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Unless you live in the desert and never travel outside of it, a rain jacket is a pretty nonnegotiable item. But styles vary widely and materials change, so how do you know which to get? Consider where you’ll be and what you’ll be doing when you might encounter rain. Here are some other tips for choosing a rain jacket, along with some recommendations.

  • Consider the Lining: Quality rain jackets will be breathable, but there are inevitable limits to how much moisture can actually escape through a material designed to stop just that. If you know you’ll be working up a sweat and/or not wearing moisture-wicking, sleeved layers underneath, consider a jacket with a mesh lining. It’ll be comfortable against your skin.
  • Consider the Fit: Fly fishing? Surf fishing? Sitting in a boat? Your activity will determine whether you’ll want something form fitting, something loose, or something in between. Style matters to some degree to most every guy, but remember that a rain jacket is a functional garment…and you need it to function well.
  • Consider the Packability: Likewise, your primary activity when needing your rain jacket will affect whether or not a packability function matters. Some lightweight rain jackets may not have a lot of features, but can be folded up tight into their own pocket. If you’ll be keeping the rain jacket at home or in the truck, packability may not matter much.

Our Picks for the Best Rain Jackets for Men on Amazon

Top Pick Overall: Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket

This rainwear totally repels rain, packs into its own pocket, and is adjustable at the hem and cuffs for a perfect fit. Columbia

Runner Up: Men’s Lightweight Waterproof Hooded Rain Jacket Outdoor Raincoat Shell Jacket for Hiking Travel

Structured seaming, a matte finish, and tailored collar with removable hood make this a simple option — which belies how much you can stash in the two large hand pockets and interior chest pocket. OTU

Also Consider: Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket

The waterproof and wicking Hydroplus material lets moisture and heat escape, and an easy fit and array of colors make this softshell a favorite. Columbia

Budget Pick: FROGG TOGGS Men’s Ultra-Lite2 Waterproof Breathable Rain Jacket

Paper-thin non-woven polyethylene material keeps the elements out.. The inner layer is soft, the front zipper has a storm flap, and it’s breathable. FROGG TOGGS

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