Best Packable Windbreakers
A windbreaker is a great item to carry with you pretty much everywhere. An extra layer of clothing useful in every situation. When it gets windy, cold or even for light rain. Because they are lightweight and pack small they are very convenient to have in your every day bag, inside your car , or when traveling or being outdoors. But keep in mind that they are not designed to withstand heavy rain or substitute rain jackets.
All the windbreakers on this list pack into their own pockets for maximum conveniency.
All the windbreakers on this list pack into their own pockets for maximum conveniency.
Helikon-Tex - Windrunner
My top favorite. Regardless of what activity you do, the Windrunner is a great quality choice. I have been using it for a while and I really like it a lot. It has very good all around features, and it’s available in several color options.
Be careful when ordering. It may be listed in European sizes.
Windrunner is an ideal carry-on item – in a bag or backpack – because of its minimum weight and size when folded. Ultralight, tight-woven Nylon fabric protects from the wind, and if the DWR coating is regularly maintained, also from light rain. Windrunner would also be an ideal garment for jogging. Mesh ventilation slats in armpits allow air circulation. On a cooler day, worn on top of a fleece, keeps the body warmth from escaping and protects against wind chilling. Large channel pocket would accommodate a cap, gloves or a buff. Two small flat pockets inside the large pocket would help to organize small items.
Features:
-Doubly-adjusted hood with laminated visor
-Armpit ventilation slats covered with mesh
-Large front channel pocket zippered on either end allows hands to be warmed and small items organized
-Elbow reinforcements
-Elastic sleeve cuffs
-Bottom adjustable by elastic drawstring
-Integrated mesh pocket with compression ribbon loop (doubles as internal pocket)
-weight: 7oz
Be careful when ordering. It may be listed in European sizes.
Windrunner is an ideal carry-on item – in a bag or backpack – because of its minimum weight and size when folded. Ultralight, tight-woven Nylon fabric protects from the wind, and if the DWR coating is regularly maintained, also from light rain. Windrunner would also be an ideal garment for jogging. Mesh ventilation slats in armpits allow air circulation. On a cooler day, worn on top of a fleece, keeps the body warmth from escaping and protects against wind chilling. Large channel pocket would accommodate a cap, gloves or a buff. Two small flat pockets inside the large pocket would help to organize small items.
Features:
-Doubly-adjusted hood with laminated visor
-Armpit ventilation slats covered with mesh
-Large front channel pocket zippered on either end allows hands to be warmed and small items organized
-Elbow reinforcements
-Elastic sleeve cuffs
-Bottom adjustable by elastic drawstring
-Integrated mesh pocket with compression ribbon loop (doubles as internal pocket)
-weight: 7oz
Patagonia - Houdini
The Houdini is a very popular windbreaker in the outdoors community. It’s been reviewed extensively, and it’s a top favorite among people. It has a minimalistic design with one chest pocket and available in different colors.
The ultralight, ultra-packable Patagonia Houdini Full-Zip Jacket is made with a lightweight recycled nylon ripstop that blocks the wind on summit trails and exposed rock faces. This jacket also weighs less than four ounces and packs down in an instant. The entire jacket stuffs into its own carabiner-loop chest pocket, letting us clip it onto a pack or harness when the wind dies down, or tuck it into a pocket of the smallest running pack. A DWR coating helps shed light rain when ever-changing mountain weather throws a curveball, and the one-pull adjustable hood tacks on protection from the elements.
Features:
-Ultralight and packable windbreaker for almost all of our pursuits
-Recycled nylon ripstop blocks the wind on blustery peaks
-DWR coating protects from light rain on drizzly mountain days
-Chest pocket doubles as a stuff sack with a carabiner loop
-One-pull hood adjustment provides snug protection in an instant
-Half-elastic cuffs and drawcord hem help seal out the wind
-Reflective chest logo helps boost visibility on low-light runs
-weight: 3.7oz
The ultralight, ultra-packable Patagonia Houdini Full-Zip Jacket is made with a lightweight recycled nylon ripstop that blocks the wind on summit trails and exposed rock faces. This jacket also weighs less than four ounces and packs down in an instant. The entire jacket stuffs into its own carabiner-loop chest pocket, letting us clip it onto a pack or harness when the wind dies down, or tuck it into a pocket of the smallest running pack. A DWR coating helps shed light rain when ever-changing mountain weather throws a curveball, and the one-pull adjustable hood tacks on protection from the elements.
Features:
-Ultralight and packable windbreaker for almost all of our pursuits
-Recycled nylon ripstop blocks the wind on blustery peaks
-DWR coating protects from light rain on drizzly mountain days
-Chest pocket doubles as a stuff sack with a carabiner loop
-One-pull hood adjustment provides snug protection in an instant
-Half-elastic cuffs and drawcord hem help seal out the wind
-Reflective chest logo helps boost visibility on low-light runs
-weight: 3.7oz
Black Diamond - Distance
One of the lightest top quality windbreakers available in the market. Only has 1 chest pocket. Packs down to about the size of a tennis ball. Available in 4 colors.
The Black Diamond Men's Distance Wind Shell Jacket is an ultralight shell that packs into its own pocket so you can take it up alpine climbs and treks for an extra layer of weather protection. It features the innovative Green Them Technology for breathable water protection. It's an environmentally-friendly treatment that provides superior wind- and water-resistance than most DWR coatings, and it's permanently hyper-fused into the jacket's fabric so you never have to re-treat it. The fabric boasts better breathability than most breathable fabrics. Unlike standard breathability, this fabric starts to breathe the moment you put the jacket on.
Features:
-Ultralight shell adds light weather protection wherever you climb
-Environmentally-friendly water-resistant protection is permanent
-Air permeable fabric boasts enhanced breathability for comfort
-Adjustments at hem and climbing helmet compatible hood
-Chest pocket stows jacket for compact storage
-weight: 3.5oz
The Black Diamond Men's Distance Wind Shell Jacket is an ultralight shell that packs into its own pocket so you can take it up alpine climbs and treks for an extra layer of weather protection. It features the innovative Green Them Technology for breathable water protection. It's an environmentally-friendly treatment that provides superior wind- and water-resistance than most DWR coatings, and it's permanently hyper-fused into the jacket's fabric so you never have to re-treat it. The fabric boasts better breathability than most breathable fabrics. Unlike standard breathability, this fabric starts to breathe the moment you put the jacket on.
Features:
-Ultralight shell adds light weather protection wherever you climb
-Environmentally-friendly water-resistant protection is permanent
-Air permeable fabric boasts enhanced breathability for comfort
-Adjustments at hem and climbing helmet compatible hood
-Chest pocket stows jacket for compact storage
-weight: 3.5oz
Outdoor Research - Shadow Wind Hoodie
This windbreaker gives very good wind and light weather protection, breathability and stretch. And it is ultralight and highly packable. Only available in 3 colors.
The Shadow Wind Hoodie is a category game-changer — a 5-ounce protective layer built to withstand gusty conditions and light moisture during active use. Made with bluesign® approved materials and featuring movement-mirroring stretch, this hoodie is breathable yet highly wind-resistant, making it the perfect outer layer for trail runs, backcountry touring, and windy beach walks. It provides light water resistance, features a hood that rolls up and tucks away into the jacket's collar when not in use, and zippered pockets for essentials. It also conveniently packs up small, using its zippered chest pocket as a stuff sack. The ideal wind-blocking layer for active use on windy ridgelines, breezy evening runs, or long days on the skin track, the Shadow Wind Hoodie is the perfect lightweight addition to any pack.
Features:
-Stretchy, breathable windbreaker for high-output activities
-Durable stretch-woven fabric with wind- and water-resistance
-Slim fit allows movement mirroring mobility
-Stowable hood offers coverage for changing conditions
-Elastic cuffs and adjustable hem keep warmth in and wind out
-Zippered chest pocket doubles as a stuff sack for quick storage
-Weight: 4.96oz
The Shadow Wind Hoodie is a category game-changer — a 5-ounce protective layer built to withstand gusty conditions and light moisture during active use. Made with bluesign® approved materials and featuring movement-mirroring stretch, this hoodie is breathable yet highly wind-resistant, making it the perfect outer layer for trail runs, backcountry touring, and windy beach walks. It provides light water resistance, features a hood that rolls up and tucks away into the jacket's collar when not in use, and zippered pockets for essentials. It also conveniently packs up small, using its zippered chest pocket as a stuff sack. The ideal wind-blocking layer for active use on windy ridgelines, breezy evening runs, or long days on the skin track, the Shadow Wind Hoodie is the perfect lightweight addition to any pack.
Features:
-Stretchy, breathable windbreaker for high-output activities
-Durable stretch-woven fabric with wind- and water-resistance
-Slim fit allows movement mirroring mobility
-Stowable hood offers coverage for changing conditions
-Elastic cuffs and adjustable hem keep warmth in and wind out
-Zippered chest pocket doubles as a stuff sack for quick storage
-Weight: 4.96oz
SCOTTeVEST - Pack Windbreaker
This is a very unique windbreaker. It has 19 pockets and it’s designed for people who want to carry a lot of stuff without having to use a backpack or sling. It can hold all your essentials while traveling, working, hiking, fishing, golfing, or simply running a few errands. Could be very convenient at A TSA airport checkpoint. Since you would would just take off the jacket and all your belongings would be organized inside. Instead of having to empty your pockets or place everything inside a backpack. It is wind, water and stain repellent. Also comes in different color options.
You'll have easy access to all your essentials in this amazingly lightweight jacket with a slimmer, athletic fit. And, if you're not sure what the weather will bring, fold the Pack Windbreaker into its own back pocket--it is so easy and convenient, you'll want one in your glove box, desk drawer, pocket of another SCOTTeVEST... everywhere! Please note, the Pack Windbreaker runs more fitted. If you are between sizes, you might want to order a size up.
Features:
-5 exterior pockets
-14 interior pockets
-Glasses chamois
-Back pocket (packs into itself)
-Stowable hood
-Tablet pocket
Fits Up To 11" tablet Size: XS-Small
Fits Up To 12.9" tablet Size: Medium-XXXL
Fits phones up to 6.4" x 3.25"
-Weight: 20.8oz
You'll have easy access to all your essentials in this amazingly lightweight jacket with a slimmer, athletic fit. And, if you're not sure what the weather will bring, fold the Pack Windbreaker into its own back pocket--it is so easy and convenient, you'll want one in your glove box, desk drawer, pocket of another SCOTTeVEST... everywhere! Please note, the Pack Windbreaker runs more fitted. If you are between sizes, you might want to order a size up.
Features:
-5 exterior pockets
-14 interior pockets
-Glasses chamois
-Back pocket (packs into itself)
-Stowable hood
-Tablet pocket
Fits Up To 11" tablet Size: XS-Small
Fits Up To 12.9" tablet Size: Medium-XXXL
Fits phones up to 6.4" x 3.25"
-Weight: 20.8oz
Quickflip - Dryflip Windbreaker
Another unique windbreaker. It turns into a backpack when not in use. A good versatile option. It’s available in three color.
Soft to the touch, versatile, and great for layering, the Dryflip Windbreaker packs easily and is great for all weather conditions. Constructed in 100% lightweight breathable polyester with a front zip closure, interior water-wicking coating, scuba neck, mesh-lined 3-panel hood, welt pockets and our patented Quikflip® conversion technology, your new favorite windbreaker has arrived!
Features:
-Lightweight breathable 100% polyester fabric
-Water-wicking (600 mm) interior coating (not intended for rain protection)
-Standard double-drawcord backpack straps (non-adjustable)
-3-panel scuba hood with fine mesh lining
-Reverse coil zipper with rubber pull tab
-Welt pockets with mesh pocket bags
-Lightweight breathable backpack lining makes straps undetectable in hoodie form
-Locker loop in center back
-Elastic cuffs
-Weight: 2.4oz
Soft to the touch, versatile, and great for layering, the Dryflip Windbreaker packs easily and is great for all weather conditions. Constructed in 100% lightweight breathable polyester with a front zip closure, interior water-wicking coating, scuba neck, mesh-lined 3-panel hood, welt pockets and our patented Quikflip® conversion technology, your new favorite windbreaker has arrived!
Features:
-Lightweight breathable 100% polyester fabric
-Water-wicking (600 mm) interior coating (not intended for rain protection)
-Standard double-drawcord backpack straps (non-adjustable)
-3-panel scuba hood with fine mesh lining
-Reverse coil zipper with rubber pull tab
-Welt pockets with mesh pocket bags
-Lightweight breathable backpack lining makes straps undetectable in hoodie form
-Locker loop in center back
-Elastic cuffs
-Weight: 2.4oz
5.11 - Packable Operator Jacket
This tactical windbreaker is a great option for police officers, security guards, tactical operations or days at the shooting range. The hood is storable in the collar, has radio mic loops on both shoulders and side zippers that help in ease of access to holsters. It is available in three colors.
Perfectly suited for use in rapidly changing climates or as a backup duty wear rain shell, the Packable Operator Jacket comes with a convenient carry pouch and stows easily in your trunk, bag, or locker. Crafted from sturdy, lightweight microfiber fabric, these packable polyester jackets offer superior protection against moisture and weather while remaining lightweight and comfortable. Additional features include pass-through pockets for quick access to a sidearm, a hidden document pocket at the chest, a removable hood with an integrated nylon draw cord, twin hand warmer pockets, mic loops at each shoulder and elastic sleeve cuffs for a snug fit.
Features:
-Durable and comfortable packable jacket
-Warm and wind resistant
-Folds quickly into its own compact pouch
-Polyester microfiber fabric
-Water Resistant (Passes AATCC35 rain test)
-Mic loops at both shoulder seams
-Ready Pocket™ on chest for storing documents or a phone
-Elasticized sleeve cuffs
-Full zip front
-YKK® zipper hardware
Perfectly suited for use in rapidly changing climates or as a backup duty wear rain shell, the Packable Operator Jacket comes with a convenient carry pouch and stows easily in your trunk, bag, or locker. Crafted from sturdy, lightweight microfiber fabric, these packable polyester jackets offer superior protection against moisture and weather while remaining lightweight and comfortable. Additional features include pass-through pockets for quick access to a sidearm, a hidden document pocket at the chest, a removable hood with an integrated nylon draw cord, twin hand warmer pockets, mic loops at each shoulder and elastic sleeve cuffs for a snug fit.
Features:
-Durable and comfortable packable jacket
-Warm and wind resistant
-Folds quickly into its own compact pouch
-Polyester microfiber fabric
-Water Resistant (Passes AATCC35 rain test)
-Mic loops at both shoulder seams
-Ready Pocket™ on chest for storing documents or a phone
-Elasticized sleeve cuffs
-Full zip front
-YKK® zipper hardware
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