Are windbreakers suitable for UK weather?

Ah yes, the UK weather, everyone’s favourite. Who doesn’t love the endless windy days, nearly constant threats of rain (with the weather actually following up with heavy showers most of the time), and a spot of sunshine for five minutes? If you’re not used to this lovely island’s temperamental weather, you might think a windbreaker is good enough. Is it?

For most seasons, windbreakers are suitable enough for UK weather. It’s always windy (even on sunny days!), so it’s perfect for regulating your body temperature. Most Columbia Sportswear® windbreaker jackets are also made with waterproof materials for some protection from light rain, so you won’t be caught unprepared.

Despite that, we also realise that a windbreaker might not be enough on some days. That’s why we’re going to look more into how it can get you through most days, when a windbreaker may not be the right option, and how Columbia Sportswear® fabric technology can help you face unpredictable weather, regardless of what the forecasts say.

Table of contents

When can I use a windbreaker in the UK?

When is a windbreaker not enough in the UK?

Explore our selection of windbreakers today

When can I use a windbreaker in the UK?

Generally speaking, you can wear your windbreaker whenever it’s breezy and relatively dry outside. It’s ideal for cooler days during spring and fall; anything colder and you’ll want to start exploring how do parkas compare to down jackets for warmth. The idea is to wear wind resistant clothing and keep the wind chill from affecting you while doing outdoor activities like climbing or cycling.

But we also know that UK weather is never that easy. It could be nice and clear after heading out, then you suddenly encounter light showers. So you don’t get stuck on wondering about the difference between a windbreaker and waterproof jacket, we’ve incorporated these technologies into our windbreaker design:

• Omni-Wind™ Block: A staple technology in any Columbia Sportswear® windbreaker jacket, this features a water resistant softshell fabric that repels water droplets and a breathable fabric inner layer for comfort. It’s also ultra lightweight and packable, making it the perfect outerwear when you need to travel light.

• Omni-Tech™: You’ll usually find this technology in the construction of our lightweight waterproof rain jacket. Not only does it provide low-level protection from the rain (but higher than what you’ll find in most windbreaker jackets), but it can also keep you warm when a sudden gust blows. As always, it’s made with breathable materials, so it can keep your skin dry from sweat.

To explore how do windbreakers compare to waterproof jackets, we discuss the difference between waterproof and windproof jackets in a separate guide.

When is a windbreaker not enough in the UK?

Here are times when the primary function of a windbreaker jacket is no longer enough:

• During wet weather conditions: Our windbreakers may offer some light waterproofing benefits, but their jacket waterproof rating are usually not enough to shield the wearer from a downpour or even a storm. If you want complete protection from wet weather, you’ll need softshell jackets with sealed seams and drawstring hoods to keep you as dry as possible. This is when knowing the key differences between a windbreaker vs rain jacket is essential.

• When temperatures drop drastically: When it gets cold during unpredictable winters or while conquering a remote hiking trail, a windbreaker jacket won’t be able to keep you warm. You’ll need outerwear with insulation for warmth, like a fleece jacket or something heavier. We have a separate guide to help you learn which Columbia jackets are best for winter hiking.

• When doing a specific activity: A windbreaker may be a great option for most outdoor sport, but it’s hardly the right equipment for specific activities like a multi-day remote hike or mountaineering. For that, you’ll need breathable outerwear like a hiking jacket or trail jacket to make sure it doesn’t affect your comfort level and performance.

Tip: This doesn’t mean you can’t bring your windbreaker with you on your hike. After all, we’ve made them to be lightweight and packable, so it fits easily in your backpack. They’re ideal as a light jacket or for layering insulation with another type of jacket.

Explore our selection of windbreakers today

Instead of struggling with the UK weather, just go and face it like a pro. Our excellent windbreaker waterproof jackets will keep the wind out, repel moisture, and help you face whatever nature has in store for you. Start shopping our range of men’s windbreaker jackets and women’s windbreaker jackets today and buy the right piece that fits your style.

Further reading:

What are the best fleeces for active outdoor use?

Are windbreakers suitable for all seasons?