Tiebreakers Pull-tabs on zippers let you get into your pockets without removing your gloves. If you wear glasses, check out the hood's bill. A good one will extend far enough to keep raindrops off your optics. One extra I particularly embrace is a thin, fleece chin guard that prevents the jacket's zipper from rubbing your skin raw. The 12 models reviewed here represent the best in storm-shell technology and design.
Weights given are for a men's medium.
I like a system that's simple and unlined because it's lighter. It also has to have a good hood and good wrist closures. Then I get in that thing, and just my goggles and nose are sticking out. I've had a lot of jackets that I didn't like. The other big thing is hood design.