If you plan to hike, climb, camp, walk, kayak, or backpack in windy conditions, a lightweight windbreaker is an essential purchase. That’s why we spent two months wearing jackets on sweaty trail runs, rainy ferry rides, drizzly rain forest hikes, and meandering dog walks. And we found that the men’s and women’s Salomon Agile Wind Jacket is the best windbreaker for most people.
Our pick
Salomon Women’s Agile Wind Jacket
This is the same solid jacket as the men’s model, but in women’s sizes and different colors.
Buying Options
*At the time of publishing, the price was $44.
After spending dozens of miles hiking, cycling, and running, we think the Salomon Agile Wind Jacket (men’s, women’s) is the best lightweight windbreaker for most people. It blocks the wind well and breathes nicely when you’re working up a sweat. Plus, we liked this jacket’s color offerings. We didn’t love that this jacket had no hood, though, and its cut may be too slim for some body types.
Upgrade pick
Arc’teryx Women’s Squamish Hoody
This is the same high-end jacket as the men’s model, but in women’s sizes and different colors.
Buying Options
*At the time of publishing, the price was $160.
The Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody, which comes in men’s and women’s models, is an expensive jacket. But you get a lot of extras for that extra money: more-durable materials, greater breathability, extra-warm windproofing, and decent water resistance.
Budget pick
Uniqlo Men’s Pocketable Parka
This is the perfect jacket for outdoorsy folk who want a cheap windbreaker they won’t be upset to lose.
Buying Options
*At the time of publishing, the price was $40.
Uniqlo Women’s Pocketable Parka
This is similar to the men’s, but with a slimmer fit and additional colors.
Buying Options
*At the time of publishing, the price was $20.
The Uniqlo Pocketable Parka (which comes in men’s and women’s models) certainly isn’t fancy. But for a low price, it does the job: It blocks wind and some water, and it won’t leave you sweating bullets. While it might not be the most durable or breathable jacket we tested, it’s perfect for people who plan to use a windbreaker once or twice per year, or for people who lose their gear all the time and don’t want to break the bank buying something new.