OutdoorGearLab

The Rab Vital Hoody offers a serious amount of protection from the elements in a relatively inexpensive jacket &mdash; a combination we're in love with. Its fabric is both one of the most wind-resistant AND one of the most water-resistant we tested. It boasts a longer torso to keep you covered and a hood with both an elastic rim and a wire-stiffened brim over your eyes. A unique snap flap above your sternum lets you unzip this jacket all the way for serious ventilation, without it falling off your shoulders while you run head first into the wind. It's also one of the lighter jackets in this lineup. 
Though previous versions of this jacket self-stowed into the chest pocket, this latest version of the Vital leaves behind the extra storage and instead comes with a drawstring bag for storage. While this bag works perfectly, we don't love having to bring an extra piece of gear along &mdash; especially one so small and likely to get lost. Rab also removed the reflective logos that used to be on both the front and the back of this jacket, limiting your low-light visibility. These minor complaints aside, if you're looking for superior technical performance without the super-high price tag, this is the windbreaker for you.
Read more: Rab Vital Hoody review

amazon.com

yotpo

Wirecutter

This down jacket has lots of cozy features—like graduated wrist cuffs and a cinch cord on the hood—that set it apart from the rest. Plus, it feels as soft as butter.

expert-review

Stio Hometown Down Jacket Review | Gear Institute

Review: Stio Women's Hometown Down Hooded Jacket

The Mountain Hardwear Kor AirShell is the light, comfortable jacket from your childhood memories, with some upgrades. Made of soft, modestly stretchy fabric, this windbreaker feels more like a shirt, leaving the swishy crinkliness of most models in the dust. An elastic hem, half-elastic cuffs, and an elastic-rimmed hood add security without restriction in the face of moderate breezes and gusts. The Pertex body is breathable while still offering good protection against light rain. Zippered hand pockets are functional, while their zippers are hidden along seams, adding to the sleeker style of this garment.
If you're after technical versatility, the lack of adjustability of the Kor may not be up to your needs &#40;check out the Black Diamond Alpine Start instead&#41;. This lightweight jacket can't be cinched tighter against dropping temperatures. It also takes some practice to stuff it into its oblong pocket &mdash; with a very small opening. But if you're seeking the versatility to go from a light hike in the morning to beer garden happy hour, the style and comfort of the Kor AirShell have got you covered.
Read more: Mountain Hardwear Kor AirShell review

Hooded Jacket Comparison