11 Best Sailing Jackets in 2025: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Sailing Jacket for You
The best sailing jackets have to be pretty incredible items of clothing. Sailing exposes you to extreme weather conditions like almost no other sport and the demands on designers to create clothing that meet all of the various needs of sailors is huge.
We’re what you would typically call fair-weather sailors. I have absolutely no desire to head out to sea in the depths of winter. But even though we’re picking the very best weather windows to sail in, we still get caught out.
On a recent sail, we were taking breaking waves into the cockpit for 12 hours straight. It was cold, dark, and scary. Without our top-quality sailing jackets, we would have been seriously miserable – if not in danger of getting hypothermia.
The top outer layers for maximum protection in all weather conditions should be easy to move in, waterproof, and warm but with excellent moisture-wicking properties. They should provide cover for the head from the wind and rain without compromising visibility and be durable and long-lasting. That’s a long list!
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn from other affiliate programs. This means we may receive a small commission on products purchased through our links at no extra cost to you.
Not all jackets for sailing have been made equal. We’ve detailed the top features to look out for when making a purchase so that you can find a jacket that’s perfect for you and your individual needs.
We’ve also reviewed the very best ocean jackets for each category of sailing, whether you enjoy day sailing along the coast or are heading off to the North sea on a multi-day expedition.
Quick Guide
- Coastal jackets for men
- Coastal jackets for women
- Offshore sailing jackets for men
- Offshore sailing jackets for women
- Best sailing jackets for kids
- Features of the best outer layers
11 Best Sailing Jackets
We’ve broken down our top choices into coastal or inshore and offshore categories to help you choose the right jacket for the kind of sailing you’ll be doing. If in doubt, though, go for a jacket rated for off-shore or ocean sailing.
We’ve often experienced worse conditions along the coast than we have out at sea, so you really just never know when it comes to the weather!
The jackets listed below are all from reputable sailing brands, and we would highly recommend you stick to designers that know sailing clothes – outdoor jackets won’t cut it.
Best Coastal Sailing Jackets for Men
There are a few reasons why you might need a jacket for coastal sailing, even if you’re sailing on a beautifully sunny day.
Coastal sailing or inshore sailing can actually be some of the least predictable, with all sorts of strange wind and weather patterns coming off the land. You’ll need a jacket on hand at all times just in case.
A good inshore sailing jacket should be waterproof, windproof, and have a hood to protect you from the elements. It should also be comfortable to wear and allow you to move freely while sailing. Look for a jacket with reflective stripes or bright colors to help you stay visible in case of an emergency.
We’ve listed some of the best below!
#1 Helly Hansen Newport Regatta
Adam and I absolutely love our Newport Regatta jackets. They are the best coastal sailing jackets we’ve ever owned and we would recommend them to anyone.
They’re a little more expensive than some of the other coastal sailing jackets out there but for good reason – these are versatile jackets that we would actually feel happy using offshore on shorter passages as well as for coastal sailing.
The men’s design comes in three colour ways, so you can find a jacket suited to your style. They’re based on the heritage sailing jacket designs from the 1990s so they’re really fun and you do feel the part in them (only they’re using all the latest protective technology, and over 50% recycled materials!)
✅ Lightweight but protective
✅ Offshore features
✅ Very cool designs!
❌ We can’t find any!
✔ Buy the men’s Newport Regatta jacket here
#2 Helly Hanson Pier
Adam loves all his Helly Hansen sailing gear and this outer layer jacket is no exception. Helly Hansen makes gear to last.
We actually found some super old Helly Hansen sailing jackets on board when we bought the boat and they were still going strong – unfortunately they weren’t in our size so some lucky sailors benefitted from the marina charity!
The Pier 3.0 sailing jacket is the perfect choice for coastal cruisers. It features a high protective collar, adjustable double cuff seals, fleece-lined hand pockets, and SOLAS-approved reflectives for safety on and around the water.
It’s waterproof, windproof, breathable, and looks pretty cool too! Helly Hansen makes great sailing gear and this jacket is perfect for coastal cruising.
Pros
✅ Lightweight
✅ Durable and high quality
✅ Double cuff seals
Cons
❌ Hood can feel bulky when rolled
#3 Musto Corsica BR1 Jacket
This is the perfect jacket for anyone who coastal sails and would be great for anyone looking for a multi-use jacket as it’s also perfectly suited to land life.
It’s a little more affordable than some of the other options on here but there’s no compromise on quality. This coastal sailing jacket is waterproof and lined with Arctec fleece that only retains 1% of its weight in water and keeps much of its insulating power even when wet.
The hem and cuffs are adjustable for a snug fit and there are multiple zip pockets, including an internal pocket with a headphone exit point.
Pros
✅ Durable and high quality
✅ Lined for warmth
✅ Lightweight
Cons
❌
Coastal Jackets for Women
#4 Helly Hansen Newport Regatta
Like the men’s design of the same name, these coastal sailing jackets are the best out there and Adam and I wear ours for almost every occasion (including trips to the pub or drinks on the beach!)
These jackets feel a little like an offshore jacket as they offer most of the same useful features, with reflective strips, high collars, and double cuff sleeves. I love the fleece lined hand warming pockets for when the wind picks up!
The fit on the women’s jackets is great, with a flattering shape but more importantly, the ability to move your arms easily without it riding up.
I like the length and found mine was a little longer than other sailing jackets I’ve owned, feeling more protective. I would opt for a size up if you want to layer up underneath.
The women’s design comes in three colour ways, so you can find a jacket suited to your style. They’re based on the heritage sailing jacket designs from the 1990s so they’re really fun and you do feel the part in them (only they’re using all the latest protective technology, and over 50% recycled materials!)
✅ Lightweight but protective
✅ Offshore features
✅ Flattering fit and designs
❌ No complaints here!
✔ Buy the women’s Newport Regatta jacket here
#5 Helly Hansen Pier
This smart-looking sailing coat is waterproof, windproof, and breathable, specifically made with sailing in mind. It’s high collar and fleece-lined pockets will keep you warm in chilly winds and it has adjustable cuff seals to keep you properly dry in a squall.
It features SOLAS-approved reflectives for safety on and around the water. We only have the men’s version of this jacket but it’s a solid favourite, and when it’s time to buy a new jacket for sailing then I hope this one is still around!
Pros
✅ Comfortable fit
✅ Lightweight
✅ Durable and high quality
Cons
❌ Hood can feel bulky when rolled
#6 Gill Pilot Jacket
This is a great multi-use jacket for sailing that will look just as good off the boat as it does on. The women’s Pilot jacket is made from a 2-layer laminated fabric with a durable water repellent finish that’s incredibly soft to the touch.
It has an adjustable hood that tucks away into the collar and fully taped seams for extra protection. We know a sailor with the berry colour and it looks awesome!
Pros
✅ Comfortable and made to last
✅ Lightweight
✅ Adjustable hood
Cons
❌ Not lined, so wear a decent mid-layer too if needed
The Best Offshore Sailing Jackets For Men
Offshore sailing can be a beautiful and exhilarating experience. But it can also be dangerous, especially if you’re not properly prepared. That’s why it’s important to have the right gear when you head out onto the open water.
One of the most essential pieces of gear for any offshore sailor is a good jacket. A jacket will help you stay warm and dry in the event that you end up in the water. It will also provide protection from the sun and wind.
If you’re looking for a good offshore sailing jacket, make sure to check out the latest offerings from companies like Helly Hansen and Musto. These companies have a reputation for making high-quality gear that’s designed to withstand the rigors of offshore sailing.
We’ve listed some of the top offshore jackets below.
#7 Skagen Offshore Jacket
We love the fact that Helly Hansen has started to make products using recycled materials. It’s the first example we’ve seen in sailing jackets and we hope this trend is going to catch on! The Skagen men’s offshore jacket is made from 50% Oceanbound recycled materials.
It was designed with the help of professional sailors so you can be sure it has all the important features, and of course, it’s waterproof, breathable, and long-lasting too. This is an excellent choice.
Pros
✅ Comfortable to wear/not too heavy
✅ Durable and high quality
✅ Double cuff seals
Cons
❌
✔ Get yours now from Helly Hansen
#8 Gill OS24
This is Gill’s flagship offshore sailing jacket, and it makes it obvious why they have such a great reputation as a serious sailing brand.
This is one of the best coats out there, made from all the best materials to ensure it’s rugged, waterproof, windproof, and breathable.
They’ve obviously packed in a ton of other features too, such as the long waist and sleeves to keep you dry as you move around, the lined high-visibility hood, and the internal seals on the wrists.
People’s one complaint with this jacket is the high-cut collar that can chafe the neck, but we see this as a small compromise for what is ultimately an incredible off-shore sailing jacket.
Pros
✅ Durable and high quality
✅ Comfortable fit
✅ High collar for wind protection
Cons
❌ Chafing from the extra-high collar
#9 Windrider Pro
This is a great all-weather sailing jacket that will keep you warm and comfortable in the worst of conditions. It has fully taped seams, a roll-a-way adjustable hood with a bill, and a double storm flap to keep the water out.
The fleece-lined collar is a nice touch for warmth and the large pockets are perfect for warming chilly hands! They’ve thought of the little details, such as an adjustable hem and inner cuffs, and reflective detailing, making this one of the best all-weather jackets for men.
Pros
✅ Double storm flap
✅ Adjustable hood
✅ Heavy duty/durable
Cons
❌ Can feel a little restrictive
The Best Offshore Sailing Jackets For Women
Here are our top picks for offshore sailing jackets for women. We love that sailing brands have increased the options out there for women – long may it last!
#10 Helly Hansen Salt Power Jacket
This Helly Hansen jacket breaks a few sailing jacket stereotypes, and we’re all for it! Traditionally, you’ll find sailing jackets in red, white, or blue (or some kind of variation on this), but this jacket is something you could definitely wear to the pub as well.
The Salt Power Jacket is fully lined, with fleece in the collar and pockets to keep you warm and dry. It comes down to your hips, which is one of my pet hates in sailing jackets – when they don’t cover your trouser/top gap and let all the cold in!
Pros
✅ High neck for added wind protection
✅ Lightweight and comfortable
✅ Excellent quality/durable
Cons
❌ Sizing can run small/short on some
#11 Gill Women’s OS24 Offshore Sailing Jacket
Just as with the men’s version, this offshore jacket really does top the competition. It’s made from tough, waterproof materials with the roughest days on the water in mind.
The long waist and sleeves mean you don’t risk getting wet as you move around and it comes with a high-visibility hood. The high collar keeps you snug in nasty winds!
Pros
✅ Durable and high quality
✅ Comfortable
✅ Numerous pockets, including waterproof ones
Cons
❌ Slim line fit looks great but can be restrictive
#12 Women’s Skagen Offshore Jacket
This offshore sailing jacket was designed with input from professional sailors, you can be sure it has everything you’ll need in a sailing jacket!
It’s the same high quality as all the Helly Hansen products. Durable, waterproof, breathable, and with all the extra bells and whistles you’re after in a decent offshore jacket.
A real bonus to this jacket is the fact it’s made with 50% Oceanbound recycled materials. The interior has a 100% recycled, quick-dry, mesh lining. We love the fact Helly Hansen is attempting to go eco-friendly with this product, and hope this will continue as technology improves!
Pros
✅ Waterproof zip pockets
✅ Double cuff seams
✅ Comfortable and easy to put on
Cons
❌ Can feel a little heavy around the shoulders
The Best Sailing Jackets for Kids
The main challenge you’ll have when finding an ocean jacket suitable for children is actually getting them to wear it! Kids hate anything that feels uncomfortable or restrictive, so we’ve found the perfect jacket that’s comfortable and cool but doesn’t compromise on key features.
#13 Salt 2
This jacket is designed with all the best features of Helly Hansen adult sailing jackets but in miniature! It’s waterproof, breathable, and warm. It includes hi-vis SOLAS reflectives, a packable and detachable hood, quick-dry lining, and a D-ring for a kill cord.
It’s also easy to move in and comfortable, which is super important for getting kids to actually wear their cold-weather gear!
How Do I Choose a Sailing Jacket? Most Important Features to Consider
In this section, we cover the features that are most important to look out for when choosing the right jacket for you. This will help you to make an informed choice and get the very best protection for your budget.
Offshore Sailing Jackets vs. Coastal Sailing Jackets
There are usually two types of sailing – coastal or offshore.
Coastal
If you’re mostly a fair-weather sailor (like us currently!) sticking to in-season sailing mostly around coastal areas then a coastal outer layer is probably best for you.
A coastal jacket is usually lighter, making it cheaper and easier to store. Just because it’s cheaper and lightweight, though, it doesn’t mean you should compromise on the important features. Look for a coastal jacket that’s waterproof, windproof, and has a hood and reflective strips as a minimum.
The Helly Hanson Pier is the perfect example of a great coastal jacket option.
Offshore
Offshore jackets are what you’ll want for exactly what the name implies – offshore sailing. You’re far more likely to experience bad weather, and rougher seas and be out in it for longer periods of time.
Offshore jackets are a must-have if you’re planning longer passages or a circumnavigation as you’re bound to get caught out in some less than ideal conditions and you’ll be warm and as comfortable as possible when you do!
Even if you aren’t planning longer passages, choose an offshore-rated jacket if you plan to sail in colder climates or off-season when you know the weather might take a turn. The Skagen Offshore jacket by Helly Hansen is a great ocean jacket option and has all the features you could want for longer passages.
Most Important Features to Look For in Your Sailing Jacket
These are some of the most important features to look out for when choosing the right jacket for you.
If you’re a seasoned sailor, you will know your cruising patterns and grounds better than anyone, so you’ll have a better idea of your personal taste and whether or not you’re happy to forego some of these features.
If you’re jacket hunting for the first time then make sure the option you go for has all of these features.
- waterproof
- windproof
- adjustable hood
- lined pockets
- reflective panels/high-visibility colors
- fully taped seams
- adjustable cuffs
- waterproof pockets
- compatible with a life jacket
Materials
Most sailing jackets use nylon or similar fabrics for the outer shell, which needs to be strong and waterproof. Seams are usually taped for extra protection in the weaker areas and you’ll often find it also has a protective coating to add to the waterproof qualities.
Liners are typically polyester fleece because of their warmth properties and they’ll often be made from materials designed to move water away from the skin for sweat reduction.
Do You Need Pockets?
Pockets are so useful to have on a sailing jacket, especially when they’re waterproof. Many sailing-specific jackets have zippered internal pockets for protected storage of things like your wallet and phone that you don’t want to get wet or damaged.
Outside pockets often include zippered chest pockets and deep lower pockets with secure Velcro closures, often with fleece-lined hand warmer pockets behind them. It’s great to have somewhere warm to put your hands on a cold sail!
Hoods
Another outer layer essential, especially for rainy weather and strong wind! You’ll want a hood to keep the wind, spray, and rain away from your head. Most sailing jacket hoods can be stowed in a collar pocket when not in use, and a fluorescent hood, often with reflective tape, for maximum visibility if you ever end up in the water.
The only problem with hoods is that they can limit visibility somewhat. If this is a big concern of your look for brands with adjustable hoods so you can change them to suit the weather conditions and your needs while sailing.
Extra considerations
- Check the size charts of the sailing brand manufacturer before you purchase. Sometimes they differ slightly from brand to brand.
- Sleeve length is something most don’t consider, until they find it’s too short and doesn’t provide adequate protection. All jackets listed here have decent long sleeves.
- For the worst conditions, consider having a dry suit to hand as part of your foul-weather wardrobe.
- Carefully consider your other wardrobe items too. Make sure you have decent cold weather sailing gear to wear as your middle and inner layers. Things like fleece jackets, sailing gloves and hats, and waterproof trousers will give better protection against the elements.
In Summary
Hopefully, this has helped you find the best sailing jacket for your personal needs out on the water. Make sure you check out our essential sailing gear guide for more advice about must-haves for sailing!
And if you like what you’ve read then please do follow us on the social media channels below for more sailing and travel articles.
5 Comments
Comments are closed.