A lightweight jacket is one of those dependable items that is a must for any wardrobe. The beauty of a light jacket is that it suits not only the Spring weather, but can be useful all year round.
Having the perfect jacket for hikes, strolls around the countryside, and camping trips makes your life a whole lot easier. Particularly if that jacket is also versatile enough for the coffee run or for picking the kids up from school. It's a win, win situation - and we've made it even simpler for you by showcasing some of our best options here.
Top country and outdoor brands we know and love continue to impress us with their lightweight Spring jackets that have fantastic features and stylish designs. They help you tackle the unpredictable weather in your day-to-day life.
Ariat are always one of our favourites for outdoor apparel, as they effortlessly combine style with technical innovation.
Perfect for the cold weather, the Coastal jacket features AriatTEK® Cold Series technology that helps keep your body core warm. The waterproof and breathable membrane takes the worry out of looming grey clouds, and we also love the use of the two-way zipper so you can control the ventilation.
A removable hood and zippered external and internal pockets again add to the efficiency of this waterproof jacket, and the EcoDry™ finish offers earth-friendly protection against the elements. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and attractive jacket that can be put to the test in rainy and chilly conditions.
2. Hoggs of Fife Culloden Waterproof Field Jacket
Relied upon to inject a bit of country style into your everyday jacket, Hoggs of Fife have pulled out all the stops with the Culloden.
With high waterproof and breathability ratings, this incredibly lightweight jacket packs away when not in use. Not only is its weather resistance impressive, it has also lots of pockets and comes with a detachable, adjustable hood. It is a practical garment that stands out from the crowd with its quality materials and intuitive design.
Made with tough, hard-wearing fabric, Hoggs have designed a jacket that is suited to those working out in the fields, those on city breaks or going camping, and those who simply want a jacket they can rely on. Hoggs look after those who love the outdoors, and the Culloden is a staple of their FieldPro collection.
3. Jack Pyke Technical Featherlite Jacket
There's not much that Jack Pyke can't do in terms of country clothing, and their lightweight jackets further illustrate their dedication to providing the best products at the best prices.
The Featherlite jacket offers fantastic protection from the wet weather of the British countryside, and it is a comfy and reliable option for the active and busy man. With an elasticated waistcord and velcro cuff adjustment that helps provide the best fit, the neutral and streamlined design makes for a practical jacket that you could almost say was the countryman's alternative to a bomber jacket!
It does a double duty of being both waterproof and breathable, and the front zip fastening is secured by a storm flap. It can be paired with a micro-fleece shirt and work pants for those facing a day's graft outdoors, and also looks great with just jeans and trainers when you're out and about.
4. Harkila Orton Packable Jacket
Sitting at a premium price point, the Orton is a solid example of Harkila's impressive attention to detail and high quality garments.
One of the key attributes of the Orton is sitting right there in its name - it is packable rain jacket and can be easily stowed away in your rucksack or car; ready for its moment to shine. But this jacket doesn't just shine when the sun's out, it comes into its own when the weather is taking a turn for the worse. Utilising the Harkila Weather System (HWS), you can be confident in a waterproof, windproof, and breathable jacket.
Further practical details include an adjustable cuffs, waist, and bottom hem, and plenty of pockets. Although designed primarily for hunting, this hooded jacket is super versatile and can be worn for a variety of outdoor pursuits.
The Marina rain jacket from Musto was built to combat those April showers.
Its adjustable features makes it easy to get a snug fit, which allows you to get bundled up for the wet conditions. The polyester lining adds comfort, and handy zippered external pockets means you can keep your essentials on you. It comes in two colours to suit your individual style, and matches well with Musto fleeces and trousers.
Musto continually challenge themselves with every garment they make, and they want you to enjoy your time spent outdoors, without the worry of the weather. Whether you're out on a walk with the dogs, or standing on the sideline at kids' sport on the weekend, the Marina jacket will keep you dry and comfortable. It's a classic jacket that protects you from rainy days.
Conclusion
Upgrade your wardrobe today with a lightweight jacket that will bring you peace of mind for the seasons. We have talked through our favourite five here, but we have a further great range to choose from if you need a bit more inspiration.
Our customer service team is always on hand to help if you have any questions or would like pointing in the right direction. Whilst you're shopping for yourself, check out our Best Women's Lightweight Jackets article, to get a his and hers look.