Best Gore-Tex Jackets to Buy in 2025
Gore-Tex is a waterproof and breathable membrane that is commonly used in high-performance outdoor apparel. Gore-Tex jackets can keep you dry and comfortable in rain, snow, and wind while allowing sweat to escape. There are many Gore-Tex jackets available on the market, each with its own set of features and benefits. Some are designed for specific activities, such as hiking, skiing, or climbing, while others are more versatile for everyday wear.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the 7 best Gore-Tex jackets available this year. From technical features to style considerations, we’ll delve into the factors that make these jackets stand out.
Best Gore-Tex Jackets of 2025
Comparison table of the top seven best gore-Tex jackets in 2025.
| Image | Name | Rating | Weight | Price |
 | GORE WEAR Men’s R3 | 5.0 | 9.74 oz | Check |
 | Marmot Minimalist Rain Jacket | 5.0 | 15.87 oz | Check |
 | Arc’teryx Beta AR Men’s Jacket | 5.0 | 16.2 oz | Check |
 | Haglofs Astral Gore-Tex S Jacket | 4.5 | 1.26 lbs | Check |
 | Outdoor Research Hemispheres II | 4.5 | 20 oz | Check |
 | Black Diamond Helio Active | 4.5 | 12.8 oz | Check |
 | Mountain Hardwear Men’s 2 | 4.0 | 11.68 oz | Check |
- Best Overall – GORE WEAR Men’s R3 Jacket
- Best Ultralight Gore-Tex Jacket – Black Diamond Helio Active
- Best Value for the Money – Marmot Minimalist Gore-Tex Jacket
1. GORE WEAR Men’s R3 Gore-Tex Infinium Partial Jacket
The GORE WEAR Men’s R3 Partial Jacket is a high-performance outerwear piece that is designed to keep you comfortable and dry during your runs, hikes, and other outdoor activities. It will provide superior performance in both wet and windy conditions. It’s a great choice for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities and wants a jacket that can keep up with their active lifestyle.
It is made from a combination of Gore-Tex Infinium and Windstopper materials, which are highly breathable and water-resistant. The partially zippered front and hood provide extra protection against wind and rain. The partially zippered front also allows for customization of the fit and ventilation.
It features a slim fit that provides a streamlined look. Materials are stretchy and move with your body, which ensure maximum mobility during your activities. The hood is also adjustable. The inner pockets are not very practical because they have no zippers. They also have a wide opening and are relatively shallow.
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2. Marmot Minimalist Gore-Tex Waterproof Rain Jacket
The Marmot Men’s Minimalist Waterproof Rain Jacket is a top-of-the-line rain jacket designed to keep you dry and comfortable in wet weather. It is made of Gore-Tex Paclite materials, which are highly breathable and waterproof. It’s a high-end jacket, making it a bit pricey.
It features a fully taped seam construction, a hood with laminated brim, and zippered pockets that are compatible with harnesses and backpacks. This unit is also lightweight, making it easy to carry with you on your outdoor adventures.
It keeps you comfortable, while the fully taped seam construction ensures that no water seeps through. The laminated brim on the hood provides extra protection against the rain. The zippered pockets are compatible with harnesses and backpacks, making it easy to access your essentials while on the go.
It features average-length pit zips to help dump extra heat and assist in moving moisture. The drawstring is located inside and on the right side of the jacket. The hood is adjustable, and the zippered pockets are placed strategically for easy access. However, the zipper is fussy.
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3. Arc’teryx Beta AR Men’s Jacket
The Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket features a durable water-repellent finish, which defends against moisture to keep you dry inside. It is made from a combination of Gore-Tex Pro materials, which are highly durable, waterproof, breathable, and withstand the harshest weather conditions.
This jacket is built with fully taped seam construction, a helmet-compatible hood, and zippered pockets that are strategically placed for easy access to store your small valuables. It is lightweight and easy to store when not in use. It is also a very eye-catching jacket, and you’ll love the color.
The hood is customizable, and the zippered high-volume pockets are easy to reach while wearing a backpack or harness. It provides excellent protection against rain and snow. I used it to ascend several 5,000-meter snow-capped mountains without any issues. Keep in mind that WaterTight zippers offer high water resistance, but they are not completely waterproof.
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4. Haglofs Astral Gore-Tex S Jacket
If you’re looking for a Gore-Tex jacket for additional comfort in wet weather, the Haglofs Astral Gore-Tex S is the best option for you. It is designed to provide superior performance in wet weather. It is a versatile jacket, so you can use it for mountaineering, hiking, skiing, snowboarding, or even urban outdoors.
The Astral Gore-Tex S jacket is highly comfortable and waterproof. Its fully taped seam construction and helmet-compatible hood make it an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities in rainy conditions. The hood is large enough to wear a helmet under the jacket if you go mountaineering.
It is also one of the best lightweight Gore-Tex jackets on the market; you can easily carry it. The jacket folds up and fits easily in your hiking bag. It protects very well from the wind and insulates slightly from the cold.
The cuffs have Velcro for a good fit. It fulfills its role perfectly thanks to its waterproofing and breathability characteristics with respectively 20,000 mm. However, like most high-end outdoor gear, this jacket comes with a high price tag, so it may not be the best option for those on a budget.
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5. Outdoor Research Men’s Hemispheres II Jacket
Outdoor Research producing high-quality apparel, accessories, and equipment since 1981. And if you’re looking for a high-performance outerwear piece that is built with advanced technology, the Hemispheres II will be the best option for you. It has both waterproof and breathable features, as well as it will keep you warm. Its design is simple, with just the other necessary outerwear, such as pants and gloves.
It will keep you very comfortable, while the insulation keeps you warm in cold temperatures. The fully taped seam construction ensures that it won’t get wet even in heavy rain. It can be used during different activities such as hiking, mountaineering, and even rock climbing.
Hemispheres II hiking jacket has harness-compatible pocket placements, waterproof zippers, and hem-to-pit TorsoFloventing. Besides the stormproof durability, it has innovative stretch panels of 2L GORE-TEX fabric that allow for movement where you need it most.
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6. Black Diamond Helio Active Gore-Tex Jacket
The Black Diamond Helio Active Jacket is designed for backcountry skiing and other high-output activities. It is the most versatile waterproof Gore-Tex jacket on the market. The jacket features a 3-layer construction, fully taped seams, and a helmet-compatible hood for extra protection.
It is also compact and lightweight and provides excellent performance in high-output activities. Accessorizing is also very simple with a hood and two zipped pockets on the sides. It also features a trim fit that is designed to move with your body and minimize excess bulk.
The Gore-Tex Active material allows for excellent breathability, making it ideal for activities that require a lot of movement and sweating. The fully taped seams provide extra protection against the wind and snow. This jacket is highly compressible, which makes it easy to pack into a small space when not in use.
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7. Mountain Hardwear Men’s 2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket
The Mountain Hardwear Men’s Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite is a lightweight and easily packable rain jacket, which is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who demand high performance and versatility. It features a 2.5-layer construction, fully taped seams, and an adjustable hood. It is also machine washable at warm 40 C or 104 F. However, do not use powder detergent, fabric softener, or bleach.
It is designed with a standard fit that will provide room for layering without feeling too bulky. The adjustable hood and cuffs allow for a customizable fit. In terms of functionality, there are two zippered hand pockets. It will accompany you on all your high mountain activities.
One aspect I don’t love is the absence of underarm zippers and having only two side pockets. It could be improved with a few more pockets, and then it would be perfect. Also, keep in mind that it will sweat a little after a long duration in the rain.
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Best Gore-Tex Jackets: Buying Guide
Whether you’re hiking, skiing, or just facing unpredictable weather, knowing what to look for helps you invest wisely. Below are the key factors that define a quality Gore-Tex jacket and how to choose one that fits your needs.
Waterproof Protection
The main reason for buying a Gore-Tex jacket is to stay dry in heavy rain or snow. Always check the waterproof rating — measured in millimeters (mm). A jacket with a 20,000mm waterproof rating or higher provides excellent protection against prolonged downpours. Also, check if it has a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating for added resistance.
Fully Taped Seams
Even the most waterproof fabric won’t perform well if water can seep through the stitching. Fully taped seams ensure complete waterproofing, while critically taped seams cover only high-exposure areas. If you spend long hours in wet conditions, go for a jacket with fully taped seams for maximum protection.
Breathability
Staying dry from the inside is just as important. High breathability allows sweat and heat to escape during intense activities. Look for a breathability rating of 20,000 g/m² or higher, which helps prevent that clammy feeling during hiking, skiing, or running in wet weather.
Design and Features
Gore-Tex jackets vary from minimalist shells to feature-packed models. Decide how you’ll use it:
- For hiking or backpacking: Lightweight, packable jackets with ventilation zippers are ideal.
- For mountaineering or snow sports: Look for reinforced shoulders, helmet-compatible hoods, and multiple pockets.
Choose a design that matches your activity level and environment.
Fit and Comfort
A proper fit enhances comfort and performance. The best Gore-Tex jackets allow easy layering without feeling bulky. Try to find a fit that gives freedom of movement but seals out cold air. Adjustable cuffs, hems, and hoods also improve comfort and weather protection.
Durability and Build Quality
A Gore-Tex jacket is an investment meant to last for years. Jackets made from Gore-Tex Pro or Gore-Tex Performance fabrics offer superior durability for rugged conditions. Check for reinforced panels and strong zippers — these small details significantly improve longevity.
Price and Value
Gore-Tex jackets can range from budget-friendly to premium technical gear. High-end models usually feature lighter materials, better breathability, and long lifespan. Consider your outdoor activities and climate, then pick the best balance between performance and price.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gore-Tex?
Gore-Tex is a waterproof and breathable membrane that is commonly used in high-performance outdoor apparel. The membrane is made up of microscopic pores that are smaller than a water droplet but larger than a water vapor molecule, allowing sweat and moisture to escape while keeping water out.
What are the benefits of a Gore-Tex jacket?
A Gore-Tex jacket offers reliable protection from unexpected weather while allowing sweat and moisture to escape, keeping you dry and comfortable. Gore-Tex jackets are also durable and can withstand the wear and tear of outdoor activities.
Are all Gore-Tex jackets waterproof?
Yes, all Gore-Tex jackets are waterproof. However, the level of waterproofness can vary depending on the jacket’s construction and waterproof rating.
Can Gore-Tex jackets be repaired if they get damaged?
Yes, you can repair Gore-Tex jackets if they get damaged. Gore-Tex offers a repair service that can fix tears, holes, and other types of damage.
Can Gore-Tex jackets be washed?
Yes, these jackets can be washed. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and drying to maintain the jacket’s waterproof and breathable properties.
Can Gore-Tex jackets be used for activities other than outdoor recreation?
Yes, Gore-Tex jackets can be used for a variety of activities, including commuting, running errands, and other everyday activities that require protection from the elements.
Are Gore-Tex jackets expensive?
Gore-Tex jackets can range in price from budget-friendly to high-end. The price depends on the jacket’s features, quality, and brand. However, investing in a high-quality Gore-Tex jacket can save you money in the long run by lasting for years of use.
Conclusion
When shopping for a Gore-Tex jacket, it’s important to consider factors such as waterproofness, breathability, design, fit, durability, and price. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual outdoor enthusiast, investing in a high-quality jacket can make all the difference in your comfort and safety. From our recommendations, you can choose a model that meets your needs and enhances your outdoor experience.
