The Best All Around Jacket For 2024
By, Sarah CombsUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Columbia Men's Watertight II Jacket
This waterproof and breathable winter coat is designed to keep you dry in wet weather. It's lightweight and packable so it can be stored away when not in use, and offers handy features like an adjustable storm hood, zippered hand pockets, adjustable cuffs, and a drawcord adjustable hem. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: Columbia Women's Mighty Lite Hooded Jacket
This ultra-lightweight jacket is designed with Omni-Shield technology to resist liquid absorption, while also providing thermal heat reflective lining for added warmth. Featuring handy comfort cuffs with thumb holes, this is your go-to winter coat for a wide range of adventures. Read Review
3. Best Style: Columbia Women's Heavenly Long Hooded Jacket
This stylish water resistant jacket features 100% synthetic down insulation for maximum warmth, a long-line classic fit for comfortable wear, and handy features such as a plush fleece lined hood and collar, two-way center-front zipper, interior security pocket, zippered hand pockets and comfort cuffs with thumb holes. Read Review
4. Best Capacity: Columbia Men's Buck Butte Insulated Hooded Jacket
This element ready jacket features a water repellent shell made from Shadow Ripstop nylon, while the interior taffeta contains faux down for ultimate warmth and comfort. The adjustable hood integrates a soft chin guard and is designed to keep your head warm in cold outdoor environments. Read Review
5. Best Design: Marmot Men’s Guides Hoody Jacket
Featuring 700-fill down with water-resistant Down Defender, this down-filled hoody keeps you comfortably insulated in damp conditions and when you sweat. It’s designed to withstand the elements with adjustable VELCRO cuffs and an elasticized drawcord hem for a secure fit and protection from inclement weather. Read Review
When it comes to cold weather, a jacket can make all the difference. If you’re spending long periods outdoors in the winter, you don’t want your outer layer trapping in sweat and stink. Instead, a good jacket should filter out moisture and be pleasant to wear so your clothes aren’t stinking up everyone else’s space.
Go outside between breaks at work or school, and you may as well have an outside extension of your office. This is especially true when working indoors with many other people who also need their own smell-stopping protection. When it comes to the best all-around jacket for the everyman, think about fit and features first. A lot of different factors will influence which jacket is right for you: individual conditions like wind speed and direction; how much weight you can comfortably lift; how often you plan to use it; and more. These are some things to keep in mind when looking at buying a new coat that fits all these criteria.
After nearly 17 hours of research, We think the best all around jacket is Columbia Men's Watertight II Jacket. Made with advanced technology materials, this waterproof and breathable jacket is designed to keep you incredibly comfortable and dry when you need it most. Or you can check the Columbia Women's Mighty Lite Hooded Jacket as the other great option, even if the first option didn't meet all of your requirements.
RELATED: Our experts have listed the top most popular north face jacket for men that are best sellers in 2024 to bring you an ideal one. See the top picks and buyers guide here!
Our Top Picks
HANDY FEATURES: The perfect outer layer, this coat includes an adjustable storm hood with an abrasion resistant chin guard, a zippered hand pockets with adjustable cuffs, a drawcord adjustable hem, to keep the warmth in, and the rain and snow out.
Drawcord adjustable hem
LIGHTWEIGHT AND PACKABLE: This versatile rain shell is so compact it can be stored and kept at the ready, stuffed in its own hand pocket anytime.
OMNI-TECH: Our proprietary technology provides air-permeable protection that's waterproof and breathable, keeping mother nature's elements out, at the same time allowing the inside to breathe, keeping her dry and comfortable no matter the conditions.
Security pocket
Attached, adjustable storm hood
BUILT TO LAST: Columbia’s attention to detail is what sets our apparel apart from others. We use only the highest quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and durable stitching. These are worry-free leggings you will enjoy for seasons to come.
WATERPROOF AND BREATHABLE WINTER COAT: Made with advanced technology materials it’s a wet-weather jacket designed to keep you incredibly comfortable and dry when you need it most.
Zippered chest pocket
Sleeve : Start at the center back of your neck and measure across the shoulder and down to the wrist. Round up to the next even number
OMNI-HEAT: Our patented Heat Reflective garments are the ultimate body heat management system for outdoor performance. The interior lining consists of our metallic dot pattern designed to retain heat, while the breathable fabric dissipates moisture
OMNI-SHIELD: Go ahead, try and get dirty. Omni-Shield helps you stay clean and dry by resisting the absorption of liquids. Unlike most fabrics that absorb moisture, Omni-Shield repels moisture and dries quickly—avoiding stains and keeping you clean
COZY WINTER JACKET: The Columbia Women’s Mighty Light Hooded Jacket is a performance blend of advanced water repellency and ultra lightweight warmth that only our thermal heat reflective lining can provide. Your go-to coat for a wide range of adventure
BUILT TO LAST: Columbia’s attention to detail is what sets our apparel apart. Specifying only the highest quality materials, expert stitching and craftsmanship. This is a long-lasting winter jacket you will enjoy for seasons to come
HANDY FEATURES: This coat includes comfort cuffs with thumb holes to keep your hands warm and yet in control. A two way center front main zipper and 2 zippered hand pockets, while an interior security pocket keeps small items stowed safely
100% SYNTHETIC DOWN INSULATION: The down-style baffling is flexible at all the right points, providing additional air-loft, versatile fit, and maximum warmth and enjoyment.
How to Measure : Use a soft, flexible tape measure from a sewing kit. A metal tape measure from your toolbox or a yard stick may give you inaccurate readings
OMNI-HEAT: Our patented Heat Reflective lining provides the ultimate hand warmth management for outdoor performance. This interior lining consists of our metallic dot pattern designed to retain heat, while the breathable fabric dissipates hand moisture.
CLASSIC FIT: This women's water resistant jacket features a long-line classic fit for comfortable warmth and protection during days outdoors.
A water-resistant shell, insulation, and thermal reflective technology keep you comfortable all winter
BUILT TO LAST: Columbia’s attention to detail is what sets our apparel apart. Specifying only the highest quality materials, expert stitching and craftsmanship. This is a long-lasting jacket you will enjoy for seasons to come.
HANDY FEATURES: Long form featuring a plush fleece lined hood and collar, a two-way center-front zipper for total adjustability, an interior security pocket, zippered hand pockets, and comfort cuffs with thumb holes to keep hands warm on any chilly day.
100% SYNTHETIC DOWN INSULATION: The down-style baffling is flexible at all the right points, providing additional air-loft, versatile fit, and maximum warmth and enjoyment
ADJUSTABLE HOOD SYSTEM: The adjustable hood integrates a soft chingaurd and is designed to keep your head warm in cold outdoor environments
HANDY POCKETS: This element ready jacket features two zippered hand pockets plus an interior security pocket
ACTIVE FIT: This jacket's down-style large baffling lends a functional and timeless look. Elastic cuffs and an adjustable drawcord hem reduce unwanted drafts
COMFORTABLE MENSWEAR WINTER JACKET: This winter jacket features a water repellent shell made from Shadow Ripstop nylon, while the interior taffeta contains faux down for ultimate warmth and comfort
Built To Withstand The Elements - To keep you warm and dry, jackets in our Guides collection are constructed using 700-fill down with water-resistant Down Defender. Even if a little wind or rain comes your way, the jacket’s attached down-filled hood and wind flap behind its front zipper provide extra protection.
High Performance, Low Maintenance - To ensure a secure fit and provide protection from inclement weather, the Guides Hoody Jacket features adjustable VELCRO cuffs and an elasticized drawcord hem. Angel-Wing Movement allows for full arm mobility, so you can explore without feeling restricted.
Stay Warm As Temperatures Drop - The cold is no match for this down-filled hoody, which is designed to keep you comfortably insulated in damp conditions and when you sweat. Whether you choose to explore far-off places or prefer to stay closer to home, this jacket is a cold-weather must-have.
Innovating To Improve The Human Experience - Marmot strives to deliver best-in-class warmth, protection and ease of use on every product. This jacket’s two-way zipper prevents bunching and includes zippered handwarmer pockets as well as a zippered chest pocket and interior zippered pocket for keeping your keys, phone, and wallet secure.
We Have You Covered - With Marmot, we warrant every product we make to be free of manufacturer defects. The best part is you do not need to register your product. Our lifetime warranty covers you from the moment you purchase our apparel or equipment.
Columbia Women's Heavenly Hooded Jacket features Omni-Heat Reflective technology, a 100% polyester synthetic down lining, and handy features to keep you cozy and protected during weather-heavy days.
Waist : Measure around the natural waistline, allowing the tape measure to sit comfortably.
CLASSIC FIT: This women's water resistant jacket features a classic fit for comfortable warmth and protection during days outdoors.
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: This Columbia Women's Heavenly Hooded Jacket features Omni-Heat Reflective 100% polyester lining that works to keep you dry and warm by reflectiving your body heat with embedded silver dots.
ADJUSTABLE FEATURES: This women's lightweight water resistant jacket features a hood and a drop tail. Body skimming fit with end-use mobility in mind
HANDY FEATURES: This women's water resistant lightweight jacket features an interior security pocket, zippered hand pockets, and comfort cuffs with thumbholes.
Omni-Heat thermal reflective
Faux down insulation
Sherpa lined hood
Water resistant fabric
Attached, adjustable storm hood
DESIGNED TO LAST: Nautica's attention to detail and design is what makes our apparel stand out from the rest. Using only the highest quality of materials, this is made to be your new long lasting jacket that you'll enjoy for seasons to come.
WATER AND WIND RESISTANT: This jacket is water and wind resistant providing additional protection during inclement weather. With these features, you will stay dry, warm and comfortable all day!
COMPOSITION: This high quality jacket is true to size and made from 100% polyester designed for maximum comfort.
JACKET: This jacket is a must have! Fashioned with 100% polyester, a hood, pockets and a zipper closure. Machine washable.
NAUTICA: Is a leading global lifestyle brand, founded in 1983, well-known for their classic American sportswear. Inspired by the word "nautical", Nautica's clothing truly embraces the joy of the water with multiple styles, prints & colors.
Available in extended sizing. Kindly refer the Product Details section below for Size Guide (PDF)
HANDY FEATURES: Completely waterproof, with an adjustable hood and rain protector, zippered hand pockets, drawcord adjustable hem, and to finish it off — insulated and lined with our super plush sherpa pile fleece interior.
BRING IT, WEATHER:A jacket built for inside-out comfort with a water-resistant shell and 40g synthetic insulation.
COMFORTABLE RAIN JACKET: The Columbia Women’s Switchback Sherpa Lined Rain Jacket is your plush, warm and dry answer to mother nature’s version of cold liquid sunshine.
EXTRA PLUSH SHERPA PILE: Lined with soft and plush sherpa pile, this rain jacket adds a nice touch of cozy warmth on any cold day, wet, windy, or otherwise.
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: This winter rain jacket features our waterproof Hydroplus 100% nylon shell designed to keep you dry and protected in even the hardest of downpours.
PROTECTIVE HOOD: Pull it up or fold it back, if you can keep your hair protected and dry, you'll be happy and good to go.
Stay Warm Without Feeling Weighed Down - This down-filled jacket is designed with ultralight, ripstop fabric to keep you comfortably insulated — without extra weight or bulk. Whether you choose to explore far-off places or prefer to stay closer to home, this jacket is a cold-weather must-have.
Innovating To Improve The Human Experience - Marmot strives to deliver best-in-class warmth, protection and ease of use on every product. When it’s time to lose a layer or pack up and head home, the Jena Jacket stuffs into its own pocket to reduce carry-on and pack space.
Fashionable And Functional - The Jena Jacket’s elastic drawcord hem ensures a secure fit, and built-in Angel-Wing Movement allows for full arm mobility, so you can explore without feeling restricted. Zippered hand pockets and an internal drop pocket keep your keys, phone, and wallet secure.
Built To Withstand The Elements - To keep you warm and dry, jackets in our Jena collection are made using 700-fill down with water-resistant Down Defender. Even if a little wind or rain comes your way, the jacket’s wind flap behind its front zipper provides additional weather protection.
We Have You Covered - With Marmot, we warrant every product we make to be free of manufacturer defects. The best part is you do not need to register your product. Our lifetime warranty covers you from the moment you purchase our apparel or equipment.
Our buying guide to pick best all around jacket for you need
Maybe you feel overwhelmed by the variety of choices when it comes to purchasing best all around jacket? Visitors didn't even know if a better option was available. We have a few suggestions which will make things easier and thus save you time and effort.
Review them out below to see whether the item you're looking for is right for you!
Insulation
Closures
Weather Resistance
Protective water repellent (DWR), winter coats will resist the elements. A water repellent coat is recommended for those who live in areas with snowy winters.
Fit & Comfort
Jackets that are perfect for movement have an open fit. Everybody is unique. In our hands-on review, we recommend that you pay attention to how each jacket is cut.
Pockets
Another useful pocket is the external chest pockets. These are great for car keys and cell phones. The internal chest pockets are perfect for small bits of paper or slips. You can quickly stuff large objects like gloves, scarves or scarves into the pockets.
RELATED: Friendly, expert advice and help from real experts to find best down jacket for men of 2024. We compiled the list of top models in the guide here.
FAQs
Do Life Jackets Expire?
Like most safety equipment, it is almost always a 'yes' depending on what material the jacket is made from. Foam can last for 10 years if no damage to its straps, buckles or covering material. Hybrid jackets and gas jackets need to be serviced regularly in order for any issues to develop. However, they also have a theoretical life expectancy of 10 years. Although service intervals may differ by manufacturer, the minimum recommended maintenance should be at least every two years. To ensure that service records remain current, many jackets of high quality will come with a service interval disc.
What's The Best Material For A Life Jacket?
Three main types are available for life jackets: gas-filled, foam-filled, and hybrid. The latter combines both the two first types. Foam is more commonly used to make 'buoyancy devices', which are less effective than full-life jackets. However there's plenty of overlap. Foam can be used for general-use jackets and more specific buoyancy aids. It is also ideal for long-lasting, low maintenance, affordable, and cost effective.
Regular checks are required for gas jackets to make sure the bladder(s), and the gas bottle remain charged. Maintaining the gas inflator is also necessary for hybrid jackets. Hybrid jackets require maintenance of the gas inflator. Foam is the best choice for low-maintenance jackets, while hybrid or gas is the best.
Do I Need To Wear A Life Jacket For Paddle Boarding / Kayaking / Sailing?
Even if you are a great swimmer, experienced paddler, or sailor, you can still enjoy sailing in an organized setting like a club, or lessons with instructors. It doesn't matter if you are going out alone, with your own boat or paddleboard, it is your decision. A solo kayak paddle along the coast of the coast will be different than a SUP yoga class on a designated watersports lake.
It is recommended that you wear buoyancy aids for any watersports in which there may be a risk of getting into the water. Modern materials and precise designs make a buoyancy aid not much of an issue. You might even be glad that you have one. Cold water shock is dangerous. This occurs when the body reacts to temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius by an uncontrollable gasp reflex. Even strong swimmers can experience'swim fail' within 30 minutes.
What Size And What Fit Should I Get?
It's not easy to size buoyancy aids. There are so many designs and cuts on the market. Comfort is the key, particularly for paddling and other active activities where poor fitting can cause pain over a prolonged period of time. Paddling-specific styles ensure that you have a fit and cut that is perfect for your needs. It should fit snugly but not too tightly, and be securely fastened so that it doesn't move around during use.
What's The Safest Life Jacket?
It's better to be wearing the jacket you are actually using, than your car's uncomfortable version. You need to choose the best life jacket for your activity. There are many models available for every type of sport, from sailing around the world to SUP fishing or SUP SUP. Each model has a different set of performance characteristics. Find the right fit for you and then enjoy.
Conclusion
The website has a buying guide for best all around jacket for your needs. It will assist you in determining what to purchase and how much was to purchase! If the above options do not meet your needs, consider Marmot Women’s Ithaca Puffer Jacket as an alternative.
Whether any of this makes it sound daunting or if you want more information, please give us a call, our members of the team are always happy to chat and brainstorm ideas with you!
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About Sarah Combs
