Best Hiking Jackets for Fall
Hiking in the fall can be tricky, sartorially speaking. It’s no longer blazing hot but it’s still not chilly enough to require serious layers. Throw in an increased chance of wet weather and you’ve got yourself a logistical nightmare. Thankfully, outdoor gear companies are on the ball and have brought a wide selection of truly excellent autumn-approved jackets to the table. Important features to consider? Wind and water resistance, comfort, and packability, because you never know when the weather will change on a dime. We’ve taken all this and more into consideration with this roundup of some of the best fall hiking jackets on the market.
Lululemon Athletica Miss Misty Pullover Price: $128.00
Lightweight, water-resistant, and adjustable- what more could you want from a hiking jacket? How about the ability to pack it into its own kangaroo pouch that tucks into even the smallest daypack? Combine all of these features and you’ve got Lululemon’s Miss Misty Pullover. Made of their Glyde fabric, this jacket resists wind, keeps you dry, and features strategically placed vents that mean you’ll always be comfortable, no matter how hard the trek.
The North Face Verto Pro Jacket Price: $149.00
The North Face has made a name for itself by providing high quality, extremely technical gear for outdoor enthusiasts and the Verto Pro is no exception. This jacket is extraordinarily lightweight (5.8.oz), features an integrated compressible stow pouch, and is breathable to ensure total comfort. The jacket’s body is composed of windproof nylon ripstop taffeta and the elbows, shoulders, and hood are HyVent which means you’re completely protected against the elements. An excellent option for serious athletes who need high performance gear that gets the job done.
Eddie Bauer BC Ultralight Jacket Price: $299.00
The BC Ultralight jacket has successfully demonstrated that Eddie Bauer is a serious contender in the outdoor adventure game. This 10 oz jacket is windproof, breathable, and of course, waterproof. Thanks to its nylon/spandex composition, the BC Ultralight offers impressive flexibility and the StormRepel finish means that water beads off the jacket’s surface rather than being absorbed into the fabric. When the weather starts to brighten, the BC Ultralight stows away so easily that you’ll swear it’s not even there.
Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket Price: $129.00
With a name like Torrentshell, you have to assume that the product lives up to its moniker. In the case of Patagonia’s ultra lightweight jacket, you’d be assuming correctly. The Torrentshell is made of 2.5 layer nylon that features a waterproof barrier and water repellant finish that ensures that you’ll emerge from even the most torrential downpours unscathed. Hand warmer pockets (that can be used to pack the jacket into), a stowaway hood, strategically placed ventilation areas and an adjustable hem are just icing on the proverbial cake.
Columbia Arcadia II Jacket Price: $60.00
Waterproof, breathable, adjustable, and can be packed down to almost nothing. Not much more you can ask for from a trail jacket. Despite it’s impressively light weight, the Arcadia II provides substantial protection from the wind and rain which is something all hikers are grateful for when the weather takes a turn for the worse. Another welcome feature is the range of movement that the jacket allows the wearer. Want to go from hiking to paddling without missing a beat? That won’t be a problem in the Arcadia II.
Canada Goose Canyon Shell Jacket Price: $595.00
The jacket has it all. It’s waterproof but breathable, all the seams are sealed, offers a helmet compatible hood that can be adjusted 3 ways, several intelligently placed pockets, adjustable cuffs and hem, and plenty of reflectors to keep you safe at night. The jacket is slim fitting which is great when you’re trying to avoid added bulk and because it’s so lightweight, it’s a breeze to stow away when not in use. The price point on the Canyon is higher than most but in this case, it’s definitely a case of you get what you pay for.
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