13 Best Jackets for Backpacking

Wearing the right attire is crucial when you want to travel light. That’s why we decided to collect some of the best jackets for backpacking here. As well as being designed to protect you from the elements, these jackets are ultralight, allowing you to keep your carry-on weight to a minimum.

And since you can’t be sure about what lies ahead, we’ve also included a rain jacket for backpacking on this list. So when there’s a sudden downpour, you don’t have to give up on your big adventure,

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Don’t worry, as we have also included some valuable tips in choosing a down jacket for backpacking. They’ll come right at the end of this article. But first, let’s check out our reviews below!

RAB Proton

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The RAB Proton is a nice ultralight jacket from the UK-based company RAB. It has everything you’d expect from the best jackets for backpacking. In terms of weight, this jacket may not be the lightest around. Nevertheless, it has a nice puff, making it warmer than other similar products.

The RAB Proton jacket utilizes a hydrophobic down as a filling material to protect you from moisture. Another thing we love about this jacket is that it’s available at bargain prices. Apart from that, the Proton comes with an impressive stitch-through construction. It’s specifically designed to give you greater mobility. Add that to an excellent hood and great hand-warming pockets, and we’ve got one of the best jackets for backpacking.

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer

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The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer has long been a favorite among the backpacking community, and it’s not without reason. This puff jacket is ultra-lightweight. Apart from that, most shoppers praise that this jacket is an all-rounder. It has all kinds of different features makes it qualified as a three-season jacket.

For easy transport, Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer is packable. You can fold it up small and fit it in your backpack. Apart from that, the jacket also has a nice hood and pockets. Meanwhile, the seven denier fabric helps this jacket be relatively low weight and water-resistant.

Looking for a warm coat? Check out our 13 best jackets for cold weather. They would be great to help you get through those freezing winter days.

Western Mountaineering Hooded Flash

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Western Mountaineering is one name you can trust when it comes to outdoor gear. The company has been in the industry since the 1970s, mostly known for its insulated clothing and sleeping bags. That’s why we don’t hesitate in the slightest to recommend the impressive Western Mountaineering Hooded Flash.

The Hooded Flash is one of the lightest jackets in Western Mountaineering’s line. Even better, it has a nice hood to keep your neck, and the back of your head warm all day long. As for quality, all Western Mountaineering jackets are handcrafted with the highest level of precision. They’re guaranteed quality and will last for years. If you’re planning on getting a down jacket for backpacking, this one will make an excellent choice.

Rab Xenon

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Here comes another fantastic product from RAB. The RAB Xenon is an excellent synthetic jacket made of breathable material. It’ll work best in humid conditions, as the fabric will help keep you dry and warm. When we first touched upon this jacket, we noticed that it had some similarities to the Enlightened Equipment jacket, which is good.

The RAB Xenon jacket is constructed using a single sheet of insulation. It’s more than enough to trap all the heat inside and keep your body at a warm temperature. If you’re looking forward to going on a backpacking trip this winter, the Xenon is one of the best jackets for backpacking worth considering.

Arc’Teryx Cerium LT

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Anyone in need of high-performance gear should look no further than Arc’Teryx. The brand has become a veteran player in the outdoor equipment industry and has produced hundreds of top-selling products. The Arc’Teryx Cerium LT is no exception.

This puff jacket is made of the best quality material and has an impressive design. It’s available for both women and men, with some adjustments depending on your physicality. Furthermore, both versions weigh less than 15 ounces, which effectively makes them one of the lightest on the market. If you’re in the market for a rain jacket for backpacking, the Cerium LT is a no-brainer.

Columbia OutDry Extreme Nanolite

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The Columbia OutDry Extreme Nanolite created some buzz around the Internet when it was first released about five years ago. The jacket then received multiple prestigious awards for its clever design. And let us tell you, the OutDry Extreme Nanolite isn’t your regular down jacket for backpacking. It comes with a special membrane outside its main shell. This makes the jacket almost invulnerable to water. You’ll get a few drops of water on the surface, but they’ll never pass through.

And how can we forget the impressive Nanolite technology? Compared to its predecessor, this innovation is much more breathable and water-resistant while being light in weight and comfortable to wear. Last but not least, the OutDry Extreme Nanolite is super packable. You can fold it up to the size of a grape, which makes it perfect for backpacking trips.

Outdoor Research Helium Wind Hoodie

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The Outdoor Research Helium Wind Hoodie is a windproof jacket that strikes a great balance between protection and breathability. Being one of the best jackets for backpacking, this hoodie is also durable, lightweight, and super packable. Whether it’s an intense hike or casual weekend camping, this is the only windshell you’ll ever need!

Crafted from 30D Pertex Diamond Fuse fabric, the Helium Wind jacket promises above-average strength and excellent water resistance. It also promises fast-drying, thanks to its superior breathability. You won’t get drenched in sweat even after hours of intense activity. As of this writing, the Outdoor Research Helium Wind Hoodie is available at around 120 bucks. It comes in blackberry as well as black.

Before you move on to the next entry, check out our 13 best jackets for winter cycling. They’re great when you want to maintain your riding consistency during stormy seasons.

Rab Kinetic Alpine 2.0

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Another jacket from RAB? Well, why not! First of all, the Rab Kinetic 2.0 is easily one of the most comfortable windproof jackets you can get on the market today. It boasts a super stretchy fabric made up of three different layers for some added durability.

And don’t forget the flexible PU membrane. It’s made from a combination of polyester knit and 20 denier fabric. As a result, you get an outdoor jacket that’s not only sturdy but also flexible, especially around the shoulders, arms, and hood area. When you’re looking for a new rain jacket for backpacking to add to your gear collection, the RAB Kinetic 2.0 will be well worth your money and time.

Black Diamond Treeline Rain Shell

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Despite its price tag, the Black Diamond TreeLine Rain Shell is anything but a low-key jacket. This wind shell works just as well as other similar products at three times the price. It boasts BD dry technology to protect you from wind and cold temperatures. The jacket also comes with a waterproof rating of 10,000mm for extra protection.

Keep yourself dry throughout the day, as the Black Diamond TreeLine has a breathability rating of 10,000g/m2/24hr. And in case you feel uncomfortable with the original fitting, the hood is fully adjustable. This down jacket for backpacking is available at around 87 bucks and comes in various colors. Depending on your personal preference, you may choose between yellow, blue, red, maroon, black, or gray.

Marmot Precip Eco

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Marmot Precip Eco has long been one of the best jackets for backpacking. The jacket has gained its popularity largely due to its pocket-friendly price tag. But apart from that, this rain jacket is also packed with tons of features. It includes a fully adjustable hood, velcro-wrist cuffs, and a hem adjustment.

In case you want to store your gloves or hat, there are two mesh-lined front pockets. Being one of Marmot’s flagship products, the Precip Eco carries a breathable and waterproof fabric. This lightweight jacket is now available at a retail price of around 100 bucks if you’re interested. And if you’re lucky, you can even get it for less than that.

Frogg Toggs UL2 Rain Jacket

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Here comes another affordable jacket that’s worth your money. The Frogg Toggs UL2 Rain Jacket is part of the UL2 rain suit, but you can buy it separately if you want. It’s crafted from a water-resistant polypropylene non-woven fabric, allowing you to stay dry all day long.

The fact that the Frogg Toggs UL2 Rain Jacket doesn’t have front pockets might disappoint you a bit. However, Frogg Toggs makes up for it with a fully adjustable hood. Some people have complained that this jacket is prone to tearing, but considering that it’s available at around 20 bucks, you really can’t complain much. So if you want a rain jacket for backpacking but don’t plan on spending a lot, this ultralight jacket will be great.

Before we reveal our runner-up, check out our 13 best jackets for the snow. They’re a must when you need some serious jackets.

The North Face Venture 2

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The North Face Venture 2 is a high-performance jacket that won’t let you down. It comes with a series of advanced features that are on par with other high-end rain jackets like the Marmot Precip Eco. From the material department, this jacket carries a heavier fabric. But on the brighter side, it makes the product much more durable.

Apart from the fully adjustable hood, other features worth mentioning include pit zips, velcro wrist cuffs, zippered side pockets, and a drawcord hem adjustment. Furthermore, the jacket is available in women’s and men’s sizes. So if you’re planning to go on a rainy adventure soon and don’t mind spending around 100 bucks, this is the down jacket for backpacking you’ve been looking for.

Frogg Toggs Xtreme Lite

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Compared to the previous model, the Frogg Toggs Xtreme Lite is a massive improvement. It has better styling and is now equipped with a fully adjustable hood. There’s a cord-adjustable waist and a Velcro wrist closure for your convenience. And in case you’re wondering about storage, the Xtreme Lite jacket comes with two zippered side pockets.

Another great thing about the Frogg Toggs Xtreme Lite is permanently waterproof. There is no need for re-proofing, no smudging of layers, just a rain jacket that works great for years! If you’re interested in these best jackets for backpacking, they’re now available on Amazon starting at 43 bucks.

How to Choose The Best Jackets for Backpacking 

Getting the best jackets for backpacking is essential on any outdoor adventure, as they’ll probably be your only means of protection when it’s cold or rainy out there. Therefore, you should think carefully when you decide to get a rain jacket for backpacking, a down jacket for backpacking, or any other type of jacket for your intense activities.

To make your life easier, below, we’ve listed the three most crucial factors to consider when choosing the best jackets for backpacking. That way, you’ll end up with a great jacket that will help you through chilly mornings when packing your gear or chilly nights in your sleeping bag. Keep reading!

Weight

When choosing the best jackets for backpacking, weight should always be your main concern. Start by considering things like the design, filling material, and shell material. And please remember that a heavier jacket doesn’t necessarily mean it’s warmer. We strongly recommend that you consult your local outdoor supply store for better insights.

Hood

Whenever possible, get a rain jacket for backpacking that comes with a hood. Some of you might think that the absence of a hood will save you a few precious grams. But trust us, it won’t be worth it. A hood will help keep both your neck and back warmer, especially when you’re in your sleeping bag.

And since we’re on the topic of jackets, why don’t you check out our 13 best jackets for bikers. They’re one of the most important accessories for your safety.

Pockets

Another must-have feature of a down jacket for backpacking is (at least) two handwarmer pockets. When the weather isn’t that cold, you can use the pockets to store hats, camera batteries, or other things that need to be kept warm. Therefore, two hand pockets are mandatory when looking for the best jackets for backpacking.

Is Puffer Jacket Good for Hiking?

Yes, you can wear a puffer jacket for climbing. It’s also stylish enough to wear around town. And when it’s not in use, you can fold the jacket small and then put it in your backpack or luggage.

Why Cotton is Bad for Hiking?

Most climbers choose not to wear cotton shirts for one reason. They’re heavy! They tend to absorb more moisture and get a lot heavier when you’re sweating. So whenever possible, don’t wear cotton while hiking.

Speaking of jackets, check out our 13 best jackets for concealed carry. They’re great when you want to carry around your firearm safely.

What is Special About Arc’Teryx?

Thanks to their impressive record in the outdoor equipment industry, Arc’Teryx is able to source their own face fabrics. This is one of the reasons why Arc’Teryx jackets are more durable than other gore-tex jackets on the market.