Since 1938, Columbia has been creating premium-quality, performance-driven outdoor apparel. Founded in the Pacific Northwest of the US, we experience all four seasons—and sometimes all in one day, just like the UK! We know and understand adverse weather; we believe you should enjoy your outdoor experiences, not focus on the conditions. That’s why our gear combines superior functionality with comfort, protection and style. From our women’s softshell jackets to our men’s hiking trousers, every item showcases our dedication to keeping people outside with premium clothing. Our collection of 3-in-1 jackets is no exception.

Ultimate versatility with our historic 3-in-1 men's jacket

Ever since Columbia started with the historic men's 3 in 1 jacket, the versatility of the design has been greatly appreciated. When something works, it sticks. Today, our interchange jacket collection is full of versatile options in a wide range of colours and styles. What’s more, you truly get your money’s worth with these men's outdoor jackets, which have an impressive product to price benefit ratio. When you buy one of our jackets, you get one jacket that can be worn three ways!

Our 3-in-1 jackets include one inner layer of fleece and one waterproof outer shell layer and can be worn three ways. Your three options are: Wearing only the inner fleece in dryer and milder weather, wearing only the outer jacket in wet and milder weather, or wearing them together in wet and cold weather. That means you can kit yourself out in all the layers you need this season with only one product.

If you’re on a hiking trip enjoying the crisp and dry mountain air, the comfortable fleece layer will keep you warm and cosy on the road. Maybe you’re taking a walk through the beautiful country as the drizzle starts, then the waterproof outer jacket is the perfect companion to keep you nice and dry. Plus, various pockets are available to safely store your belongings.

What if you and your kids are ready to strap on your winter boots and pack up your boards and ski gear? Simply zip up the fleece and the outer shell, add a few pairs of gloves into those backpacks, and you’re ready to go! Sure, the interchange jackets don’t have all the ski features that our men’s ski jackets do, but the two dynamic layers will still effectively keep you warm and dry on the slopes. With these two versatile layers, you can be ready for most weather conditions.

Before you buy, discover the technologies included in many of our men’s 3-in-1s, as well as how to decide which one is best suited to your needs.

Omni-Heat™: Columbia reflective technology

Our jackets help you stay warm and toasty in any weather, with advanced thermal-reflective technology that retains body heat. After all, when you’re standing on the top of a mountain, you want to be able to enjoy the view; not longing to get down because you’re freezing. We’ll get into our technologies now, but in practical terms, they keep the warmth in and the cold out, so you can enjoy the outdoors all day long.

Omni-Heat™ Reflective technology makes use of small silver dots, intensifying heat retention and body heat reflection. It delivers lightweight insulation, so that your jacket is easily packable and portable. It also makes it perfect for when you’re staying active on longer nature quests.

Our Omni-Heat™ 3D technology uses silver reflectors with expanded coverage to give you next-dimension warmth. Next-to-skin comfort is also optimised, as small pods with soft fibres create a pleasant air gap under your jacket.

Columbia’s Omni-Heat™ Black Dot tech is equipped with tiny black dots to capture solar heat. It also utilises an advanced technical thermal shield to reduce heat loss and deliver outside-in thermal effectiveness.

Last but certainly not least, Omni-Heat™ Infinity’s tiny gold dots deliver Columbia’s highest reflection technology. An appreciated detail about Omni-Heat™ padded clothing is their moisture-wicking quality. This makes the jackets highly breathable, allowing excess heat and moisture to escape and enabling you to stay nice and dry.

Omni-Tech™ & Outdry™: Columbia waterproof technology

When you’re out in the elements, you want to make sure you and your items stay nice and dry. For that reason, Columbia’s waterproof jackets are made with waterproof materials and are equipped with our waterproof technology Omni-Tech™ and Outdry™ Extreme.

Omni-Tech™ gives you multi-layered windproof and waterproof protection, ensuring that not a single drop of water enters your men's waterproof jacket. The high breathability of our waterproof coats also enables you to stay dry both inside and out. It’s moisture-wicking ability lets moisture and excess heat escape through the fabric.

Columbia’s Outdry™ Extreme has an impenetrable external membrane and delivers completely sealed seams. And because we want to do our part to take care of both you and our planet, Outdry™ Extreme Eco jackets use only 100% recycled fabrics.

Which 3-in-1 jacket suits you best?

To find your perfectly versatile 3-in-1 mens jacket, use the filter function in our shop to browse through the many options. Comb through the wide range of colours to find an interchange jacket which adapts to both the temperature and your personal style. Find the design features you love, whether it’s practical zippered chest pockets or safe interior pockets, a stow-away hood or an adjustable storm hood.

Decide what kind of water protection you’ll need by following our guide to waterproofness. We use four easy-to-understand categories for you to choose from:

• Drizzle: A jacket which has lasting repellency and resists moisture absorption.
• Rain: A jacket made from waterproof fabric, where exposed seams are sealed.
• Downpour: A seam-sealed jacket with air-permeable waterproof protection.
• Deluge: A jacket with zero wet out—face any storm in this masterpiece.

FAQs

What length should my 3-in-1 jacket be?

The length depends on the activities you plan to do. We recommend a shorter, hip-cut length for more active pursuits. Alternatively, for greater warmth during low-intensity activities, we recommend a longer cut.

What activities are 3-in-1s designed for?

The best thing about a 3-in-1 jacket is its incredible versatility. Whether you’re planning visits to the zoo with your children or plan to join some local walking parties, our 3-in-1s have got you covered—literally!

On its own, the inner layer is ideal for drier and milder days. The outer layer can also be worn by itself as a waterproof shell in the summer. And for those cold, wet winter days, you can wear both layers together for unparalleled protection.

How do I know which size to get?

To find your perfect fit, we recommend visiting us in-store to try on a jacket. If you’re shopping online, use our handy size guide to find the right size. Our size guide provides each size with a corresponding measurement, along with tips for accurately measuring yourself for the best fit.

How should I care for my 3-in-1 jacket?

For best results, always follow the care instructions for your specific items. In general, you can follow these guidelines:

• Wash each layer separately.
• Zip up pockets and fastenings to avoid tearing.
• Wash on a gentle cycle in cold water with a technical detergent.
• Avoid fabric softeners; these tend to clog technical fabrics.
• The outer shell should be tumble-dried on a low heat for about 20 minutes. This will help reactivate the waterproof finish.

Our interchange-compatible jackets are warm, lightweight and packed with versatility. Find the ideal jacket to face the elements in for decades. Keep discovering the many categories of mens jackets that Columbia offers:

• men’s puffer jacket
• men’s parka jacket
• men’s coat
• long puffer jacket men’s
• lightweight puffer jacket men’s
• men’s quilted puffer jacket
• puffer hooded jacket men’s
• men’s jacket
• mens hiking jacket
• men’s walking jackets
• men’s gilets
• men’s windbreaker
• men’s casual jackets
• men’s softshell jacket

And don’t forget to check out our women’s puffer jacket collection to explore our line of insulated women’s jackets.