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Raincoat FAQs, answered:
What’s the difference between waterproof and water-resistant?
“Water-resistant jackets can handle light rain but will eventually leak if exposed to harsh conditions,” details Hélène Burlereaux, Women’s Apparel Merch at Columbia. “Meanwhile, jackets that claim to be waterproof should be completely impenetrable and able to withstand severe downpours.
“For example, jackets utilising Columbia’s Omni-Tech™ Pro technology are built for durable all-day performance and protection in rain, snow, and other environments with an elite 30k/30k waterproof-breathable rating.” Original Gore-Tex, from which some rain jackets are made as an alternative, is guaranteed to be waterproof, windproof, and breathable.
Are expensive rain jackets worth it?
“A high price point doesn’t necessarily equate to a high-quality jacket,” continues Hélène. “Rather than focusing on the price to assess quality, have a look at the jacket’s technologies and key features: What are the waterproof and breathability ratings? Is it fully seam-sealed? Does it have good ventilation?
“A personal favourite of mine is Columbia’s Saudan Pro 3L Waterproof Jacket, which features venting, a wire-brimmed hood, zips that block moisture, along with the Omni-Tech Pro technology.”
How should a rain jacket fit?
“When it comes to how a rain jacket should fit, it should be spacious enough for you to layer underneath in cold conditions and give you a good range of motion while you move,” states Hélène.
Meet the expert:
How I test the best raincoats:
It’s not quite as simple as calling on one every time the weather changes — however, this is where I tend to start. After calling in samples from various brands, including those I already love and other fresh discoveries, I wear them for at least three outings before rating them against the following criteria:
| Design | Is the rain jacket fit for purpose — is it waterproof, breathable and lightweight? Do I have options in terms of colour and design? Does it have practical features like waterproof zippers and, if necessary, a helmet-compatible hood? Does it have a Durable Water Repellent, or DWR coating? |
| Fit | Is it true to size? Are there petite and tall options? Is the sizing and associated guide easy to understand? Does it fit comfortably close to the body with minimal flapping in the wind? Does it allow for a full range of motion in the shoulders and arms? Is it of the highest quality? |
| Price point | Would I be willing to spend that much on a rain jacket again? Did it wear and wash well? |
| Delivery | How quickly did the rain jacket arrive, and what were the associated costs? |
But, because we’re all different in terms of our body shapes, sizes and favoured styles when it comes to outerwear, I also asked my fellow shopping editors to weigh in with their favourites. This dictated what styles and brands I reached out to for samples.
As you’d hope, only the raincoats and lightly padded puffer jackets that impressed made it into this edit. In terms of what I’m currently testing, stay tuned for these reviews:
Why you can trust me:
Despite living in Leeds for university, known for its temperamental weather, I still don’t prioritise practical styles when shopping. However, you best believe I took this work task of tracking down the best raincoats seriously — and not only because it’s the one item my wardrobe was actually missing.
However, for added confidence, I should mention that I’ve been reviewing fashion essentials for almost three years — this includes underwear, shapewear, swimwear and activewear, as well as functional staples, including walking shoes and hiking gear.
To ensure I’m an authority on all things style and fashion, I regularly attend press launches and interview designers or brand founders, requesting answers to common FAQs. I also personally review as many styles as possible. As a regular runner, I was looking for a style I might be able to throw over my regular combo of running shorts and a sports bra, but also wear casually or to commute to the office.
