Lightweight, water-resistant layers from Herno, Arc’Teryx, Tracksmith, and more
At first blush, the shell jacket seems the very embodiment of modern clothing. A short, hip-length jacket constructed from water-resistant or waterproof technical fabric, it’s casual, functional, and above all, practical.
However, its origins are surprisingly historic. The first jackets of their kind were worn by European soldiers in the late 18th century, who wished to have a short jacket that could be worn over their dress uniforms. The term “shell” itself was coined by the British, who dressed their light dragoons in a short, decorative outer layer. Widely adopted by European and American armies (including both sides in the American Civil War) during the 19th century, it was gradually phased out in favor of military tunics and relegated to cavalry units.
That’s where the story of the shell jacket might have ended, if not for its surprising resurgence tied to the post-WWII revolution in technical fabrics. With the widespread availability of fully waterproof fabrics like Gore-Tex, there was suddenly a whole new reason to reach for a short, lightweight piece of outerwear.
For that reason, shell jackets have become particularly favored by outdoor enthusiasts for pursuits ranging from running to skiing to mountain climbing. Whether you want a shell for wear on the trail, the summit, or the street, these seven examples can handle it.
Herno Reversible Shell and Jersey Jacket
Italian technical-wear master Herno has created this clever reversible jacket that flips from a water-resistant, lightweight shell on one side to soft viscose jersey on the other. No matter which side you find yourself wearing, each includes side-entry pockets (the shell-side has a snap closure, while the jersey-side is zipped), as well as an elasticated hem and cuffs.
Brunello Cucinelli Shell Jacket
The king of cashmere goes technical with this shell jacket, which still appears in the label’s signature greige. A welted chest pocket, spread collar, and closer cut give it a tailored appeal while snapped side pockets lean into its practicality. Consider it an easy, lightweight layer above white denim and a button-down.
Reigning Champ Gore-Tex® Waterproof Rival Jacket
Every aspect of Reigning Champ’s Rival Jacket has been designed with a focus on impermeability. Its three-layer construction is made from a waterproof Gore-Tex fabric with taped seams, and even its zippers—the YKK Aquaguard—were selected for their ability to keep water out. Its other features include an adjustable hood and hem and generously sized baffle pockets.
Polo Ralph Lauren The Abottson Gabardine Jacket
In a very Ralph move, Polo has blended tailored DNA with technical fabrics to create its Abottson jacket. While cut like a sport coat—right down to the welted pocket at the chest—it’s built from a water-resistant gabardine fabric warmed by down-alternative fill. It also features a suede collar stand, throat latch, and a hidden two-way zipper that allows it to be fully closed at the neck.
Loro Piana Traveller Shell Jacket
While closely associated in the popular imagination with luxurious natural fabrics like cashmere and vicuña, Loro Piana also has a richly deserved reputation for milling top-notch technical materials. Among its more iconic designs is the Traveller jacket, made from a lightweight shell fabric amenable to overheated airports or rainy city days. Its other travel-friendly features include four large patch-flap pockets, pleated cuffs, and a stand collar that buttons at the neck.
Arc’Teryx Ossa Stowhood Jacket Men’s
When it comes to technical gear, Arc’Teryx (and its bird fossil logo) requires no introduction. While the Canadian brand produces specific models intended for everything from hiking to mountain climbing, among its more versatile pieces is the Ossa jacket, made from a lightweight, UPF 50+ nylon ripstop shell and designed with a zip-out hood. While ostensibly intended for hikers, it will be just as useful to urbanites looking to avoid rain squalls or UV rays.
Tracksmith Downpour Jacket
True to the Boston-based brand’s “No days off” mantra, Tracksmith’s Downpour jacket is designed to eliminate any excuse you may have for not running in inclement weather. It is fabricated from a three-layer, seam-sealed shell finished with a waterproof coating, and also boasts a 360-degree mesh lining for superior ventilation. Sized to layer on top of other running gear, it features a drawstring hood that may be adjusted to find the ideal fit.
This story was first published on Robb Report USA. Featured photo by Chandler Bondurant