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Jun 22, 2023

15 Best Windbreakers to Wear This Spring

By Hannah Singleton As temperatures heat up and you prepare to soak up the sunshine, it’s tempting to pack away all your outerwear for next season. But a trusty windbreaker is the perfect layer for

By Hannah Singleton

As temperatures heat up and you prepare to soak up the sunshine, it’s tempting to pack away all your outerwear for next season. But a trusty windbreaker is the perfect layer for warmer weather where there’s still a chance of wind or drizzle—plus it’s among the ’90s fashion statements that we’re thrilled to see making a comeback these days. And for those who really like to be prepared, windbreakers are more versatile than just a standalone layer: You can pair one with a base layer or insulated layer for extra protection when it’s unexpectedly chilly.

Windbreakers are made with thin, lightweight materials that keep wind chill out but allow sweat to evaporate. Sports-specific models can pack down into a pocket so you can carry them easily on your hike or run, and many windbreakers will have a DWR (durable water repellent) coating to shed moisture in case of a light rain—although they won’t be fully waterproof like a rain jacket. Whether you’re relaxing by the beach, embarking on your first backpacking trip, or taking a stroll with your kids, these portable jackets will become a go-to wardrobe staple.

Below, we’ve rounded up the best windbreakers for all your fitness and outdoor endeavors. Here are our picks from fan favorite brands like Patagonia, Arc’teryx, Smartwool, Outdoor Research, and more.

All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Patagonia Houdini Air Jacket

REI

Backcountry

One of the most consistently top-rated windbreakers for outdoor activities is the Patagonia Houdini Air (in fact it won the title of Best Outerwear for Braving the Elements in SELF’s 2023 Activewear Awards). It cuts wind, sheds water, and remains breathable all at the same time. Hikers and backpackers love this jacket for its feather-light weight (only 3.6 ounces!) and portability (it folds down to fit into the chest pocket). Reviewers note that it runs small, so consider sizing up, especially if you want to add layers underneath.

Available in sizes XXS to XL.

Columbia Women’s Flash Forward Windbreaker Jacket

REI

Amazon

Zappos

Columbia’s Flash Forward jacket is an affordable windbreaker with a full-zip design and a drawstring hem to seal out drafts. To add a little flair to your wardrobe, it comes in numerous colorblocked combos like black and purple lotus or wild geranium and peach. The polyester mesh lining is breathable so you stay cool—not clammy—in warm conditions. And for those drizzly spring days, this jacket will serve you well because of its Omni-Shield water-resistant coating.

Available in sizes XS to 3XL.

Athleta Westerly Jacket

Athleta

If you’re looking for a fashion-forward jacket that’ll also protect you from wind, Athleta’s Westerly Jacket might just be it. Its striking design is balanced with appealingly technical features, like a high collar to add warmth and a two-way zipper to free up movement (say, when you’re biking or on the move). The internal drawstring cinches the waist if you want to customize the fit, and the side pockets zip closed so you can securely stash your phone or keys.

Available in sizes XXS to 3XL.

The North Face Hydrenaline Jacket 2000

REI

Dick's

The North Face

This 2000s-inspired windbreaker is packable and resistant to light rain and wind. Its three-piece hood offers a bit more protection than other comparable jackets because of its high front collar. With vibrant and playful patterns, this windbreaker also serves as a statement piece—and ensures your friends will always be able to spot you.

Available in sizes XS to 3XL.

Arc’teryx Squamish Hoodie

Arc'teryx

A great layer for chilly mornings and breezy summits, the Squamish Hoody is lightweight enough to carry on all your adventures. It’s built for rock climbing and mountain hiking, so its material is durable enough to withstand abrasion from rocks. Compared to other windbreakers on this list, the Squamish Hoody has a slimmer fit that sits closely to the body throughout the chest, waist, and hips. This design choice is intended to reduce bulk and help the jacket move with you while remaining relaxed enough to wear over a base layer.

Available in sizes XXS to XXL.

By Ashia Aubourg

By Hannah Dylan Pasternak

By Jenna Ryu

Asics Packable Jacket

Asics

A 2023 Activewear Awards pick for the Best Windbreaker, this Asics jacket earned high marks because it protected our tester from the chill without bogging him down in sweat. And it earns bonus points for its numerous colorways (you can choose from over a dozen options) and approachable price tag. Although “packable” is in the name, it’s slightly bulkier than other jackets when packed down, so it’s best for those who aren’t too worried about space.

Available in sizes XS to XXL.

REI Co-op Flash Jacket

REI

Windbreakers can end up spending a lot of time packed away as a backup layer in case the weather turns, so you may want to prioritize portability when you’re shopping. The Flash Jacket zips into a pocket and fits in the palm of your hand, so you’ll barely notice it when you have to carry it in your daypack, tote, or running vest. And at 3.4 ounces, it’s one of the lightest options on this list.

Available in sizes XS to 3XL.

Helly Hansen Rapide Windbreaker

Helly Hansen

Evo

Soft and lightweight, the Rapide Windbreaker features a streamlined design that’ll appeal to anyone who appreciates elevated basics. The snug elastic cuffs, drawcord hem, and high collar work together to protect you from the elements, whether you’re trail running or commuting, and the torso pocket is large enough to hold a phone.

Available in sizes XS to XL.

By Ashia Aubourg

By Hannah Dylan Pasternak

By Jenna Ryu

Cotopaxi Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker

REI

Backcountry

Dick's

Throwing it back to ’90s-era windbreakers, Cotopaxi brings us a cute half-zip jacket in eye-catching (if not charmingly mismatched) colorways. This unique design choice serves a purpose: The Teca Half-Zip is made of repurposed materials to keep fabric out of landfills. In addition to helping to combat waste, it’s also functional: It packs into its front pocket so you can stow it away in your daypack mid-hike or save room in your carry-on while traveling.

Available in sizes XS to XXL.

Smartwool Merino Sport Ultra Light Anorak Pullover Jacket

Backcountry

Dick's

Moosejaw

This trendy anorak features a half-zip design and snap-closed sides that you can open for extra ventilation. In classic Smartwool style, the interior is lined with panels of breathable Merino wool, which is temperature-regulating and odor-resistant (two major perks if you’re traveling with limited access to laundry). And because of the Merino wool, it’s slightly warmer (and softer) than comparable windbreakers—the lined hood is extra cozy. Our only complaint is that the side pockets don’t have zippers: They won’t hold your valuables securely, but they will keep your hands toasty.

Available in sizes XS to XL.

Outdoor Research Ferrosi Anorak

Outdoor Research

Backcountry

REI

Most windbreakers are super thin, capable of protecting you from wind but not much else. Outdoor Research’s Ferrosi Anorak finds the middle ground. It’s technically a “softshell,” or a layer that’s more protective than a standard wind jacket without being fully waterproof. The material is equal parts stretchy and breathable, and it doesn’t skimp on coziness either. Overall, it’s the ideal layer for someone looking for a softer, slightly warmer version of a windbreaker.

Available in sizes XS to 4XL.

By Ashia Aubourg

By Hannah Dylan Pasternak

By Jenna Ryu

Velocio Ultralight Hooded Jacket

Velocio

Built for cycling, this Veloccio jacket is one of the most technically capable options on our list. It has a DWR coating to shed water and a helmet-compatible hood, so you can stay dry on your commute. The slim fit—which is tight across the chest to mimic a forward riding position and keep you aerodynamic—is surprisingly mobile thanks to the jacket’s stretchy nylon.

Available in sizes XXS to 3XL.

Kari Traa Sanne Wind Jacket

Backcountry

Kari Traa

This colorblock wind jacket is just as at home on the trail as it is around town. The relaxed, boxy fit gives you plenty of room to move freely, and the adjustable hem and hood let you dial in the fit when the winds pick up. If you’re running or walking the pup after the sun sets, you’ll appreciate the reflective details that keep you visible.

Available in sizes XS to XL.

Eddie Bauer WindPac Jacket

Eddie Bauer

Perfect for short hikes and wearing to run errands, the Eddie Bauer Windpac jacket has a relaxed fit that’s meant to accommodate layers underneath it. And while other windbreakers simply stash into a pocket for easy carrying, this one converts into a functional waistpack, complete with a small zipper pocket.

Available in sizes XS to 3XL, including tall and petite.

By Ashia Aubourg

By Hannah Dylan Pasternak

By Jenna Ryu

L.L. Bean Waterproof Windbreaker Jacket

L.L.Bean

A roomy layer for casual use, this L.L. Bean jacket toes the line between rain jacket and windbreaker. It’s slightly fitted, provides hip-length coverage, and has a storm flap on the zipper so wind can’t penetrate the tough shell. Plus it’s comfy against the skin thanks to its mesh lining.

Available in sizes XXS to 3XL, including petite sizes.

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