.

Don’t forget where you put your money helps keep companies afloat, and a lot of those companies may have unethical business practices and work requirements.

I know it can be a lot to figure out which hiking jacket will work for you, and then have to figure out if that company is also practicing ethical fabric sourcing and work environments. Kudos to you though for acknowledging this and trying to do better!

Best Hiking Jackets for Women (Rain Jackets to Insulated)