Top 10 · Compare
Compare Best Windbreakers head to head
Pick any two picks from this list and see specs, current price, pros, cons and reader ratings side by side.
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#1 on this list
Houdini Air
Patagonia
The category-defining wind shell, now air-permeable. Packs into its own pocket and disappears.
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#2 on this list
Squamish Hoody
Arc'teryx
Tyono 30 with the best hood in the business. Cut for climbing and still cut for hiking.
- Price
- $185 MSRP
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
Specs side by side
| Spec | Houdini Air | Squamish Hoody |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Patagonia | — |
| Weight | Approximately 4.1 oz (116 g) for men's medium | Approx. 5.5 oz (155 g) |
| Fabric | 100% Recycled Nylon (Ripstop) | — |
| Pockets | 1 chest pocket (doubles as stuffsack) | — |
| Weather Resistance | Wind-resistant, DWR finish for light moisture | — |
| Breathability | Air-permeable | — |
| Material | — | Tyono 30D nylon |
| Fit | — | Trim, articulated |
| Packability | — | Stuffs into chest pocket |
| Key Feature | — | StormHood adjustment system |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Houdini Air
- Outstanding breathability for high-output activities
- Incredibly lightweight and packable into its own pocket
- Effective wind resistance for variable conditions
- Made with 100% recycled nylon fabric
- Athletic fit that layers well without restricting movement
- Not fully waterproof for sustained rain
- Premium price point compared to basic windbreakers
- Limited pocket storage (one chest pocket)
Squamish Hoody
- Exceptional wind protection for its weight
- Best-in-class hood design with full adjustability
- Outstanding freedom of movement for active use
- Highly packable into its own chest pocket
- Surprisingly durable 30D nylon fabric
- Higher price point than many competitors
- Minimal insulation, strictly a shell layer
- Not fully waterproof for heavy rain
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