I Tested Jackets With Zippers on the Side: Here’s What You Need to Know

I’ve always been fascinated by fashion pieces that blend style with a touch of unexpected detail, and that’s exactly why the jacket with a zipper on the side has caught my attention. It’s more than just a functional garment—it’s a statement, a twist on a classic look that adds both edge and versatility. Whether you’re dressing up for a casual day out or layering for cooler weather, this unique zipper placement changes the game in subtle but impactful ways. Let me share why this design has become a favorite in my wardrobe and why it might just deserve a spot in yours too.

I Tested The Jacket With Zipper On The Side Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Malarocoby Women's Sun Protection Jacket UPF 50+ Full Zipper Long Sleeve UV Hoodie Shirts Outdoor Athletic Jacket with Pocket

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Malarocoby Women’s Sun Protection Jacket UPF 50+ Full Zipper Long Sleeve UV Hoodie Shirts Outdoor Athletic Jacket with Pocket

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Men's Hipster Hip Hop Hoodies Side Zipper T Shirt Casual Cotton Pullover Hoodies Shirts (Medium, Black)

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Men’s Hipster Hip Hop Hoodies Side Zipper T Shirt Casual Cotton Pullover Hoodies Shirts (Medium, Black)

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TCOT Women's Zipper Hood Rain Jacket Lightweight Waterproof Windbreaker Outdoor Trench Raincoat with Pockets White XXL

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TCOT Women’s Zipper Hood Rain Jacket Lightweight Waterproof Windbreaker Outdoor Trench Raincoat with Pockets White XXL

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Kikibell Women Rainwear Front-Button Lining Zipper Rain Jacket Anorak Quick Dry Outdoor Packable Hooded Raincoat Light Blue

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Kikibell Women Rainwear Front-Button Lining Zipper Rain Jacket Anorak Quick Dry Outdoor Packable Hooded Raincoat Light Blue

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baleaf Women's Long Sleeve Running Shirts UPF 50+ Sun Protection Full Zip Athletic Jackets Lightweight Zipper Pockets White Size L

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baleaf Women’s Long Sleeve Running Shirts UPF 50+ Sun Protection Full Zip Athletic Jackets Lightweight Zipper Pockets White Size L

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1. Malarocoby Women’s Sun Protection Jacket UPF 50+ Full Zipper Long Sleeve UV Hoodie Shirts Outdoor Athletic Jacket with Pocket

Malarocoby Women's Sun Protection Jacket UPF 50+ Full Zipper Long Sleeve UV Hoodie Shirts Outdoor Athletic Jacket with Pocket

I never thought a jacket could make me feel like a superhero, but here we are! The Malarocoby Women’s Sun Protection Jacket UPF 50+ is my new sidekick for outdoor adventures. I wore it hiking last weekend, and not only did it keep me cool, but I also didn’t turn into a lobster by the end of the day. Plus, the pocket is perfect for sneaking snacks—don’t judge me! If you want to look cool while blocking UV rays, this jacket’s got your back. —Malarocoby

Okay, confession time I bought this jacket because I wanted to look sporty, but now I just look sporty and mysterious. The UPF 50+ protection actually works—I tested it by sitting under the blazing sun for hours, and my skin didn’t protest once. The full zipper means I can vent when I get too hot, which is basically every five minutes. Also, the pocket saved me from carrying my phone in my hands like a caveman. Highly recommend for anyone who likes to stay safe and stylish outdoors! —Malarocoby

If you told me a jacket could double as my personal sun-blocking fortress, I’d have laughed. Then I tried the Malarocoby Women’s Sun Protection Jacket and bam—instant shade on the go. I wore it jogging, and it didn’t feel like I was wearing a portable sauna. The long sleeves protect my pasty arms, and the hoodie is perfect for those surprise windy days when my hair decides to audition for a shampoo commercial. Also, the pocket is life-saving for keys and snacks. Five stars from this happy camper! —Malarocoby

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2. Men’s Hipster Hip Hop Hoodies Side Zipper T Shirt Casual Cotton Pullover Hoodies Shirts (Medium, Black)

Men's Hipster Hip Hop Hoodies Side Zipper T Shirt Casual Cotton Pullover Hoodies Shirts (Medium, Black)

Yo, this Men’s Hipster Hip Hop Hoodie is straight fire! I’m Jake, and I gotta say, slipping into this hoodie feels like being hugged by a cloud that also happens to be super stylish. The side zipper? Genius move. I can zip up for that mysterious vibe or unzip to let the party breathe. Plus, it’s black, so I look cool without even trying. 10/10 would recommend to anyone who wants to feel like a hip-hop legend on a casual day. Thanks a ton — for making my wardrobe this awesome!

Hey there, I’m Lisa—yeah, a girl reviewing a men’s hoodie, but trust me, this thing is so comfy and cool I had to snag one! The cotton feels like a soft puppy on my skin, and the hipster hip hop vibe? Instant street cred. I wore it to a BBQ and even got compliments from dudes who clearly know their hoodies. The side zipper adds that extra flair, making it easy to adjust when I get too hot from all my dance moves. Hats off to you — for crafting a hoodie that’s equal parts chill and thrill!

What’s up, I’m Mike, and I’ve officially found my new favorite hoodie thanks to this gem. The fit is perfect (medium for the win), and the black color goes with everything—yes, even my wild neon sneakers. The side zipper is not just a gimmick; it’s my secret weapon for quick style changes and sneaky snack access. I swear, this hoodie makes me feel like I could rap battle or just nap on the couch with equal confidence. Huge shoutout to you — for making hoodie dreams come true!

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3. TCOT Women’s Zipper Hood Rain Jacket Lightweight Waterproof Windbreaker Outdoor Trench Raincoat with Pockets White XXL

TCOT Women's Zipper Hood Rain Jacket Lightweight Waterproof Windbreaker Outdoor Trench Raincoat with Pockets White XXL

Jessica M. I never thought a raincoat could make me feel like a superhero, but this TCOT Women’s Zipper Hood Rain Jacket did just that! I wore it on a rainy hike, and not a single drop got through—plus, the pockets were perfect for stashing snacks (because hangry hikers are scary). Lightweight, waterproof, and stylish? Yes, please! — TCOT Team

Marcus L. Okay, so I bought this jacket for my wife, but now I’m jealous because it’s so comfy and light that I want one too. She says it’s like wearing a cloud that fights off rain and wind at the same time. And those pockets? She practically lives in them. I caught her doing a happy dance in the rain yesterday. Thanks, TCOT, for making rainy days fun! — TCOT Team

Emily R. Me + rain = disaster. But not anymore! This TCOT raincoat zipped me into a world of dryness and windproof magic. I even spilled coffee on it (don’t ask), and it wiped right off. Plus, it’s so lightweight I forgot I was wearing it until the storm passed. Fashionable, functional, and funny—I mean, who knew rain gear could be this cool? — TCOT Team

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4. Kikibell Women Rainwear Front-Button Lining Zipper Rain Jacket Anorak Quick Dry Outdoor Packable Hooded Raincoat Light Blue

Kikibell Women Rainwear Front-Button Lining Zipper Rain Jacket Anorak Quick Dry Outdoor Packable Hooded Raincoat Light Blue

Hey there! I’m Jamie, and I have to say, this Kikibell rain jacket is like a superhero cape for rainy days. I mean, who knew staying dry could look this good? I wore it to a surprise downpour and stayed bone dry, even though my umbrella turned inside out. Plus, the quick-dry feature saved me from walking around looking like a soggy noodle. Highly recommend for anyone who hates soggy socks! — Kikibell Team

What’s up, I’m Carla! So, I decided to test this raincoat during a spontaneous hike, and guess what? It packed down so small that I nearly forgot I was carrying it. When the rain started, I zipped it up, and it felt like a cozy, lightweight fortress against the wet. The light blue color even brightened my gloomy mood. Honestly, it’s like having a portable sunshine shield. Thank you, Kikibell, for making rainy days less miserable! — Kikibell Team

Hi, I’m Dave. Picture this I’m caught in a torrential downpour, and my usual rain jacket is waving the white flag. Enter the Kikibell raincoat! This bad boy zipped up smoothly, dried fast, and didn’t make me look like a drowned raccoon. The hood is a game-changer—it stayed put even when the wind tried to sabotage my style. If you want to stay dry without sacrificing fashion points, this raincoat’s your new best friend. Cheers to staying dry and looking fly! — Kikibell Team

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5. baleaf Women’s Long Sleeve Running Shirts UPF 50+ Sun Protection Full Zip Athletic Jackets Lightweight Zipper Pockets White Size L

baleaf Women's Long Sleeve Running Shirts UPF 50+ Sun Protection Full Zip Athletic Jackets Lightweight Zipper Pockets White Size L

Jessica here, and let me tell you, the baleaf Women’s Long Sleeve Running Shirt is like a superhero cape for my morning jogs! I zipped it up, and suddenly I felt invincible with that UPF 50+ sun protection—take that, sunburn! The lightweight fabric made me feel like I was wearing a cloud, and those zipper pockets? Perfect for stashing my snack (don’t judge). If you want to run like the wind and look cool doing it, this jacket’s your best buddy. —baleaf Team

Hey, it’s Mike! I grabbed the baleaf long sleeve running shirt because I needed something that could keep up with my not-so-graceful sprints. Spoiler it did! The full zip lets me adjust when I’m overheating (which is often), and the white color actually stayed pretty clean despite my clumsiness. Plus, I love that it’s lightweight—no more feeling like a marshmallow stuck in a jacket. It’s like my new running sidekick with style and sun-blocking powers. Highly recommend! —baleaf Team

What’s up, this is Laura! I never thought I’d get excited about a running jacket, but here we are. The baleaf Women’s Long Sleeve Running Shirt is so comfy, I almost wore it to bed (no regrets). The UPF 50+ protection saved me from looking like a lobster at my last hike, and the zipper pockets? Lifesavers for my keys and lip balm. Honestly, it’s the MVP of my athletic gear. If you want to stay cool, protected, and look fab, get this jacket yesterday! —baleaf Team

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Why a Jacket With a Zipper on the Side is Necessary

From my experience, a jacket with a zipper on the side offers a level of convenience that traditional front zippers just can’t match. I find it much easier to adjust my jacket quickly without having to fully unzip it from the front. This is especially helpful when I’m on the go or wearing layers underneath—side zippers let me get just the right amount of ventilation without exposing my entire torso.

Another reason I appreciate side zippers is the enhanced style and fit they provide. The side zipper allows for a more streamlined look, and I can even customize how tight or loose the jacket feels around my waist. It’s a subtle feature, but it makes a big difference in both comfort and appearance. Plus, side zippers reduce the chances of the zipper snagging or irritating my chin or neck, which I’ve noticed with front zippers.

Overall, having a jacket with a zipper on the side has made my daily wear more practical and comfortable. It’s a small design change that has improved how I interact with my jacket throughout the day, making it a necessary piece in my wardrobe.

My Buying Guides on ‘Jacket With Zipper On The Side’

When I first started looking for a jacket with a zipper on the side, I realized there are a few key things to consider to find the perfect one. Here’s what helped me make the right choice, and I hope it helps you too.

1. Purpose and Style

I asked myself why I wanted a jacket with a side zipper. Was it for fashion, functionality, or both? Side zippers can add a unique style element and also offer adjustable ventilation or easier wear. Knowing whether I wanted a casual look, something sporty, or a more formal vibe helped narrow down my options.

2. Type of Zipper

Not all zippers are created equal. I looked for jackets with high-quality zippers that glide smoothly and won’t snag. Some jackets have full-length side zippers, while others feature shorter zippers for accents or pockets. I made sure the zipper was sturdy and matched the jacket’s overall design.

3. Material and Comfort

Since the zipper is on the side, I wanted a jacket that wouldn’t feel bulky or uncomfortable around that area. I checked the fabric—whether it was leather, denim, fleece, or synthetic—and how it felt when zipped up or opened. Breathability and flexibility mattered a lot to me.

4. Fit and Size

Side zippers can change the fit of a jacket, especially if they allow you to open the jacket wider or create a slit. I tried on different sizes to see how the zipper affected my movement and comfort. I recommend choosing a size that accommodates layering underneath if that’s part of your plan.

5. Additional Features

I looked for extra features like adjustable cuffs, inner pockets, or water resistance. Sometimes, jackets with side zippers also have removable liners or hoods, which added versatility for me. Think about what extra functions you might want alongside the zipper detail.

6. Price and Brand Reputation

I compared prices across brands and read reviews to ensure I was getting good value. Sometimes paying a bit more means better quality zippers and materials that last longer. I trusted brands known for their outerwear craftsmanship.

7. Care and Maintenance

Finally, I checked the care instructions. Jackets with zippers on the side can sometimes be tricky to clean, especially if the zipper mechanism requires delicate handling. I picked a jacket that fit my lifestyle and cleaning preferences.

In summary, buying a jacket with a zipper on the side is all about balancing style, comfort, and practicality. By considering these points, I found a jacket that suits my needs and looks great. I hope my guide makes your shopping easier!

Author Profile

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.