The spring and autumn are quite uncertain when it comes to weather conditions. One day, there’s a heavy downpour, and the next, it’s sunny and warm.
Unstable weather conditions such as these require jackets that are versatile and capable of quick and easy adaptation to all kinds of temperatures.
And when it comes to such garments, nothing beats the 3-in-1 waterproof jackets.
These outfits are layered and feature 3 different types of garments in a single design. Most of them are also waterproof and windproof, which can come in very handy if you’re a keen backcountry explorer.
In this article, I’ll be taking a thorough look at the market’s best 3-in-1 jackets, with the ultimate goal of helping you find a model that will suit all of your personal needs and requirements.
Reviews of the Best 3-in-1 Waterproof Jackets for Men
The following is a roundup of the market’s best garments of this type – keep reading to find out everything you need to know about the characteristics and features of each model.
Also, keep in mind that this is not a ranked list. If you’re wondering which one of these 12 models I consider to be the best of the best, it’s the No. 5 on the list – the Columbia Whirlibird IV Interchange Jacket. It’s a feature-rich garment that uses a number of Columbia’s proprietary technologies to keep its user toasty, dry, and comfortable.
1. Mountain Warehouse Thunderstorm 3-in-1 Jacket
Features:
- 100% polyester
- Detachable inner fleece
- Vecro cuffs
- Antipill
- Waterproof and breathable
The very first 3-in-1 waterproof jacket I’ll be taking a closer look at is the one made by Mountain Warehouse. Its name is Thunderstorm 3-in-1 Jacket and it consists of an inner fleece jacket and an outer shell.
Just as I expected, the outer shell is waterproof and breathable, due to the combination of the interior mesh lining and the well-known IsoDry fabric with taped seams.
In addition, this fleece/shell jacket comes equipped with a number of features whose job is to keep the draft at bay. These include an adjustable hood, a storm flap closure, as well as adjustable cuffs and hem. All of these features also helped the Mountain Warehouse Thunderstorm 3-in-1 Jacket to provide me with a perfect fit.
The fleece liner part of this 3-in-1 jacket is anti-pill – I never had to worry about those small balls of fluff that appear when you rub fleece against other materials or when you wash it. While this certainly isn’t the biggest selling point of the Thunderstorm 3-in-1 jacket, it’s certainly a thoughtful addition.
Another great thing about this model is the number of sizes it’s available in – the women’s variant ranges from 0 to 18, while the men’s version can be obtained in 2XS – 2XL sizes. You’ll have no trouble with finding a size that suits you perfectly.
Generally speaking, the model runs true to size, although some users have complained that it’s a bit bigger than they’ve expected.
Both the outer shell and the liner of this jacket come with zippered pockets. However, keep in mind that you won’t be able to access the liner’s pockets when you’re wearing both the inner and the outer layer at the same time. I should also mention the presence of the internal media pocket, which allowed me to listen to the music on the go.
PROS:
- Fully waterproof and windproof
- Lots of convenient features
- Inexpensive
CONS:
- A bit bulky
2. Columbia Bugaboo II Interchange Jacket
Features:
- Omni-Heat Reflective technology
- Omni-Tech fabric
- Waterproof and breathable
- Removable polyester fleece liner
- Synthetic insulation
The next model in my roundup of the best 3-in-1 jackets comes from Columbia, a world-famous manufacturer of affordable but well-made garments.
This particular 3-in-1 jacket combines a fleece liner with a waterproof outer shell. Furthermore, due to Columbia’s use of their proprietary Omni-Tech technology, the Bugaboo II Interchange Jacket provides ample weather protection – it kept me very warm in cold weather.
This proprietary technology is used in the materials that are located in the outer layer, making them windproof, waterproof, and breathable. Even the model’s outer shell on its own should be more than enough to keep you warm on chilly autumn days.
The Omni-Tech technology used in this 3-in-1 jacket is not the only thing that makes it windproof. The model also has a chin guard (high collar), a storm hood, a drawcord at its waist, as well as cuffs that are adjustable.
An important thing I should mention here is that the inner jacket is neither water-repellent nor windproof. However, due to the use of Omni-Heat Thermal-Reflective technology, the fleece of the model’s inner jacket feels extremely comfortable, warm, and soft against my skin during the testing.
In moderately cold weather, both the outer shell and the inner layer of the Interchange Jacket can be used on their own. When I was running errands around town or camping in the backcountry, I simply wore a single layer and it kept keep me cozy and warm. And when I combined both layers of this Columbia men’s jacket together, I got a proper, winter-ready garment that kept me toasty during most outdoor activities.
Another feature worth mentioning is the removable hood, which can come in quite handy whenever you feel like using this versatile garment as a ski jacket.
There are also a number of convenient pockets, like the media pocket, the hand pockets on both the inner jacket and the outer shell, as well as one special pocket that provides full interior security for your valuables. Lots of room for your gadgets, candies, money, or whatever else you like to carry.
PROS:
- The inner layer features reflective lining
- Lots of pockets & convenient features
- Phenomenal weather protection
CONS:
- Somewhat bulky
3. The North Face Carto Triclimate Jacket
Features:
- Adjustable Velcro cuffs
- 100% Polyester
- Adjustable fit
- Zip-in-compatible integration with complementing North Face wear
- VISLON center front zip with internal draft flap
The California-based North Face is one of the most well-known manufacturers of outerwear, with their jackets worn by many celebrities around the world. Is the brand’s apparel actually worth it, though? What about their 3-in-1 models?
One of the first things I noticed about this particular TNF jacket was how outstandingly lightweight it is – it’s one of the best lightweight rain jackets currently available on the market.
The men’s variant of the North Face Carto Triclimate Jacket weighs 2 pounds – and that’s the weight of both the inner jacket and the outer shell together. The outer shell is particularly lightweight and easy to pack into most trekking backpacks.
Furthermore, the Carto Triclimate Jacket sports a DryVent 2L membrane, which makes it waterproof, breathable, and highly windproof.
Other features that kept me protected from the cold and moisture include the cinch-in hem and the cuffs (which are adjustable) – these allowed me to stay toasty warm regardless of the weather. The North Face Carto Triclimate is a great waterproof and windproof jacket – there’s no doubt about that – but I wouldn’t recommend it for use in really cold weather.
Its inner layer isn’t as fuzzy and soft as I expected, as the North Face opted for hard-face fleece in this case. It is, however, very warm, which is far more important.
There are two inner hand pockets on the model, and accessing them proved quite challenging when the inner jacket and the outer shell were zipped together.
There are also three pockets on the model’s outer shell – one chest pocket and two hand pockets. However, the hand ones are not lined – they didn’t do a particularly great job at warming my hands.
They are, however, fully waterproof: I was able to keep my cellphone in one of them without any worries. Finally, the model’s storm hood is quite large and never lies flat.
PROS:
- A lightweight and functional North Face 3-in-1 jacket
- The hem and the cuffs are adjustable
- Large and convenient storm hood
CONS:
- The pockets on the outer shell are not lined
4. Jack Wolfskin Jasper 3-in-1 Hooded Jacket
Features:
- Texapore outer jacket
- Primaloft insulation
- Five pockets in total
- Waterproof two-way zippers
- Variable vents
Uniting versatile insulating layers with formidable weather barriers, Jack Wolfskin Jasper 3-in-1 Hooded Jacket safeguards outdoor enthusiasts across seasons.
The 2-layer Texapore outer shell teams with a rugged wind/waterproof exterior, which sports a silken protective lining, securing a lofty 10,000mm waterproof rating — enough to withstand a hurricane.
I first tested the zip-in combo scrambling up a mountain just as ominous storm clouds ruptured. Despite nearly two hours slogging through the relentless deluge, my midlayer fleece emerged almost completely dry thanks to the impenetrable membrane.
The inner jacket is equally good at trapping precious body heat, with its 60g/m2 Primaloft insulation cocooning warmth during frigid summit attempts.
Variable vents allowed cool air to enter the garment while I was hustling uphill, while the model’s elastic wrist seals prevented chill sneaking into my sleeves. The regular fit left more than enough room for the base layers without drowning my frame.
My only complaint came unzipping the shield to drop weight in sunny slush conditions — having the hip-length inner stop short left my lower back cold when bending over to remove skis.
Minor gripes aside, the jacket’s performance undoubtedly deserves words of praise. Quick-connecting two-way zippers effortlessly unite the pieces into a versatile 3-in-1 jacket ready to conquer whatever alpine weather wafts your way.
PROS:
- Bomber weather protection
- Warm insulated midlayer
- Ventilating pit zips
CONS:
- Midlayer shorter than shell
5. Columbia Whirlibird IV Interchange Jacket
Features:
- Proprietary Omni-Tech technology
- A classic 3-in-1 solution
- Breathable & waterproof
- Removable & adjustable hood
- Equipped with several pockets
As Columbia’s bargain buy among ski outerwear, the Whirlibird IV Interchange Jacket reliably insulates occasional riders without breaking the bank.
The modular system pairs an outer shell with an inner Omni-Heat sweater, trapping precious body heat within the airy layering. During the few weeks of testing, the synthetic insulation kept my core toasty despite truly freezing temperatures.
Venturing off-trail into knee-high fluff, the jacket’s seam-sealed waterproof membrane blocked soggy buildups – always a big plus in my book.
But while I was testing the model’s limits during an unexpectedly vicious early spring outing, my phone in the long chest pocket unfortunately turned damp.
Another thing I didn’t like is that the freedom of movement felt restricted, with the nylon tangling and snagging more than I expected. Compared to my streamlined Gore-Tex favorites, this jacket’s hand-me-down silhouette screamed amateur hour.
Yet shaking off snow after a grueling backcountry run, having the option to de-layer as skies cleared and temperatures went up proved a blessing.
For casual outdoor enthusiasts on a budget, this 3-in-1 jacket is an excellent choice – it is precisely what I expected from a Columbia garment of this type.
PROS:
- Well-priced for a 3-in-1
- Protective powder skirt
- Ventilating pit zips
CONS:
- The freedom of movement is somewhat restricted
6. Wantdo Waterproof 3-in-1 Ski Jacket
Features:
- 100% 150D Dull Mechanical Elastic Fabric
- Tailored with zip-secured pockets
- 5000mm waterproof coated exterior
- Detachable hood with an adjustable drawstring
- Zipper closure
Here we have a genuinely inexpensive option offered by a company called Wantdo. I found their Waterproof 3-in-1 Ski Jacket to be of much higher quality than most other garments in its price category.
The outer shell of the Wantdo 3-in-1 Ski Jacket is breathable and waterproof thanks to the special materials used in its construction. The most important one out of these is the “Taslan” fabric with a Teflon coating. Not only does the combo of these materials make the jacket very durable, but also anti-fouling and anti-static.
The inner jacket felt very comfortable on my skin due to its cotton insulation. I liked the collection buckle on the high collar and a 2-way zipper, with both of these features being more than capable of keeping the wind at bay when I was wearing the inner jacket on its own.
It goes without saying, but combining it with the outer jacket gave me a proper winter jacket that I was able to use in cold-weather backcountry escapades without any worries.
One thing that makes this Wantdo garment particularly unique among 3-in-1 jackets is that its liner needs to be turned inside out whenever you feel like combining the two layers together. In that way, the pockets that are situated on the liner turn into internal pockets, allowing the wearer to access them whenever he or she is wearing both layers together.
Wearing just the liner on its own, on the other hand, provides you with two non-zippered hand-warming pockets. You will, however, find plenty of other pockets with zippers on this liner/shell jacket. On the shell, you will find a media-compatible inner pocket, a chest pocket, and two hand-warming pockets.
Overall, I consider this model to be among those rare 3-in-1 jackets that provide their users with genuinely enough room for all of their trekking essentials.
PROS:
- An inexpensive liner/shell jacket with lots of features
- The cotton-insulated liner provides sufficient warmth
- Lots of pockets
CONS:
- The inner layer is not waterproof
7. The North Face ThermoBall Eco Snow Triclimate Jacket
Features:
- DryVent water resistance
- Six pockets in total
- ThermoBall insulation
- Adjustable hood
- Great for resort skiers and snowboarders
The North Face ThermoBall Eco Snow Triclimate Jacket reliably provides reliable insulation in low temperatures.
The versatile layering system pairs a cozy sweater with a protective hardshell for customizable insulation. After testing on a bitter backcountry weekend, the midlayer’s heat-trapping synthetic down kept my core toasty-warm when mercury plunged below zero.
Venturing into the gladed wilderness, DryVent’s waterproof-breathable shield successfully managed to block soggy buildups. Moreover, having the option to shed the hardshell when the clouds go away is just brilliant – it prevented me from experiencing a sauna-like sweatfest.
I loved being able to tailor the configuration to conditions and activity levels rather than baking or shivering in a fixed insulating layer all day.
However, overlapping fabric tended to snag and tug at critical moments, compromising my range of motion. And despite handy pit zips, ventilating heat buildup while hustling through endless fields proved marginal at best.
I also wish the powder skirt was removable, but I’d never take that as a serious downside.
While handy ski-specific touches like an interior goggle wipe and pass pocket boost convenience, better-valued modular systems exist, and they don’t restrict movement as much as this model does.
Still, for those able to snag last season’s model at a discount, the Triclimate is a worthwhile investment – it’s yet another excellent North Face outerwear product.
PROS:
- Customizable layering system
- Bomber weather protection
- Loaded with ski features
CONS:
- Bulky layering causes snags
8. Columbia Eager Air Interchange 3-in-1 Jacket
Features:
- Super warm inner fleece layer
- Lightweight
- Waterproof
- 100% nylon plain weave shell
- Removable storm hood
Here we have yet another exceptionally popular Columbia 3-in-1 jacket – the Eager Air Interchange. Available in 11 colors and made out of 100% polyester (the microfleece) and 100% nylon (the outer shell), it’s a genuinely great jacket that undoubtedly deserves a closer look.
One feature that makes the Columbia Eager Air Interchange combo similar to the Whirlibird IV model from the same company is the use of the Omni-Heat particles in its manufacture. If you remember, these little dots possess heat-reflective properties and are capable of successfully retaining a lot of body heat.
The model’s shell is made out of nylon – it is both windproof and waterproof. On the shell, I found one internal secure pocket (with a zipper) and two external side pockets.
I also found a number of convenient features such as the detachable and adjustable hood, a high collar, cuffs with Velcro tabs, and a drawcord-adjustable hem. The hood deserves special words of praise since it’s well-made and storm-worthy.
The inner microfleece jacket comes equipped with two exterior pockets. I was able to wear it on its own, just like the outer jacket. With these two layers combined, this fleece/shell jacket became a worthy companion during a few cold-weather backcountry adventures. I really liked its relaxed, classic fit.
The 100% polyester construction of the inner jacket consists of heavy-weight filament fleece, which felt extremely comfortable and provided me with a sufficient amount of warmth.
The two jackets (or layers, to be more precise) combined weigh 2.5 pounds (a bit less for the women’s variant) and successfully keep the cold at bay in harsh winter conditions. And while this model doesn’t have a powder skirt, it can be used as a ski jacket.
Compared to the other models I’ve analyzed in this article, the Eager Air Interchange 3-in-1 Jacket isn’t as breathable. Depending on what you’re planning to use it for, it may do just fine for you. However, if you’re someone who often works outside and needs something genuinely breathable, you’re better off with one of the other models from this roundup.
PROS:
- Durable and warm nylon construction
- A windproof and waterproof fleece/shell jacket
- Plenty of convenient features on both layers
CONS:
- Not really breathable
9. Helly Hansen Swift 3-in-1 Jacket
Features:
- Polyamide & polyamide construction
- PrimaLoft insulation
- YKK zippers on pockets
- Helmet-capable hood
- Water-repellent
The Helly Hansen Swift 3-in-1 Jacket empowers tackling any winter mountain mission in customizable comfort.
The zip-in system pairs a weather-proof performance shell with a PrimaLoft-insulated liner jacket for modular versatility. During an overnight trip in the mountains, the model’s waterproof-breathable outer membrane kept soggy buildup at bay despite repeat whiteout immersions in knee-high fluff.
While venturing into remote areas, far from warming lodges, swapping the toasty midlayer fleece for a heavyweight puffy brought me furnace-like warmth.
I especially appreciated the model’s extras, like helmet-capable hood adjustments and an exterior media pocket guarding my smartphone.
However, fumbling mid-descent to extract muffled calls or skip song tracks compromises focus at inopportune moments. Interior zipper pulls also lack glove-friendly toggles. And repeatedly detached/reattached components stretched the zipper teeth, making me wonder about the jacket’s overall durability.
Despite small snags, having the modular flexibility to adapt insulation and breathability precisely to conditions makes the Swift a fantastic solution for those often hiking in unpredictable weather.
PROS:
- Customizable layering system
- Bomber weather protection
- Helmet-compatible hood
CONS:
- Tight exterior phone pocket
10. Camel Crown 3-in-1 Hooded Jacket
Features:
- Windproof and waterproof
- Soft and breathable inner fleece jacket
- Two zippered hand pockets
- Adjustable and detachable insulated storm hood
- Double poly heat system
While it certainly isn’t the most affordable jacket of this type on the market, the Camel Crown 3-in-1 Hooded Jacket is undoubtedly a budget-oriented model.
This relatively low cost of the jacket is somewhat reflected in its quality. Now, I’m not trying to say that this is a poorly-made garment – it’s just that you shouldn’t expect the superb insulation or convenient features found on jackets made by the North Face, for example.
What I’m talking about is the easiest to notice if you take a closer look at the model’s inner jacket. This is a basic hoodie made out of fleece and one that features no extra lining – this Camel Crown garment is not among the warmest jackets you can buy today.
However, the model’s outer jacket surprised me with its thickness. Combining it with the basic hoodie I’ve described above resulted in a jacket that I was actually able to use during a mild winter outing.
But still, keep in mind that this Camel Crown garment is not something you’ll want to purchase if you’re someone who often hikes in below-zero temperatures. But if you only engage in outdoor adventures during spring and autumn, CC’s Jacket 3-in-1 Hooded is a fine choice.
The shell is both stain-repellent and water-repellent, and it also boasts some windproofing features. Its zipper is seamless (always a big plus in my book), its storm hood is insulated, and its cuffs are adjustable.
As you can already see, all of these features work together to keep the cold wind out. However, the model is not a fully windproof jacket, as it lacks a drawcord at its hem.
One thing I particularly liked is the presence of 6 pockets. This turns the model into a great option for all those who want to wear something with lots of space for their belongings and hiking essentials.
It’s a pretty good jacket for camping and hiking overall – the outer jacket kept me dry and the inner jacket kept me toasty. Just don’t forget that this is not one of those jackets you should go for if you need something for trekking in the dead of winter.
PROS:
- An affordable 3-in-1 jacket you can wear during shoulder seasons
- Detachable & well-insulated hood
- Lots of pockets
CONS:
- Not for harsh winter conditions
11. Moerdeng Waterproof Hiking Jacket
Features:
- 100% polyester
- Three pockets in total
- Tuck-away hood
- Water-resistant shell
- Adjustable cuffs
Weighing scarcely more than a whisper, Moerdeng Waterproof Hiking Jacket makes an ideal active outer layer when ounce-counting matters most.
The polyester fabric’s hydrostatic rating reliably repels raindrops and sleet. The model is also one of the most breathable jackets on my list, despite its low price.
I first tested the jacket climbing misty summit trails just as menacing clouds ruptured. I had to hike in the rain for about an hour and a half, but the midlayer fleece emerged blissfully dry inside thanks to the impenetrable barrier.
The jacket’s roomy adjustable silhouette leaves space for layering base layers and midweight insulation when temperatures drop.
Two additional features that help the jacket keep the heat sealed in are the removable hood with chin guard and the wrist cinch cords. I was also able to use the model’s dual zippered pockets for my phone and keys.
The tiny packed size of this jacket allowed me to easily stuff it into my daypack, making it an essential emergency shell on iffy weather rambles.
For a bare-bones waterproof defense at a bargain budget, Moerdeng’s minimalist offering certainly gets the job done.
PROS:
- Ultralight & packable
- Cost-effective price
- Breathable layering piece
CONS:
- Exterior phone access requires stopping
12. Marmot Minimalist Component Jacket
Features:
- Gore-Tex technology
- DWR-treated shell
- Adjustable Velcro Cuffs
- Adjustable hood with peripheral cord
- Three pockets in total
The last model in my roundup is Marmot Minimalist Component Jacket, a product that modularly melds a rugged Paclite Gore-Tex shell with a cozy removable midlayer for customizable insulation across seasons.
As an avid backcountry explorer, I’ve had a chance to test numerous 3-in-1 jackets. Testing Marmot’s latest offering during a week-long backcountry escapade, the model’s breathable waterproof shield managed to successfully keep bone-chilling buildup (and hypothermia!) at bay.
Every time I ventured above treeline, I swapped the toasty synthetic sweater for the expedition-weight down puffy, which brought me the much-needed furnace-like heat.
I especially appreciated hand pockets on both components for easily accessing snacks or heat packs while trail breaking. However, the jacket lacks media-compatible pockets with headphone ports (very important for folks who want to pump motivating tunes during grueling ascents).
The model’s storm-flapped front zippers promise water resistance, but uncoated coil dangerously exposes insulating layers underneath when repeatedly opened/closed. And a 30.5-inch back length left my frame with a slight plumbers’ crack gap, requiring vigilant waist cinching for full coverage.
But for versatile 3-season protection from fickle elements at the cost of a single winter parka, the Marmot Minimalist Component Jacket can and will stand the test of any alpine trial.
PROS:
- Fully featured shell & midlayer
- Total waterproof breathability
- Sized for layering flexibility
CONS:
- Short back length on taller frames
Buying Guide for the Best Men’s Waterproof 3-in-1 Jackets
Why Should I Get a 3-in-1 Jacket?
The biggest advantage of these jackets is pretty obvious – their multifunctionality. If you decide to spend a bit more money and get a jacket of this type, you’ll have something you’ll be able to wear year-round.
Yes, you’ll have to fork out more money than you would for a regular jacket, but keep in mind that you’ll be getting three different jackets.
The jackets of this type always have two components – the inner layer, which is packable and insulated, and the outer shell, which is typically water-repellent and lightweight.
When combined together, these two layers form a fully water-repellent, winter-ready jacket that traps the heat and provides the necessary warmth.
The Type
To find a 3-in-1 jacket that will actually be useful to you, consider what kinds of garments you usually wear.
For example, if you need something for skiing, your best bet is to purchase a model that includes a well-insulated inner liner.
On the other hand, those who are into hiking or jogging should consider getting a 3-in-1 jacket whose inner liner is made out of fleece.
An important thing to mention here is that not all of the models I’ve analyzed in this article are proper winter jackets. Some of them aren’t as toasty and don’t weigh as much, which means that they’re much more suitable for shoulder seasons.
The Insulation
As with all other types of garments, the insulation depends from jacket to jacket. In most cases, only a single layer will be insulated – the inner one. Sometimes, the manufacturer will use goose or duck down, and sometimes they’ll go with synthetic materials. While I’m on the topic of jacket materials, I highly recommend checking out my fleece vs softshell comparison.
One extremely important thing to keep in mind here is that models sporting down insulation aren’t 100% water-repellent. Those who want both layers of their 3-in-1 jacket to be fully water-resistant should definitely go for synthetic insulation – it offers a far better performance in wet conditions.
However, a 3-in-1 jacket using this type of insulation is almost never as packable or lightweight as the one filled with duck or goose down.
Is packability more important to you than resistance to moisture? Or is it the other way around? Maybe you’d be better off with a rain poncho? Take all these questions into consideration while shopping.
Additional Features
The best jacket of this type will come equipped with taped seams and waterproof zippers on multiple internal and external pockets, allowing you to securely stash your small essentials.
It will also feature hook-and-loop cuffs and an adjustable drawcord hem, working in tandem to create a customizable snug fit for sealing out the elements.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – my detailed reviews of the market’s most popular 3-in-1 waterproof jackets for men.
I consider the Columbia Whirlibird IV Interchange Jacket to be the best garment of this type you can get for the money. However, make sure to check out the rest of the models in my roundup – one of them may be just what you’re looking for.
I love hiking, backpacking, and camping. From the Camino de Santiago to the West Highland Way in Scotland or simply a great day hike on the weekend. Hiking refreshes me, my mind, and keeps my body reasonably fit. So far I have walked three Camino routes and many other long distance hikes in the UK, Canada, and around the rest of Europe. One of the best was my hike up Ben Nevis.