7 Packable Men’s Rain Jackets That Take Up Next to No Space

When you’re venturing outdoors to hike, climb, or even go for a long-distance bike ride, a waterproof rain jacket isn’t an option — it’s a necessity. Heavy storms can surprise you out of nowhere! Nowadays, many rain jackets are packable (most of them into their own pocket!) because nobody wants to wear a jacket when the sun is shining. And let’s be honest: Tying it around your waist just isn’t cool anymore.

Toss one of these packable rain jackets into your backpack the next time you head outside, and you'll be prepared for whatever mother nature has in store.

What to Consider

There's a lot more to consider when selecting a packable jacket than just style. Of course, how it looks on you can be a factor, but how it fits inside your luggage is much more crucial. That means thinking about not just how the jacket packs — whether into an included pouch or simply folded up compactly — but also the size and weight of the jacket when compacted. After all, if it's taking up half your pack or weighing you down on your hike, it can ultimately be more of a hinderance than a help.

Another factor to consider is filling material. We've included options here that offer a range of warmth to weight ratios, with a major factor being the type of insulation they include ... if any. Many experts swear by goose down, because it warms you the same way it does the goose it came from: by trapping pockets of warm air close to the body. However, for many, there are ethical concerns regarding goose down and the manner in which it's obtained. If you're inclined to have those same quandaries, there are resources to determine if your goose down was ethically sourced (we recommend trackmydown.com), and there are also several synthetic filler options available.

Lastly, consider maintenance and storage when it comes to investing in a packable jacket. Packable puffer jackets, for example, can withstand being folded up in your backpack or suitcase for the duration of your travel time. However, if they're left compressed for weeks or months at a time, the filler can become worn down and flattened, rendering it far less effective. So if you intend to go the puffy route, be sure you have space in your home to hang it, rather than leaving it in your pack.

Here are the best packable rain jackets for you, no matter the weather.