New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you buy through our links.

Explore More

For all the rainy days ahead, there’s nothing better to have in your wardrobe than a quality rain jacket.

Much like a sports jacket, they’ll keep you warm and even stylish, taking you from sprinkles to drizzles to thunder.

Trends may continue to change and evolve, but there’s one thing that’s for certain — a rain jacket will always be a necessity. That doesn’t mean you can’t make it stylish though! There are practically endless fits, colors, prints and fabrics to choose from that are waterproof and, most importantly, fashionable. Wherever you’re trekking to, rest assured that this trusty outerwear staple will be one of your best (and most practical) purchases.

Since the weather can be unpredictable, we rounded up the best men’s rain jackets and coats for you to snag just in time for back to school. We scoured the reviews to put together a list (with pros and cons noticed by reviewers) from budget-friendly picks like Amazon and Target to more luxe options such as Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. We guarantee these picks will have you staying dry and looking super fly on your way to class.

With over 25,000 rave Amazon reviews, there’s no doubt the Columbia Watertight II Jacket is a total snag. It comes in practically every color you can think of, spans from sizes small to four XL tall and has a classic fit that anyone (and any age) would wear well.

• Pros: Wide range of sizes, breathable material and can withstand heavy rainstorms.
• Cons: Sizing is a little big and the fabric is on the stiff side.

Step out in the rain (the bold way) with the Champion Packable Recycled Jacket. It has the flagship logo we all know and love, as well as a breathable hood and a giant center pocket to keep your hands warm and smartphone safe. In its entirety, the rain jacket leans sporty.

• Pros: Both wind and waterproof, has an adjustable hood and is compact and foldable.
• Cons: The fabric has no stretch.

Carhartt, without a doubt, is one of our favorite brands. Specifically, its Rain Defender Jacket comes in some shades that are less than $100 and looks incredibly high-end (without the through-the-roof price tag, of course). Plus, like your favorite flannel, it has a more relaxed cut.

• Pros: Reviewers find the hood is large enough to fit over a hat and it has the thickness of a mid-layer.
• Cons: There are no interior pockets.

The Amazon Essentials brand is one to look into, and its Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Puffer Jacket is no exception. It’s incredibly breathable, comes in the color you’re looking for and has a near-turtleneck collar to really keep you warm. The size range is also exceptional going from XS-6XL big tall.

• Pros: Reviewers noted the length is long enough to prevent any riding up, the pockets are deep and it comes with a handy travel bag.
• Cons: Material is not breathable and waterproof material can only withstand up to moderate rainfall.

With a name like Tommy Hilfiger, you know it has to be good. Its Waterproof Breathable Hooded Jacket has an easy-to-wear zipper closure, is machine-washable (always a plus) and has the signature TF logo on the chest. For less than $50, designer never looked so good.

• Pros: Fits as expected, has a large hood reviewers compare to an “umbrella” and is very waterproof.
• Cons: Reviewers say it’s very lightweight and you’ll need to layer in colder temps.

Top-rated (and for a good reason), the L.L.Bean Cresta Stretch Rain Jacket is a thoughtful splurge for yourself or for a loved one. Its size range spans to XXXL, it features a waterproof and breathable shell with an impressive four-way stretch design and looks handsome for any type of wear.

• Pros: The material is very stretchy, there are a lot of pockets and the hood is adjustable.
• Cons: The pockets are not insulated.

Traditional and timeless, you can’t beat Goodfellow & Co.’s Lightweight Rain Jacket for just $30. Its two-tone gray color makes it one of our favorites on this list, along with a breathable, lightweight hood and flattering fit.

• Pros: Reviewers like how roomy it is and the versatile style.
• Cons: Can only withstand light rain.

Looking for a unique pattern? The Rokka & Rolla Windbreaker Anorak Rain Jacket is a snazzy outerwear piece for the season that’s less than $25. Its size range spans up to 2XL and it has breathable mesh lining to keep you calm, cool and collected.

• Pros: The zippers are durable, has comfortable fabric and reviewers find it’s easy to put on and take off.
• Cons: The length is on the shorter side.

For the athletic type, the ON Weather Tech Jacket is exactly what you should add to your shopping cart. Not only does it have an adjustable hood and visor, but there’s even a zip chest pocket. Plus, its taped seams make it great for heading to the gym.

• Pros: Reviewers like how comfortable it is to wear casually or running.
• Cons: None, so far.

We haven’t met a more cult-classic than the J.Crew RAINS Jacket. It comes in black, navy and green with button detailing and exterior pockets for a seamless look. Apt for any guy in your life, it’s a winner.

• Pros: Has enough room for layering underneath, comes with a roomy hood, packable for travel and has pocket options.
• Cons: We couldn’t find any!

The lululemon Outpour StretchSeal Jacket is a splurge, though a great one at that. Uniquely, it’s designed for “on the move” wear, whether you’re off running errands or wanting to take a walk around the park. You’ll appreciate its classic fit and hip-length design, too.

• Pros: Reviewers love how comfortable and lightweight the material is, it can withstand heavy rain with droplets “gliding” right off the fabric and is versatile for casual or activewear.
• Cons: Zipper is hard and the material pills.

For more of a coat-like fit, consider The North Face’s M66 Utility Rain Jacket. For $200, it boasts both a waterproof and breathable design, along with a fit its reviewers love. Impressively, it’s made from 100% recycled materials, so you’ll feel good about your purchase.

• Pros: Reviewers rave about its style and functionality, its lightweight feel and the smart placement of the pockets.
• Cons: It’s not very warm on its own and requires layers underneath.

Think of this style as the modern yellow rain jacket in a toned down shade and shorter length. The lightweight is versatile enough to wear on spring windy days with your jeans or to protect you during that forecasted drizzle when you’re walking into work.

• Pros: Feels luxe without the large price tag, comes with side pockets for added storage and can fit layers.
• Cons: The waterproof agent is not permanent and will need to be reapplied over time.

For more coverage, Alpine Swiss’ Zach Mens Overcoat is the long jacket you need in your life. It keeps you warm and protected against windy days. Since it’s made from high quality materials, it’ll last you a lifetime.

• Pros: Reviewers love how the long length keeps their pant pockets covered and protected, and it’s warm enough to keep you comfortable in cold, wet weather.
• Cons: Is oversized and should be sized down for a fitted look. Wool is also not waterproof—it’s water resistant.

If you’re looking for a running rain jacket, Under Armour has found the perfect balance of waterproof and lightweight with this design. We love the red shade as it’ll really make you pop, but it also comes in a few neutral shades as well. There’s also a mesh lining for added ventilation to keep you cool whether you’re going for a walk or you morning run.

• Pros: Reviewers enjoy how lightweight it to the point where they “forget it’s even on” and the stretchy material moves with you.
• Cons: The hood is not adjustable and can fall off easily.

Nike updated their classic design with some fun color block options (including this fun teal shade) and water repellent material and back vents that’ll keep you dry and regulate your temperature, but in style, of course.

• Pros: It’s compact and easy to carry around, features a fitted look and has a thin material that’s waterproof and sleek looking.
• Cons: Does not work well in heavy rainfall.

Anyone who loves the outdoors understands the importance of a multipurpose jacket. Not only will this Helly Hansen prevent rain from soaking your clothes, but it’s also windproof and breathable, allowing you to hike, bike, run and more without needing to shed the layer.

• Pros: It’s long lasting with one reviewer owning it for 25 years, lightweight enough for outdoor activities and has a brim along the hood to keep out water.
• Cons: Has a rubber-like feel to it.

We’re in love with the soft mauve shade of Patagonia’s hooded rain jacket. While there are many other colors to choose from, let’s face it, everything looks better in pink. It’s not just color that has earned it a spot on our list, but the fact that it uses a chemical-free water repelling agent and is breathable to keep you cozy (and, most importantly, dry).

• Pros: Features armpit zippers for added ventilation, can comfortably fit layers underneath and is versatile.
• Cons: The hood is curved which can cause water to fall through.

Running rain jackets are not all made equally, but aren’t you glad we found this one? It’s both insulated and water-repellent. What’s notable is how it’s designed for all-season wear to keep you warm whether you’re jogging in rain, sleet or snow.

• Pros: Wool blend for warmth; water-repellent; has pockets
• Cons: Water-repellent, but not waterproof.

You’ll look like the embodiment of sunshine in this soft yellow rain jacket, which will be needed on those overcast rainy days. Add some color to your rainwear collection and enjoy the adjustable hood and cuffs to lock water out, a slim fit and GORE-TEX water repelling material (with no toxic chemicals may we add) to keep you dry and cozy.

• Pros: Made with stretchy material that moves with you and has underarm ventilation.
• Cons: Not very windproof.

The last thing you want is to feel restricted in your rain jacket, but, thankfully, Black Diamond came out with this StormLine Stretch Rain Shell. Not only does the design move with you, but the BD.dry material cause rain droplets to bead up and fall right off the shell — a.k.a no moisture seeping through. Plus, just look at that trendy green color!

• Pros: Has pit-vents to help with temperature regulation and blocks out wind well, too.
• Cons: More on the fitted side, size up if you want a looser fit.

Ready, set, sprint. This lightweight running jacket is water-repellent and wind-resistant to reduce any external factors that might jeopardize your run. It comes in three bright colors: kohlrabi green, cyan blue and wild indigo.

• Pros: Lightweight; water-repellent; wind-resistant. Designed for running but can also be adopted into everyday wear.
• Cons: It does not come in any neutral colors.

Hit the trails in style. This jacket features a lightweight TEK waterproof fabric that protects from thunderstorms. Plus, it comes with a pouch to pack it into so you can take it on your fall travels.

• Pros: Great for travel; waterproof. Has adjustable cuffs, hood and hem.
• Cons: Does not protect below the waist from rain.

Rain, rain, go away. Stay protected from autumn showers thanks to this water-resistant jacket. A roomy hood ensures that perfectly-groomed hair stays intact.

• Pros: Water resistant; has a hood. Neutral color that goes with many outfits.
• Cons: Doesn’t protect the waist down from water.

Fall into back to school season with a new, lightweight rain jacket. This design has an adjustable tuck-away hood and waterproof protection. Did we mention hand warmer pockets?

• Pros: Packable; waterproof; lightweight; breathable; zippered hand warmer pockets. Comes in 12 colors and patterns.
• Cons: None!

For more content, check out the New York Post Shopping section.

ncG1vNJzZmimqaW8tMCNnKamZ5Gnwaqvy55mm52jqXqusc2sZKuZmaN6q63CpJytq12Wu6V5wqiYratf