Top 5 Ultralight Hiking Windbreakers for Women (2023)

Stay protected from the elements with high-quality hiking windbreakers

In this post, we'll take a look at:

When choosing among ultralight hiking windbreakers for women, there are key factors to consider. Think about packability, resistance to wind and light rain, and adjustability. Our guide is designed to assist you in making the optimal choice.

Top Ultralight Hiking Windbreaker Picks

  1. Most Ultralight: Montane Women’s Featherlite Windproof Jacket (3.17oz/90g)
  2. Best Overall: Patagonia Women’s Houdini Jacket (3.38oz/96g)
  3. Best Value: Rab Women’s Vital Hoody (4.02oz/114g)
  4. Most Durable: Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody (4.23oz/120g)
  5. Budget Option: REI Co-op Flash Jacket (3.38oz/96g)

1. Most Ultralight
Montane Women’s Featherlite Windproof Jacket

Ultralight Hiking Windbreakers for Women: Montane Women’s Featherlite Windproof Jacket

Key Specs


Weight: 3.17 ounces (90 grams)
Material: 100% nylon (20D)
Price: $$

PROS


✅ Ultralight

✅ Small pack size

CONS


❌ Not good in heavy rain

The Montane Women’s Featherlite Windproof Jacket is a fantastic choice for those seeking a lightweight and versatile windbreaker. With its super light design and easy packability, it’s your go-to companion for windy trails and fast-paced mountain adventures.

Its Wind Barrier Dynamic fabric keeps chilly gusts at bay, while the jacket’s soft material and clever pocket-loop design make it a convenient and stylish choice. Stay warm, stay protected, and conquer the outdoors with confidence in this ultralight windbreaker.


2. Best Overall
Patagonia Women’s Houdini Jacket

Ultralight Hiking Windbreakers for Women: Patagonia Women’s Houdini Jacket

Key Specs


Weight: 3.38 ounces (96 grams)
Material: 100% nylon
Price: $$

PROS


✅ Slim fit

✅ Various colors available

CONS


❌ No side pockets

The Patagonia ultralight hiking windbreaker is a must-have for active adventurers. Crafted from 100% recycled nylon, it offers excellent protection against the elements while being environmentally conscious.

The jacket’s thoughtful features like the adjustable hood and convenient stuffsack pocket make it a practical choice for any journey. The slim fit and durable design ensure it moves with you comfortably. Plus, the added touch of reflectivity keeps you visible in low-light situations.


3. Best Value
Rab Women’s Vital Hoody

Ultralight Hiking Windbreakers for Women: Rab Women’s Vital Hoody

Key Specs


Weight: 4.02 ounces (114 grams)
Material: 100% nylon (20D)
Price: $$

PROS


✅ Shower proof

✅ Great fit

CONS


❌ Average breathability

The RAB ultralight hiking windbreaker is a fantastic choice for your spring and summer mountain adventures. With its lightweight and packable design, it’s always ready for those windy ridgelines or unexpected weather changes.

The jacket’s Atmos fabric is not only windproof but also water resistant, making it a reliable companion. The hood is thoughtfully designed to stay secure in windy conditions, and the zip features help regulate heat while keeping the jacket in place.


4. Most Durable
Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody

Ultralight Hiking Windbreakers for Women: Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody

Key Specs


Weight: 4.23 ounces (120 grams)
Material: 100% nylon (30D)
Price: $$$

PROS


✅ Great material

✅ Can handle rain

CONS


❌ Relatively expensive

❌ No side pockets

The Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody is a go-to choice for adventurers seeking lightweight and versatile wind protection. Crafted with the innovative Tyono 30 nylon fabric, it offers remarkable strength against the wind while keeping it light.

The hoody’s clever design, including the adjustable Stormhood and No Slip Zip, ensures a comfortable fit for your outdoor activities. Its ultra-packable nature allows you to easily carry it along on your journeys.

Although the lack of pockets might be a drawback, its performance and fit make it a valuable addition to your gear.


5. Budget Option
REI Co-op Flash Jacket

Ultralight Hiking Windbreakers for Women: REI Co-op Flash Jacket

Key Specs


Weight: 3.38 ounces (96 grams)
Material: 100% nylon
Price: $

PROS


✅ Affordable

✅ Comfortable

CONS


❌ Not good in heavy rain

The women’s REI Co-op Flash jacket is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a lightweight and versatile windbreaker. Designed with convenience in mind, it easily packs into its own pocket, ready to shield you from wind and light rain.

While not suitable for heavy rain, its recycled nylon shell and adjustable features provide both comfort and protection during your hiking adventures. We can praise its portability, soft material, and added warmth, making it a smart budget alternative to other brands.

How to Buy the Right Hiking Windbreaker

Windbreakers are lightweight jackets designed to shield you from the wind’s chill, making them a must-have for hikers. When shopping for the perfect windbreaker, you should consider a few key features.

The fabric you choose is crucial; opt for materials like ripstop nylon or synthetics, as they are lightweight, waterproof, and breathable. Look for tightly woven fabrics that keep the wind out but let moisture escape to keep you comfortable.

Avoid non-breathable fabrics and make sure the windbreaker has taped seams to keep you dry during unexpected rain. Getting the right fit is also important.

Seek windbreakers with adjustable cuffs, waist drawstrings, and other features that allow you to customize the fit. Avoid jackets that are too tight or too loose, as you want a snug fit without limiting your movement.

Extra features like hoods, pockets, and zippers can add convenience to your outdoor experience. Hoods provide head protection and warmth, and you can find windbreakers with detachable or stowable hoods for adaptable weather readiness.

Multiple pockets make it easy to carry essentials like keys and phones. Two-way zippers provide enhanced mobility and ventilation, which is great for longer styles.

When choosing the perfect windbreaker, think about your unique needs, style preferences, and budget. Consider the the typical weather conditions in your area, and whether you prioritize style, functionality, or a mix of both.

If you want to learn more about windbreakers, check out our post here.

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