The Best Summer Weight Jackets for Men

A windbreaker is a must have for summer. They are easy to stash, breathable, and lightweight layers that come in incredibly handy on gusty days, cool mornings, or hikes at elevation. Fjallraven has mastered the art of the lightweight jacket, and the High Coast Wind Jacket not only stops the wind, it is water resistant as well. This jacket also features an adjustable hood and zippered pockets making it a versatile option for everything from outdoor activities to commuting to travel.

I have used my Global Jacket as a ski shell, a travel companion, a pillow, and, thanks to its 10k waterproof rating, a rain jacket. The generous pockets are perfect for all the valuables I don’t want to get wet, and the PackFast packing band means it is easy to roll up and bring with you when the weather report is dodgy. The Global Jacket is also lightweight, so even during a muggy summer rainstorm I don’t overheat.

A lightweight insulated jacket is the cozy friend you didn’t know you needed on an evening beach walk. A puffer that is too insulated will be cumbersome, but the 100% recycled polyester Firecrest jacket weighs in at just 365 grams (or, as Google informed me, about the weight of 3 apples). The fact that it looks sharp over a tee makes the Firecrest the ultimate summer puffer.

On offers two versions of its Trek Jacket, depending on your needs. For wet weather adventures, the waterproof version will keep out precipitation while keeping you dry on the trails. For colder outings, the insulated version is a superbly lightweight hoodie providing breathable insulation on the move. Unlike many hiking jackets that can be overloaded with features, this one is streamlined and made to move.

The VNTJacket from the running gurus at Ciele has a smart design. The lightweight ripstop fabric effectively blocks the wind, but venting panels under the arms and along the back dump heat, helping you regulate temperature at speed. This jacket is perfect for high exertion activities in which you know you will heat up.

When traveling you need a jacket that excels at many things. I took my Snow Peak Shadow Ripstop Jacket on a recent trip to Greece because the understated design looks good with a variety of outfits, the lightweight material makes it easy to stash in a backpack, and it is wind and water resistant. For a jacket high on performance is also a delightfully soft fabric. During a breezy outdoor dinner in a local village it was just the layer I needed.

Softshell jackets are great for just about everything. They are durable, provide a bit of warmth, breath well, and have significant stretch. The Ultima Softshell acts as a versatile option to grab anytime the temperature dips. You wouldn’t want to opt for it during a rainstorm, but for most chilly outings the recycled nylon fabric fits the bill.

A good track jacket is a moisture-wicking, trim option that can look good with jeans or performance attire. Hello Sunday Element Track Jacket! 4-way stretch and a clean cut make this a jacket I don’t want to take off even as the day heats up. Good thing it also looks sharp at dinner.

Speaking of looking sharp at dinner, you can’t go wrong with a chore coat, especially one as classic and understated as the Ojai Jacket from Taylor Stitch. The organic cotton looks smooth over a button down or a tee, and it is as handsome as it is durable, meaning this one will be in your closet for a long time.

Considering their expertise on all things outdoors, it is no surprise that Patagonia figured out how to make an elite waxed jacket. With a ban on PFAS, one of the “forever chemicals” often utilized in making jackets waterproof, many people are looking towards natural means of weather protection. Look no further than the Lightweight Waxed Cotton Jacket. The timeless fabric in a modern silhouette makes this an excellent three season option.

Although I love a good shirt jacket, come summer many of them are simply too hot, since they are often made from wool or flannel. The Everyday Overshirt from Myles Apparel is made from a breezy and super stretchy nylon and elastane blend. The look is refined, the feel is technical, and the weight is ideal for summer.