Which is better for heavy rain?

The Summit, on paper. Its shell is rated 5,000 mm against the Port Authority's 3,000 mm. Neither is a mountaineering shell, so both suit city and trail use rather than sustained downpours.

Which is better for skiing or hiking?

The Port Authority has the edge for active use. It publishes a 1,000 g/m2 breathability rating and has a two-way zipper and pit-friendly storm flap, while the Summit lists no breathability figure.

Is the Summit worth it over the Port Authority?

It costs less, $86.99 versus $89.29 at BigTopShirtShop.com as of November 3, 2026, and has the higher waterproof rating and more pockets. The Port Authority gives you better closure details and a breathability rating for about $2.30 more.

Which has better pockets?

The Summit. It lists two zippered hand pockets, a zippered chest pocket and an interior pocket. The Port Authority lists zippered hand pockets on the inner fleece jacket only.

Can I machine wash either jacket?

The Summit is hand wash only. The Port Authority page does not state care instructions, so check the label on arrival.

Neither page gives a warranty or fabric durability figure, so there is no basis to pick one. Both use 100% polyester shells and fleece liners; the Summit's higher waterproof rating may hold up better in wet use.

Summit 3-in-1 Waterproof Jacket - Women's vs Port Authority Womens All Weather 3-in-1 Water Resistant Full Zip Hooded Jacket

Buy the Summit 3-in-1 if you want the higher waterproof rating (5,000 mm vs 3,000 mm) and a lower price. Buy the Port Authority if you want a two-way front zipper, a storm flap with chin guard, and a breathable shell rated 1,000 g/m2. The Summit is $86.99; the Port Authority is $89.29 at BigTopShirtShop.com as of November 3, 2026, so the gap is about $2.30.

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