Sailing Jackets and Coats
Base Layers | Buoyancy Aids | Drysuits | Fleeces, Gilets & Knitwear | Jackets & Smocks | Mid Layer & Softshell | Rash Vests & Spray Tops | Sailing Suits | Team Kit | Tee Shirts & Polo Shirts | Salopettes & Trousers | Wetsuits
Men's Sailing Jackets | Women's Sailing Jackets
Sailing jackets and sailing coats need to do one job well: keep you dry without slowing you down.
The right choice depends on how far from shore you're going and how long you're staying out. Day sailing calls for something light and unrestrictive. Coastal passages and longer trips need more waterproofing built in. Offshore and heavy weather sailing need a jacket that can take a real battering.
Below you'll find our range organised by use — inshore, coastal and offshore. Shop from separate fits for men and women, from Musto, Gill, Helly Hansen and our own Windward range.
Choose Your Sailing Jacket by Conditions
Inshore Coats
Lightweight options for day sailing, dinghy sailing and milder conditions. They offer protection from wind and rain while keeping bulk to a minimum when you're active on deck.
Coastal Sailing Jackets
A step up in protection for longer days afloat and changeable weather. Coastal jackets have a higher level of waterproofness compared to inshore sailing jackets. They're also a more substantial and durable waterproof jacket. Designed for sustained exposure to wind, rain and spray.
Offshore Sailing Jackets
For exposed sailing and longer passages where weather conditions can be more demanding. Look for features such as high collars, adjustable cuffs, protective hoods and robust waterproof fabrics to help you stay dry on deck.
Men's & Women's Sailing Jackets
Fit matters as much as waterproofing rating. Men's sailing jackets are cut for a straighter, roomier fit through the shoulders and torso. Women's sailing jackets follow a tailored cut through the waist and a shorter body length, so you're not swimming in fabric. Both are available across the inshore, coastal and offshore ranges above.
What to Look For in a Sailing Jacket
- Waterproofing (hydrostatic head rating): Fabric water-column measurement ranging from 10,000mm for inshore use up to 30,000mm+ for offshore passages.
- Breathability: lets moisture out so you don't end up damp from sweat instead of rain.
- SOLAS Reflectors: Prism-based reflective tape positioned on shoulders, hood, and chest. They ensure maximum visibility in low-light conditions and with searchlights.
- Storm cuffs and adjustable hems: cinch down to keep wind and spray out at the wrist and waist.
Frequetly Asked Questions
What is the difference between coastal and offshore sailing jackets?
Offshore jackets feature higher fleece-lined collars, heavier 3-layer fabric construction, SOLAS reflective tape, and internal latex or neoprene wrist seals to withstand continuous immersion and multi-day storms. Coastal jackets use lighter 2-layer or 2.5-layer fabrics with lower collars, optimised for shorter coastal trips and day passages.
What hydrostatic head rating is required for offshore sailing?
Offshore sailing requires a minimum hydrostatic head rating of 20,000mm, with ocean-spec jackets exceeding 30,000mm. These levels mean the jackets withstand heavy pressure from breaking waves, prolonged downpours, and weight applied while seated or working on deck.
How should a waterproof sailing jacket be washed and maintained?
Salt deposits should be rinsed off with fresh water after every use. For deep cleaning, machine wash the garment using a specialised technical cleaner. Avoid standard laundry detergents and fabric softeners, which break down breathable coatings. Periodically reapply a spray-on Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment when water stops beading on the outer fabric.
Should a sailing jacket be loose enough for layers?
Yes. Sailing jackets are normally worn as an outer layer, so allow enough room for the base and midlayers you expect to wear underneath. The fit should still allow unrestricted movement without creating unnecessary bulk.
Explore our collection from top brands Musto sailing jackets, Helly Hansen coats, Gill waterproof jackets and Force 4's own Windward sailing clothing range. Find the perfect jacket for your sailing needs today.
