The 12 best rain jackets for men in 2024

Size range: XXS-XXL

When it comes to outdoor gear, The North Face is arguably the most tried and true brand on the market. Originally released in 1985, the Mountain Jacket was designed as a waterproof performance shell for mountain climbers and alpinists. Nearly 40 years later, The North Face Mountain Jacket has transcended the slopes and reached cult status in streetwear.

While it's no longer the brand's most technical or advanced performance jacket, it still packs a lot of useful features that make it an excellent rain jacket. GORE-TEX material and fully sealed seams make the jacket 100% waterproof, large pit zips allow for venting, and adjustable draw cords help you achieve your desired fit. And if you're looking to add extra warmth, you can zip The North Face's Nutpse Jacket or Denali Fleece into the interior of the Mountain Jacket. — Amir Ismael, style editor, Reviews

Size range: S-XXL

The OTU Lightweight Waterproof Hooded Rain Jacket, available on Amazon with free two-day shipping for Prime members, is our top budget pick. With a $54.99 price tag (and even less if you're lucky enough to get it on sale), it's much less than most brands charge for outerwear.

The 100% polyester fabric is windproof, waterproof, and packable, making it perfect for hikes or day trips where the weather may vary from hour to hour. The hood is detachable, so if you're not a fan of it, you can easily remove it, and it features an adjustable draw cord. Two zipper hand pockets and an inner chest pocket provide solid storage.

This jacket also has over 13,000 reviews on Amazon, averaging 4.5 stars, with customers noting its nice fit and overall great value.

Size range: XS-XXL

The Patagonia Insulated Powder Jacket provides insulation from a signature blend of 100% recycled polyester — great for skiing trips and snowy mountains — and waterproof protection from its two-layer shell. The hood is designed to fit over helmets (or beanies), another feature that makes this the perfect companion for cold-weather adventures.

One of the more unique features we've seen is its zippered armpits; when your body heats up, simply unzip them for maximum breathability. This jacket has articulated arms for better mobility and useful features like a "pass pocket" for ski lifts.

Perhaps best of all, this jacket is made in a Fair Trade Certified factory and Patagonia is a part of the 1% for the Planet program that donates one percent of sales to environmental groups.

Size range: XS-XXL

Built for climbing, the Squamish Hoody is designed to provide strong protection against the elements, while still being light enough for activities that require a lot of movement. Weighing at almost a third of a pound, its Durable Water Repellent (DWR)-finished nylon fabric can still withstand dense brushes, thorny plants, and heavy downpours. Don't let the minimalist look fool you, this jacket can take on a lot.

It has a slim profile that hugs the body — and it works well as an outer or underlayer. With a 4.6-star average rating, users love how airy it is and that it feels like you're wearing nothing, while still getting needed protection.

Size range: XS-XXXL

If you're looking for something you can squeeze into almost any backpack, the Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket is your best bet. It's made of 100% nylon that's bluesign approved, a certification ensuring that extensive steps were taken to ensure the environment and supply-chain workers were treated properly while making the fabric.

Taped seams across the entire body keep out even the smallest droplets, and reflective forearm overlays provide much-needed visibility for dark environments. Drawcords in the hood and hem provide sizing flexibility, and the exterior chest pocket keeps valuables secure.

Please note, this jacket has a lifetime guarantee, but you'll have to regularly wash it with your preferred liquid detergent to maintain its water-repellent properties.

Size range: XS-3XL

If breathability is a key factor, then Black Diamond's Stormline Stretch Rain Shell is a great option. It features the brand's signature "BD.dry" nylon fabric with a two-way stretch that is breathable and waterproof. Though built for extreme conditions, this jacket properly adapts to moderate climates, one reason we think this is a great pick for breathability.

It also has zippered armpits and underarm gussets for extra ventilation — a welcome feature for humid days. If it's so hot you don't need any outerwear, this jacket packs into its right pocket and even has a carabiner clip loop for easy transportation.

A two-year warranty covers all Black Diamond products, and this jacket averages a 4.7 out of five star rating, with one tester saying, "Completely breathable can walk into a shower and not get wet."

Size range: S-XXXL

The Stretch Voyagr Jacket from Kuhl is soft and stretchy, but still has superior protection against the elements. It features proprietary 100% polyester fabrics that are both breathable and water-repellant and have a soft-touch membrane for nice contact with skin. The hood has a reinforced brim for keeping your hair dry on those extra drizzly days.

With two hand pockets and an internal chest pocket, you'll have ample storage for personal belongings — especially for devices that definitely shouldn't get wet, like phones and other electronics. Adjustable cuffs and hood make it customizable for all sizes, and added reflective strips also make this jacket great for visibility at nighttime.

It averages 4.5 stars across hundreds of reviews, with one customer summing it up nicely saying, "Excellent raincoat! Completely waterproof. Flexes and stretches nicely for comfort."

Size range: S-XXL

Helly Hansen's HP Foil Shell Jacket is a piece designed specifically for sailing, with the expertise of professional sailors influencing its design and features. Waterproofness isn't a problem for this jacket — it's made of fully seam-sealed polyamide and polyester shells, specifically for water-racing use, and has low-key water-resistant YKK zippers.

Its hood contrasts the body for visibility purposes and packs into the collar if you prefer the no-hood look. Helly Hansen worked with the New York Yacht Club during development, so this was made to be seen out on the water. With all five-star reviews, this jacket is well worth the price tag. 

Size range: S-XXL

Iconic running brand Nike brings its classic "V" design to the rainy track with the Windrunner Repel Running Jacket. It's made of a recycled polyester-spandex blend fabric in the body and 100% polyester mesh that provides breathability during your jogs, while also being lightweight enough to keep up with your pace.

The two-way stretch fabric provides UVA and UVB sun protection and Nike included mesh panels in the pit area and a vent in the back for extra ventilation. Zippered hand pockets let you keep your phone and wallet from falling out when you're pushing for a PR.

This middle-of-the-road classic jacket averages over a 4-star rating and is a reliable piece of waterproof gear for running.

Size range: XS-XXL

With a name like Rains, it's no surprise this jacket is made for rainy days. Rains brings a longer version of its classic rain jacket with a simple, unisex body that works casually or in a performance setting. It has a 100% polyester W3-rating (waterproof from light rain) fabric that's also lightweight and breathable.

Snap closures give this a classy look compared to more contemporary zippers. With over a dozen different basic colors, you're sure to find a combination that works for you. The jacket is designed to sit right above the knees, but if you'd like something even longer, Rains offers that in the Longer Jacket.

Size range: S-XXL

Men's basics brand Mack Weldon ventures out of the drawers with the Stormchaser Mackintosh Jacket. Built to balance style and function, this jacket has a 10K waterproof rating with a seam-sealed interior. Don't be fooled by its soft polyester-cotton blend; this jacket is made to take a beating while still being fashionable for the office.

It comes in two colors: Total Eclipse Blue and Thunder Heather. While you won't find any flashy greens or yellows, this will look great with any business casual outfit. Customers love its flattering fit and overall professional style, while it still makes for a functional piece when traveling to and from the office.

Size range: S-3XL

Canada Goose is known for down jackets, but the brand also makes some great rain gear. The Nainamo Jacket is the outerwear brand's take on the standard rain jacket. It's designed for "transitional" seasons and can withstand heavy rain and winds.

It has mesh vents for breathability and reflective features on the back for low-light visibility. Its proprietary fabric technology is a blend of nylon, polyurethane, polyester, and spandex is lightweight and allows for a full range of motion.

As with all Canada Goose products, it comes with a lifetime warranty. This luxury jacket is guaranteed to last, so go ahead, get out into the elements.

What should I look for in a rain jacket?

When looking for a rain jacket, you should first decide which activity you'll be using it for mostly. If you're doing physical activity or exercise, look for something more lightweight. If you'll be using it for work or activity that requires more durability, look for sturdier jackets with stronger materials such as GORE-TEX. Of course, you should make sure the waterproof rating of your rain jacket matches your environment. If you'll be in light drizzles, you don't need the highest waterproof rating. And if you'll be in heavy storms, make sure you have the proper gear for it.

What's the difference between water-resistant and waterproof?

Waterproof means that the fabric cannot be penetrated with water droplets at all, while water-resistant means that the fabric can repel most water, but not all. Waterproof gear will often be fully seam-sealed so that nothing gets in the interior.

How can I stay dry while still allowing moisture from sweat to escape?

Staying dry while not overeating is possible with gear that has covered ventilation such as a back flap or zippered pits. It's also important to choose lightweight, breathable fabrics versus heavy-duty fabrics that may trap heat more. Look for features that incorporate mesh and other ventilation in key areas.