Avail Before You Sail, 15 Must-Have Waterproof Sailing Jackets!
Jonathan and I have been traveling the world by land for years and we know the environmental conditions out of the 70+ countries we’ve been to – including the extremely cold continent to the south - Antarctica! But as we venture out through the open seas with our sailing boat, it’s a whole lot different. The clothing we wear to help keep us warm during cold climates or hot ones are not waterproof when the waves start to strengthen. We can’t wear a coat or a cotton tee because either way, we still get soaked in the water – making it colder and more uncomfortable.
Anyhow, I am excited on when I could ride S/V Empress again, our 1971 Finnrose 40 ft. To finally set sail on our luxurious around the world journey with her. I want to see her conquer the waves – but I don’t want to get wet. The probably worst scenario that could happen is if I get soaked with sea or ocean water during the winter season. I’ve been in many countries but the cold sometimes seeps into my skin and bites me – still uncomfortable and intolerable. So, I thought about finding a waterproof jacket made for sailors out there.
Researching is like a second hobby of mine. Because of it, I came across with the sailing jacket. This is a special type of waterproof jacket is made for marines or sailors out there who are exploring beyond the horizon. This jacket is made up efficient material to keep you dry and protected at all times. Consider it as your perfect sailing companion – the sailing jacket!
However, as I am focusing on work 24/7 and Jonathan on the boat, we didn’t have extra time to actually go to a sailing shop which sells the sailing gears for the sailing clothing which we might need to give us protection whether winter, spring, summer, or fall – and even a storm. A waterproof jacket that helps us withstand extreme weather conditions while maneuvering our beautiful luxurious yacht.
Moving forward, due to our mobile type of lifestyle, finding a store that sells a good waterproof jacket made us not able to purchase ourselves one. And now we’ve got a few more months to go before we finally get to ride Empress – and we don’t have a sailing jacket for protection on or off the water.
However, as I am focusing on work 24/7 and Jonathan on the boat, we didn’t have extra time to actually go to a sailing shop which sells the sailing gears for the sailing clothing which we might need to give us protection whether winter, spring, summer, or fall – and even a storm. A waterproof jacket that helps us withstand extreme weather conditions while maneuvering our beautiful luxurious yacht.
Moving forward, due to our mobile type of lifestyle, finding a store that sells a good waterproof jacket made us not able to purchase ourselves one. And now we’ve got a few more months to go before we finally get to ride Empress – and we don’t have a sailing jacket for protection on or off the water.
WHAT IS A SAILING JACKET?
This is every ocean sailor’s need. If you want to stay soak-free, warm, and of course, look your best while in the water via your sailboat – get yourself a waterproof jacket perfect for a sail. Keep yourself warm during the winter season and dry when the waves get rough.
Since Jonathan and I are going to live offshore for quite some time, we started stacking our drawers with lots of these cool waterproof jackets. We definitely don’t want to get soaked during the winter season! Although I have been traveling to places with climates my body never grew with – my body still recognizes the cold weather in spite of that.
Growing up in the Philippines, my body still needs a few days to get accustomed to the weather. The thing that keeps me pushing to travel despite this fact is the part of me that is consumed by wanderlust – having the want to travel around the globe no matter what! If you share the same passion for sailing like us, start stocking your cabinets with lots of them now!
WHEN DO YOU NEED A WATERPROOF JACKET?
Things get out of control when the tides get rough and a storm is expressing is wrath. And most of that time, you get drenched in sea or ocean water because you have to take control of your boat’s wheel or you have to reel in the sails and charge through incoming waves so they won’t topple your boat. Also, when the country you’re currently sailing through is cold – a waterproof jacket is needed to keep you comfortable throughout the voyage duration.
If you ought to live DIY in the open seas in the years to come – get yourself a waterproof jacket to keep yourself warm and dry since you will never know what will happen later on from today, tomorrow, or the next days will bring you – it’s best to be prepared for anything.
“To overcome a storm, prepare by stocking.”
LIFE JACKETS VS SAILING JACKETS
People have been associating a sailing jacket to a life jacket. That they are just jackets both used for activities within the water such as racing or even emergencies. But there is actually a great difference between them. We’ll be defining the both of them to clarify the misconception.
Life Jacket or Life Vest – A floating equipment that helps keep the user afloat – preventing them from drowning as they jump into the water during emergencies. They can be found on airplanes, cruise ships, swimming pools, and other venues that involves water sports activities.
Sailing Jacket or Waterproof Jacket – a jacket that keeps you warm and dry whenever sailing. It can also be used as a rain jacket. Often found in sailing shops where you can purchase them and often used in yachts or other sports activities if you don’t want to get wet.
15 BEST SAILING JACKETS
If you have plans on sailing the next year, month, or even weeks – the quickest way to get yourself a waterproof jacket would be buying it online. Below will be the list of our best sailing jacket choices which are within a click away, online!
1. Helly Hansen Men's Crew Midlayer Rain and Sailing Jacket
Price: $88.25 - $185.00
Lower prices in limited stocks are available through select options in Amazon.
This is the Helley Hansen’s best selling sailing jacket made from 100% Polyester material - which makes it flexible and resistant to shrinking or wrinkles. This waterproof jacket is specially made with quick-dry Helly Tech protection and is waterproof through Durable Water Repellency Treatment (DWR). It is also fully seamed to protect you through a windy environment and hand warmer pockets. In spite of this fully protected features, the jacket is breathable and is fit to wear for both male and females. If you want a waterproof jacket that weathers the weather, choose this.
Cons
This is not meant for prolonged/sustained underwater activities.
Has no hood.
Pros
Durable Water Repellency
Hand warmer pockets
Superb Helly Tech Performance
The rest of the pros you can find here.
2. Gill Men's Coast Jacket
Price: $190.37 Sale: $172.83
Get it as soon as July 11 to August 1 when you choose standard shipping in Amazon.
This sailing jacket has a Roll away fluorescent hood where you can adjust the volume and a high cut collar with faceguard to prevent you from chafing - this is the best one yet. It has neoprene wrists which you can close via a Velcro. Equipped with fleece lined hand warmer pockets, it’s front zipper is also sealed well. So, if you want a sailing jacket that fully keeps the wind and water out - choose this!
Cons:
Not for prolonged underwater activity - definitely not for scuba diving either.
Pros:
Breathable
Waterproof, windproof
Adjustable double cuffs
Roll away fluorescent hood - making it easier to spot you while on deck.
The rest of the pros you can find here.
3. Helly Hansen Men's Crew Jacket
Price: $80.60 - $150.00
Lower price available on “select” options button in Amazon.
An imported product made with 100 % Polyester fabric making it wrinkle-free. Also created with the signature Helly Tech Protection/Durable Water Repellency Treatment (DWR) making if fully sealed: Waterproof, windproof, and breathable. It has a high collar and pockets have strong zippers to protect valuables within your pockets safe. Lined with comfort for every male who uses it.
Cons:
Not for prolonged underwater activity - definitely not for scuba diving either.
Pros:
Made with 100% Polyester Fabric (wrinkle free)
Gives outstanding Helly Tech Performance (Waterproof, windproof, breathable)
Has Durable Water Repellency Treatment (DWR)
Pockets with strong zippers to keep valuables safe
The rest of the pros you can find here.
4. Helly Hansen Women's Crew Rain and Sailing Jacket
Price: $80.60 - $150.00
Lower price available on “select” options button in Amazon.
Imported, made from 100% Polyester fabric, fully seamed with adjustable cuffs. Pockets are sealed with strong zippers ensuring protection for your valuables. Available in variations of colors which you can find here. Made to be comfortable for women with Helly Tech satisfaction: waterproof, windproof, and breathable.
Cons:
Not for prolonged underwater activity - definitely not for scuba diving either.
Pros:
Breathable
Waterproof, windproof, and breathable (Helly Tech performance)
Adjustable double cuffs
Strong zippers and cut with proportion to fit females only!
The rest of the pros you can find here.
5. Helly Hansen Men's Crew Catalina Jacket
Price: $75.49 - $130.00
Get yours now in Amazon!
If you are looking for a wind resistant and a waterproof jacket made from 100% Polyester Fabric - then this is the jacket perfect for your sail. It has an adjustable bottom hem and zippered hand and chest pockets. Made with comfort for men who love to sail through the ocean.
Cons:
Not for prolonged underwater activity - definitely not for scuba diving either.
Pros:
Signature Helly Tech performance ( breathable yet waterproof, windproof)
Adjustable double cuffs
Durable Water Repellency Treatment (DWR)
The rest of the pros you can find here.
6. Slam Men's Lined Winter Sailing Jacket (Water Resistant And Windproof)
Price: $234.26 Sale: $180.20 Save $54.06 (23%)
Only 3 stocks left, get it as soon as June 22 - 29 when you choose Standard Shipping at checkout in Amazon!
This is a water resistant and windproof jacket that would definitely keep you warm as you voyage. Made from 100% Nylon fabric with a waterproof roll-away hood. This sailing jacket is also lined with 330g fleece and internal padding - including an internal pocket to keep your valuables ultimately safe. It has adjustable cuffs and pockets lined with fleece to keep your hands warm - perfect for the winter!
Cons:
Not for prolonged underwater activity - definitely not for scuba diving either.
Pros:
Waterproof, windproof
100% Nylon
Roll-away hood
Adjustable double cuffs
Pockets lined with fleece to keep your hands warm
The rest of the pros you can find here.
7. Ocean Rodeo Heat Breathable Drysuit
Price: $591.01 - $599.00
Get yours now in Amazon!
A high performing lightweight sailing jacket will bring you comfort and the warmth you need during sailing. It has a cool design and is equipped with flexible features than any waterproof jacket. Built perfectly with comfortable materials that allows you to be comfortable while keeping yourself soak-free. This sailing jacket is perfect for kiteboarding, windsurfing, SUP, and of course, sailing.
Cons:
Pricey and is not designed for long hours of underwater activity - not for scuba diving.
Not for prolonged underwater activity - definitely not for scuba diving either.
Pros:
Cool design, fit, and fulfills its promising description - extremely waterproof!
Lightweight sailing jacket
Waterproof, windproof
Perfect for kiteboarding, windsurfing, SUP, and sailing
The rest of the pros you can find here.
8. Helly Hansen Women's Crew Midlayer Sailing Rain Jacket
Price: $89.61 - $185.00
Grab yours now in Amazon!
Fully sealed with pure Polyester fabric this sailing jacket will provide warmth and dryness to the female user when the weather calls it. It has Durable Water Repellency treatment (DWR) making it waterproof, windproof, yet breathable.
Cons:
It does not have a hood and fits very small. Order up a size larger than yours.
Not for prolonged underwater activity - definitely not for scuba diving either.
Pros:
Excellent in quality and can fit one-layer of clothing underneath. A global bestseller best for women to wear when the weather calls for extra protection.
Fully sealed making it waterproof, windproof
Durable Water Repellency Treatment (DWR)
Helly Tech Performance at the best price
The rest of the pros you can find here.
9. Windrider Waterproof Paddling / Sailing Spray Top Jacket
Price: $49.99 & FREE Returns
Grab yours now, in Amazon!
This sailing jacket is made from Oxford Nylon Coathed with Urethane. It will also keep you both waterproof and windproof to keep you warm on windy days. Perfect to wear for sailing, Kayaking, SUPing. Equipped with a splash resistant shoulder pocket which is self-draining for storage of valuables like keys and is fully-seamed to keep the wind and water out when the waves are rough.
Cons:
If you go underwater, water will get inside the jacket.
Not for prolonged underwater activity - definitely not for scuba diving either.
Pros:
Fits great and has an adjustable wrist and neck. Also light weight.
Breathable
Waterproof, windproof
Adjustable double cuffs
The rest of the pros you can find here.
10. SOLS Rainbow Unisex Sailing Parka Jacket
Price: $102. 31 Sale: $78.70 Save: $23.61
Grabs yours now in Amazon!
This waterproof jacket is made up of Taslan Polyester fabric padding with PVC coating. With Fleece to keep you dry and warm during sailing. It has a concealed and adjustable hood and a Two-way zip with double storm flap with chin guard.
Cons:
Not for prolonged underwater activity - definitely not for scuba diving either.
Pros:
Breathable
Made with Taslan Polyester Fabric padding with PVC coating
Waterproof, windproof
Adjustable double cuffs
The rest of the pros you can find here.
11. Men's Newport Coastal Sailing Jacket
Price: $300.00
Grabs yours now at West Marine!
This sailing jacket styled in modern is a ¾ length waterproof gear that brings comfort to the sailor who uses it. It has a tall comfortable fleece lined collar and hand warmer pockets. Brings you the outstanding Helly Tech Performance - waterproof, windproof yet breathable. Made from 100% Polyamide making it moisture resistant.
Cons:
Not for prolonged underwater activity - definitely not for scuba diving either.
Made with Polyamide fabric - absorbs more water but dries slower
Pros:
Keeps you warm
Waterproof, windproof, breathable
Adjustable double cuffs
Hand warmer pockets
The rest of the pros you can find here.
12. GILL Women's OS23 Coastal Sailing Jacket
Price: $349.00
Grab yours now at West Marine!
This waterproof jacket is made from 100% Polyester material with its outer and main lining made out of 100% Nylon. Solid patterned with reflective detail. Two sets of fleece-lined hand warmer pockets are put on each side for your comfort during windy days. So, sail off the coast with your male partners to discover what awaits you beyond the waters!
Cons:
It only has three available colors.
Not for scuba diving purposes
Pros:
100% Polyester material
Main lining made out of 100% Nylon.
Solid patterned with reflective
Two sets of fleece-lined hand warmer pockets
The rest of the pros you can find here.
13. HELLY HANSEN Men's ÆGIR Ocean Jacket
Price: $1,000.00
Grab yours now at West Marine!
Named after the Norse god of the ocean, Helly Tech brings you one of its finest products - a ¾ length waterproof jacket made for sailing. Fully seamed made Ultra Waterproof Helly Tech ocean composite membrane, this ocean jacket will leave you warm and dry during a rainy weather!
Cons:
Not meant for prolonged/sustained underwater activities.
pricey
Pros:
¾ length waterproof sailing jacket
Fully seamed
Ultra Waterproof Helly Tech ocean composite membrane
The finest Helly Tech products - made with Polartec fleece collar
The rest of the pros you can find here.
14. MUSTO Men’s BR2 Offshore Jacket
Price: $349.00
Grab yours now at West Marine!
This sailing jacket will give you a worry-free sail as it gives you waterproof, windproof, and breathable features. Available in two colors, it has fleece-lined collars and pockets to keep your hands and neck warm. Essential gear can be closed in firm cargo pockets. It also has a roll-away fluorescent hood.
Cons:
Not for prolonged underwater activity - definitely not for scuba diving either.
Only two available colors
Pros:
Breathable
Waterproof, windproof
Adjustable double cuffs
Firm cargo pockets
Rollaway fluorescent hood
The rest of the pros you can find here.
15. WEST MARINE Men's Third Reef 3L Jacket
Price: $249.00
Grab yours now at West Marine!
Available in two colors, this sailing jacket has a waterproof laminated layer which stops water from the outside. Keeps you warm and dry during a strong windy weather. Helps you stow valuables in an inner firmly zippered pocket!
Cons:
Not for scuba-diving
Pros:
Internal water resistant pocket
Durable Water Repellent (DWR)
External hook and loop wrist adjusters
Nylon shell fabric is blue-sign approved.
The rest of the pros you can find here.
Now, you’ve got your jackets - get ready to explore off-coast with them and set sail beyond where the ocean calls you. Travel across the globe in style while keeping yourself warm at the same time!
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