As any outdoor adventurer can tell you, it doesn’t take much to leave you feeling cold and uncomfortable if you aren’t prepared with the right gear. Most first-time campers prepare to stay dry in the rain and cool on the sunniest summer days, but what about the wind? These are the best windbreakers for blustery weather. 

A basic windbreaker jacket is a lightweight piece of equipment that can easily be tossed in with your camping gear or packed in your hiking backpack before heading out. If the temperature drops or a bone-chilling wind rolls through your campsite, it can make or break your next trip. Most also offer water-resistant or waterproof capabilities to keep you dry in a light rain. They are also ideal for hiking trips, trail running, or any other activity that takes you outdoors into the wilderness. But, how do you know if you’re choosing the best windbreaker for your upcoming plans? You may be surprised to learn that there are just as many factors to consider when shopping for a windbreaker as there is when choosing the right hiking shoes!

In this guide, we have pulled together everything you need to know to choose the right windbreaker for you and your outdoor activities. We’ve also put together a variety of the most highly recommended, top-quality windbreakers for you to consider. 

Cover image: Shutterstock

The Best Windbreakers at a Glance: 

1. Champion Stadium Packable Half Zip Hooded Windbreaker
2. Global Bank Men’s Lightweight Windbreaker
3. 33,000 ft Packable Men’s Lightweight Waterproof Windbreaker
4. Little Donkey Andy Men’s Quick-Dry Windbreaker
5. Little Donkey Andy Women’s Waterproof Windbreaker
6. Columbia Women’s Flash Forward Windbreaker
7. Calvin Klein Women’s Windbreaker
8. Charles River Apparel Wind & Water-Resistant Pullover

Best Windbreakers

	Champion Stadium Packable Half Zip Hooded Windbreaker	Global Blank Men’s Lightweight Windbreaker	33,000ft Packable Men’s Lightweight Waterproof Windbreaker
Brand:	Champion	Global Blank	33,000ft
Sizes:	Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large	X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large	Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large
Material:	100% Polyester	100% Polyester	100% Nylon
Available Colors:	Black, Gold, Cargo Olive, Navy, Scarlet, Off the Grid Green, White, Surf the Web, Camo, Balboa Blue, Shield Blue	Black, Black/Camo, Black/Graphite, Camouflage, Navy/Saddle, Shadow Camouflage, Navy/Maroon, Graphite, Maroon, Navy, Navy/Army Green, Navy/Royal Blue, Red, Safety Orange, Safety Yellow, White Camouflage, Aqua, Blush	Black, Blue, Bright Blue, Chili Red, Dark Red, Grey, Hot Pepper, Khaki, Olive, Orange, Royal Blue, Yellow-Green
	amazon.com	amazon.com	amazon.com

Best Windbreakers Reviews

1. Editor’s Choice: Champion Stadium Packable Half Zip Hooded Windbreaker

Specs:

If you’re looking for a convenient windbreaker to throw in your backpack or day bag, this is the perfect solution. Made from water and wind resistant lightweight polyester, it’s going to keep you protected from whatever the elements throw your way. It’s a classic unisex style jacket with a variety of versatile color options to suit any style. 

Pros:

• Budget-friendly price point 
• Lightweight and packable 
• Low-profile side pockets

Cons:

• Half-zip design can make putting it on inconvenient 

amazon.com

2. Runner Up: Global Blank Men’s Lightweight Windbreaker

Specs:

Another popular option with a unisex fit, this windbreaker offers both wind and water resistance to keep you safely protected from the elements. A three-panel hood and fine mesh hood liner provides cover for your head, while a tightening toggle at the waistband and elastic cuffs make it easy to customize to best protect your unique body shape. 

Pros:

• 600 mm water resistance 
• Toggle at waist to customize fit 
• Double-stitched sewing and reversed zipper tape

Cons:

• Slim fit design that does not stretch, making it hard for some to choose the correct size

amazon.com

3. Best Portable Windbreaker for Backpacking: 33,000ft Packable Men’s Lightweight Waterproof Windbreaker

Specs:

Space is a premium when selecting your backpacking gear. The good news is that this lightweight and highly compact jacket provides exactly what you need – protection from the wind (and even the rain) while packing down into a small carry bag that can easily be thrown in your backpack. It’s highly durable and breathable for maximum comfort. 

Pros:

• Ripstop, high density polyester
• Laminated TPU membrane and 100% welded seams 
• Packable in small, convenient carry bag

Cons:

• Buyers report it’s not fully waterproof, more water-resistant 

amazon.com

4. Best for Running: Little Donkey Andy Men’s Quick Dry Windbreaker

Specs:

Designed with the unique needs of runners in mind, this wind breaker has several special features to consider. The sleeves of the jacket easily zip off, turning it into a vest suitable for warmer conditions when you just need a little extra insulation. It also provides UPF 50+ protection, reflective strips for visibility, and moisture wicking panels for better comfort. 

Pros:

• Quick dry material with moisture-wicking upper back panel
• 4-way stretch for better mobility 
• Zip-off sleeves to adjust to any temperature

Cons:

• Buyers report it has a baggy fit compared to other running jackets 

amazon.com

5. Best Waterproof: Little Donkey Andy Women’s Waterproof Windbreaker

Specs:

While this list is designed to share the best windbreakers available, not all jackets are restricted to protecting you just from the wind. This high-performing jacket from Little Donkey Andy offers a waterproof shell, UPF 50+ protection, and a moisture-wicking lining to keep your dry and comfortable regardless of the weather. 

Pros:

• Soft mesh moisture-wicking lining 
• Attached hood with adjustable drawstring
• Includes 3 waterproof zip pockets to keep your gear dry

Cons:

• Sizes run small, doesn’t allow for additional layers without sizing up

amazon.com

6. Best Budget: Columbia Women’s Flash Forward Windbreaker

Specs:

If you’re searching for a simple, low-cost windbreaker that will do the job, this is exactly what you’re looking for. Made from 100% polyester, the jacket offers a water-resistant shell that will also keep the cool breezes out to keep you warm and protected. It comes in a wide assortment of fun color to match any personality – or pick up a couple at this price! 

Pros:

• Built-in hood with adjustable draw cord 
• Water-resistant shell 
• Zippered hand pockets to keep your belongings safe

Cons:

• No lining means the jacket can stick to the skin

amazon.com

7. Also Popular: Calvin Klein Women’s Windbreaker

Specs:

Another great budget-friendly windbreaker option, this jacket from Calvin Klein will keep you protected from more than just a cool breeze. The water-resistant shell is perfect for a light to medium rain while a soft fleece lining helps to keep you cold in the cooler spring or fall weather. It’s a great 3-season jacket for those hoping to get even more use out of their windbreaker. 

Pros:

• Fleece lining for light warmth 
• Budget-friendly 
• Water-resistant shell

Cons:

• Buyers report that the sizing is inconsistent 

amazon.com

8. Honorable Mention: Charles River Apparel Wind & Water-Resistant Pullover

Specs:

For those who prefer a pull-over style windbreaker, this is a great option that isn’t going to break the bank. The water-resistant RiverTec Nylon shell will keep you safely protected from both wind and rain while the soft fleece lining provides added warmth and comfort even when the temperatures drop. An adjustable Shock Cord drawstring on the hem makes it easy to keep the elements out. 

Pros:

• Made from water-resistant RiverTec Nylon
• Soft flannel lining for warmth 
• Large front pocket for all your belongings

Cons:

• Jacket runs big and is oversized for most women

amazon.com

Best Windbreakers Comparison Table

Windbreakers		Brand	Sizes	Material	Available Colors
Champion Stadium Packable Half Zip Hooded Windbreaker		Champion	Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large	100% Polyester	Black, Gold, Cargo Olive, Navy, Scarlet, Off the Grid Green, White, Surf the Web, Camo, Balboa Blue, Shield Blue
Global Blank Men’s Lightweight Windbreaker		Global Blank	X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large	100% Polyester	Black, Black/Camo, Black/Graphite, Camouflage, Navy/Saddle, Shadow Camouflage, Navy/Maroon, Graphite, Maroon, Navy, Navy/Army Green, Navy/Royal Blue, Red, Safety Orange, Safety Yellow, White Camouflage, Aqua, Blush
33,000ft Packable Men’s Lightweight Waterproof Windbreaker		33,000ft	Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large	100% Nylon	Black, Blue, Bright Blue, Chili Red, Dark Red, Grey, Hot Pepper, Khaki, Olive, Orange, Royal Blue, Yellow-Green
Little Donkey Andy Men’s Quick Dry Windbreaker		Little Donkey Andy	Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large	95% Polyester, 5% Spandex	Black, Blue, Fluorescent Yellow, Orange, Yellow
Little Donkey Andy Women's Waterproof Windbreaker		Little Donkey Andy	X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large	100% Polyester	Black, Blue, Grey, Navy, Harbor Blue, Red, Grey/Black, Purple/Deep Purple, Red/Black, Fluorescent Red/Wine Red, Fluorescent Yellow/Cyber Yellow
Columbia Women’s Flash Forward Windbreaker		Columbia	X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 1X, 2X, 3X	100% Polyester	Black, Safari/Stone Green, Turquoise/Nocturnal, Nocturnal/Wild Fushia, White/Black, Red Hibiscus/Coral Reef, Icy Morn/White, Mango/White, Pale Lilac/Blossom Pink, Peach Cloud/Nocturnal, Lapis Blue/Mint Cay, Bright Red/Nocturnal/White
Calvin Klein Women’s Windbreaker		Calvin Klein	X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large	100% Polyester	Black, Soft Lilac, Twilight, Wind, Blue Crush, Thistle
Charles River Apparel Wind & Water-Resistant Pullover		Charles River Apparel	X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large, 4X-Large, 5X-Large	100% Nylon	23 Colors Including Black, Navy, Black/Red, Forest/White, Yellow, Cardinal, Pink/White, Orange and more

What to Consider When Shopping for A Windbreaker 

Weight and Packability 

The first thing that many people will consider is how easily you can bring your new windbreaker along on your next adventure. This is especially true if you’re concerned about limited gear space as someone who plans on backpacking or paddling with only the gear you can carry on your person. Many windbreakers will pack down conveniently into a pocket of the jacket or into a small carry bag. But, when you start introducing lining and other features, you may need to sacrifice some of that portability. 

Materials 

Take a moment to research the fabric that each jacket is made from. This will impact many factors including breathability, weight, durability, and warmth. A lightweight polyester shell is a great choice for a quick solution, protecting you from the elements until you can get to shelter. But it’s likely going to tear or rip when exposed to a more intense or demanding activity. It also won’t offer much in the way of warmth due to its light, breathable design. On the other hand, a jacket with a durable high denier count nylon is going to weigh more but it’s also going to stand up to much more abuse. 

Zip Jacket vs Pullover 

This factor is completely a matter of personal preferences. While some people prefer the lightweight design of a quarter-zip or half-zip pullover, others find it far more convenient to use a full-length jacket when they are on the move. Of course, the additional zipper length will add to the weight of the jacket. 

Water Resistance

If you are hoping for a jacket that will not only protect you from the wind but also keep the rains at bay, you will need to look at the water resistance rating. Most importantly, you will need to understand the difference between water resistant and waterproof. A water-resistant coat is going to work to repel light rains, but it’s not going to be able to stand up to a heavier rain or downpour. These jackets aren’t meant to be considered a raincoat, but they do offer some protection from moisture. 

A waterproof coat is going to hold up much better in a heavier rainfall. They feature a waterproof coating that creates a barrier keeping moisture out. Unfortunately, this waterproof coating does take away from the breathability of the jacket. 

Breathability 

Speaking of breathability, are you planning on wearing your jacket while you are being active? If you are going to be using your jacket while hiking, cycling, or running, for example, choosing a breathable jacket will keep you from overheating. This is also important for preventing the build-up of sweat under the jacket that can’t escape which can leaving you feeling chilled. For the most part, the thinner the fabric, the more breathable it will be. But these thinner fabrics will generally wear out much faster. So, you will have to find the right balance for your planned uses between breathability and durability. 

Hood or No Hood?

While a hood is a great choice for those that want to keep their head protected, especially for those that are looking for a combination windbreaker and rain jacket, they aren’t going to be the best choice for everyone. Hoods hold the heat in, which may not be ideal if you are going to be active or are worried about overheating. One compromise that some companies will offer is a removable hood, giving you the freedom to wear it when you desire the extra protection but also to take it off when you don’t have a use for it. 

Added Ventilation 

Some jackets will factor in added ventilation for those that are worried about sweating or overheating. This can come in the form of a back vent, which is a mesh opening with a flap over it to keep the elements out while allowing the air to flow freely. A jacket can also feature core vents, located on the sides of the jacket, or pit zips. These both have a zipper that can be unzipped to provide added ventilation should the need arrive. They are common in jackets made for active use like running and cycling.