Top Waterproof Jacket Brands for Ultimate Outdoor Protection

When it comes to preparing for unpredictable weather, investing in a quality waterproof jacket is a wise decision. With a plethora of options available, choosing the right brand can ensure you remain dry and comfortable, regardless of the downpour. From brands renowned for their innovative technology to those celebrated for style and durability, the market offers something for every preference and budget. To help you make an informed choice, we've compiled a list of the best brands for waterproof jackets below.

Illustration of waterproof jackets

Best brands of waterproof jackets in 2025

Arc'teryx

Arc'teryx, founded in 1989 as Rock Solid and rebranded in 1991, is a Canadian company renowned for producing high-performance waterproof jackets, utilizing GORE-TEX technology with a minimum 28,000mm hydrostatic head for guaranteed dryness. Their innovative designs, like the Alpha SV released in 1998, prioritize durability and weather protection, and they continue to evolve, now incorporating PFC-free DWR finishes and sustainable materials, with the Beta SL model being one of their lightest options at just 10.6 oz (women's). Arc'teryx jackets, while often at a premium price, offer exceptional waterproofing and breathability, with features like pit zips and helmet-compatible hoods, making them a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

The North Face

The North Face, a leading brand in outdoor apparel since 1966, is renowned for its high-quality waterproof jackets, utilizing innovative technologies like GORE-TEX to achieve over 90% waterproofing efficacy in their premier models; consistently rated among the best, their jackets offer durable protection, making them a favorite choice for adventurers and everyday users; withstanding harsh weather conditions, these jackets have been tested in some of the most extreme environments; their popularity and high performance make them a top pick for consumers seeking reliable weather protection.

Patagonia

Patagonia, founded in 1973, is a renowned outdoor clothing company committed to sustainability, offering high-quality waterproof jackets using their H2No® Performance Standard, with nearly 90% of their weather-proof garments made without intentionally added PFAS by Fall 2022, ensuring excellent waterproofness and breathability. They back all their products with an Ironclad Guarantee, providing repairs, replacements, or refunds for any dissatisfaction, even repairing wear and tear at a reasonable cost.

Columbia

Columbia has been a leading innovator in waterproof jacket technology since 1938, with their proprietary Omni-Tech membrane offering up to 99% waterproofness and breathability in rigorous testing conditions; they are often the first choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable protection from the elements. As a testament to their dedication to quality, over 80% of surveyed hikers have expressed satisfaction with their Columbia waterproof jackets for the last 5 years. Their jackets are designed to withstand the harshest conditions while maintaining comfort and style, making them a dependable companion for any outdoor adventure. Learn more and explore the latest styles.

Marmot

Marmot, established in 1974, has consistently proven to be a leading producer of waterproof jackets, utilizing advanced technologies like GORE-TEX to achieve exceptional performance; their commitment to quality is evident with a satisfaction rate exceeding 90% among customers surveyed in 2023. These jackets often boast a waterproof rating of over 20,000mm, ensuring reliable protection in the harshest conditions; with a wide range of styles and features, Marmot caters to diverse outdoor activities and preferences. Discover your ideal waterproof jacket today.

Outdoor Research

Outdoor Research, founded in 1981, is a highly respected brand known for its innovative and durable outdoor gear, particularly waterproof jackets. Utilizing technologies like their proprietary AscentShell, introduced in 2016, which employs an electrospinning process for enhanced breathability, and GORE-TEX, as seen in their popular Foray and Aspire collections, these jackets have been recognized with awards for their reliable protection. They also come with a lifetime guarantee that covers manufacturing defects. One of their most popular models is the Helium Rain Jacket, known for being ultralight and packable while providing complete wind and waterproof protection. The company also focuses on sustainability, continuously improving their products, including a recent update to the Foray and Aspire collections with a new 3L AscentShell Dry material.

Helly Hansen

Helly Hansen, established in 1877, is renowned for its high-quality waterproof jackets, utilizing proprietary technologies like Helly Tech, which offers a minimum of 10,000mm waterproofness. Testing indicates that 98% of users experience complete dryness in moderate to heavy rain conditions while wearing Helly Hansen jackets. These jackets also boast exceptional breathability, exceeding 15,000 g/m²/24h, ensuring comfort during high-exertion activities. With over 140 years of experience, Helly Hansen continues to be a leader in waterproof outerwear for professionals and outdoor enthusiasts.

Rab

Rab, a renowned brand for high-performance outdoor clothing, has consistently produced some of the best waterproof jackets, utilizing technologies like GORE-TEX®, Pertex® Shield, and their own Proflex™; the Rab Downpour Eco jacket, for example, uses a 2.5 layer construction with a 20,000 HH rating while also incorporating 48% recycled materials, and some models, such as the Rab Arc Eco, feature 100% post-consumer recycled polyester. Rab's jackets are designed to withstand diverse conditions, from light showers to severe winter weather, offering a great balance of waterproofness, breathability, and durability, and the brand has been making strides in the rain jacket market, offering a variety of options for hiking, mountaineering, and everyday wear.

Berghaus

Berghaus, established in 1966, has been a leading innovator in outdoor gear, renowned for its exceptional waterproof jackets, with over 80% of their products featuring their own Hydroshell technology, which boasts a waterproof rating of at least 10,000mm, keeping you dry and comfortable even in the harshest conditions; they also have an award-winning MtnHaus innovation team which pushes boundaries. For a range of waterproof jackets, visit their website for more details.

Montbell

Montbell, established in 1975, is recognized as a top producer of waterproof jackets, utilizing technologies like GORE-TEX Infinium and their proprietary SUPER DRY-TEC fabric with a breathability of 35,000 g/m2/24 hrs, and many models having a hydrostatic head of 30,000; the innovative K-MONO Cut design reduces seams, enhancing waterproofness, while jackets like the Rain Trekker are praised for being lightweight yet highly technical for 3+ season use. Montbell offers a variety of waterproof jackets, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to experience cutting-edge weather protection.