If you are looking for a practical and versatile jacket that is suitable all year round, then a 3 in 1 jacket is the right choice for you. To help you understand what they are and how they work, we have compiled a handy guide.
A jacket described as 3-in-1 means you can wear it in three ways, as it has an outer waterproof shell and an inner warm lightweight mid-layer, so you can choose to wear each on its own or together for both waterproof & warmth.
On colder, rainy days, you can zip the mid-layer, which is usually a fleece, into the outer jacket. This way, they are attached together and work as one piece. For days when you don’t need the extra protection, separate the two layers to use them individually; either the waterproof if it’s wet but warm outside, or the fleece if it’s dry but chilly.
The outer layer is the one keeping the water out, either by being waterproof or water resistant. How waterproof a jacket is will depend on its waterproof rating. The higher a jacket’s waterproof rating, which can vary from 1,500 to 20,000, the more protection you will have from the elements. To understand better how they work, go to our Waterproof Jacket Guide.
The inner layer is the one keeping you warm and cosy. This layer is commonly made from a fleece or softshell material. Although it comes attached to the waterproof jacket, it can be zipped out and worn on its own. If you want to check which material works best for you, read our fleece jackets guide and softshell jackets guide.
Now that you know what a 3 in 1 jacket is and how it works, it’s time to choose one to keep you warm and dry throughout autumn – and beyond!
In addition to their versatile layering system, 3-in-1 jackets often come with a range of other practical features that enhance comfort and functionality. Adjustable cuffs allow you to customize the fit around your wrists, helping to keep warmth in and the elements out. Breathable materials are crucial for ensuring proper ventilation during physical activities, preventing overheating while maintaining comfort. Many jackets also feature multiple pockets, perfect for keeping valuable items like your phone, wallet, or keys safe and easily accessible while you’re on the go. These additional details make 3-in-1 jackets a reliable choice for any adventure.
