12 Best Waterproof 3-in-1 Jackets for Men

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.

It goes without saying, but unstable weather conditions such as these require jackets that are versatile, or, in other words, jackets that are capable of quick and easy adaptation to all kinds of temperatures.

And when it comes to such garments, nothing beats the so-called 3-in-1 waterproof jackets.

As their name suggests, 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.

Once you read through my short but informative and comprehensive reviews, make sure to also check out the buying guide, which you’ll find at the end of the article.

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 Whirlibird Interchange Jacket made by Columbia. 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

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 help the Mountain Warehouse Thunderstorm 3-in-1 Jacket to provide its user with a perfect fit.

The fleece liner part of this 3-in-1 jacket is anti-pill, which means that you’ll never have 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 3-in-1 jacket 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. It’s pretty safe to say that 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 allows the wearer to listen to the music on the go.

---

2. Columbia Bugaboo II Interchange Jacket

The next model in my roundup of the best 3-in-1 jackets comes from Columbia, which is 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.

Due to Columbia’s use of their proprietary Omni-Tech technology, the Interchange Jacket provides ample weather protection. It can and it will keep you 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. In other words, 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. This Columbia men’s jacket 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 to mention here is that the inner jacket, on the other hand, 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 – it is, in simple terms, heat-reflective.

In moderately cold weather, both the outer shell and the inner layer of the Interchange Jacket can be used on their own.

When you’re running errands around town or camping in the backcountry, you can simply wear a single layer and it will keep you cozy and warm. And when you combine both layers of this Columbia men’s jacket together, you get a proper, winter-ready garment that will keep you 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.

---

3. The North Face Arrowood Triclimate Jacket

Those who know a thing or two about jackets also know about the North Face.

This California-based brand is one of the most well-known manufacturers of outerwear, with their jackets being seen as status symbols and worn by many celebrities around the world. Is the company just as good when it comes to manufacturing 3-in-1 jackets?

One of the first things I noticed about this jacket was how outstandingly lightweight it is.

The women’s variant of the Arrowood Triclimate Jacket weighs only 1.67 pounds, while the men’s version 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 Arrowood Triclimate Jacket sports a DryVent 2L membrane, which makes the jacket waterproof and breathable at the same time, and also highly windproof.

Other features that keep the cold and moisture at bay include the cinch-in hem and the cuffs (which are adjustable), with these allowing the wearer to stay toasty warm regardless of the weather. The North Face Arrowood 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.

The inner layer of this North Face 3-in-1 jacket 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, and you’ll agree with me on this one, far more important.

There are two inner hand pockets on this water-resistant jacket and accessing them can be quite challenging when the inner jacket and the outer shell are zipped together.

There are also three pockets on the model’s outer shell – one chest pocket and two hand pockets. However, the ones for your hands are not lined and therefore can’t really warm your hands.

They are, however, fully waterproof, which means that you’ll be able to hold your cellphone in one of them without any worries. Finally, the model’s storm hood is quite large and never lies flat.

---

4. Jack Wolfskin Norrland 3-in-1 Jacket

One of the best 3-in-1 jackets made by Jack Wolfskin, the Norrland jacket consists of an inner jacket made out of soft fleece and a water-resistant outer shell.

One of the most important materials used in this model’s manufacture is Texapore, which is patented by Jack Wolfskin and which is breathable, waterproof, and windproof. It’s one of those materials that not only feel exceptionally soft but also repel dampness extremely well.

The inner jacket of this versatile Jack Wolfskin garment is made from Nanuk 150 – a medium-warm fleece fabric. The warmth ratings of these types of materials go up to 300, and with Norrland’s liner being at number 150 – which is half of 300 – you can expect decent warmth.

However, this also means that this is not one of those 3-in-1 jackets you’ll want to use in extremely harsh winter conditions. But it’s still a pretty good choice for backcountry escapades during the shoulder seasons.

In my opinion, this Jack Wolfskin garment is one of the best 3-in-1 jackets for trekking and hiking, since it’s more than capable of keeping one warm and protected from moisture.

The model’s outer shell is waterproof and windproof, with Velcro tabs on the cuffs and cinch cords at the high collar and the hem.

On the outer layer of the Norrland 3-in-1 jacket, you will find two zippered pockets. The inner jacket, on the other hand, comes equipped with two hand pockets. The latter two cannot be accessed when the wearer is using both jackets at once, which is a small but noticeable disadvantage.

There is also a single interior pocket and a non-removable hood. Although this is an adjustable hood, it is not helmet-compatible.

---

5. Columbia Whirlibird Interchange Jacket

Even though Columbia is well-known for making inexpensive garments, they often manage to design and manufacture jackets that are both affordable and great, in every sense of that word.

Here we have one of the best 3-in-1 jackets you can purchase on today’s market – the Columbia Whirlibird Interchange Jacket.

First of all, this Columbia men’s jacket is made by one of the world’s most renowned manufacturers of outerwear, even though this brand is well-known for the affordability of its products.

Two important facts to keep in mind here are that the sizes of this jacket range from S to 6XL and that the model is quite old and heavily discounted. In other words, it’s easy on the budget (particularly if we take into account how good it is) and not being able to find it in the right size is next to impossible.

Just as I expected, the outer shell of the Columbia Whirlibird Interchange Jacket is made with the use of Omni-Tech technology and is therefore seam-sealed, breathable, and waterproof.

This proprietary Columbia technology allows the moisture to evaporate from the shell’s fabric while at the same time preventing water from getting inside the jacket. This results in the wearer always being comfortable, warm, and dry.

The Omni-Heat Thermal-Reflective technology is also here, and it’s present in the jacket’s lining. A fabric made with the Omni-Heat technology consists of many little dots that are reflective and capable of retaining body heat.

Every jacket made by Columbia that uses this innovative technology performs exceptionally well in cold weather, and the same is true for this model. In addition, its inner jacket is water-resistant – you’ll be able to wear it on its own without any worries.

One thing I particularly liked about this innovative Columbia garment is that it’s also a proper ski jacket. This is because it sports all the features that make a good 3-in-1 ski jacket, such as the adjustable cuffs, a powder skirt, and a drop tail.

The model is also equipped with a number of pockets, with the most interesting one being the goggles pocket. The model’s storm hood, on the other hand, can be removed and is helmet-compatible, while its zip vents come in very handy when you’re feeling too hot inside the jacket.

---

6. Wantdo Waterproof 3-in-1 Ski Jacket

Here we have a genuinely inexpensive option offered by a company called Wantdo. However, this 3-in-1 jacket is actually 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 Taslan fabric with a Teflon coating. Not only do these materials make this model very durable, but also anti-fouling and anti-static.

The inner jacket of this 3-in-1 combo feels very comfortable on the skin due to its cotton insulation. Here, you will find a collection buckle on the high collar and a 2-way zipper, and both of these features are more than capable of keeping the wind at bay when you’re wearing the inner jacket on its own.

It goes without saying, but combining it with the outer jacket gives you a proper winter jacket that you’ll be able to use in cold-weather backcountry escapades without any worries.

One thing that makes this Wantdo garment unique among 3-in-1 jackets is that the 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, this is one of those rare 3-in-1 jackets that provide their users with genuinely enough room for all of their trekking essentials.

---

7. The North Face Triclimate ThermoBall Eco Jacket

The North Face designs and sells many different 3-in-1 jackets, one of which I’ve already analyzed (the Arrowood jacket). Here, we have a model designed specifically for hikers, and its name is the ThermoBall Eco Triclimate Jacket.

Not only is this model genuinely lightweight (particularly the women’s version), but its seam-sealed construction, with a hem-cinch cord and Velcro cuff tabs, also makes it completely windproof.

If you want to wear a jacket that is warm, windproof, and waterproof, the Triclimate ThermoBall Eco is a great choice. As its name suggests, the model uses synthetic insulation – PrimaLoft ThermoBall – and is, therefore, extremely good when it comes to keeping the cold at bay.

The greatest thing about this type of insulation is that it successfully imitates down, and works just like the 600-fill power down insulation would. However, its performance in wet weather is far better when compared to regular down insulation.

You won’t have to worry about feeling too hot inside the Triclimate Jacket, though – the model features pit-zip vents which will allow you to let some cold air in whenever you feel like doing so.

The outer section of this inner jacket/outer shell combo sports DryVent, which is a proprietary water-repellent membrane made by the North Face.

As you can already guess, its job is to guarantee complete protection from moisture at all times – it is water-resistant and breathable, and, in that way, rivals the well-known Gore-Tex membrane. This waterproof jacket also features a DWR finish, which only further improves its water-repelling properties.

Whichever of the two layers you decide to wear (or both of them together), you’ll have plenty of pockets for your trekking essentials. What is more, this model is compatible with some other jackets made by the North Face.

So, if you decide to wear the outer shell of the Triclimate ThermoBall Eco Jacket with one of your other TNF jackets, you should be able to do so.

---

8. Columbia Eager Air Interchange 3-in-1 Jacket

Here we have yet another exceptionally popular Columbia 3-in-1 jacket – the Eager Air Interchange. Available in 15 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 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 as much body heat as possible.

As I’ve already mentioned, the model’s shell is made out of nylon, but it’s both windproof and waterproof.

On the shell, you will find one internal secure pocket (with a zipper) and two external side pockets.

You will also find 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 very well-made and storm-worthy.

The inner microfleece jacket, on the other hand, comes equipped with two exterior pockets. You can wear it on its own, just like the outer jacket. With these two layers combined, this fleece/shell jacket becomes a worthy companion for cold-weather backcountry adventures, and one with a relaxed, classic fit.

The 100% polyester construction of the inner jacket that I’ve mentioned consists of heavy-weight filament fleece, which is extremely comfortable and provides the wearer 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.

Are there any downsides to the Columbia Eager Air Interchange Jacket? Compared to the other models I’ve analyzed in this article, this one isn’t as breathable.

Depending on what you’re planning to use this fleece/shell jacket for, it may do just fine for you. However, if you’re someone who often works out outside and needs something genuinely breathable, you’re better off with one of the other jackets from this roundup.

---

9. Under Armour Storm 3-in-1 Jacket

The next 3-in-1 jacket on my list comes from a Baltimore-based company called Under Armour.

Their Storm 3-in-1 jacket is available in 4 different colors, weighs 1 pound (that’s the men’s version – no women’s version of this jacket is available), and comes equipped with many interesting features worth checking out.

Like most other models I’ve reviewed in this article, the Under Armour Storm 3-in-1 Jacket also consists of a shell jacket and inner jacket.

The shell is made out of taffeta lining and twill fabric and has been manufactured through the use of the so-called UA Storm technology.

As the name suggests, this technology increases the garment’s resistance to winds and water, but it also makes it breathable at the same time and therefore suitable for a range of outdoor activities.

Besides UA Storm, another proprietary technology used in the manufacture of this jacket is the ColdGear Infrared technology. Jackets made with this tech feature a thermo-conductive coating whose job is to retain the heat and provide the wearer with sufficient warmth.

An important thing to mention here is that this tech works quite a bit differently than the one found in Columbia garments I’ve analyzed in this article. Here, the shell is made to contain a special print of ceramic molecules, and these don’t reflect the heat but rather absorb it.

To put it simply, this technology stores the heat while you’re active and then provides you with it when you’re not. Pretty impressive, wouldn’t you say?

In terms of pockets, you will find a zippered pocket with a hole for your audio device and two hand pockets, both of which have their own zippers.

The inner jacket of the Under Armour Storm 3-in-1 combo is made out of high-loft fleece that is not only exceptionally lightweight but also effortlessly traps body heat. This is a quick-dry and moisture-wicking material.

Finally, the inner jacket has its own set of hand pockets, and these can come in very handy whenever you want to wear it on its own. It attaches to the shell through hook-and-loops, which are located behind the hood and on the cuffs, and via the zipper.

---

10. Camel Crown 3-in-1 Hooded Jacket

While it certainly isn’t the most affordable jacket of this type available on the market, the 3-in-1 Hooded Jacket designed and manufactured by Camel Crown is undoubtedly a budget-oriented model.

This 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 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 is surprisingly thick. Combining it with the basic hoodie I’ve described above results in a jacket that you can actually use during milder winters.

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.

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.

Speaking generally, it’s a pretty good jacket for camping and hiking overall – the outer jacket keeps the wearer dry and the inner jacket keeps him (or her – there’s also a women’s variant) 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.

---

11. OutdoorMaster 3-in-1 Waterproof Jacket

Here we have yet another highly affordable option – the OutdoorMaster 3-in-1 jacket can be obtained for less than $100. As far as I’m concerned, that would be a pretty good deal even if this was a single-layer jacket.

However, just like all other jackets in this roundup, this one also consists of two components – the inner layer which boasts a plush lining and which keeps its wearer cozy, and the breathable but water-resistant outer shell.

The inner layer of this combo is not water-repellent as it sports a fleece exterior. However, it looks and feels almost like your regular hoodie, so it can come in quite handy for outdoor activities such as jogging, camping, or hiking.

And due to the fact that it’s so comfortable, it’s also something you’ll be able to wear inside your home during chilly weather. This component also has a high collar and a set of two hand pockets with their own zippers.

The outer jacket, on the other hand, is water-repellent due to the fact that it’s coated with Teflon. On its own, it is quite lightweight but doesn’t provide a lot of warmth.

You will, however, be able to wear it on its own during late spring, early fall, or whenever it’s sufficiently sunny outside. Here, you will find a number of both external and internal pockets, including a convenient chest pocket.

In my opinion, the best thing about the OutdoorMaster 3-in-1 Jacket is that it comes equipped with a couple of ski-friendly features. These include cuffs that are adjustable, water-repellent YKK zippers, and a hood that is both removable and adjustable.

You’ll find no skiing gear pockets though, but the model will certainly keep you toasty on the slopes. A women’s variant of this jacket is also available.

---

12. Marmot KT Component Jacket

The very last jacket of this type I’m going to analyze comes from California-based Marmot, which is one of the world’s most renowned manufacturers of outdoor recreation clothing.

When compared to a lot of the other models I’ve analyzed in this article, this jacket is quite lightweight – it weighs just a bit over 1.5 pounds. That’s for the men’s version – unfortunately, the women’s variant of this jacket is not available.

The shell component of this combo features MemBrain, which is Marmot’s proprietary lamination technology that repels moisture while allowing the jacket to breathe at the same time.

Unlike many other Marmot jackets (which use just nylon), this one uses 100% mini-ripstop nylon (for the liner) and 100% polyester (for the outer jacket).

With fully taped seams, this is one of those genuinely water-repellent jackets, and I’ve expected no less from a brand as renowned as Marmot.

The model also features things like zipped pit vents, a removable hood, as well as cuffs that are adjustable. There are also a lot of pockets here – a zippered one on one of the sleeves, two chest pockets with water-repellent zippers, and two regular hand pockets.

Are there any other features worth mentioning? The Marmot KT Component Jacket has a hem with an elastic drawcord and its cuffs can be easily adjusted via the Velcro tabs.

Furthermore, its inner liner sports insulation of its own – the Thermal R insulation. This is a special type of synthetic insulation that works very well in cold weather and effortlessly keeps the jacket’s wearer toasty and comfortable.

---

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.

Taking a good look at your own lifestyle should help you determine what kind of a 3-in-1 jacket would suit you the best.

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.

Related:

• Fleece vs Softshell
• Lightweight rain jackets
• Rain poncho

One extremely important thing to keep in mind here is that models sporting down insulation aren’t 100% water-repellent. In other words, 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?