Sailing clothing is the most necessary weather gear for sailors. This is because sailors are constantly exposed to saltwater alongside harsh weather conditions for the most part of the day. And this is why it’s important to invest in sailing clothing before setting sail. The best sailing brands offer everything from a base to mid to outer layer as well as tech jackets and tech bottoms which use the most durable materials and fabrics. As a sailing enthusiast remember to understand your needs before making your purchase. In this article, we’re going to list the best sailing jackets available in 2021 in order to help you choose the one that suits your needs!

Important Things To Know When Looking For a Sailing Jacket

• Material: Sailing jackets have to use synthetic materials like Nylon, Polyester, Polyurethane, and Neoprene so as to ensure durability. These materials are also water-resistant, breathable, and particularly lightweight. They tend to quickly repel water while keeping you warm and protected on the inside. Furthermore, they provide great flexibility that won’t restrict your movement while sailing. Lastly, the materials will determine the durability and longevity of your jacket. Meaning that your jacket has to withstand wear and tear and to saltwater environments.
• Waterproof and Lightweight: What are the most important features that make a sailing jacket being the best? Well, it has to be waterproof, windproof, and lightweight. This is because these characteristics will protect you from the elements while keeping you comfortable while sailing. But, keep in mind that the term waterproof is often in confusion with the word water-resistant, even though they’re not the same. Waterproof jackets tend to fully repel water and provide ultimate protection and warmth. On the other hand, water-resistant jackets might repel water but won’t resist waves and continuous sea spray. Lastly, some jackets use waterproof material while others have a waterproof treatment.

>>Also Read: Best Sailing Clothing Brands

Sailing Jacket Design and Size

• Fit and Size: Always choose the correct fit and size that won’t restrict your movements. Sometimes men’s and women’s sailing jackets don’t have the same fit between them so always try them before purchasing. Prefer a comfortable and relaxed fit that won’t prevent you from anchoring, rigging, etc. Also, the proper fit and size will determine how warm the jacket keeps you. For example, if you buy a large size then you’ll leave spaces for the wind and cold to get in. Lastly, if you don’t know your size, look for a brand-specific size chart. Most brands list a size chart that gives the sizing equivalent with various measurements of the shoulder, chest, and waist.
• Pockets and Zippers: A smart and durable design will have features like waterproofing, lightweight, pockets, zippers, vents, straps, adjustments, and more. Remember that the smarter the design the more you can adjust your jacket to fit you and meet your sailing needs. Pockets and zippers are important for sailors as you can store your small items inside and ensure that nothing falls out. Choose a jacket that will have more than two interior and exterior pockets so that you won’t lack storage. Also, look for the right size of pockets as some might be large while you want them to be small, or vice-versa.

>>Also Read: Best Sailing Foul Weather Gear

Best Men’s Sailing Jackets

Helly Hansen Men’s Crew Midlayer Rain and Sailing Jacket

On top of our list, it’s Helley Hansen’s sailing jacket made from 100% Polyester material. This makes the jacket flexible and resistant to wrinkles or shrinking. The jacket also has quick-dry Helly Tech protection and has a great feature of waterproofness. This means that the jacket benefits from the Durable Water Repellency Treatment (DWR). Moreover, it’s fully seamed so as to protect you from harsh winds and has handwarmer pockets. Lastly, it has great breathability and fits well with both males and females. So, if you’re looking for a waterproof jacket that can resist ocean winds, choose this one. You can check it out on Amazon here.

Navis Marine Offshore Sailing Jacket

The Navis Marine lightweight is a 2 in 1 sailing jacket. Meaning that it’s both windproof and waterproof; among the top choices for foul weather gear. The jacket has a nylon outer seratex shell and nylon-made zippers with pull-tabs. Also, it has retro-reflective piping on the shoulders, sleeves, and collar. A fleece-lined sailing jacket with handwarmer pockets that ensures protection from the elements. You can find it in six different colors; from brighter colors such as yellow and red to darker colors. Check it out right here.

WindRider Racing Spray Top for Sailing

The WindRider Racing Spray is among the top sailing jacket choices for many sailors and water sports enthusiasts. It has an adjustable waist, collar, and wrists and is smartly designed to keep you dry, even in the harshest weather conditions. Furthermore, the waist has a 3-inch neoprene band that you can adjust and secure to your body. As its waist uses neoprene material, a commonly used material in wetsuits, you can tighten it down to keep it in position and prevent water from entering inside.

Another great feature is the soft PU material with Velcro adjustments for the jacket’s neck and wrists. Meaning that you can also tighten these parts so as to ensure that no water will come in. However, it’s possible for the water to seep in as these aren’t truly dry seals. In any case, the jacket has great reviews so it’s unlikely to will let you down! Check out this breathable and durable sailing jacket right here.

Helly Hansen Men’s Seven J

This jacket is specifically designed for sailors that sail in Northern climates. This mid-layer fleece-lined sailing jacket provides extra insulation that will protect you from cold and wet weather. Furthermore, it is fully lined with a Polartec fleece, has a fleece-lined collar, and handwarmer pockets that seal in the heat and provide you with added comfort. Another great feature is that it has moisture-wicking properties and is extremely breathable due to Helly’s Tech fabric. This material is great for long-lasting activities in harsh weather conditions. Also, it allows sweat to evaporate in order to keep you dry. The zipper closure helps you decide how much warmth you need inside in order to adjust it to your comfort level. So, if you want a fully protective jacket, Helly Hansen has your back. Check it out on Amazon.

Gills Men’s Coast Jacket

This sailing jacket benefits from neoprene wrists which you can close via Velcro. Moreover, it has a Roll-away fluorescent hood meaning that you can adjust the volume as well as a high cut collar with a faceguard in order to prevent you from chafing. Also, it’s fleece-lined and has handwarmer pockets and a well-sealed front zipper. If you’re looking for a sailing jacket to protect you from the elements and that will last forever and will look great while doing it then check it out on Amazon!

WindRider Pro Rain Jacket 

Another suitable foul weather jacket and great for your sailing needs is the Windrider Pro rain. This waterproof and breathable foul weather jacket will meet your needs even in the harshest weather environments. Equipped with fully taped seams and a roll-a-way hood this wind and rain Pro jacket has all the features you want. A great advantage is that it has a double storm flap that keeps the water out and a double zipper that facilitates venting and access. Its fleece-lined high collar will keep your head warm, protect you from wind and rain and keep you warm and dry. Lastly, its adjustable inner cuffs will prevent water from seeping in and the large-sized pockets will perfectly fit your belongings. You can see some more details and place your order right here.

Best Women’s Sailing Jackets

Helly-Hansen Women’s Salt Flag Jacket

This durable and breathable women’s sailing jacket is able to withstand the worst weather conditions. Even though it’s expensive, this jacket definitely worths its money. It’s extremely waterproof, lightweight, and made from durable materials. Also, it’s particularly designed for offshore cruisers, and that’s why it meets the most demanding needs in terms of performance and comfort. Furthermore, it’s extremely flexible in order to let you move freely and has an adjustable storm guard. Furthermore, its collar with a shock cord channel around the top edge is adjustable so as to ensure the perfect fit and prevent water from getting in. Lastly, it has water-resistant zips, handwarmer pockets with Rentex mesh lining, and drains fast after washing. Check it out on Amazon.

Helly-Hansen Women’s Crew Hooded Waterproof Sailing Jacket

When the weather worsens while you’re cruising long passages this waterproof and durable jacket ensures to keep you warm and dry. And more than that, you’ll be also sailing in style! Its soft fleece-lined collar, hand and chest pockets provide enough space for storing your small items. Furthermore, this sailing jacket benefits from the Durable Water Repellency treatment and has Helly tech protection. Meaning that it’s waterproof, windproof, and breathable. The adjustable bottom hem, race ID back neck pocket, and bottom hem adjustment raise its comfort level and make this jacket the favorite choice for female sailors. There’s a wide range of colors and sizes to choose from so go on and make your purchase right here.

Wantdo Women’s Mountain Waterproof Ski Jacket

The Wantdo jacket is great for all outdoor activities as well as for sailing. It’s one of Amazon’s #1 Bestseller women’s jackets made from 75D*150D Polyester, meaning that is waterproof, windproof, durable, and stain repellent. It provides a relaxed and flexible fit and dries fast due to its durable 100% polyester material. As for its design, it has 2 zippered hand pockets and 1 chest pocket and has a great ergonomic 3-structure cutting. Furthermore, it has a detachable storm hood and an internal drawcord hem. Lastly, its thermal insulation and great wind resistance guarantee to keep you warm and dry during your voyage. Check it out on Amazon.

Gill OS23 Women’s Offshore Jacket

Another top choice for women sailors is this 100% Polyester sailing jacket. Firstly, it’s designed with a solid pattern with reflective detail and has a fully lined fluorescent hood that will keep your head dry. But, what makes this jacket the best choice for women? Well, apart from being waterproof, windproof, breathable, and lightweight, it’s flexible and can be perfectly fit your body size. Moreover, it features two-layer laminated nylon fabric with a Durable Water Repellent finish, a nylon lining with mesh drainage panels, and fully taped seams. All these features make it extremely waterproof and windproof. It has two sets of fleece-lined hand warmer pockets protected by YKK AquaGuard^® water-resistant zippers.

Also, its fabric benefits from both hydrophobic (repelling) and hydrophilic (absorbing) technologies that ensure full protection from the elements. Lastly, this jacket can perfectly repel moisture away from your skin to the outside and ensure quick evaporation. So, if you’re looking for an all-in-one sailing jacket this is the one for you! Check it out on Amazon now.

Slam Jacket Portofino

The Portofino is a great all-year-round women’s sailing jacket. It has a waterproof rip-stop and high-quality windproof technology so as to keep you protected in all weather conditions. The jacket has an adjustable waist and cuffs, a long back, and a feminine-shaped fit. There are 2 lined exterior pockets and 1 internal pocket. As for its design, it has a foldaway hood, velcro cuffs, and an adjustable bottom hem, that ensure overall style and protection. Lastly, lightweight and breathable, it’s a great and comfy jacket to wear both offshore and while being on the land.

Helly Hansen Ladies Newport Coastal Jacket 

This modern women’s sailing jacket is a ¾ length waterproof gear that provides comfort and warmth. The Women’s Newport Coastal Jacket offers great protection, style, and durability due to its materials that will last wear and tear for more than 5 years. Also, it’s made from 100% Polyamide that makes it moisture resistant. It’s tall and has a fleece-lined collar and handwarmer pockets, double cuffs, High-vis Hood, and Retroreflective patches. All these combined together offer a lightweight jacket suitable for your sailing adventures overseas. Lastly, as customers say, its Helly Tech Performance is highly waterproof, windproof, and breathable. Check it out right here.

>>Also Read: What To Wear When Sailing

Summary – Best Sailing Jackets

And so, which sailing jacket is the best for your needs? Well, the best sailing jacket has to provide the ultimate protection from the elements and keep you dry on the high seas. Always look for a jacket that is made from durable materials, like Polyester or Neoprene, and able to withstand wear and tear as well as extreme weather conditions. Also, prefer your jacket to be lightweight and flexible so as not to restrain your movements while performing tasks on board. A great sailing jacket has to keep you warm during the winter and dry when the waves and storms get rough.

To sum up, choose a waterproof, windproof, breathable, moisture repellent, and lightweight jacket equipped with pockets and zippers. Lastly, remember that investing in durable foul weather clothing is a must before setting sail. I hope that this article will help you find the best sailing men’s or women’s jacket and protect you all-year-round. Bon voyage!