Looking for a waterproof 3 in 1 jacket? Well, you’re certainly in the right place – I found the 10 best ones, and I will tell you everything there is to know about them!
At A Glance: Top Picks for The Best Waterproof 3 in 1 Jackets
3 in 1 jackets are usually popular because they are very functional. You are getting three jackets for the price of one, and many people see that as great value for money. And I completely agree – especially when you can pick up a 3 in 1 jacket for as low as $20.
Yes, that’s one of the jackets featured in this review. I will show you both affordable and more expensive options so that there is something for everyone’s budget!
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Best Value
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Best Overall
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Premium Option
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Best for Sports
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North Face actually has a few different types of this 3 in 1 jacket. I’m showing you the original one here, which is mostly designed for hiking. It is lightweight and has features that make it windproof in addition to the seam-sealed construction – Velcro cuff tabs and a hem cinch-cord.
The Triclimate jacket is waterproof, windproof, and really warm. The inner layer is insulated with PrimaLoft ThermoBall (hence the name), which is synthetic insulation. It mimics the properties of down, and it is able to trap body heat just like a 600 fill power goose-down jacket would.
But it offers much better performance in wet weather. And, in case you ever get too hot in this jacket, the pit-zip vents are there to help you air things out.
The outer layer of this hardshell jacket features North Face’s DryVent membrane. It’s their proprietary technology that is meant to rival Gore-Tex jackets since it has similar properties. It is breathable and waterproof, guaranteeing you complete protection in all kinds of weather conditions.
And the DWR (durable water repellent) finish helps improve the water resistance of the inner layer significantly as well.
Both layers of this jacket feature zippered pockets, but you don’t have access to all of them if you’ve combined the layers into one. Additionally, the outer jacket is compatible with complementary garments from North Face. So, if you want to wear the outer shell with a different jacket from North Face, you should be able to do that.
The Outdoor Master jacket is a great affordable option. The jacket is actually less than $100, which is a great deal even for a single jacket! It’s made up of two layers – the outer shell is waterproof and breathable, while the inner shell is meant to keep you warm with plush lining.
The inner layer has a fleece exterior, so it is not waterproof. But it is almost like a hoody, so it’s a great option for hiking, camping, jogging, and similar outdoor activities. And since it’s so cozy, it’s actually a layer that you can wear inside, when it gets really chilly. The fleece jacket has two zippered hand-warming pockets and a pretty high collar that will keep your chin warm.
The outer layer is coated with Teflon and waterproof. It is really lightweight on its own, but it’s not warm at all. It’s something you can wear over a hoody, or in late spring when it’s still raining a lot, but it’s pretty warm outside. The shell has both internal and external pockets, including a chest pocket for easy access to your phone.
This is actually a 3 in 1 ski jacket, so it has some ski-friendly features. That includes a removable hood, waterproof YKK zippers, and adjustable cuffs. It doesn’t have dedicated pockets for skiing gear, but it will definitely keep you warm on the slopes.
If you want an affordable 3 in 1 jacket, this is a good choice. It’s not at all expensive, but that’s somewhat reflected in the quality of the jacket. I’m not saying that it’s a bad jacket at all – just don’t expect North Face or Mountain Hardware quality. And you can mostly notice that on the inner layer – it is a simple fleece hoody that doesn’t have any additional lining, so it’s not too warm.
The outer layer is pretty thick, so when you combine the two you get a jacket that is warm enough for mild winters. But not something you can wear when it gets below zero. However, some of you might be looking for that, and in that case, this is a really good choice for you.
The shell is waterproof and stains repellent, with some windproof features. The cuffs are adjustable, the storm hood is insulated and detachable and the zipper is seamless – all of those help keep the wind out. But there is no drawcord at the hem, so it is not a completely windproof jacket.
There are 6 pockets total on the jacket, which is actually pretty good. You’ll have space for all your on-the-go gear, and that’s great for all adventurous outdoor activities.
Actually, I think this is a great jacket for hiking, mountain climbing, and even camping – the inner layer will keep you sufficiently warm, and the outer layer will keep you dry. However, it is not a jacket I would recommend for the dead of winter since it is not warm enough for that.
The WantDo jacket is another affordable option. But this WantDo Warm jacket is actually of a much higher quality than other jackets in a similar price range. The outer layer is made from Teslan fabric and it is coated with Teflon, for waterproofing and breathability. The outer fabric is also anti-static and anti-fouling, which significantly increases its durability.
The inner layer is insulated with cotton and it is pretty warm. It features a two-way zipper and a collection buckle on the collar, which do a great job at keeping the wind out even when you’re wearing only the liner. And when you’re wearing both layers, you have a proper winter jacket that’s warm even when the temperature drops below zero.
When you want to attach the two layers together, you are supposed to turn the liner inside out. That way the liner’s external pockets become internal pockets, and you have access to them when you’re wearing both jackets combined. And when you’re wearing just the liner, you have two external hand-warming pockets. They are not zippered though, which is a small downside.
But you do have plenty of other zippered pockets. The shell has two hand pockets and one on the chest, all of which are zippered. And there is also an internal zippered pocket on the shell, that also has a hole for your earphones. Overall, the WantDo 3 in 1 jacket gives you plenty of space for your necessary gear.
The Whirlibird is actually one of the best 3 in 1 jacket you could get. For one thing, it is made by Columbia, so you have a pretty good idea of the level of quality you’ll get. Also, this is an older model, so it is heavily discounted. And the sizes of the jacket range from small to 6XL – perfect if you’re in need of a plus-size jacket.
The outer layer of this jacket is waterproof, breathable, and seam-sealed, thanks to Columbia’s Omni-Tech fabrics. This is Columbia’s technology that allows the shell of the jacket to breathe, and lets any moisture inside evaporate, but doesn’t let any water from the outside get in the jacket. The end result is that you are always dry, warm, and really comfortable.
The inner layer of this jacket has Omni-Heat lining – Columbia’s proprietary material. It consists of tiny reflective dots that help retain your body heat and reflect it so that you are always warm. And it works like a charm; pretty much all of Columbia’s jackets with this lining are exceptionally warm and great in freezing cold weather.
Additionally, the inner layer is also water repellent, which means you’ll be able to wear it on its own more often. The Whirlibird jacket is a proper ski jacket, and it has all the necessary features to back that claim up. It has a drop tail and a powder skirt, as well adjustable cuffs that keep the draft out.
There are also pockets for your goggles, interior security pockets, and obligatory zippered hand-warming pockets on the exterior of the shell. The storm hood is removable and helmet-compatible, and the zip vents are there in case you get a little too hot in the Whirlibird 3 in 1 jacket.
The Norrland jacket features a waterproof outer shell and a soft fleece inner jacket. The shell is made from Texapore – Jack Wolfskin’s proprietary material. It is fully windproof and waterproof and even has good breathability. The material feels soft like cotton, but it repels moisture very well.
The inner jacket is made from medium-warmth fleece – Nanuk 150. Nanuk fleece ratings go up to 300, which is considered very warm. So, the Norrland liner is about half that. Because of that, this is not a jacket for really cold weather. It’s great for late fall and early winter when the temperatures still haven’t dropped below zero.
It is actually a great jacket for hiking and trekking since it will protect you from the rain and keep you warm enough. But keep in mind that those are activities where you’re already pretty warm since you’re moving all the time. The shell is completely windproof, with cinch in cords at the hem and collar, and Velcro tabs on the cuffs.
There are two zippered pockets on the outer jacket, and two hand-warming open pockets on the fleece jacket. You can’t access the latter two when you’re wearing both jackets at the same time, and that’s a small downside. But you do have an internal slip pocket, which makes up for that a little bit. The hood on the outer shell is adjustable, but not removable, and it is not helmet-compatible.
Patagonia is renowned for their premium winter jackets that is for sure! And these 3-in-1 options are going to keep you toasty warm, as well as providing great layering options. There is a men’s version (the Snowshot) as well as a women’s specific model (the Snowbelle).
Starting with the outer layer, Patagonia has used their H2No Performance Standard waterproof/breathable material with a slick inner lining. This means you can move freely and be assured of staying warm and dry.
The zip-out inner can be reversed and is made from super-lightweight (60g) polyester that is 90% recycled. Yes, that’s right. Patagonia lives up to its name of taking the environment seriously, even when most manufacturers don’t.
Of course, that also means this is a premium brand and they have prices to match. However, their quality combined with sustainable production makes it worth it in my eyes. However, often they have end-of-season sales on their site too, so be on the lookout for those!
The Arrowood Triclimate jacket is an excellent choice if you need something for the trails. It is remarkably lightweight – about 2 lbs for the men’s option, and 1.67 lbs for the women’s option. And that’s both jackets combined. The outer shell alone is feather-light, and it can easily fit into any hiking backpack.
It features a DryVent 2L membrane with seam-sealed construction, which is fully waterproof, windproof, and breathable at the same time. The adjustable cuffs and cinch-in hem also help keep the draft out at all times, so that you can stay warm regardless of the weather outside. I wouldn’t really recommend this jacket for the dead of winter, but it’s a great waterproof sports jacket.
The inner jacket is actually made from hard face fleece, so it’s not as soft and fuzzy as you might expect it. But it is rather warm, which I think is more important anyway. It has two hand-warming pockets, but you can’t use them if the shell and the liner are zipped together. And it actually makes a really nice hoody that you can wear inside when you get chilly.
The outer shell has three zippered pockets – two for the hands and one on the chest. But the lower pockets are not lined, so they are definitely not designed for hand warming. They are fully waterproof though, so you can safely keep your phone inside one of them when it’s pouring outside. And the hood is pretty big – it doesn’t really lie flat, which could irritate you when driving.
The Bugaboo jacket is another one that combines a waterproof shell with a fleece liner. But this is one of the few that actually works in really cold weather, because of Columbia’s Omni-Tech technology. It is used in the outer jacket, in order to make it fully waterproof and windproof, as well as breathable. So, even the Bugaboo shell should be sufficiently warm for colder fall days.
And it is not windproof just because of Omni-Tech. It also has a chin guard, adjustable cuffs, a drawcord at the waist, and a storm hood. But that’s only for the outer jacket; the liner alone is neither windproof nor waterproof since it is made of fleece. It is, however, really soft and warm – the fleece itself is actually thermal-reflective (Omni-Heat). And even cozy enough to wear around the house.
Both jackets work as an outer layer in moderately cold weather. You can wear a single layer for hiking, camping, or just when you’re running errands around the town. And when you combine them together, you have a proper winter jacket that will get you through almost everything.
The hood of the outer shell is removable, which will come in handy if you want to use this as a ski jacket. Also, there are several pockets on this jacket – another handy feature for the slopes. You have the external hand warming pockets on both the inner and the outer jacket, and you also get a media pocket and a secure internal pocket. Plenty of space for your ski pass, phone, goggles, and whatnot.
The Storm jacket consists of a waterproof shell and a fleece inner jacket. The shell features IsoDry fabric that makes it fully waterproof, while the mesh lining inside helps the fabric breathe.
And it has several features that keep the draft out successfully – adjustable hem and cuffs, storm flap closure, and an adjustable hood. Those features also help you make the jacket fit your body perfectly, which is always a nice addition.
Mountain Warehouse made the fleece liner anti-pill, to prevent the little balls of fluff that you get after washing your jacket or rubbing it against other materials. It’s not a revolutionary feature, but it is pretty thoughtful and will save you some time when washing your jacket.
One benefit of this jacket is the size variety – men’s options range from 2XS to 2XL, while women’s range from 0 to 18. That’s a lot of variety, so it should be pretty easy for you to get a size that fits just right. The jacket generally runs true to size, although it can be a little big for some people.
Both the liner and the outer shell have zippered hand pockets. But there is a design oversight with this jacket as well, where you can’t really access the pockets on the liner when you’re wearing the two layers attached. And you at least get an internal media pocket, which is compatible with your headphones, so that you can easily listen to music on the go.
3 in 1 jacket is multifunctional, and they are great for people who want to spend a little bit more money to have an item they can wear all year round. Yes, you are spending more than you usually would on a jacket, but you are basically getting three different jackets. For me, that’s completely worth it.
All of these jackets consist of two layers. The outer layer is usually lightweight and waterproof, and it is perfect for rainy but warm seasons. The inner layer is often insulated and packable, and it’s great for colder days. But when you combine the layers together, you have an ultra-warm and waterproof winter jacket, that you can wear when it gets really cold out.
For me, 3 in 1 jackets are great value for money. Instead of buying a raincoat, a parka, a ski jacket, and a down jacket, you can buy just one of these and have the functionality of all others combined. So, if you don’t actually like shopping for jackets or don’t have enough storage space for several of them, this is a great way to kill two birds with one stone.
What type of a 3 in 1 jacket would you like to get? Because there are some pretty big differences between them. The inner layer is the thing that varies the most – in some cases, it’s a down-insulated jacket, in others, it’s synthetically insulated and waterproof, and sometimes it’s just a plain fleece jacket.
So, consider what kinds of jacket you mostly wear now – that’s the best way to find a 3 in 1 jacket that you’ll really get the most from. If you want a jacket that you can wear skiing, then definitely get one with an insulated inner layer.
On the other hand, if you often go jogging or hiking, then a fleece inner layer is a good fit for you. You’ll probably wear it more often than a down layer since it is not as warm.
It’s all about your lifestyle and getting a 3 in 1 jacket that fits perfectly into it. So, don’t think – oh I have a down jacket so I probably should get something else here. But rather – oh, well I know I love this, so if I get something like this I’m sure I will wear it a lot.
Additionally, not all jackets in this review are proper winter jackets. Some are lighter and less warm, so they are a better option for the transitional seasons or sporty outdoor adventures. If that’s not what you’re looking for, check out the cons section – I’ll tell you there if it is not a proper winter jacket.
Insulation of 3 in 1 Jackets
This really depends from jacket to jacket. Usually, only the inner layer is insulated. Sometimes it’s synthetic insulation and sometimes it’s duck or goose down – figure out which type of insulation you prefer. You can check out my post on down vs. synthetic to help out with that if you’re not sure which you like best.
One thing to keep in mind is that down-insulated jackets are never 100% waterproof. So, if you want both layers of the jacket to be waterproof, you should go with synthetic insulation. Down clusters get clumped when they are wet, and they are not able to trap as much air as when they are dry.
Synthetics, on the other hand, have the benefit of being able to act down in dry conditions, but with much better performance in wet conditions.
However, a synthetic jacket is rarely going to be as lightweight and packable as a down jacket. So, which one is more important to you – waterproofing or packability?
Bear in mind that this only concerns the inner layers of the 3 in 1 jackets. We are talking only about waterproof jackets in this review, so the outer layer of all of them is completely waterproof.
Anyway, you can see which type of insulation is used in which jacket in the product info boxes below the images.
If you’re still not sure which one to get, I’ll show you the three jackets that I loved the most. An overall best option, the top sporty option, and my favorite affordable choice!
Columbia Whirlibird is definitely a jacket that won’t disappoint you. Both layers are really warm on their own and when you put them together you get an amazing jacket suitable even for extreme colds. Also, this is the only jacket that you can get in sizes up to 6XL, which is one of the reasons why it’s a winner.
It is very functional thanks to Columbia’s Omni-Heat and Omni-Tech materials, which do an amazing job at keeping you completely dry and warm.
If you’re looking for something a bit lighter and better suited for hiking and similar adventures, then I recommend the North Face Arrowood. The inner jacket is made from fleece, and it actually makes a really good hoody on its own.
Plus, it is a hard fleece, which is much more comfortable than regular fleece, at least for me. The outer shell features DryVent 2L, which is fully windproof and waterproof. Overall a great jacket for those of you who are active and need something sporty. But not an amazing winter coat.
The WantDo 3 in 1 jacket is also a winner – I have to give them props simple because they are the only ones that actually made sure you will be able to use the pockets on the inner jacket. You just need to turn the liner inside out, and you get two zippered internal pockets.
Plus, that also protects the outer shell of the inner jacket and helps it stay new and wearable for a longer time. Plus, this is a really warm ski jacket, so you’ll be able to wear it in all kinds of weather conditions.
You can check out the prices and more photos of these jackets on Amazon. And if you don’t really like any of them, maybe a 3 in 1 jacket is just not for you. In that case, check out some of our other reviews – maybe you’ll find a parka or a down jacket that you just love!
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