Best Men’s Hardshell Jackets Of 2023

If you plan to head out into the mountains in tougher conditions, be it for hiking or for more adventurous mountaineering activity, a good hardshell jacket is something that will provide you with the appropriate level of protection for your outer layer.

For large parts of most typical hiking, you can get by on a good rain jacket with appropriate layering.

However, if you plan to head in harsher environments, or like to climb and scramble at tougher times of year, you will need considerably more protection than a rain jacket can provide.

Here we list out the best men’s hard shell jackets that are available on the market in 2023. We try to get to the point as quickly as we can listing out the key features so can zero in on the capabilities quickly.

If you just don’t have time to look through the whole article, let us save you time by telling you now that our favorite hardshell jacket for men is the Mammut Nordwand Advanced.

1. Mammut Nordwand Advanced

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Mammut Nordwand Advanced Jacket Features Summary:

• Fabric: Denier (main material): 44Dx44D; Main Material – Backing: 100% Polyamide; Main Material – Face: 100% Polyamide; Main Material – Membrane: 100% Polytetrafluorethylene
• Weight: 440g Avg. Weight for size L
• MAMMUT Georganic 3D Technology Y Shape Pattern for an optimized fit and for maximum freedom of movement
• MAMMUT High Reach Technology™ for unrestricted freedom of movement when climbing
• Stormproof, vertically and horizontally adjustable helmet-compatible hood with reinforced shield for an optimum field of vision at all times and easy operation when wearing gloves
• Waterproof YKK VISLON® 2-way front zipper in a matte look for smooth operation
• Internal chest pocket with zipper
• 2 climbing-harness-compatible front pockets with cross-over access and water resistant zippers
• Underarm ventilation with water-repellent 2-way zipper
• The drawstring on the hem can be adjusted with one hand using a cord that can be stowed on the inside
• Glove-compatible, adjustable cuffs with high-quality hook-and-loop fasteners

Best Uses: Hiking, climbing, mountaineering, ski touring

This Nordwand Advanced hard shell by Mammut is both very functional and very versatile. It is an ideal jacket for any mountaineering activity, be it climbing, hiking, ski touring, etc.

Made from 44 denier stretch nylon, this hardshell weighs in at 440g (average) making it not as lightweight as some of its competitors. However, it is easy to wear providing a very comfortable fit.

Its fit is enhanced by the fabric’s Georganic 3D Technology Y Shape Pattern and High Reach Technology™, which enables unrestricted freedom of movement when climbing.

Complete with a three-layer Gore-Tex membrane that is both waterproof and breathable, the Nordwand jacket provides excellent protection from the toughest conditions. However, the jacket could breathe a bit better according to some user accounts.

The Jacket comes with a hood that is helmet compatible and adjustable both vertically and horizontally. The reinforced shield enables an optimum field of vision at all times and can be easily operated even when wearing gloves.

The main front, two-way YKK VISLON® zipper is waterproof and works well. There are 2 climbing-harness-compatible front pockets with cross-over access and water resistant zippers, as well as a zippered internal chest pocket.

The front pockets sit above your backpack straps for easy access without having to take off your pack. This hardshell also features glove compatible adjustable cuffs and an elasticated drawcord hem to help adjust your fit, to keep the elements out.

The main upside of this jacket is the excellent level of weather protection it provides in a comfortable fit. The main downside of this jacket, is the price, it is pricey. However, you get an excellent hard shell jacket for your money!

2. Arc’Teryx Alpha FL Jacket

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Arc’teryx Alpha FL Jacket Features Summary:

• Fabric: durable N40p-X face fabric
• GORE-TEX Pro performance three layer construction
• Weight: 315 g / 11.1 oz
• Helmet compatible StormHood
• Custom Cohaesive™ hem adjustments serve as HemLocks™ to prevent slippage under a harness
• Constructed to optimize breathability by stacking the exterior and interior pockets
• Exceptional freedom of movement and room for light layers
• Articulated elbows

Best Uses: Hiking, Alpine climbing

This minimalist hardshell from Arc’Teryx is designed along the FL range specifics namely being Fast and Light.

Designed for rock climbing and protection from the elements in tough alpine environments, this jacket is also an excellent choice for hiking thanks to its low weight, durability and packability.

The Alpha FL is made from a durable outer N40p-X fabric that keeps the elements out while remaining breathable, for a lightweight jacket that is suited to fast moving, intense activity.

Weighing just 11.1 ounces, this hardshell won’t weigh you down, and it also comes complete with a stuff sack and webbing loop, to save extra space in your pack.

With its light weight and e3D patterning comes exceptional ease of movement and a comfortable fit, with or without light layers. Its trim fit and micro seam allowance cut back on bulk and increase both wearability and breathability.

The hood is laminated and helmet compatible with external drawcords to adjust fit. To ensure you stay warm and dry this hardshell features a WaterTight™ Vislon front zipper, laminated Velcro cuff adjusters and an adjustable hem drawcord.

There is also an internal pocket for your valuables, while the hem adjusters help maintain jacket stability under a harness.

This hardshell has been extremely well-designed and uses premium materials to ensure ease of movement even in harsh conditions.

Although it is priced at the upper end of the market, this jacket is made to last and is a truly excellent addition to any hiking expedition, especially recommended for those who prefer fast paced activity in cooler climes.

3. Arc’teryx Alpha SV

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Arc’teryx Alpha SV Jacket Features Summary:

• Fabric: Nylon with waterproof 3-layer N100p-X GORE-TEX Pro waterproof breathable laminate
• Weight: 490 g / 1 lb 1.3 oz
• Highly durable hardshell designed for waterproof, windproof protection
• Optimized construction, WaterTight™ zippers with RS™ sliders, and minimized seams shed grams
• Fully featured with a helmet compatible StormHood
• Pockets: Two crossover hand pockets with WaterTight zips; internal chest zip pocket; two internal laminated pockets; left bicep pocket with WaterTight zip; internal dump pocket
• Pit zips for additional ventilation
• Laminated drop-back hem with adjustable drawcord keeps in warmth
• Laminated die-cut Velcro® cuff adjusters with elastic keep out the element

Best Uses: Hiking, climbing, mountaineering, skiing, winter outdoor sports

The Alpha SV hardshell jacket, by Canadian brand Arc’teryx is made from durable materials for enhanced weather protection in extreme conditions, SV standing for severe.

It is one of the most highly recommended hardshell jackets for climbing in harsh alpine conditions, although it is suitable for a variety of other activities, including hiking in extreme weather.

Made with Gore-Tex N80p-X face fabric, the Alpha SV is extremely durable, keeping you dry in the harshest conditions, while offering an excellent fit thanks to its anatomical shaping.

Weighing 1.15 pounds, the Alpha SV combines waterproofing and breathability with its Gore-Tex Pro three-layer construction and Arc’teryx Nu water repellent treatment.

Narrow seam tape, a laminated hood brim and WaterTight™ external zippers keep you dry even in wet and windy conditions.

With its generous cut to allow extra layering, this hardshell also features a StormHood™ which is helmet-compatible and easy to adjust, a laminated chin guard, pit-zips, an internal, zippered chest pocket, left bicep pocket, two high crossover hand pockets, hemlock removable inserts for use with a harness, adjustable cuffs and a hem drawcord.

Each feature has been carefully designed to provide efficient, maximum use in severe weather, making the Alpha SV an alpine icon. Durable and resistant, this hardshell is made to last with enhanced abrasion resistance.

Note that this jacket is intended for severe conditions and if you are looking for a hardshell for more moderate conditions, you may be better looking at a lighter, more flexible all-rounder with greater breathability, although you will probably not find a better jacket for harsh, extreme alpine conditions.

4. Dynafit Radical

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Dynafit Radical Jacket Features Summary:

• Fabric: 3-layer GORE-TEX C-Knit waterproof breathable laminate
• Weight: 13oz / 368g Avg. Weight for size L
• GORE-TEX® C-Knit technology helps wick moisture and provides a comfortable next-to-skin feel
• Underarm venting prevents overheating
• Hood can be snugged down tightly and fits over any ski helmet
• Packs into its own hood
• Adjustable sleeve cuffs and taped seams help seal out snow
• 2 torso pockets and a sleeve pocket to store gear and key essentials
• Waterproof YKK® zippers
• Reflective details

Best Uses: Hiking in tough conditions, back country skiing, snow boarding, casual use

The Dynafit Radical Gore-tex jacket is a top performer that withstands cold and wet conditions. It is lightweight, waterproof and very breathable.

Made from GORE-TEX® C-KNIT™ 3L 114 ( 100% Polyamide ), the Radical jacket is lightweight, streamlined and very durable.

At just 13oz / 368g, it takes up minimum space in your backpack, packing into its hood which doubles as a stuff sack. It is supple and comfortable to wear, providing ample room to comfortably move your arms and torso while wearing it.

Snug-fitting, the Dynafit Radical jacket is easy to wear with light layers for an effective warm and dry winter hiking experience. This jacket is more a ski touring jacket than a hiking jacket, but it will perform well for a hiker on any trail in snowy conditions in winter.

The jacket comes with underarm vents for heat dumping during intense activity. There were some user comments that the vents are a bit smaller than they need to be, but that’s very much down to personal preference.

The Radical hardshell is waterproof and windproof, and it also features YKK AquaGuard zippers to further help you stay dry when the sky opens up.

The jacket also comes with reflective detail which is useful to make others aware of your presence e.g. when skiing or if someone should be trying to find you in an emergency.

The hood is helmet compatible and it can be snugged down tightly, so it can adjust to any head size as needed. Other features include adjustable cuffs and taped seams which provide further sealed in protection. There are 2 torso pockets and a sleeve pocket to store gear and key essentials.

The Dynafit Radical jacket is a great choice for keeping active throughout the winter and other, wet and windy periods. It provides excellent protection from the elements while also being very breathable.

Overall, it is an excellent jacket that comes in a very sleek and stylish cut. What can we say, there isn’t much not to like about this jacket.  

5. Patagonia Snowshot 3-in-1

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Patagonia Snowshot Jacket Features Summary:

• Fabric: 70% recycled H2No® Performance Standard 2-layer shell creates a waterproof/breathable barrier; durable water repellent (DWR) finish sloughs off moisture and wet snow
• Weight: 2Ibs 15oz / 975g Avg. Weight for size L
• Tricot mesh lining manages internal moisture, adds warmth and glides smoothly over layers
• Quilted, zip-out reversible liner with DWR offers lightweight warmth; compressible 60g Thermogreen® continues to insulate even if it gets wet
• Embedded RECCO® reflector enhances radio signals from search-and-rescue RECCO detectors, helping speed up the search for a buried avalanche victim
• Removable, helmet-compatible hood with a laminated visor features 2-way adjustability for optimal visibility
• Pit zips quickly release heat
• Tall collar helps protect your neck and face, even when you aren’t wearing the hood
• Powder skirt with webbing loop at center back connects to any Patagonia snow pants (sold separately)
• Low-profile cuffs can be worn over or under gloves

Best Uses: Hiking in tough conditions, back country skiing, snow boarding, casual use

The Patagonia Snowshot jacket is a very versatile jacket offering plenty of options in its 3-in-1 design. The outer layer provides excellent protection from the elements, while the inner liner, which is reversible, provides a snug and warm cocoon around the core. The inner liner can also be used as a standalone jacket.

It is a top performer that withstands cold and wet conditions. As it is a 3-in-1 jacket, it is of course not as lightweight as others in the same category. However, its waterproof and warmth capabilities are a fair trade-off in that regard.

Made from 70% recycled H2No® Performance Standard 2-layer shell, the jacket offers a waterproof/breathable barrier along with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish which sloughs off moisture and wet snow, perfect for tough and cold conditions. The jacket also comes with pit zips for quick heat release.

As mentioned, due to its functional design this jacket is heavy, 2Ibs 15oz / 975g, so it is not something you are likely to carry in your backpack. Also designed with snow sports in mind, it is supple and comfortable to wear, providing ample room to comfortably move your arms and torso while wearing it.

With the 3-in-1 design, the Patagonia Snowshot jacket is not really designed to be worn with many other layers, except for a few light ones e.g. a baselayer and tee / shirt. This jacket is more a skiing jacket than a hiking jacket, but it will perform well for a hiker on any trail in snowy conditions in winter.

The jacket also comes with reflective detail which is useful to make others aware of your presence e.g. when skiing or if someone should be trying to find you in an emergency.

The hood is removable and helmet-compatible with a laminated visor that features a 2-way adjustability for optimal visibility, and it can be snugged down tightly, so it can adjust to any head size as needed.

Other features include a tall collar and low profile cuffs which can be worn above or under gloves. There are 2 handwarmer pockets and a chest pocket to store gear and key essentials (on both the outer jacket and the liner).

The Patagonia Snowshot jacket is a great choice for keeping active throughout a very cold winter and other, wet and windy periods. It provides excellent protection from the elements while also being very breathable.

Overall, it is an excellent jacket that comes in a very functional design, but it is designed more for snow sports. However, that is not necessarily a problem as there isn’t much not to like about this jacket.  

6. Arc’teryx Beta AR

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Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket Features Summary:

• Fabric: Body: 40-denier (N40p-X) 3L GORE-TEX Pro; reinforcements: 80-denier (N80p-X) 3L GORE-TEX Pro
• Weight: 455 g / 1 lb
• Waterproof 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro waterproof breathable laminate
• DropHood™ is helmet compatible with Cohaesive™ cordlock front hood adjusters and a separate collar for draft protection
• Pockets: #5 WaterTight™ VISLON® center front zipper; RS™ zipper sliders on hand pockets; internal zip-closure security pocket
• Pit zips for additional ventilation
• Adjustable hem drawcord seals out cold

Best Uses: Hiking in tough conditions, mountaineering, skiing, winter outdoor sports

Leading Canadian outdoor brand Arc’teryx is known for its high-quality outdoor wear, with the Beta AR, or All Round, men’s hardshell representing an excellent choice for those looking for a good looking, durable and well-designed jacket, suitable for a wide variety of weather conditions.

The Beta AR is made from a nylon fabric with a polyester tricot interior face. Treated with N40r-X and N80r-X Gore-Tex Pro 3L this jacket is highly water and windproof, while only weighing one pound.

This ensures that the Beta AR is easy to pack, carry and layer. Its anatomical shaping and micro seam allowance make for an excellent, hip-length fit.

In terms of waterproofing and breathability, this jacket is one of the best you can purchase, with a Gore-Tex Pro three-layer laminate that ensures you stay dry from the outside while preventing perspiration build up.

The adjustable, helmet-compatible hood, with internal collar offers further protection against the elements and features a microsuede chin guard for extra comfort.

Use of its adjustments has been designed with gloved fingers in mind. For full waterproof protection, the Beta AR features WaterTight™ external zippers, and RainShield™ pocket zipper sliders, on its two front hand pockets.

Other features include an internal chest pocket, articulated elbows, pit zips for ventilation, cuff adjusters and an adjustable hem drawcord. The Beta AR has everything you need to keep you warm and dry in a variety of conditions and is lightweight and packable.

This is one of the most durable, breathable and waterproof hardshell jackets available and it will last for many years, making it excellent value for money in spite of its rather high price.

7. The North Face Summit L5 Shell

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The North Face Summit L5 Jacket Features Summary:

• Fabric: DryVent 3L Nylon fabric with localized FuseForm construction for durability
• Waterproof, breathable outer layer for extreme conditions
• Fully adjustable, helmet-compatible hood with hidden cord locks
• Pack/harness friendly pockets; Internal secure zip stash pockets
• Roll over beardguard lined with brushed fine microfleece
• Pit-zip venting
• Hidden hem-cinch adjustment

Best Uses: Hiking, mountaineering, climbing, casual use

The North Face are renowned for their high-quality mountaineering wear and the Summit L5 shell is no exception. Designed for extreme conditions, this shell will keep you dry and comfortable whether you’re out in the wilderness or near to home on a local trail.

The Summit Series is famous for providing some of the world’s best alpine apparel, complete with a lifetime warranty. Made from 70 denier nylon, the Summit L5 is strong and durable, with a weight of 19.75 ounces.

This durability combined with its three-layer Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, transforms the Summit L5 into a waterproof and windproof shield, which also allows excellent breathability, so you stay dry, even when undertaking intense activity.

Pit vents allow faster cooling during extra strenuous periods, so you can quickly and effectively dump heat, without having to risk exposure.

The Summit L5 is engineered for an excellent fit, with articulated patterning for extra mobility. Constructed with minimal seaming, for a more comfortable, breathable and resistant outer, the Summit L5 shell is one of the most advanced shells designed in recent years.

Other main features include a fully-adjustable hood that is also helmet compatible, with concealed cord locks, backpack compatible pockets for easy access, one internal zippered pocket and two internal mesh pockets, Velcro adjustable cuffs and a concealed hem drawstring.

In short, The Summit L5 is an excellent shell for hiking purposes and made from some of the most waterproof, breathable and durable materials available.

It is heavier than several others of similar specifications, however this can come down to a matter of personal preference and helps to attain greater wind resistance and general durability thanks to a higher denier fabric.

The North Face is an expensive brand but taking into account the product’s longevity, this can in fact work out as a saving over time compared to purchasing several less expensive articles of a lower quality.

8. REI Co-op Drypoint GTX

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REI Co-op Drypoint GTX Jacket Features Summary:

• Fabric: 20-denier ripstop nylon (bluesign® approved)
• GORE-TEX 3 layer Active waterproof breathable laminate
• Weight: 10.5 ounces / 298 g
• 3-point adjustable hood with built-in visor preserves your field of view and blocks wind and rain
• Mesh-lined hand pockets double as core vents to dump excess body heat
• Set high to clear your pack’s hipbelt, the zippered hand pockets are coated for water resistance
• Minimalist hook-and-loop cuff tabs adjust to keep out wind and rain
• Adjustable hem drawcord keeps in warmth

Best Uses: Hiking, day-to-day use

The Drypoint GTX hardshell jacket by REI combines waterproof properties with breathability for an excellent all-rounder, versatile sports jacket that will keep wet weather out.

Suitable to wear with or without layers, this is a popular choice for backpacking thanks to its light weight and packability.

This hip-length jacket has been designed for hiking. It is made from 20 denier nylon and features a three-layer Gore-Tex Active laminate, that is both waterproof and breathable.

All seams are fully taped for extra protection, while breathability is further enhanced by the dual use pockets that are made from mesh and double as core vents to help keep you dry during intense activity.

Weighing in at only 10.5 ounces, this hardshell is lightweight, making it easy to wear or pack. The zippered hand pockets are placed above your pack’s hipbelt for ease of use and they are also coated for water resistance.

This hip-length hardshell jacket also features Velcro adjustable cuffs, a drawstring hem to keep warmth in and the elements out and a three-point adjustable hood.

The hood has a wind-blocking visor which offers extra facial protection in bad weather and protects your field of vision, helping you to stay on track.

Supple and lightweight, while waterproof and breathable, the Drypoint GTX is also Bluesign accredited, meaning the fabric used has been manufactured in a way that protects the environment and the dignity of those working to create it.

Competitively priced at the middle of the market range, this jacket is a great choice and a versatile all-rounder that will see you through warmer as well as very cold periods.  

9. Patagonia Pluma

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Patagonia Pluma Jacket Features Summary:

• Fabric: 3.4 oz. 40-denier recycled nylon plain-weave; Lining fabric: 15-denier GORE™ Microgrid woven
• Weight: 14.6 oz / 414 g
• 3-layer, 100% recycled GORE-TEX Pro fabric features GORE™ Microgrid Backer Technology for excellent waterproof/breathable performance in a lightweight yet durable fabric
• DWR (durable water repellent) finish helps shed excess moisture
• Cohaesive® embedded cord-lock system has 2 contact points at hem for intuitive one-handed operation
• Minimal seams are reinforced with narrow seam tape for low bulk
• Watertight, 2-way pit zips allow venting
• Cuffs feature minimal self-fabric hook-and-loop closure and textured polyurethane inner cuffs, helping keep sleeves in place when you’re swinging a tool
• 2 high handwarmer pockets with watertight zippers stay clear of a harness or pack waistbelt
• 1 exterior left-chest pocket with watertight zipper and 1 interior right-chest pocket

Best Uses: Hiking, multisport, day-to-day use

The Pluma jacket by Patagonia is a very functional shell that offers great waterproof protection as well as good breathability, through the material and the pit zips. It’s a very versatile multi-sport jacket that will keep the nastier elements at bay.

A stand out feature is its light weight, weighing in at 14.6 oz / 414 g, relative to its capabilities. The jacket is also easy to roll up and pack away, although there is no built in packing feature.

This hip-length jacket has been designed for outdoor sports like hiking and climbing. This is clear from the two high hand warmer pockets which are accessible while wearing a pack or harness. The jacket also comes with 1 exterior left-chest pocket with a watertight zipper and 1 interior right-chest pocket.

The jacket is made from 40 denier nylon and features a 100% recycled GORE-TEX Pro fabric, that is both waterproof and breathable.

All seams are fully taped and are reinforced with narrow seam tape for low bulk for extra protection. Breathability is further enhanced by the functional pit zips which are easy to access and use while on the move.

This hip-length hardshell jacket also features cuffs that come with minimal self-fabric hook-and-loop closure and textured polyurethane. This helps to keep sleeves in place when you’re swinging a tool, so perfect for a rock climber.

The hood has a wind-blocking visor which offers extra facial protection in bad weather and protects your line of sight in tougher conditions.

The Pluma jacket is also Fair Trade Certified™ sewn, meaning that Patagonia pay a premium to the factory that creates the jacket, and the extra money is guaranteed to go to the workers.

The one main downside about the Patagonia Pluma is its price which is definitely at the very high end of the market range.

Overall, this jacket is a great offering from Patagonia and another very versatile all-rounder that will serve any hiker well throughout the year.  

10. Black Diamond Sharp End

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Black Diamond Sharp End Jacket Features Summary:

• Fabric: GORE-TEX^® Pro 3L, 70d nylon plain-weave face with a nylon micro-grid backer and DWR finish (140 gsm, 100% nylon) – Bluesign
• Weight: 455 g (1 lb)
• Climbing-helmet-compatible hood
• Two harness-compatible expanding chest pockets with YKK Vislon AquaGuard zippers; one chest pocket; Internal stretch media pocket with cord port
• Brushed microsuede collar lining
• Under arm gussets for a wider range of motion
• Two-way armpit zip vents
• Custom-molded cuff tabs

Best Uses: Hiking, Alpine climbing skiing, snow boarding, outdoor winter sports

The Sharp End by Black Diamond is top-end in terms of both price and performance. It is lightweight, packable, breathable and waterproof making it ideal for hiking and winter sports in general, especially due to its tough, durable outer fabric.

The Sharp End is a classic hardshell that provides unbeatable protection. Made from a tough 70 denier nylon, the Sharp End is well known for its durability, yet it only weighs one pound, making it extremely light for this thickness of material and easily packable.

Treated with Gore-Tex Pro 3L, this jacket is thoroughly waterproof and will keep you dry no matter what conditions you’re exposed to, with an excellent breathability for periods of intense exertion.

It has a regular fit with full underarm gussets, allowing a greater range of movement and flexibility. Pit zips allow you to effectively cool down and reduce perspiration build up during intense activity.

The hood is compatible with a climbing helmet and can be adjusted single handedly on-the-go, thanks to Black Diamond’s integrated Cohaesive™ cord management system, providing rapid protection from sudden downpours.

The collar is lined with microsuede for added comfort, while the cuff tabs are custom molded.

The pockets have been designed and placed with harnesses and backpacks in mind for easy accessibility. Externally, there are two hand zipper pockets with a zipper chest pocket, with an internal stretch media pocket featuring a cord port.

The primary material is Bluesign approved, meaning there is a maximum of respect for the environment and the workers throughout its production.

All in all, the Sharp End men’s hardshell is a superior product that is tough, durable and lives up to its promises. It’s hard to beat, although quality comes at a rather expensive price.

If it is, however, within your price range it should definitely be a main contender for purchase.

11. Montane Alpine Pro

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Montane Alpine Pro Jacket Features Summary:

• Fabric: lightweight 40 Denier GORE-TEX® Pro 12 – 13 stitch count on all seams
• Weight: 455 g (1 lb)
• Fully adjustable climbing helmet compatible hood designed to fit comfortably with winter headwear and a helmet
• Two map sized A-line hand-warmer pockets positioned clear of a backpack or climbing harness belt; Left hand side chest pocket; Internal right hand side stretch mesh pocket; YKK matte AquaGuard® zips
• Roll over beardguard lined with brushed fine microfleece
• Articulated elbow panels
• Underarm and side chest ‘pit zips’ with YKK matte AquaGuard® zips
• Adjustable hem with cinchable drawcord

Best Uses: Hiking, all mountaineering use, Alpine climbing, casual use

British brand Montane has created its Alpine Pro jacket with mountain exploration in mind, making it an ideal choice for hiking.

Highly dependable, waterproof and breathable, the Alpine Pro is a great choice for exploring the backcountry in hash weather conditions.

The Alpine Pro is made from 40 denier Gore-Tex Pro, making it tough and durable, as well as waterproof and breathable. The two-way front zipper is a YKK AquaGuard Vislon that is highly water resistant, combined with an internal storm flap to prevent water entry.

With extra stitching reinforcing all of its seams, it is a robust, reliable jacket that stands up to any harsh environment, yet only weighs 16 ounces. Certainly light enough to stow away in your pack without issue.

The fully-adjustable hood has been designed to accommodate a climbing helmet.

It has quick and easy adjustments around the facial opening and side hood compression adjusters for a close fit, as well as a stiffened peak and a wired edge for greater stability. When not needed, the hood can be rolled down and tucked away.  

This hardshell has been designed to fit slightly oversized to allow for layering. For ease of movement and enhanced fit it has articulated elbow panels and tailoring around the arm to enable high reaching movements without raising the lower hem.

Other features include a drawstring hem, under arm and side chest pit-zips for quick cooling during high intensity exercise, tailor shaped Velcro cuffs to fit easily over gloves, a microfleece beard guard for lower facial protection alongside a tall collar and ergonomic zipper pullers for use with gloves.

The Montane Alpine Pro features two hand warmer pockets that are large enough for storing maps and a left side chest pocket.

They are also designed to sit above a backpack harness for easy access without having to remove your pack, and close with YKK matte AquaGuard zippers. Internally, there is a stretch mesh pocket that can be used for goggles or a water bottle.

This hardshell provides excellent protection from the elements with all important breathability, making it a great choice for hiking and climbing.

A great, versatile all-rounder, this jacket can be used at a range of temperatures thanks to its breathable nature, while its strong durable 40 denier fabric ensures a long lifespan. Comes complete with a lifetime warranty.  

12. Wantdo Mountain Rain Jacket

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Wantdo Mountain Rain Jacket Features Summary:

• Fabric: Polyester; Shell: Professional coated fabric; Lining: Super soft and warm fuzzy lining
• Weight: 10.9oz / 308g Avg. Weight for size L
• 2400 polyester fibre which guarantees the best heat retention. Relaxed-fit style with quick-dry material
• Water-repellent rain jacket can work under over 10000mm pressure head
• Adjustable cuffs, stretchable glove with thumb hole help seal in warmth
• Inside windproof snap powder skirt, internal drawcord hem, detachable and adjustable storm hood help to keep wind out
• Wear resisting soft shell is highly wind resistant
• Pockets: 2 zippered hand pockets, 1 zippered chest pocket (passport or cards stowed), 1 internal pocket, 1 internal secure media pocket
• An earphone line fastening and supporting fixture available inside the jacket

Best Uses: Hiking, skiing, snow boarding, outdoor winter sports

This men’s outdoor waterproof jacket by Wantdo is a budget priced outdoor sports jacket that will keep you warm whilst remaining dry and protected from the wind.

Its low price has made it an extremely popular choice and it is ideal for the occasional hiker or newbie who doesn’t yet want to commit to purchasing a more expensive jacket.

This jacket is treated with a water repellent, although it is not fully water proofed. It is made from durable materials, although the quality of the stitching and zippers could be improved upon.

With a warm polyester lining, this jacket has an excellent heat retention, however, it is mainly intended for low intensity, casual wear not active sportswear as it does not offer much in the way of breathability.

However, for the price, this is only to be expected and it is worth its money for what it is. In terms of looks, this jacket rates highly and is ideal for wearing about town and for light country walks and hiking.

It has several decent features, such as adjustable cuffs, with thumb holes, an adjustable storm hood for protection from the elements and an internal drawcord hem.

It also features two hand pockets to help keep your hands warm while strolling, one zippered chest pocket, an internal pocket and an internal media pocket with a earphone wire support feature.

There are no ventilation features, with the emphasis being more upon keeping the warmth in.

This jacket is good value for its price and an affordable option for beginners or those who only make the occasional hike in reasonable weather.

It is not recommended for wear during intense downpours, nor for heading out into the backcountry. It is however an excellent choice for a winter stroll in pleasant but cold conditions.

Conclusion

We hope you found this look through the best men’s hardshell jackets of 2023 informative and useful. Please share it across your networks if you did.

While not a necessity for every hiker, for the more adventurous mountain enthusiasts who enjoy the challenge of taking on the hills in tougher conditions, a hardshell jacket can be an excellent piece of kit to add to your gear.

Definitely much more expensive than standard rain shells, but the demands these jackets have to cope with justifies the cost, as it of course takes much more to construct.

If you’re totally new to hardshell jackets and are not sure where to start to learn about whats involved with them, check out our hardshell jacket buying guide. It walks you through all of the key factors to consider.