The 8 Best Rain Jackets for Men, Tested by Fashion Editors

A list of the best men’s rain jackets is not complete without Rains. After all, the Denmark-based rainwear lifestyle brand is known for producing waterproof designs that spans apparel, bags and other accessories. Enter its Fishtail Parka.

We love this garment for reasons beyond waterproof protection. The jacket is quintessential New York with an all-black look and thigh-length cut. It’s also one of our absolute favorites because it has enhanced coverage, blocking rain from wetting your quads and backside, which is huge for anyone who has ever been caught walking in the rain for more than 10 minutes.

Some rain jackets can feel too warm and clammy against the skin if they lack proper ventilation. But that’s not the scenario here, thanks to its back yoke that offers cooling airflow. Not to mention, our testers were able to wear formal attire underneath without feeling too stuffy. Don’t get us wrong, this jacket isn’t just for city-slickers. If you’re down for a rainy trail walk, this is never a bad option to throw on. We can bet the handwarmer pockets and drawstring hood with a cap brim will come in handy for your hike.

Read More: Best Spring Jackets

Outdoor Research rain jackets have a cult following for a reason. Take The Helium for example. It’s constructed with Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse fabric—a durable, woven layered material that provides waterproof protection from the elements while remaining highly breathable.

Thanks to its self-stowing design, we’ve been able to pack it down into its zippered chest pocket, which doubles as a tiny triangular-shaped sack. And since the jacket doesn’t take up too much room, you can keep it on hand at your office desk or stowed away in your work backpack. During our backcountry journey in the rain, we found it has a lightweight feel, but is also thoughtfully designed to keep our layers underneath from being soaked.

In true Lululemon fashion, the athleisure brand produces a rain jacket that merges both form and fashion. Its full-zip offering is made of waterproof Glyde fabric, which works double duty to repel rain on the outer layer and wick away moisture from the inner surface. The smooth texture also reduces friction, allowing for easy movement and extra comfort during activities like hiking, running or cycling in drizzly weather.​​

We appreciate that the jacket maintains comfort over extended periods of time without feeling stiff, even in the clammy environment of a subway station. Plus, there’s underarm vents to enhance airflow if you start to get too hot. In terms of form, it’s a chameleon. It’s stylish enough for wearing over a polo at dinner, and can also double as a windbreaker for crisp days spent outdoors.

Arc’teryx outerwear is meant to last a lifetime, and the Beta Jacket is no exception. Built with durable seam taping and waterproof Gore-Tex fabric, this piece has a 80D denier rating, meaning it has some of the strongest, abrasion-resistant build one can find. It’s also worth noting that the regular fit delivers breathable protection and falls away from your body with enough room for layering.

Although its premium price tag may seem intimidating, the jacket’s ability to handle some serious outdoor activity makes it a worthy investment. Among the jackets we evaluated, this number emerged as the top choice for hikers and runners because the fabric stretched and facilitated fluid movement. But perhaps if you simply prefer it for style, rocking it casually will have you looking as fly as Harry Styles.

Getting a top-notch rain jacket doesn’t always mean emptying your entire wallet. In fact, this budget-friendly option from Columbia offers the same, if not more, durability and protection as the expensive options on this list. Nevertheless, it features an air-permeable membrane, fully sealed seams and Omni-Tech fabric, which hinders water from leaking through the tiny needle holes created during the garment’s construction.

The reason why the price is much cheaper is not because of its ability to repel rain; in fact, it’s phenomenal at keeping wearers dry. Instead, expect a sacrifice in breathability and flexibility, as these features become more prominent the more expensive you go.

Stylish, yet designed with utility in mind, Cotopaxi’s Cielo Rain Jacket is a hip-le