No matter what climate you live in, windbreakers are a versatile and handy piece of clothing to have. A windbreaker can help keep you warm, dry, and comfortable without the bulk. Everyone from outdoor enthusiasts to those who just need to talk their dog for a walk can benefit from this thin piece of outerwear.
After scouring the web for windbreakers, we found that the best ones balance breathability, packability, and style with the ability to block out the elements. We liked The North Face's Venture 2 Jacket because of how well it protects against the wind and light rain, as well as its excellent breathability. Check out the rest of our ranking list and buying guide to help you make the best choice!
Quick List - Top Women’s Windbreaker Jackets
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Because of the versatility of windbreakers, there are many features you should keep in mind to choose the best option for you. We've focused on some of the most important points that could make or break the experience you have with your windbreaker.
Are you an avid hiker? Or, maybe you go on long bicycle trips on the weekends? If you’re looking for a windbreaker for these activities, focus on jackets that are lightweight and breathable.
Some people want a windbreaker to use a non-bulky layer to easily pack away when they don’t need it. If this is you, prioritizing stylishness, fit, and packability might give you the best choice.
Of course, many jackets capture the best of both worlds! So, just make sure to always keep in mind why you're buying a windbreaker. This will help you choose a style and functional details that will meet your needs.
A hood or no hood? A loose or a snug fit? Does it compliment your personal style? These are some seemingly small but important factors you should consider in your search for a windbreaker.
The things you buy and wear should make you feel like your best self! When we have all of the choices at our fingertips, there’s no reason you should have to choose practicality over style. There are many different styles of windbreakers, so you’re sure to find one that compliments you and your lifestyle.
Hoods offer extra warmth and protection from the rain, but cyclists, runners, or people who just don’t want one may decide against a hood. Sometimes hoods can get in the way or become inconvenient. For example, if you're running, a hood may flap around annoyingly.
Jackets often have adjustable hoods, which are a great compromise if you want a hood that will stay in place on windy days. Some windbreakers even have detachable hoods!
For those looking for a lightweight piece to be worn over other items of clothing, a looser fit will accommodate extra layers more comfortably. However, looser jackets are more likely to get caught in the wind or feel heavy.
If you want a windbreaker to wear underneath other jackets or want a more fitted look, a snugly fitting windbreaker will provide the warmth and protection you want. Plus, if you're running or hiking, a tighter fit can be more comfortable since there's less fabric moving around.
Jackets with adjustable cuffs, hems, and hoods are helpful when you want to lock out wind or rain. Plus, they can help secure the jacket in place and prevent it from getting caught on things like branches. Adjustable details let you accommodate extra layers or a helmet underneath, too.
Having an adjustable hem can also change the jacket's look and give you two options in one piece! For example, if you generally prefer a longer jacket, you can still shorten it when you're wearing outfits where you would like a more fitted look.
Pockets are useful for carrying things and keeping your hands warm. If your hands tend to get cold easily, you may want to prioritize having front pockets.
If you don’t like to carry a bag or have many things you like to keep handy, like headphones and snacks, look for jackets with multiple pockets. Zippered pockets, in particular, keep your items secured, ensuring you won't lose anything.
If you're looking for a windbreaker to keep you warm, a lined one will provide an extra layer. If you're looking for something just to keep the wind out, an unlined windbreaker will do just that.
If you live in a place where it rains a lot, you might want to prioritize a waterproof windbreaker that can also act as a raincoat in a pinch, although most windbreakers won’t fare well in an extended downpour.
Most jackets are waterproof or water-resistant, with the former offering stronger protection against water. Water-resistant jackets allow for water to get through more easily than waterproof jackets. Make sure to double-check the description to ensure you're getting what you need out of your windbreaker!
A windbreaker's functionality largely depends on its material and that material's thickness. Make sure to decide what's most important to you, whether it's warmth or water-resistance.
Most windbreakers are made from nylon or polyester. Nylon tends to offer more protection from wind and rain but may not provide as much warmth. It's also noisy, so you might want to avoid it if you hate that swishing sound. But if you live in a warmer climate that gets rain fairly often, nylon may be the way to go.
Conversely, polyester does a better job of keeping you warm, but it doesn’t have as much water and wind resistance. Those that live in colder climates may want to opt for polyester because of the warmth it provides.
Another popular fabric is micro-polyester. It’s a softer fabric, and the main difference between micro-polyester and polyester is that it’s lighter in weight and bulk. So, it's a good option for those that want a windbreaker that’s quiet and cooler.
Thicker jackets tend to be more weather-proof and durable but are heavier, harder to pack away, and potentially less breathable. Thinner jackets are lighter, easier to compress, and can offer more breathability, but they don't resist the weather as thoroughly and can potentially wear out quicker.
Regardless of if you want a windbreaker that keeps you warm or cool, you should check its breathability. Breathability is important for allowing your sweat to evaporate, helping you not to overheat or freeze.
Breathability can come in the form of the windbreaker's fabric, zippers for ventilation, or mesh. A 100 percent wind-proof jacket may mean that the jacket is also 100 percent not breathable. If you want a jacket that allows for more breathability, looking for polyester or polyester-dominant jackets may be a smart move.
However, if you want a completely windproof jacket, make sure that there are other means of ventilation, such as flaps or mesh vents. Simply unzipping the jacket and leaving it open is another option for circulating air that has been trapped inside.
Many windbreakers come with a little pouch to fold and stow your windbreaker away. A thinner jacket will be easier to pack away, and it'll require less effort to get into its pouch. Some even have a loop on the bag so you can hook it on a carbineer.
Thicker jackets may be packed away into a small bag, but they may take up more space or be heavier. If you want to travel light or want to have your jacket out of the way when you’re not wearing it, opt for one that can be compacted easily. A windbreaker that's only a few ounces will be very easy to take with you!
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | The North Face Women's Venture 2 Jacket | ![]() | Functional and Convenient Protection from the Elements | |
2 | Columbia Flash Forward™ Windbreaker Jacket | ![]() | A Stylish, Lightweight Jacket | |
3 | Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket | ![]() | A Minimalist Jacket With Everything You Need | |
4 | Arcteryx Squamish Hoody | ![]() | A Sturdy and High-Quality Windbreaker | |
5 | Patagonia Houdini Jacket | ![]() | A Solid Protective Layer That's Easy to Keep With You | |
6 | Charles River Apparel Pack-N-Go Pullover | ![]() | A Casual Pullover-Style Windbreaker | |
7 | Free Country Composure Windshear Jacket | ![]() | A Stylish Windbreaker for Plus-Sized Ladies | |
8 | L.L. Bean Women's Mountain Classic Anorak | ![]() | A New England-Style Anorak to Keep the Wind Out | |
9 | Cotopaxi Teca Full-Zip Windbreaker | ![]() | An Environmentally-Friendly and Ethical Windbreaker | |
10 | Uniqlo Pocketable UV Protection Parka | ![]() | A Lightweight Windbreaker That Doubles as Sun Protection |
The North Face's DryVent fabric is designed to be wind- and rain-proof while maintaining a high level of breathability. The pit-zips ensure that the jacket is fully breathable, too. Plus, the jacket material is made from recycled plastic!
This is a 100% nylon jacket, and nylon is one of the strongest materials for blocking out the wind. However, reviewers found this jacket extremely noisy. Keep this in mind if you want a quiet jacket! Also, it may not be suited for cold temperatures since it doesn't provide warmth.
Overall, reviewers found the jacket to be true-to-size and flattering. The jacket withstood rainstorms and wind very well, and the zippers for ventilation were a handy feature that made it easy to control their body temperature.
This 100% polyester jacket is perfect for those that want a lightweight layer for chilly summer nights or mild fall days. The jacket includes adjustable features, so you can modify the jacket's fit depending on the weather and your mood. Zippered hand pockets ensure that whatever you put in there won't fall out, too.
Some found that the jacket runs smaller than advertised, which is important when deciding on the size and fit you want. Other reviewers were surprised at how thin the jacket is. If you want something a little warmer, there's actually a lined version of the same jacket available as well!
Overall, reviewers loved the style, comfort, packability, and quality of the jacket. Many found that it was the perfect windbreaker to wear on warm days that might get a little chilly or over a sweater for an extra layer of warmth.
This lightweight jacket packs down small enough to slip into your bag. Since it's so portable and light, it's the perfect jacket to have for unpredictable weather. Plus, it does a great job of protecting you from the wind.
A consistent criticism of the jacket is that it's not waterproof, although some found it sufficient in light rain. Others commented that the hem, cuffs, and hood aren't adjustable.
Reviewers loved that they could keep the jacket in their bag as insurance for days with unsteady weather. Many used this jacket on their outdoor adventures or for walks around town and found it to be perfect.
Named after Squamish, British Columbia, this windbreaker is built to protect against mild weather that is windy and unpredictable. This jacket has a minimal, sleek design, and the fabric is treated with a water-repellent coating. Plus, you can adjust the tightness of the cuffs, hood, and hem.
Some reviewers got caught in the rain and found that the jacket wasn't very good at keeping them dry. Additionally, the pocket was too small for some reviewers. However, others liked how compact the jacket could become!
Reviewers also raved about how the jacket kept them warm in various conditions, from the summit of a mountain to an overly air-conditioned room.
This lightweight windbreaker folds into a zippered chest pocket that's equipped with a carabiner. So, it's convenient to carry when you're not wearing it, and you can bring with you while you're out and about just in case of wind or rain.
The jacket comes with adjustable hems, cuffs, and a hood to make sure that the wind is kept out and the jacket won't get in your way. Plus, it's made from recycled nylon in a fairtrade factory!
A large number of reviewers wished there were more pockets. Despite the single pocket, there were many good things to be said about the jacket. Reviewers liked how lightweight it is, as it's less than four ounces! They also appreciated how good it is at blocking the wind and the protection it offered from sudden light rain showers.
Many features make this jacket versatile and comfortable. There's a zippered front pocket that doubles as a storage pouch, an adjustable hood, and a quarter-zip design for ventilation and temperature regulation. Plus, it only weighs a couple of ounces, so it's easy to carry in your purse or bag.
The sizing intentionally runs large for a casual, relaxed look, so it's recommended that you go down one to two sizes if you want a fitted look. However, reviewers had a difficult time with the sizing and noted that it's not very water-resistant.
Overall, reviewers praised the jacket for being very versatile and lightweight. The depth of the front pocket and its easy storage were other popular points of praise. Reviewers also found that this jacket was perfect for keeping the wind out without making them too hot, and it worked well for light rain showers and windy days.
This windbreaker has a polyester lining, so it's a little heavier and well-suited for cooler weather. It has stylish and functional details, like the button-close front flap pockets that keep your things secure. A drawstring cord at the waist cinches the jacket to show off your curves, and the longer length offers more coverage and warmth.
A few reviewers found the arms too short, so those with long limbs may experience discomfort. Others also had trouble with the zipper getting caught on the waist where the drawstring cord is.
However, many absolutely loved the lining of the windbreaker. According to reviewers, it is that "you have to feel this" level of softness. Reviewers also liked the style of the jacket and were very satisfied with how warm it kept them on chilly days.
This 100% nylon jacket is designed with an adjustable hood, cuffs, and hem to keep out the elements. Little details, like the Bean Boot-inspired zipper pulls, give it a durable feel and look. Plus, it comes in petite and plus sizes! The jacket also stows away in its own pocket, which makes packing it super easy.
You don't have to worry about carrying another pouch with you. Plus, it has cozy kangaroo pockets. Reviewers found the pull cords for the hood annoying because there's no way to put them away. However, others were happy with the quality of the jacket and how much protection it offered against the wind.
Many loved the flattering fit and said that it's the perfect size to wear with a sweater underneath for extra warmth. The pocket is large, making it convenient to store things like cellphones, masks, and even a thin sweater.
This fun, brightly-colored unisex windbreaker is strong against unpredictable weather and made using repurposed materials in ethically-run factories. With three pockets, you have plenty of space to keep things on you without having to bring an extra bag.
Since the jacket is made from repurposed materials, the color variations are subject to change. For those that want a unique, one-of-a-kind jacket, this is a good choice. Plus, the jacket features a back panel, increasing ventilation and breathability.
Reviewers found that this is a male-leaning unisex size, meaning it was tight around the hips but baggy everywhere else for some. Others the jacket's weight of the jacket, bright colors, and ability to block the wind. Many found it very light and easy to pack, so it's great for those days when you're trying to only bring the essentials.
This is a very thin layer that is fit for warmer, windy weather. Not only does this windbreaker protect you from the wind, but it also doubles as sunblock! Because of the UV protection, it is the perfect layer for both a casual day out or a full-on outdoor adventure.
The jacket is designed to be easily compressed and pocket-sized, making it travel-friendly. However, reviewers warn that the jacket runs small, so it is recommended to order at least one size larger than what you normally wear for a more comfortable fit.
Overall, reviewers loved the protection this jacket offered from light bouts of rain, wind, and chilly temperatures. Others mentioned that the jacket kept them cool on summer days while offering UV and wind protection.
Having plenty of layering options is essential, whether you're relaxing outside in cooler weather or snuggling up indoors! Check out some of our favorite undershirts and sweaters.
No. 1: The North Face|Women's Venture 2 Jacket
No. 2: Columbia|Flash Forward™ Windbreaker Jacket
No. 3: Outdoor Research|Helium II Jacket
No. 4: Arcteryx|Squamish Hoody
No. 5: Patagonia|Houdini Jacket
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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