The Best Mountain Bike Jackets of 2025-2026

When the temperatures drop or the rain starts to fall, a good mountain bike jacket can keep you comfortable out on the trail. Whether for wind, cold, rain, or all of the above, there are lots of great options on the market to keep you riding happily through the fall, winter, and spring.

Depending on where you live and ride, a jacket may be a year-round necessity or a shoulder season accessory. For most mountain bikers, the changing seasons bring cooler temperatures and unsettled weather, along with some of the best riding conditions of the year. Having the right gear for the conditions you’ll encounter can be the difference between finishing your ride wet and cold or with a huge smile on your face.

Thankfully, there are mountain bike jackets purpose-built for riding in weather ranging from mild to wild. From super-waterproof rain shells, packable wind layers, breathable water-resistant jackets, and even a couple of wind-blocking jerseys, we’ve tested 15 great models and have suggestions to keep you riding through cool temperatures, wind, and rain. After extensive testing in a wide range of conditions, we chose our favorites and those that excel for specific reasons/conditions.

Editor’s note: We updated our mountain bike jackets guide on December 12, 2025, with the addition of a new Best Overall award winner, the Patagonia Trail Craft Jacket.

Other Great Mountain Bike Jackets to Consider

Mountain Bike Jackets Comparison Chart

Why Should You Trust Bikerumor?

The team at Bikerumor consists of cycling-obsessed individuals scattered across North America and Europe, where most of us experience all four seasons. And, we don’t stop riding because the temperatures drop and the weather changes. Instead, we gear up and get out there. Riding bikes is a big part of the job, after all, but keeping the wheels spinning through fall, winter, and spring requires the proper gear to keep it enjoyable, and we have all learned the importance of having a good mountain bike jacket to keep the cold, wind, and water from ruining our fun. We’re also lucky to get to test lots of the best new gear, so we’ve got an inside track on the best mountain bike jackets on the market.

For our mountain bike jackets buyer’s guide, Bikerumor contributor Paul Clauss tested the majority of the models in this review. Paul lives in northern Vermont, where riding in the fall and spring means dealing with cool to frigid temperatures, frequent rainstorms, and rain-soaked trail conditions, and having a quality mountain bike jacket or two is critical to staying warm and/or dry. A mechanical engineer by trade, Paul is also quite adept at analyzing designs and constructions and putting products through their paces to determine their performance differences. Paul has tested quite a bit of gear over the years and contributed to our best dropper posts, mountain bike gloves, and bike locks buyer’s guides.

In addition to Paul’s testing, Bikerumor Editor Jeremy Benson tested a few of the models included herein, and we also drew from Bikerumor’s editorial staff. Rest assured, every product included here has been thoroughly tested for at least several weeks, and in some cases, many months or more.

How We Tested Mountain Bike Jackets

We strive to provide our readers with trustworthy reviews to help inform their purchase decisions, so every product in this buyer’s guide has been tested in the real world to see how it performs. To test these mountain bike jackets, we weighed them for consistency and comparison to the manufacturer’s specs and packed them into their smallest packed size to see how portable they were. We closely examined the materials, constructions, seams, and zippers to assess the quality of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The fit of each model was examined both at home and, most importantly, out on the trail to get a sense of how well they cover the body, move with you while you ride, and function on the bike. Features like hoods, pockets, and adjustments were analyzed to assess their functionality and usefulness. And, each model was used for extended periods in the temperature and weather conditions for which it was intended, including cold, windy fall days, crisp, frosty mornings, rainstorms, rain showers, and even a few hose tests.

Buying Advice: How to Choose a Mountain Bike Jacket

There are numerous factors to consider when choosing the right jacket for mountain biking. One of the most important is the intended use or the conditions you’ll be encountering on your fall, winter, and spring rides. This will help you narrow down your search to a specific type of jacket that will be best suited to your needs, whether that’s wind, water-resistance, or both. After that, other factors like fit, materials, packability, breathability, pockets, features, and price are other considerations depending on your specific needs and budget.

Intended Use

The type of temperature and weather conditions you intend to be riding in will be the most important factor in deciding what type of jacket you need. The jackets we tested range from lightweight wind shells to burly waterproof rain jackets and models that intend to strike a balance between those extremes.

Wind

If you generally try to avoid riding in the rain and simply need something to protect you from the chilling bite of the wind, a wind jacket, or possibly a wind jersey may be the best bet. Wind-resistant jackets are a great option to have for cold mornings or chilly spring or fall days when it is generally dry. They are typically lightweight and made from thinner breathable materials, and they are often quite packable. While they often feature a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating and can be a good option in very light precipitation, and are effective for handling splashes from puddles or mud, they are usually not intended to be fully waterproof. The Flylow Davis Jacket and the Rapha Trail Lightweight Jacket are both great examples of light, packable wind shells.

Rain

If you purposefully ride when it’s raining or often find yourself getting caught out in rainstorms, then a waterproof (or highly water-resistant) jacket is probably the right call. Waterproof jackets typically incorporate waterproof membranes into their constructions, which, along with taped seams, intend to completely block all water from making its way inside. These materials are almost always treated with a DWR coating on the outside to promote the water beading running off as opposed to soaking into the outermost layer of the fabric. While modern materials allow truly waterproof jackets to be fairly breathable, they are generally a bit warmer and less breathable than thinner windbreaker options. A good waterproof shell should keep you dry in the most extreme wet weather conditions you are likely to encounter on a ride, and is a necessity in some areas like the damp Northeast and Pacific Northwest of the US, or the UK.

Wind and Light Rain

For many riders, a simple wind layer may not be quite enough, and a full-on rain jacket may be overkill, so thankfully, there are options that fall into the middle of the spectrum. These highly versatile jackets provide great wind protection and a high level of water resistance and are capable of fending off light rains, intermittent showers, and tire spray from rain-soaked trails. With a DWR coating and water-resistant materials, these jackets are not fully waterproof, but they will still typically keep you dry in most conditions short of heavy rain, which most of us try to avoid anyway. They also tend to dry very quickly, making them a great option for riding on those unsettled days when the weather just can’t seem to make up its mind.

Cold

If you ride when it’s really cold, then you definitely want to block the wind, and you probably also want some insulation. Both wind and waterproof jackets will add a layer of protection from the wind that takes the edge off the chill, and smart layering underneath is one of the best ways to gear up for a winter ride, similar to going skiing. In general, the thicker materials used on waterproof jackets will provide a touch more warmth than light wind layers. When it’s really, really cold, many people will opt for insulated jackets or mid-layers to help maintain body heat. While we didn’t test any insulated jackets, there are lots of great options on the market.

Materials

Mountain bike jackets are made from a variety of materials depending on the intended use. These range from superlight wind-blocking fabrics to heavy-duty, fully waterproof materials. Wind jackets have the easiest job and are generally made from lightweight, stretch nylon or polyester that only aim to block the wind and/or splashes from puddles. These materials are often treated with a DWR to help shed light amounts of water. Examples of wind jackets we tested are the Rapha Trail Lightweight, Flylow Davis, and the Fox Ranger Wind Pullover.

Waterproof jackets are typically made from more advanced fabrics that include waterproof membranes like the GORE-TEX PACLITE used in the Gorewear Endure, or the ExoShell 40DR used in the Endura MT500 Waterproof Jacket II, as examples. Waterproof fabrics vary in weight, thickness, breathability, and even water resistance, and while they all get the job done, they are not created equal. Jackets made from waterproof materials typically have a couple of numbers associated with them, like 10K/10K, that provide ratings for waterproofness and breathability, respectively. These numbers are derived from lab tests to determine where they land on the rating scale. The higher the numbers, the more waterproof and breathable a material is, and vice versa. Additionally, these materials are almost always treated with a DWR to shed water at the surface.

In between the lighter wind materials and the completely waterproof options are those that are wind-blocking and highly water-resistant. These are essentially a hybrid of the two. While not completely waterproof, these jackets are typically a bit lighter, more easily packable, and more breathable than rain jackets while still providing enough water resistance for most situations. GORE-TEX Infinium is a commonly used membrane found in the Rapha Trail Gore-Tex Infinium Jacket and parts of the Gorewear Lupra Jacket that blocks wind and repels water well in most situations, short of proper downpours. Likewise, the Patagonia Trail Craft Jacket works similarly with a great DWR that sheds water very effectively, but only up to a point.

Durable Water-Repellant (DWR)

DWR treatments/coating/finishes have been around for many years, and they are a treatment applied to the outside of most jackets that causes water to bead up and run off of the material as opposed to soaking in. These treatments work very effectively when garments are new, however, they do break down over time, use, and exposure to the sun, water, mud, dirt, etc. When this happens, you’ll notice the outermost layer of the material may begin to “wet out” or absorb some of the water on the surface. With a truly waterproof membrane underneath, you’ll still stay dry, but this can have an adverse effect on the material’s breathability. Often, simply washing your jacket can help to revitalize the DWR, but eventually, it will probably need to be reapplied. Nikwax makes a number of wash-in DWR replenishment products for use at home that work quite well and there are technical equipment cleaners that may be able to do it for you. Before doing any at-home DWR treatments, however, we recommend checking with the manufacturer for specific recommendations.

When DWR treatments first came out, they were mostly made from “forever chemicals” that had toxic by-products that persist in the environment and are “possibly carcinogenic” according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer. These chemicals, often referred to as PFAs and/or PFCs, were even banned in many countries. Brands have been seeking alternatives, and these days, most companies are claiming to use PFC-free or non-toxic DWR treatments on their garments.

Fit

Like all outerwear, a jacket should fit well and allow a full range of motion on and off the bike. Most of the jackets we tested have mountain bike-specific fits optimized for riding – a slim midsection, articulated arms, gusseted underarms, an extended rear waist hem to keep your hindquarters dry, and a large hood for use with helmets. The fits are tailored but relaxed – loose enough to be comfortable on and off the bike and layer underneath, but streamlined enough to not flap around excessively, fall over your hands, or catch on your seat while riding. 

For mountain biking, we’ve found that it’s important to get the right size, as a jacket that is too small can restrict movement or be uncomfortable and one that is too large might flap excessively in the wind, snag on your saddle, or have sleeves that extend down too far over your hands. In general, going with the same size you usually buy for jerseys or casual wear will probably work well, but not always. When in doubt, check your measurements and reference a brand’s size chart. Some brands show pictures of models along with their dimensions and the size they are wearing for reference. And, if possible, trying something on before you buy is always the best way to ensure you get something that fits.

We have noticed in the past few years that many brands’ sizing has been trending a little larger than it used to. For example, one of our testers is a 6-foot-tall male who has been a size Large top for as long as he can remember. Recently, he has been easily and comfortably fitting into size Medium jerseys and jackets, despite the fact that his body size hasn’t changed. That said, it’s worth double-checking size charts before you buy, or buying something that can easily be returned or exchanged if it doesn’t fit quite right.

Features

Like the type of jacket, the features you need or want may vary depending on the intended use. Most wind and rain jackets feature hoods, several pockets, ventilation, and a variety of adjustments to dial them into your needs or the conditions.

Hood

All of the jackets we tested have one thing in common: a hood. Not all hoods are created equal, of course, and some are executed far better than others. Things we look for in a hood on a mountain bike jacket are the ability to fit over a helmet comfortably and securely, adjustability, and for it to move with your head without constricting or getting in the way of your peripheral vision. Of course, it’s also nice when they tuck away neatly and/or sit comfortably behind the head when not in use.

Pockets

Depending on what you like to carry with you when you ride, pockets may or may not be a big consideration. The jackets we tested vary considerably in the number, placement, and storage capacity of their pockets. If you’re a minimalist or you carry most of your essentials in shorts/pants pockets, cargo bib pockets, in-frame storage, or a pack of some kind, then a jacket with a single pocket might be just fine for your needs. If you want to carry a phone, wallet, keys, snacks, and tools in your jacket, then you’ll probably want to look for something with several pockets and ample storage space. The Endura MT500 Waterproof Jacket II has the most pockets and storage capacity of all the models we tested, plus they are well executed and designed to stay out of the way of pack straps.

Wrist Cuffs

Wrist cuff designs vary by brand and intended use of the jacket. Most mountain bike jackets have extended cuffs that hang a little farther than normal, so they don’t ride up when you’re leaning forward, and to cover the back of the wrist/bottom of gloves. Some have elastic to keep them semi-tightened around the wrist, while others are adjustable through velcro straps. What works best for you will depend on the conditions you’re riding in and how you want them to interface with your gloves (if you wear them). If, for example, you’re riding in extremely wet or cold conditions, you may want to be able to tighten the wrist cuff around your mountain bike gloves to seal out the water or frigid air.

Drawcord Hem

The majority of mountain bike jackets have a drawcord hem that can be used to cinch the bottom of the jacket tight around the body. While many riders may never feel the need to use such an adjustment, it is a nice feature to have on particularly cold or wet days to prevent cold air or water/mud from entering up through the bottom of the jacket.

Ventilation

Many jackets rely on the breathability of the materials to allow heat and moisture to escape. Often, especially in the case of rain-specific jackets, that isn’t enough, so some have armpit and/or pocket vents built into their designs. Vents can be a great feature to evacuate body-generated heat if/when the material can’t do it for you. Of course, unzipping the front zipper is also an excellent way to get some air flowing inside the jacket. Both the Endura Singletrack II and the MT500 Waterproof II feature ventilation. Adding vents to a jacket does have the adverse effect of adding weight and decreasing packability.

Breathability

When we ride, we generate body heat and perspire, even when it’s cold and/or rainy. This is especially true when riding with a jacket, as most are not nearly as breathable as riding without one. And, when riding in the cold, being wet with sweat can make you feel even colder when you are in the wind or start riding downhill. Regulating temperature is tricky, and something that the user needs to stay on top of because even the most breathable waterproof fabric still ends up trapping user-generated heat and moisture. Some fabrics perform much better in this regard, effectively allowing your heat and moisture to escape while keeping chilling wind and water from getting in, while others are a bit stuffier and feel wet on the inside. The Patagonia Trail Craft Jacket is impressively breathable and helps to maintain a consistent comfort level inside the jacket, making it easier to leave on all the time without overheating or getting drenched in sweat.

Packability

For those among us who like to bring a jacket on a ride in the off chance it might rain or because you know you’ll be taking it off the climbs and putting it back on for the descents, packability and weight are important considerations. Our storage space, whether it’s in a mountain bike hip pack, backpack, cargo bib pocket, or in-frame storage, is relatively finite, so being able to pack your jacket down to a compact size that fits in that space is essential. For those carrying a jacket, weight is also a concern, and typically, the lighter the better.

When it comes to packability, the lighter wind jackets typically take the cake. For example, the Rapha Trail Lightweight jacket weighs just 160 grams (size S) and packs into the chest pocket to a tiny size. Additionally, it comes with a strap that can be used to stash it on your frame when not in use. Likewise, the Patagonia Trail Craft Jacket weighs just 240 grams (size L), stuffs into its own pocket, and compresses down quite small to fit into your pack.

In contrast, the thicker materials used in most waterproof jackets make them a bit heavier, and they aren’t able to pack down quite as small. The exception to this rule is the Gorewear Endure, which is made with GORE-TEX PACLITE, weighs just 280 grams (size S), and is about as packable as fully waterproof jackets get. On the flip side of that coin is the Endura MT500 Waterproof Jacket II, which weighs 550 grams (size M) and would be nearly impossible to fit into a fanny pack if you had to take it off.

Wind Jerseys

Along with the ten jackets we tested, we included two wind-blocking jerseys as alternatives for cool-weather riding. While they are obviously not jackets, a wind-blocking long-sleeve jersey can be the perfect layer to wear on cool days when all you really need is to take the bite out of the wind to stay comfortable. The two options we tested, the Rapha Trail Windblock Jersey and the Mons Royale Tarn Merino Shift Wind Jersey, both feature merino wool blend fabrics that comprise the main body, covered by a wind-blocking nylon front panel to keep the wind off your torso. We found both of these jerseys to be excellent for cool temperatures where you generate some body heat on the climbs but might catch a chill on the decents. They proved to be exceptionally versatile pieces that get a lot of use in the fall and spring.

Price & Value

There is a large variation in price between the jacket models we tested, and like anything else in the sport of mountain biking, they can be quite expensive. Spending more on a jacket typically yields higher-quality materials, construction, or features that excel in a specific way, such as waterproofness or packability (or both). Other times, it gets you those things plus a brand name.

While we certainly love looking fancy in expensive gear, we also appreciate a good value, and we know a lot of other people do too. So, sure, you can spend $330 to get the bombproof Endura MT500 Waterproof Jacket II, or you can save over a hundred bucks and get the Endura Singletrack II, which performs nearly on par with its more expensive sibling. Yes, the Singletrack II isn’t technically as waterproof as the MT500, but it’s got to be so miserable outside to matter that you probably shouldn’t be out there anyway.

Similarly, the Fox Ranger 2.5L Water Jacket ($150) costs even less and gets the job done while looking pretty snappy to boot. And, if you’re only looking for a wind jacket, the Fox Ranger Wind Pullover ($125) is the least expensive option we tested, yet it performs well while having a casual style that doesn’t pigeonhole it as strictly a riding piece.

That said, the $249 Patagonia Trail Craft Jacket is our top recommendation for its impressive versatility, excellent fit, wind and water resistance, lightweight, and packability. This jacket is the total package, and that’s reflected in the price. That price also reflects the quality and durability for which Patagonia products are known. It will actually last a lifetime if you want it to.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mountain Bike Jackets