When you’re out and about enjoying an active lifestyle, the weather isn’t always on your side. For this reason, it is important that you have appropriate attire to keep you warm and dry. A 3 in 1 jacket is ideal for this as it is designed to be used across all seasons and provides you with warmth, dryness and comfort.
You’ll want a jacket that offers all of these things as well as ensuring that your style isn’t compromised.
Finding the best 3 in 1 jacket requires a little research to ensure that you get a jacket that offers everything you need. But rather than spending hours trawling the internet, we’ve put together this handy guide on choosing the right 3 in 1 jacket for you. We’ve also curated a list of some of the best jackets currently on the market. So, grab a cup of tea, put your feet up and let’s dive in!
The Best 3 In 1 Jackets For Women
If you perform a Google search for the best 3 in 1 jacket for women, you’ll yield thousands of results. But every retailer is going to tell you that their jacket is the cream of the crop, when sometimes, that isn’t the case. We’ve tried and reviewed several 3 in 1 jackets and are pleased to present you with our top picks.
EDITORS CHOICE
The first thing you will notice about the Haglöfs Stuga jacket is how incredibly light it is, I wasn't sure how warm this jacket would be because of this reason however going out one morning in 3 degree weather with just a t-shirt underneath was enough to tell me how warm this jacket was as well as light. Lined with a cosy insulating Polartec® pile fabric this jacket is very comfy to wear and the outer is fully wind proof which again helps retain the heat underneath. I love that the outer is 2-layer PROOF™ with a recycled face fabric.
I found the inner layer very easy to remove from the outer when needed and small press stud loops held the inner in place in the sleeves and back. Having pockets in both the outer and inner is very handy and there is an adjuster to tighten the bottom and the hood should you wish. This jacket has it all, great all weather option and very light which is why it has made it to our editors choice. You can really tell the quality of this jacket from the fit, feel and how I can tell you won't end up sweaty hot from use of cheaper fabric I think it moderates your heat very well. They also do a Mens Version too.
Pros | Cons |
Very light | A little more expensive than some others |
Cosy inner layer | |
Wind and water resistant | |
Four pockets and easy to convert | |
Choice of colours |
OUR TOP PICK
Investing in a top quality 3 in 1 jacket for women will ensure that you end up with a garment that offers the greatest versatility, protection and value for money. This one from Wantdo fulfils all of those expectations and then some! What’s more, it’s super stylish.
The Wantdo 3 in 1 jacket features a teflon coating which effectively repels water while allowing the coat to remain breathable. The waterproofing on this jacket is one of the very best out there making it ideal for things like skiing and snowboarding when you need that extra protection. It’s also very wind resistant and comes with adjustable cuffs and hood to keep the chill out.
While it will very effectively protect you from the cold thanks to a snug internal jacket and a high collar, this 3 in 1 jacket is also incredibly breathable. With underarm vents and breathable material, you won’t ever feel clammy or overheated.
Pros | Cons |
Choice of colours | We couldn’t find anything wrong with this jacket |
Lots of windproof features | |
Plenty of pockets | |
Adjustable hood and cuffs | |
Very effective waterproof coating |
Best for showing off your style
When you’re hiking, cycling, running or taking part in any other outdoor activity, you still want to look great. That’s why we love this 3 in 1 jacket from TACVASEN. It comes in an excellent range of colours so no matter what your taste, there will be something you love.
But as well as looking great, this jacket has everything you would expect to remain 100% practical and protective. The internal softshell layer gives you comfortable protection from the cold and is ideal for winter wear. The outer shell will effectively repel precipitation and yet remains superbly breathable so you won’t feel sweaty underneath.
The jacket features a removable hood which is fully adjustable using drawcords for ease of use. There are also internal adjusters on the cuff to close them off when the weather turns. The jacket is lightweight and easy to wear, making it ideal for a variety of adventures.
Pros | Cons |
Fully adjustable | Sizes come small |
Soft, comfortable internal layer | |
Excellent water resistance | |
Four pockets | |
Choice of colours |
Best Value
While we would never advocate buying a cheap jacket just for the price; you might end up with something inferior, we are confident that there are some amazing jackets out there that don’t break the bank. This one from Ultrasport is a perfect example of that. It has everything you need to enjoy the outdoors without succumbing to the effects of the weather all for a very favourable price.
For example, this lightweight jacket is incredibly effective when it comes to wind protection. Both layers are made from polyester so are durable and still comfortable. The elasticated cuffs offer a snug fit and ensure that the wind and rain are kept out.
Considering how affordable this jacket is, you’ll be surprised to learn how well made it is. It features taped seams and waterproof zips which give an excellent performance. What’s more, it comes in a great choice of colours to allow you to choose something that suits your taste.
Pros | Cons |
Affordable | Some issues with zip durability |
Strong waterproof seams | |
Several pockets including a sleeve pocket - perfect for your ski pass! | |
Choice of colours | |
Soft and comfortable - doesn’t restrict movement |
Best for very cold weather
If you’re going to a very cold climate or enjoy spending time in the snow, perhaps skiing or hiking then you’re going to need a jacket that stands up to these conditions. One of the best things about the Mountain Warehouse 3 in 1 jacket is that it is much longer than many of its competitors, giving you that extra protection from the wind and cold.
In addition to this, the jacket benefits from being fully adjustable and has all the features you would expect for superior waterproofing such as taped seams. In fact, Mountain Warehouse has tested the jacket in some of the harshest conditions so you can be sure it’ll do what it claims.
While this is a larger 3 in 1 jacket that has thermal layers to fight against the chill, that doesn’t mean that it isn’t ideal for travel. It easily folds into your bag and is lightweight and comfortable to wear.
Pros | Cons |
Long length | Hood peak isn’t very effective |
Excellent waterproof features | |
Lightweight | |
Breathable fabric | |
Very warm |
Best for skiing
There are a lot of things you need to look for when choosing a jacket that is suitable for skiing and this from Volwassan has them all. It features a high collar that’ll prevent wind and cold from getting into the jacket from the top as well as a removable hood that is large enough to fit over your helmet. Moreover, the jacket is made from top quality materials that are sure to keep you warm, for example, the inner polar fleece.
We also love that this 3 in 1 jacket for women comes with lots of pockets so you’ve got somewhere safe to keep your bits and pieces while out on the slopes. Additionally, you will notice that the Volwassan jacket has a range of adjustments around the waist and at the wrists so you can adjust it to your comfort.
Where being waterproof is concerned, this jacket really does stand up to the elements. It is a coated fabric that effectively keeps out moisture even in tough conditions. What’s more, the fabric is designed to not crease so there’s no worries when packing it in your travel bag!
Pros | Cons |
Lots of pockets | Some customer issues with design quality in terms of small details |
Adjustable | |
Doesn’t restrict movement | |
Choice of colours | |
Very good waterproofing |
Best Basic Jacket
For many people, a 3 in 1 jacket is required for running day to day errands and you may not need something as expensive or complex as some of the other jackets we have discussed. While the Regatta Benson Li jacket is certainly not inferior, it does have fewer features making it perfect for everyday use when winter comes along.
It has a high collar for wind protection and a snug fleece inner jacket that is surprisingly warm, not to mention soft and comfortable. The outer shell is lightweight and fully waterproof so the jacket will work well even when the heavens open! What’s more, The simple design is incredibly stylish and won’t ruin your look.
We also love that the Regatta 3 in 1 jacket for women is so easy to care for. It’s machine washable and the quality of the inner fabric means that it isn’t prone to pilling. There are a few pockets to keep your essentials and the outer fabric is breathable.
Pros | Cons |
Lightweight | No hood |
Great for everyday use | |
Excellent waterproof | |
Easy to care for, high quality fabrics | |
Plenty of pockets |
Best Investment Piece
If you’re looking to purchase a high quality 3 in 1 jacket and don’t mind spending a little more money provided it will last for many years, then we would highly recommend the Belfast jacket from Helly Hansen. It is a longline 3 in 1 jacket, ideal for cold conditions and the quality is excellent.
The jacket is super snug and yet breathable as well as featuring the respected Helly Hansen waterproofing and wind proofing that the brand is known for. It’s a little less lightweight than some of the others but certainly not so much that it weighs you down and it can easily be packed into your luggage when travelling.
What’s more, this 3 in 1 jacket boasts a versatile hood that can be easily folded away when not in use. The high collar gives you excellent protection from the elements and the internal fabric is super soft and cosy.
Pros | Cons |
Longline and ideal for very cold weather | Fewer pockets than some other jackets |
High quality waterproof outer fabric | |
Breathable | |
Ideal for travel | |
Stylish design |
Bonus Pick
Berghaus is a highly respected outdoor brand so right from the off, you know you’re getting something that is of the best quality. This 3 in 1 jacket combines style and functionality perfectly and is ideal for the active outdoors person. This is thanks to how well the jacket allows for freedom of movement, you certainly won’t feel restricted.
Moreover, the Elana Gemini jacket benefits from a very good waterproof system that effectively keeps out rain, snow and other moisture. The internal jacket is soft and warm and there is also a removable hood making this a very versatile garment.
The Berghaus 3 in 1 jacket is lightweight and easy to carry when travelling so makes a great choice for people on the go. We also love that it boasts a sleek, modern and stylish design for people who want to look great while staying active. You really do get the best of everything.
Pros | Cons |
Stylish design | Expensive |
High quality waterproof outer fabric | |
Snug internal jacket | |
Adjustable hood | |
Doesn’t restrict movement |
What Is A 3 In 1 Jacket?
You might sometimes hear a 3 in 1 jacket being referred to as an interchange jacket, but they are one of the same things. These jackets are designed to be used across the seasons and are made up of two jackets which can be zipped together, depending on the current conditions. The two jackets can also be used independently which helps when choosing what to wear in different types of weather.
To zip the jacket together, you’ll use a series of snap buttons inside the sleeve as well as zips located on either side of the jackets. The external part of the 3 in 1 jacket is breathable and waterproof offering protection from rain, snow and other elements while also allowing excellent airflow. The inner part of the jacket is typically made from a fleece material or something else that provides warmth.
What Are The Benefits Of A 3 In 1 Jacket?
The main reason that you would benefit from a 3 in 1 jacket is that this is a piece of clothing that offers superior versatility. When you’re out and about exploring the world, the last thing you want is several garments weighing you down. With a 3 in 1 jacket, you have everything you need in one lightweight yet effective piece of outerwear.
The outer shell can be worn as protection against wet weather while the internal fleece component can be used when it’s cool and dry. When things get a little more tumultuous, you’ll have the benefit of wearing both together.
While buying two separate jackets for different weather conditions can be costly, purchasing a 3 in 1 jacket will save you a considerable amount of money. Since the jacket can be worn over all seasons, you also won’t need to worry about investing more than once a year.
Finally, modern manufacturers of 3 in 1 jackets source their materials responsibly and are paying very close attention to their impact on the planter. For example, The North Face, one of the most well known outdoor wear suppliers in the world, offers a clothing recycling scheme.
Things To Consider When Choosing A 3 In 1 Jacket
While we are super confident in our choice of 3 in 1 jackets for women, not every jacket will be suitable for all needs. For this reason, it’s essential to always make sure that you look at the features of any prospective jacket and compare these to your requirements. Below, we discuss the most important factors to think about.
The Different Layers
One of the most important things when it comes to choosing a 3 in 1 jacket is to look at the quality and effectiveness of the various layers.
The top layer of your 3 in 1 jacket is known as the outer shell and this is made from a waterproof material. Before you choose a jacket, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the technology used in the manufacturing. The way that a jacket has been waterproofed can have a very serious impact on how breathable it is.
Generally speaking, a waterproof membrane is the better option when compared to a coated fabric. This is because a waterproof membrane will not only stop water from getting in but also has great airflow meaning that sweat and internal moisture can escape, preventing you from getting too warm. As a direct result of this, you’ll find that these jackets are far superior when it comes to active pursuits.
With coated fabrics, it’s important to take good care of your waterproof jacket as, over time, it is natural for these fabrics to become less effective. The best way to ensure maximum longevity is through regular cleaning and reproofing.
The internal part of your 3 in 1 jacket is designed to keep you warm in cooler weather. It is usually made from either softshell or fleece and is zipped inside the waterproof shell.
Fleece is a wooly material which is super warm and yet remains lightweight. When it is worn beneath the outer shell, it is very effective in keeping air locked inside, therefore keeping you warm.
On the other hand, softshell has far greater breathability and so is usually favoured by people who will be more active when wearing their garment. For those taking part in things like mountain hiking and cycling, these jackets will help to keep you at just the right temperature. It won’t keep you as warm as fleece but it does do an excellent job at protecting you from wind chill.
The Hood
Almost every 3 in 1 jacket comes with a hood, this is a feature that adds to the versatility of the garment. However, you should check whether the hood can be easily removed for times when you don’t need it. In most cases, it will be attached with a zipper.
You should also make sure that the hood can be adjusted as this will allow you to increase your protection from the wind and rain on rough weather days. Having a snug fit will offer the best protection but you might also wish to look for a hood that also comes with a peak as this gives you that little extra when the rain is coming down.
Pockets
When you’re exploring the great outdoors, you’re probably going to have a few essential items to take with you; your phone, car keys, perhaps some medication. It’s important to have somewhere safe to store these for ease of access, especially if you are not planning on taking a backpack with you.
Most 3 in 1 jackets for women come with a selection of pockets but it’s a good idea to check how secure they are. The best pockets will feature a smooth zip that doesn’t jam and allows you to keep your belongings safe. Waterproof zips offer protection from wet weather and internal pockets are also an excellent feature to look out for.
Other Adjustments
If you really want the most versatile 3 in 1 jacket then you need to find one that comes with a multitude of adjustments. The very best jackets will have an adjustable hem as well as adjustable cuffs. These features will further protect you from wet weather and wind.
Fit
A waterproof jacket like your interchangeable jacket should provide you with a snug fit. However, it is essential that this snugness does not interfere with your movement or restrict it in any way. One of the best ways to get a feel for the sizing and fit is to try the jacket before you head outdoors. This is especially important if you are going to be very active and need a good range of movement to keep safe.
Style
There has always been something of a stigma attached to outdoor wear with many people believing that, in order to get something hugely practical, you must sacrifice your style. But this isn’t the case and there are plenty of 3 in 1 jackets that look incredible and will have you feeling just as stylish as you are protected from the elements.
Conclusion
A 3 in 1 jacket will serve you regardless of the season or weather conditions. These jackets are designed to offer versatility, style and comfort so you don’t have to stay home just because the weather isn’t on your side.
Of course, you will need to carefully select a 3 in 1 jacket to make sure that it meets your needs but with our top picks, we’re sure you’ll find something that you love!
