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Best 3 in 1 Jacket: The Best Solutions to Fluctuating Weather Conditions

Written by Kane Dane

At some point in your mountain skiing, camping or hiking adventures, you might have been inconvenienced by the fluctuating weather conditions and unstable temperatures. That could have probably prompted you to overload your body with many clothes more especially in winter outings to keep it warm, when, having one of the best 3 in 1 jacket would be such a smart choice.

Unfortunately, too many clothes often lead to massive sweat because there are no features to regulate your body heat. Having mentioned this, an alternative solution to unforeseeable inconvenient temperatures is needed. In rainy seasons, in particular, it usually gets worse because then you have to carry umbrellas or rain coats for protection against the precipitation. Eventually you might end up not enjoying your snowboarding activity due to overloaded clothes.

Moreover, valuables such as phones and watches that are water sensitive need waterproof protections in times of downpour days. Otherwise, they will get damaged and you will be losing more money. Would you like that? Obviously, no! It is therefore time to consider some of the most popular 3 in 1 jackets, as the best alternative for your warmth needs.

Hiker on top of the mountain wearing 3-in-1-jacket

The 3-in-1 jackets bring an unmatched comfort to snowboarders, campers and hikers alike. They are certainly the best solutions to those fluctuating weather conditions that have been ruining your outdoor adventures. Overloading your skiing, camping or hiking gear with too many clothes will be a thing of the past. These jackets have all that it takes to enhance your warmth in freezing temperatures and snow days.

They are equipped with outstanding and superior features such as fleece-lined up hoods, waterproof shell for water repellent purposes and pockets for the warmth of your hands or for storage of your valuables. As the name says, 3-in-1, it simply implies that you will be wearing 3 functional jackets without the need to purchase extra clothing. Purchasing individual jackets incurs unnecessary costs to you.

We encourage you to arm yourself with the best 3-in-1 jackets that we have collected for you in here. The article has sought to bring you the best winter jackets on the market as characterized by superior and unparalleled features to shield you against unstable and unbearable weather conditions.

We will detail out the features of each jacket to help you in decision-making for your warmth needs. Before laying our eyes on these jackets, let’s first consider the features that are worth-considering when selecting such jackets hereunder.

Our Top Picks

Product NameWeightDimensionsColorPrice
Columbia Whirlibird1 lbUnknownVariousCheck price on Amazon
The North Face Vortex2.6 lb27 x 16 x 4 inRed w/ Asphalt GreyCheck price on Amazon
Under Armour ColdGear0.6 lb11 x 4 x 4 inVariousCheck price on Amazon
Regatta Wrightbridge1.8 lbUnknownBlack w/ RedCheck price on Amazon
Berghaus Arran2.6 lbUnknownCarbon w/ Black, Poseidon w/ DuskCheck price on Amazon
Craghoppers Kiwi3.3 lbUnknownBlack, Dark Green, NavyCheck price on Amazon
Marmot Ramble2.3 lb27 x 17 x 3 inCinderCheck price on Amazon
Fjallraven Ovik2.6 lb23 x 16 x 3 inBlack, Blueberry, Chestnut, Dark Navy, Dark OliveCheck price on Amazon

Features to Consider Before Buying

In your quest to find and purchase the best jacket, you need to acquaint yourself with the foremost indispensable features. There could be hundreds of such jackets but only a few are competitive enough to give you the desired warmth.

In addition to your desired warmth, look for other features such as waterproof, number of pockets, materials of the design, presence of vents, breathable membrane, the weight, the size, and the ability to remove the hood or inner fleece. The additional consideration could be the price tag of the jacket even though some users assert that the jackets are worth the price.

Image of a backpacker wearing a 3 in 1 jacket

When you embark on your mountain skiing, hiking or camping journey you want to make sure that everything is being taken care of. Temperatures could be extremely low, especially in unfamiliar destinations whereby you find yourself caught off-guard. It is of utmost importance to consider the aforementioned features whenever buying a 3-in-1 jacket.

Waterproof

Features such as waterproof, for instance, helps protect you from snow and rain. The outer jacket and the hood are often waterproof. They are also removable in case you want to wear the jacket in dry weather conditions. The zips are also waterproof to help secure your valuables such as smart-phones.

Liners

To keep you warm, the liner of the jackets is enhanced with high quality insulation. You certainly cannot miss out on this feature as it is the most important one. The inside of the jacket is often brushed for an added warmth. Your hands will be kept warm by the lower pockets knitted on the shell. This helps eliminate the need for gloves. As much as we need great warmth when wearing these jackets, too much of it may not be good.

A couple wearing the Berghaus Island Peak jackets

When the body temperature escalates, too much of sweat results, particularly in the armpits. To alleviate that, most jackets come with under arm ventilation to help regulate the heat. This is also an important feature to look for when buying these jackets. Any jacket void of this feature is undeniably bad news.

Weight and Size

One of the aims of purchasing 3-in-1 jackets is to get rid of too many clothes that overload your traveling gear. As thus, we aim to buy jackets that are lightweight. Competition is high with this feature among the jackets. However, the more the weight the greater the warmth provided insulation materials are the same. You should therefore check the weight in relation with the insulation material.

Also important is the size. We recommend you consider this feature before purchasing the product. Some jackets are adjustable more especially around the waist. How about the removable hood and the removable shell? If the shell and the hood are not removable, it means you can only wear the jacket in cold days then take it off when it’s hot. The feature to remove it helps to make the jacket versatile.

Two adults wearing M-Delamar 3-in-1 Jacket

Thus, it can be used in any weather condition. There is not point of keeping the hood in hot and dry days. Simply remove them and put them back when you need to. They help in regulating the heat. Given these important features to consider in purchasing any 3-in-1 jacket, take time to read through our reviews below to find the best. These highlighted features are predominantly reviewed to get rid of your confusion. We know how confusing it could be to hunt for these jackets.

Top Product Reviews

Now we get to the best 3-in-1 winter jackets that you should purchase before your next mountain skiing, camping, backpacking or hiking adventure. Carefully consider the features mentioned for each product to aid you in decision-making.

We have detailed out the features including the weight and the dimensions of the product as given by the manufacturers. If you are interested in a certain jacket, simply click on it to go ahead with the purchase. The prices can be seen by following the highlighted links given.

Columbia Whirlibird COLUMBIA WHIRLIBIRD 

Price: $100 – $220

Weight: 1 pound

Dimensions: Unknown

Specific features: 100% nylon omni-shield shell with 80g thermal insulation, waterproof and breathable membrane, seam-sealed, 32-inch center back length and modern classic fit.

Best use: Snowboarding, hiking and camping

Description: This Columbia Whirlibird Jacket is specifically designed to give you warmth with its sought-after features and advanced technology. It withstands all fluctuating weather conditions, thus enhancing your warmth regardless of whichever place you are skiing or hiking at.

The three jackets are well-knitted together featuring a zip-in and 3 point interchange system to make one jacket. This jacket is versatile, meaning it can be worn in any condition and each can be worn on its own as a layer. For instance, the shell is meant for rainy days with its waterproof feature whereas the liner is for winter days with its thermal insulation property.

The jacket’s thermal reflective feature helps reflect the body’s temperature to keep you warm. It also has a breathable membrane to avoid too much sweating. During the freezing temperatures you can zip the jackets to give you a greater warmth. No rainy days pose threat to you because of the waterproof and insulation features.

To protect your head against harsh weather and rain, the jacket comes with an adjustable, waterproof, insulated and removable hood. The included pockets help you store valuables such as wallets and phones without getting them damaged by the downpour. Also noteworthy is the snap back powder skirt and a waterproof center-front zipper. The hem and the cuffs are also adjustable for an enhanced functionality.

PROS:

  • Various colors
  • Polyester shell
  • Detachable storm hood

CONS:

  • Can get expensive
  • Some say sleeves are long

Related: If you are getting a jacket, why not get the pants? The Columbia Bugaboo II Pant is waterproof, breathes well and has an adjustable waist.

Check the price on Amazon

The North Face Vortex North Face VORTEX

Price: $175 – $280

Weight: 2.6 pounds

Dimensions: 27 x 16 x 4 inches

Specific features: Removable liner material is made of 100% nylon and insulation of 100 g heatseeker,  its shell material is a 2 layer HyVent membrane/laminate that is made of a 100% nylon.

Best use: Hiking, camping and skiing

Description: With The North Face Vortex Jacket you can be rest assured to outsmart the weather conditions in your mountain skiing adventure. Gone is shivering of your body as a result of unbearable cold weather and freezing temperatures.

The call is yours, to either wear the shell or the liner on its own depending on the extend of coldness. On cold days, for example, you can zip them together for enhanced warmth.

In the occurrence of the downpour, you are still covered because the jacket comes equipped with a waterproof, fully seam-taped HyVent 2-layer shell that is also breathable to regulate your body heat. The cold days will not affect you because of the insulated liner material. Also featured are adjustable cuff tabs, adjustable shell features, and a snap powder skirt. The hood is removable for you to take it out in dry days or put it back when it rains.

This jacket outsmarts the aforementioned Columbia’s 3-in-1 jacket with its underarm zippered vent that helps regulate the body temperature. We know that heat results with too much sweat in the armpit. This feature helps eliminate that sweat with the presence of these zip-featured under arm vents. Meanwhile, you can warm your pockets with the included 2 hand pockets.

There are 2 chest-mounted pockets and an additional storage pocket that includes goggle wipe. The liner jacket, also features 2 hand pockets that can be zipped as well in case you remove the shell jacket.

PROS:

  • Waterproof shell
  • Can wear the liner by itself

CONS:

  • Expensive
  • Hard to find

Related: If you plan on camping, consider The North Face Stormbreak 2 Tent that fits 2 people and good ventilation, along with 2 doors!

Check the price on Amazon

Under Armour Coldgear Under Armour ColdGear

Price: $80 – $200

Weight: 9.9 ounces

Dimensions: 11 x 4 x 4 inches

Specific features: 100% polyester material; fitness tops

Best use: Hiking, camping, skiing

Description: This is a product of South Korea designed to provide you with warmth for all your outdoor adventures. Under Armour ColdGear Jacket comes with superior features that are made to give you a great comfort when wearing it.

Nonetheless, it does not outsmart the aforementioned 3-in-1 jackets with enhanced features such as underarm vents for temperature regulation and breathable membrane. It is made of a durable polyester material to save you regular trips to the manufacturer or retail store for warranty defaults.

Manufacturer update: “the jacket is currently out of stock. Keep checking the website for availability”. As noted on the website, the downside is that no sufficient features have been detailed by the manufacturer compared to other jackets mentioned in here. Nevertheless, the less we know assures us the best of this product.

This jacket also comes in several colors such as Heron with Midnight Navy, Moccasin with Stealth Gray, and Academy with Fuego. Choose the color that fits your personality the best!

PROS:

  • Various colors
  • Nice fit
  • Comfortable

CONS:

  • Large price range
  • Some say it feels tight in the hips

Related: If you are feeling a little chilly, the Under Armour 1282767-001-M Gloves will keep your hands warm! Soft and comfortable, these gloves repel rain and snow, and you can still use your touch screen phone while wearing them.

Check the price on Amazon

Regatta Wrightbridge Regatta Wrightbridge

Price: Approx. $110

Weight: 1.8 pounds

Dimensions: M- Chest 39-40”

Color: Black/dark spruce

Specific features: Waterproof isotex 15000 stretch fabric that is also breathable,  wentwood/wrightbridge ii jacket, 2-way adjustable hood with reinforced peak for improved protection and fitness.

Best use: Mountain skiing, camping, hiking, backpacking

Description: The waterproof and breathable Isotex 15000 stretch fabric, make this Regatta Wrightbridge Jacket  well-suited for mountain skiing to help protect the owner from life-threatening and freezing weather conditions. Gone is the fear of rainy days because the water repellent design helps deter the downpour so as to enhance your outdoor adventure.

For improved fitness and protection, the hood comes with a 2 way adjustment and reinforced peak. Meanwhile, the underarm ventilation zippers help in containing the body temperature should the body heat escalate while the jacket’s sleeves are well articulated to help in any range of movement.

To keep your hands warm or to store high-valued essentials in your jacket, there are knitted pockets. Among them, there are 2 lower hand pockets as well as a chest pocket with waterproof zips. There are other 2 zipped lower fleece pockets for additional storage. The micro warmth fleece insulation keeps your body warm throughout your outdoor activities. There is a stretch binding to the fleece collar, hem and cuffs. The cuffs and the shock cord hem are adjustable.

PROS:

  • Windproof
  • Water repellent
  • Taped seams prevent water from entering

CONS:

  • Mostly found in UK

Related: If you think you do not need a jacket, consider getting a vest! The Alpinestars Descender Vest is windproof, water resistant and has a waterproof zipper.

Check the price on Amazon

Berghaus Arran Berghaus Arran

Price: Approx. $175

Weight: 2.6 pounds

Size: S – XXL

Specific features: Stretch binding on the dropped hem made of 100% polyester, sleeves are made of 100% polyamide with polyurethane membrane, 4 pockets with water repellent zips, viz. 2 hand. Pockets, a chest and inner pocket.

Best use: Mountain skiing, camping, hiking

Description: The Berghaus Arran Jacket comes with a Hydro shell elite fabric for superior waterproof features should you be faced with rainy conditions when skiing or hiking. Your body temperature will be contained beyond recommended levels with the enhanced insulation provided by the interactive inner fleece.

It is a versatile jacket that can be worn depending on the weather outlook. For instance, a shell can be suitable for wet conditions while the inner fleece for dry days because they are removable.

Made from all Polyamide, this jacket comes in two colors; Carbon with Black and Poseidon with Dusk. It has many pockets, including hand warmer pockets in case you forgot your gloves! The dropped hem is stretchy so you have more range of motion while wearing the jacket! Users enjoyed this jacket because of the range of motion, the articulated sleeves, and the comfortable fabric, as well as the adjustable hood!

PROS:

  • Zip in inner fleece
  • Dropped hem and articulated sleeves
  • All polyamide

CONS:

  • A little pricey
  • Only comes in 2 colors

Related: Consider getting some boots for those colder days. The Berghaus Hillwalker Boot have a rubble sole and are made of textile.

Check the price on Amazon

Craghoppers Kiwi Craghoppers Kiwi

Price: $100 – $270

Weight: 3.3 lb

Size:  38, 40, 42, 44, 46

Specific features: Brushed inner collar, velcro tab adjuster and removable zipped hood, interactive zip.

Best use: Skiing, camping and hiking

Description: The brushed inner collar provides warmth when wearing this jacket. Craghoppers Kiwi Jacket is made to be durable with its polyester material. During extremely cold weather conditions, you can make use of the interactive zip to keep you warm.

The included lower pockets can warm your hands, thus eliminating the need to wear hand gloves for warmth. The chest pocket can be used to store water sensitive essentials hence its waterproof feature. The inner jacket also has 2 zipped lower pockets.

These pockets can be used if you remove the outer jacket in dry days. The cuffs and the waist of this jacket are all adjustable. The jacket also features Velcro fastening double storm-flap.The inner collar is brushed, and the jacket comes in three colors; Dark Green, Navy and Black. This jacket is not only comfortable, but also gives you range of motion while giving you top performance in whatever weather you are in.

PROS:

  • Three color choices
  • Interactive zip
  • Brushed inner collar

CONS:

  • Somewhat expensive
  • May be bulky for some

Related: Craghoppers makes great pants that you can wear while camping, hiking, or just being outdoors! The Craghoppers Nosilife Pants will repel insects and cost around $50.

Check the price on Amazon

Marmot Ramble Marmot Ramble

Price: Approx. $190

Weight: 2.3 pounds

Dimensions: 27 x 17 x 3 inches

Specific features: fully taped seams, shell material is made of membrane/laminate which is 100% polyester, liner material is removable. it is made of 100% polyester as well, breathability rating of 10000 g/m2 and waterproof rating of 10000 mm.

Best use: Mountain skiing, camping and hiking

Description: The Marmot Ramble Jacket brings all the warmth you will need when faced with extremely harsh temperatures.

The outer shell is waterproof and well-insulated to enhance your warmth and protect you against the snow. It has a 2-layer MemBrain laminate and a taped seam for protection against the snow and the downpour.

If you are hiking in dry conditions you can decide to wear the inner fleece on its own for reduced warmth. The inner jacket combined with the shell provides a superior warmth. The removable and adjustable hood continues to protect you against the rain and strong winds. There is an underarm ventilation to help regulate the heat.

The Cinder color is like a gray and blue mix, which makes the jacket stylish and attractive. Users love this jacket because of the fit, that is breathes well while still being waterproof, plus it keeps you very warm!

PROS:

  • Warm
  • Waterproof
  • Zippered hand pockets

CONS:

  • Only one color
  • A little costly for some

Related: While camping, you might want to consider getting a tent so you can sleep comfortably. The Marmot Limestone 4p Tent is spacious, has a waterproof fly and floor and is comfortable!

Check the price on Amazon

Fjallraven Ovik Fjallraven Ovik

Price: $270 – $580

Weight: 2.6 pounds

Dimensions: 23 x 16 x 3 inches

Specific features: It is made of 65% recycled polyester and 35% organic cotton, the inner jacket is made from pliant and is made of a recycled polyamide, the liner is insulated with 80 g/sqm g-loft supreme, 2 hand pockets with 2 openings whereby the other is zipped and the other not.

Best use: Skiing, camping, backpacking or hiking

Description: Planning to go snowboarding or hiking in the winter seasons? This Fjallraven Ovik Jacket has supreme functionality to keep you warm with its advanced inner jacket made from pliant.

It is made of two materials which are the polyester and the cotton unlike the aforementioned jackets made of 100% polyester. This is a durable winter jacket in G-1000 Eco. The jacket comes with pockets to keep your hands warm or to store valuables in them. There is a fixed hood to protect you in cold and rainy days. It can be removable in dry weather conditions.

The jacket also has several colors to choose from, which include Black, Blueberry, Chestnut, Dark Navy, and Dark Olive. Users like the two hand pockets that have double openings, plus the Poly – Cotton blend! Overall, while a little on the pricey side, this jacket offers a lot and will do a great job at keeping you warm!

PROS:

  • Several colors to choose from
  • Double openings in the hand pockets
  • Made for winter

CONS:

  • Inner shell feels small
  • May need to purchase a size up

Related: Fjallraven makes trousers that are comfortable for any weather. The Fjallraven Abisko Trousers are trekking pants that have reinforced areas for durability.

Check the price on Amazon

Concluding Thoughts

We have done our best to bring you all the best 3-in-1 jackets on the market. These jackets are characterized by their indispensable features that are custom-designed to keep you warm. They come in varying sizes, thickness and weight.

Close-up photo of Under Armour Infrared Porter 3-In-1 Jacket

On average, these jackets are lightweight to avoid burdening you on your way to exquisite outdoor adventures. Choosing any of them will surely enhance your outdoor excursions with minimal worries about unforeseen weather conditions.

Have you tried any of these jackets or have any specific information or question? Please engage with us in the comment section below. If you feel we left any information relevant to a specific jacket, please let us know.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kane Dane

4 Comments

  • Three-in-one jackets might sound like a bit too much but if you are an avid backpacker, then you are keen to prepare for nature’s surprises. My choice of 3-in-1 jacket is the Under Armour Outerwear Ua Cgi Porter 3-in-1. I have only tested it out in very cold weather so far, where it did not disappoint.

  • Three-in-one jackets are cost effective in the long run. Instead of buying 3 layers of clothing, you’ll only be buying one. That’s a lot of savings and the brands that I’ve reviewed above are the best of the bunch. In fact, Under Armour is a consistent crowd-pleaser that won’t let you down.

  • I think the Columbia Sportswear Jacket will make an interesting addition to the camping gifts I am putting together to give my husband for his birthday. I am just worried about the fitting. I wish I knew if the mentioned size refers to the liner or if I I have to get a bigger size for him because of the liner.

  • I don’t quite understand what you mean Mabel. The jacket fits well and if you have qualms on the fittings, you have to get the exact body measurement of your husband and compare that with Columbia’s specifications. The overall size/measurements of jackets usually include the lining.

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