Whether you love spending time outdoors or simply need to get from A to B, lightweight waterproof jackets are an everyday essential. It keeps your clothes dry during unexpected showers, while breathable fabrics ensures comfort on the move. Lightweight and packable, these jackets are easy to stash in a rucksack or toss into a bag when the sun’s out. Built with waterproof and water-resistant technology, women’s and men’s waterproof jackets come in a wide range of colours, styles and designs. Whether you need a minimalist outer shell or feature-packed layers with adjustable hoods, secure pockets and smart details, Columbia Sportswear® has you covered.

Why everyone needs a lightweight waterproof jacket

A light waterproof jacket is one of the most versatile items of outdoor clothing you can own. Whether you're hiking in the hills, tackling the school run, or caught between meetings in a sudden shower, it’s the kind of layer that earns its place in your wardrobe all year round. Here’s why:

Stay dry, whatever the weather

Top of the list has to be this jacket’s waterproofing capabilities. Waterproof jackets from Columbia Sportswear® are built to keep water out and comfort in. Technologies like Omni-Tech™ use waterproof-breathable membranes and fully taped seams to seal out the rain while letting body heat escape. For tougher weather, OutDry™ Extreme provides a bonded, impenetrable outer layer with a soft, wicking lining for maximum protection and all-day comfort, even in relentless downpours.

With Columbia Sportswear®, every piece plays its part, so you can keep going, whatever the day throws at you.  To help you find the right fit for your plans (and the forecast), we make it easy to filter jackets by waterproof protection level. Choose from drizzle, rain, downpour, or deluge to match your jacket to the weather. It’s a quick way to narrow your search and find exactly the performance you need.

Breathable comfort

Staying dry isn’t just about blocking out the rain. It’s also about letting moisture escape. Our Omni-Tech™ and OutDry™ Extreme technologies are engineered to be breathable, so sweat and heat don’t build up in the jacket while you’re on the move. That means no damp, clammy feeling after a brisk walk or tough climb. For extra airflow, many jackets also include underarm venting or pit zips, giving you more control over temperature without letting the weather in. You’ll stay comfortable all day long.

Lightweight and packable

The best type of waterproof jacket is the one you take with you and not the one left hanging in the wardrobe at home. Lightweight jackets are designed with that in mind. Their packable designs can be rolled into their own pocket or easily stashed in a bag, so it’s always at hand when you need it and won’t weigh you down when you don’t. They’re ideal for travel, mountain walks, or just everyday activities where changeable weather might catch you off guard.

Practical features

Our lightweight waterproof jackets are packed with smart details that make all the difference to your outdoor experience. Some of our jackets feature:

• 4-way comfort stretch
• Adjustable hood and cuffs so you can fine-tune the fit
• Chin guard to prevent chafing
• PU-coated front zipper to seal out moisture
• Zippered hand pockets for securing valuables
• Drawcord-adjustable hem to seal out the elements
• Droptail hem for extra weather protection
• Packable into its own hand pocket for easy storing
• Recycled materials to reduce environmental impact

With sleek designs, easy-to-style colours, and performance-driven materials, Columbia Sportswear® jackets are made to fit into everyday routines. Whether you’re heading to work, dashing to the shops or exploring at the weekend, these jackets offer technical function without the weight.

Gear up for any weather

Lightweight waterproof jackets are designed to work as part of a complete outdoor outfit, keeping you protected from head to toe. On cold, damp days, layer your waterproof outer shell over a breathable women’s Sherpa fleece for extra warmth, and add winter gloves and a beanie for comfort. When it’s milder but still wet, switch the fleece for a lighter layer to ensure you’ll stay dry without overheating. Pair with durable men’s hiking trousers for added weather protection and finish with waterproof hiking shoes for all-day confidence. A lightweight backpack is also ideal for keeping your essentials dry and close at hand.

With hooded and windproof options, lightweight waterproof jackets offer everyday reliability, comfort, and protection. Columbia Sportswear® designs jackets for real life, whether you’re battling wind, dodging showers or embracing unpredictable weather. With breathable fabrics, clever features, a great choice of colours and options available for men, women, and XL sizes, there’s something for every body, every forecast, and every pace.

Ready to get outdoors? Buy your perfect lightweight waterproof jacket and get on with what really matters: enjoying the outdoors, come rain or shine, without being weighed down.