Outerwear and weather extremes

Question

Our anniversary trip is this Sat to Thurs and the weather is allover the map. Coming from California so we have layering figured but what about the final layer.

What do you locals put on last?

Windbreaker, raincoat, puffer?

Answer

It sounds like you're gearing up for an exciting anniversary trip to Chicago! Since you're coming from California, it's great that you've already got layering figured out—Chicago weather can indeed be unpredictable, especially in the spring and early summer. Here's some guidance on what the final outer layer should be, based on the range of weather you might encounter:

What locals typically wear for the final layer:

Windbreaker: A windbreaker is a great choice for a mild day with breezes, especially if it's sunny but still a little cool. Chicago can get windy, and a lightweight windbreaker will protect you from the chill without overheating you. It's perfect for windy but not-too-cold days.
Raincoat: If there's a chance of rain, a waterproof raincoat is your best bet. Chicago often gets unexpected showers, especially in the spring. A good raincoat will keep you dry and comfortable. Many locals carry compact, packable rain jackets that fold easily into a bag for convenience.
Puffer Jacket: If the weather takes a colder turn, especially in the evenings or if temperatures drop significantly, a light puffer jacket is a smart choice. Even in the spring, temperatures can dip, particularly near Lake Michigan, where the wind chill can make it feel colder. A thin, packable puffer works well for layering without taking up too much space.

Things to consider based on the forecast:

Wind: Chicago is known as the "Windy City," so if the forecast calls for strong winds, you'll want something that can block the wind—either a windbreaker or a heavier jacket with some windproofing.
Rain: Check the forecast for possible rain. If it looks like rain is expected, bring a raincoat or a lightweight, waterproof jacket. Umbrellas can be cumbersome and don't always do the job, especially on windy days.
Temperature Changes: Spring weather in Chicago can be very unpredictable—one moment it’s sunny, the next it's cloudy and chilly. In the morning and evening, it can feel cooler, so it’s a good idea to bring an outer layer that you can easily add or remove depending on the temperature fluctuations.

Conclusion: For your trip, I would recommend a combination of a light, breathable windbreaker or rain jacket, with a heavier puffer jacket or fleece you can add if needed. Layers are key in Chicago, and you’ll likely need to adjust depending on whether the weather turns windy, rainy, or chilly. Enjoy your trip, and happy anniversary!

Outerwear and weather extremes

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