“This is such a far cry from the crinkly, swishy, bulky windbreakers of my youth,” one SELF editor says. “This jacket is sleek and stylish, but still super practical, and I love the half-zip, pullover design.” It has four pockets that all zip shut, so you don’t need to feel nervy putting your phone or keys in them.
And the real test: “I’m impressed with how it handled wind and light rain—I didn’t feel much breeze breaking through, and I could see raindrops hitting the surface of the jacket, immediately beading up, then rolling off. It isn’t fully waterproof, so I wouldn’t want to wear it in a downpour, but I’m really happy to have it on hand for fickle Northeastern fall days, where the weather can turn on a dime.” Fun bonus: It packs down into one of the pockets and barely takes up any room in your bag.
Material: Polyester | Sizes: XXS to XL | Colors: 3
More great options
While these windbreakers didn’t make it into our top picks, we still think they’re worth a try. If none of the options above seem like the right fit, one of these styles could be your perfect match.
Cotopaxi Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker
Pros
- Fun, colorful design
- Zippered front pocket
- Packs down into a pocket
- Wide size range
Cons
This jacket is the epitome of dopamine dressing, with its fun colors and bold color blocking. “It’s much cuter than a lot of others on the market, and the colorways are signature to Cotopaxi: vibrant, high-contrast, and a little unexpected,” one SELF editor says.
We’re not including this in our top picks section because our tester found her usual size to be too snug. Like most windbreakers, the fabric doesn’t have much give—so coupled with it being a little small, she didn’t find it as comfy as others she’s tried. Her advice: “If you love the style and don’t mind the feel of the stiffer material, at least size up so you get some breathing room!”
Material: Polyester | Sizes: XXS to 4X | Colors: 5
Vuori Outdoor Trainer Shell
Pros
- Sleek design
- Zippered pockets
- Water-resistant
Cons
At first glance, this looks like a plain ‘ol zip-up hoodie—no shiny, swishy materials in sight. One SELF editor found the fit to be a little tight around her arms and hips, but says the fabric has a slight stretch to it that helps.
Mostly, though, she liked that it repelled some light rain and looked nice. “I like its sleek design, appreciate the zip-up pockets, and I’m a sucker for a hood!” she says. “It’s worth trying if you’re open to something more aesthetically pleasing that can be easily thrown on like a hoodie.”
Material: Polyester, elastane | Sizes: XXS to XXL | Colors: 4
Arc’Teryx Squamish Hoody
Pros
- Packs down small
- Comes in bright colors
- Zippered front pocket
Cons
We’re currently testing this zip-up, which one Arc’Teryx reviewer calls a “wonder hoodie.” It has a cinched hood that shouldn’t slip down, even while you’re picking up speed biking or running. Reviewers say it takes up so little room when folded up that they can stash it in a fanny pack, and one says it strikes the perfect combination of breathable and warm. “It’s a must-have piece for all outdoor sports year-round,” they add.
Material: Nylon | Sizes: XXS to XXL| Colors: 5
Girlfriend Collective Flint Allie Hoodie Windbreaker
Pros
- Fun, colorful design
- Zippered front pocket
- Packs down into a pocket
- Wide size range
Cons
- Doesn’t come in many colors
We love the sleek monochromatic look of this Girlfriend Collective zip-up. It has a high collar to cover some of your neck, and a hood with adjustable drawstrings to help block the cold out. “It’s lightweight, but also keeps your body heat in,” one Girlfriend Collective reviewer writes. Even better, you won’t overheat, thanks to an open vent in the back.
Material: Recycled water bottles | Sizes: XXS to 6XL | Colors: 3
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