#10 Best Mid Layer Jackets for Hiking 2023

When you're hiking, a mid-layer jacket is a must-have piece of equipment to wear. Read our recommendation to find the best mid layer jackets for hiking.

👤 Written by: A. Ulinnuha
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It would help if you had a mid-layer, whether you live somewhere with four distinct seasons or somewhere more temperate. Mid layers are among the most adaptable layers available, and they come in a variety of forms and designs. Hiking also necessitates the use of a mid-layer jacket. The best mid layer jackets for hiking will keep you warm even at the mountain’s peak.

The best mid layer jackets for hiking can also be worn independently, depending on the design. They often have elements seen in jackets, such as a front zip and maybe a hood, and always offer some insulation. So, if you’re searching for the best mid layer jackets for hiking, check out our recommendations below.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Do I need the best hiking mid layer jackets?

A mid-layer is your significant insulating layer while hiking. Its purpose is to trap heat against the body, giving warmth and protection against cold conditions. Keeping your core warm is essential for total body temperature because the warmer your core is, the more blood flows to your extremities.

What factor should I consider before purchasing the best mid-layer jackets for hiking?

  1. Insulation: When hiking in chilly weather, however, insulation is essential for remaining warm since the base and outer layers alone provide relatively little heat retention.
  2. Breathability: Whether worn between your base layer and shell or on its own, a mid-layer that isn’t breathable can keep perspiration from leaving, making you vulnerable to fast heat loss and even hypothermia. So choose a mid-layer with good breathability.
  3. Comfort: Various characteristics and qualities contribute to comfort in mid-layers, the most significant of which is fabric type. So, pick a fabric that meets your comfort requirements.

What is the best mid-layer jacket material?

The best material for a mid-layer jacket adds insulation and other comfortable material to its layer. This material is synthetic fill insulation, a fabric sewn between two layers to provide excellent insulation.

How much should I spend on the best mid-layer jackets for hiking?

The best mid-layer jacket for hiking spends between $100 to $500. A material, features, and brand affect the range of the price. So before you spend a lot of money on this mid-layer jacket, examine your size so you’ll get a perfect size mid-layer.

*Disclaimer. We can not guarantee that the information on this page is 100% correct. Read more
Name Rank Check Prices
Men's Steens Mountain Full Zip 2.0 Columbia
Columbia
Men's Steens Mountain Full Zip 2.0
#1 Amazon Columbia.com eBay
Cerium LT Hoody Men's Arc'teryx
Arc'teryx
Cerium LT Hoody Men's
#2 Amazon Arcteryx.com eBay
Atom AR Hoody Men's Arc'teryx
Arc'teryx
Atom AR Hoody Men's
#3 Amazon Arcteryx.com eBay
Fuego Down Hooded Jacket Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi
Fuego Down Hooded Jacket
#4 Amazon Cotopaxi.com eBay
Fury Hoodie Montane
Montane
Fury Hoodie
#5 Amazon Absolute-snow.co.uk eBay
Merino Men's Helix Hooded Jacket Icebreaker
Icebreaker
Merino Men's Helix Hooded Jacket
#6 Amazon Icebreaker.com eBay
Men's Coefficient Long Sleeve Fleece Hoody Black Diamond
Black Diamond
Men's Coefficient Long Sleeve Fleece Hoody
#7 Amazon Blackdiamondequipment.com eBay
Monkey Man Grid II Hooded Jacket Mountain Hardwear
Mountain Hardwear
Monkey Man Grid II Hooded Jacket
#8 Amazon Shop.epictv.com eBay
Mens Athletic Runbold Hoodie Mammut
Mammut
Mens Athletic Runbold Hoodie
#9 Amazon Rei.com eBay
Men's Smartloft 120 Mid-Layer Jacket Smartwool
Smartwool
Men's Smartloft 120 Mid-Layer Jacket
#10 Amazon Smartwool.com eBay

10 List of Best Mid Layer Jackets for Hiking

  • Columbia Men's Steens Mountain Full Zip 2.0
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    #1

    Columbia Men's Steens Mountain Full Zip 2.0

    Best Overall Mid Layer Jacket

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Anyone searching for a low-cost, classic-appearing fleece that will provide enough weather protection may opt for the Columbia Men’s Steens Mountain Full Zip 2.0. This hiking mid layer jacket is smooth and comfortable, perfect for wearing after a day of skiing, hiking, or any other fun and chilly outdoor activity. Furthermore, this mid layer is made of 100% polyester MTR filament fleece, a sturdy fleece that will keep you warm no matter what.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Smooth and comfortable
    It is made of 100% polyester MTR filament fleece
    Affordable

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Limited warmth

    What other experts liked

    Steens Mountain is incredibly comfortable. I wore it around the home, to the grocery store, and on hikes and camping trips. It felt amazing in every situation.
    Backpackers

    What other experts didn't like

    In a thunderstorm, this fleece will not keep you dry.
    Gear Lab
  • Arc'teryx Cerium LT Hoody Men's
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    #2

    Arc'teryx Cerium LT Hoody Men's

    Best Mid Layer Jacket with Synthetic CoreLoft

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoody Men’s is made of 850 fill goose down that has been body mapped to increase heat in specific locations. In addition, it features a backup, synthetic CoreLoft fill that keeps you warm even when wet, as well as an excellent DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating. This hiking mid layer jacket is also water-resistant and lightweight, so you can wear it whenever you go hiking.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    It is made of 850 fill goose down
    Lightweight
    Features synthetic CoreLoft

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Expensive

    What other experts liked

    Its superb features and good warmth-to-weight ratio make it a fantastic pick.
    Gear Lab

    What other experts didn't like

    A stuff bag isn't very straightforward to use, which restricts its utility.
    Evolution Basin
  • Arc'teryx Atom AR Hoody Men's
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    #3

    Arc'teryx Atom AR Hoody Men's

    Best Insulation Mid Layer Jacket

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Arc’teryx Atom AR Hoody Men’s is yet another excellent mid-layer option that can also be worn as a standalone jacket. Although it can be used in any environment, it performs best in single-digit temperatures and higher altitudes. The Atom AR offers a superb and long-lasting DWR covering. Additionally, the insulation in this hoodie is body mapped on the garment in various weights, keeping you warm.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Long-lasting DWR covering
    Versatile
    Excellent insulation

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    There is no large pocket

    What other experts liked

    The Atom AR is a real cold-weather standout and an excellent down jacket substitute.
    Switch Back Travel

    What other experts didn't like

    Despite having storage in three smaller pockets, there are no large pockets.
    Evolution Basin
  • Cotopaxi Fuego Down Hooded Jacket
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    #4

    Cotopaxi Fuego Down Hooded Jacket

    Best Great Looking Mid Layer Jacket

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Cotopaxi Fuego Down Hooded Jacket has a distinctive appearance. It features practically top-of-the-line insulation with 800-fill-power down and a treated outer cloth to improve the jacket’s weather resistance. Aside from the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, the outer cloth is also very durable and well-made, making it an ideal mid-layer for hiking.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Great-looking design
    Lightweight
    Versatile

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Expensive

    What other experts liked

    This jacket is incredibly breathable while maintaining its warmth.
    The Trek

    What other experts didn't like

    Interior storage compartments might be improved.
    Dirt Bag Dreams
  • Montane Fury Hoodie
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    #5

    Montane Fury Hoodie

    Best Mid Layer Jacket with Pintetorto Tecnopile Fleece

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The MONTANE Fury Hoodie, made from Pintetorto Tecnopile fleece, is arguably the softest, coziest hoodie you’ll ever come across. This is a good mid-layer for hiking since it has stretch panels on the sides and underarms for freedom of movement, three external pockets, and an adjustable hem and hood. This mid-layer also has low-profile flat locking sewed seams for added comfort and durability.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    It is made of Pintetorto Tecnopile fleece
    Three external pockets
    Durable

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Snug fit

    What other experts liked

    Excellent stuff, enough comfy and cozy
    Thian M

    What other experts didn't like

    Not a loose fit, but a moderately snug fit
  • Icebreaker Merino Men's Helix Hooded Jacket
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    with this product?
    #6

    Icebreaker Merino Men's Helix Hooded Jacket

    Best Mid Layer Jacket with Paneled Design

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Icebreaker Merino Men’s Helix Hooded Jacket is a synthetic hoodie with a DWR coating. The Merino wool is used in this mid-layer to keep you warm while wicking away moisture. The Helix Hooded Jacket has a paneled design with zonal quilting, 70g merino insulation, a 100 percent polyester shell, zipped hand pockets, and a tight hood. This is a good option if you’re searching for a mid-layer with decent warmth.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    It is made of Merino wool
    Features paneled design with zonal quilting
    Zipped hand pockets

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Costly

    What other experts liked

    Low-bulk insulation that is excellent for a mid layer without compromising mobility.
    Trail Space

    What other experts didn't like

    Expensive in comparison to other comparable alternatives on the market.
    Evolution Basin
  • Black Diamond Men's Coefficient Long Sleeve Fleece Hoody
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    #7

    Black Diamond Men's Coefficient Long Sleeve Fleece Hoody

    Best Sturdy Mid Layer Jacket

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Polartec Power Dry fabric makes the Black Diamond Men’s Coefficient Long Sleeve Fleece Hoody. This material is breathable, keeping you warm when hiking in chilly conditions. Additionally, when worn alone, this hiking mid layer jacket has a toasty insulator in a three-part layering system and a sturdy, dependable outer.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    It is made of Polartec Power Dry fabric
    Breathable
    Sturdy

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Expensive

    What other experts liked

    A good option for thinner people looking for a lightweight fleece for climbing, hiking, and ski touring.
    Gear Lab

    What other experts didn't like

    For a climbing jacket, I didn't find it overly stretchy in the arms-above-shoulders movement.
    MS Krebs
  • Mountain Hardwear Monkey Man Grid II Hooded Jacket
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    #8

    Mountain Hardwear Monkey Man Grid II Hooded Jacket

    Best Breathable Mid Layer Jacket

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Mountain Hardwear Monkey Man Grid II Hooded Jacket is constructed of ultra-soft Polartec High Loft Fleece. This sort of fleece will keep you warm and comfortable all day. Additionally, it is wicking, breathable, quick-drying, and has a tight enough fabric to withstand strong winds.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Soft and comfortable
    Breathable
    It is made of ultra-soft Polartec High Loft fleece

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Not windproof

    What other experts liked

    This fleece is warm and comfortable for your inner monkey man, making it an excellent option for the wilderness.
    Gear Lab

    What other experts didn't like

    It is not windproof at all.
    Overhang Adventures
  • Mammut Mens Athletic Runbold Hoodie
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    #9

    Mammut Mens Athletic Runbold Hoodie

    Best Versatile Mid Layer Jacket

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    If you’re the kind who always has a hoody somewhere in your layering system, regardless of the weather or activities, this Mammut Men’s Athletic Runbold Hoodie is a good choice. The waffle construction hoody does an excellent job of keeping you warm when required and cool when not. This is due to its lightweight construction and outstanding quick-drying features, which constantly strive to drain moisture away from you.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Versatile
    It has quick-drying features
    Lightweight

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Tight fit

    What other experts liked

    The neck, when zipped up, becomes part of the hood and is very tight fitting.

    What other experts didn't like

    Bad breathability.
  • Smartwool Men's Smartloft 120 Mid-Layer Jacket
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    #10

    Smartwool Men's Smartloft 120 Mid-Layer Jacket

    Best Mid Layer Jacket with 120g Synthetic Insulation

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    This Smartwool Men’s Smartloft 120 Jacket is lightweight yet well-insulated and warm. This hiking mid layer jacket has 120g of synthetic insulation woven into baffles providing warmth from the neck to the bottom of the core. In addition to the insulation, the back panel and sleeves are made entirely of merino wool. A nylon shell with a DWR coating adds the last layer of comfort and warmth.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Lightweight
    Features 120g synthetic insulation
    Comfortable and warmth

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Not wind resistant

    What other experts liked

    So comfortable and a perfect fit.

    What other experts didn't like

    This mid-layer is not wind resistant.
    David F

Conclusion: Best Mid Layer Jackets for Hiking

The mid-layer jacket is must-have equipment when you’re hiking. The best mid layer jackets for hiking will keep you warm even at the mountain’s peak. When planning to have this one, you should consider your body size to avoid getting a bigger or smaller mid-layer jacket. And we hope that our recommendation of the best mid layer jackets for hiking above can help you find the best one.

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