Embrace the rain in style with our pick of the best waterproof jackets
We can't stop the rain, but we can help you stay dry and stylish
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I know we love to talk about the weather here in Britain, but seriously, is it ever going to stop raining? All we can do is wrap up and embrace the wet weather, so if you find yourself needing one of the best waterproof jackets for women, we're here to help.
Whether you want to stay dry on your daily dog walks, are off on a countryside hike, or simply need to avoid a soggy commute, there are plenty of options to choose from. Though not typically seen as the most stylish outerwear piece, much like the best wellies, a waterproof jacket will protect you from the elements, from light showers to heavy downpours. The best waterproof jackets for women are also a good alternative outerwear option for when you might not want the weight of a heavy coat, but need wet-weather protection.
The quick list
This coat design offers 3-in-1 wear, making it a real game-changer. A removable quilted lining makes it wearable during the warmer months, while the lining of the parka can also be worn alone as a light quilted jacket, giving this style tonnes of wearability.
The latest update to this popular style gets our vote for everyday wear. Light and breathable, it's ideal for layering over the best dresses on warmer days. With an active cut and four-way stretch as well as an adjustable hood, hem, and cuffs, it offers a range of comfortable fits.
With a layer of insulation underneath the waterproof shell fabric, this jacket keeps you delightfully dry and toasty. You can adjust the hood for a better fit - ideal when you're trying to keep the rain out. The style also features inner cuffs to help you keep the chill at bay.
A cropped rain jacket may seem like a slightly impractical buy, but this short number from The North Face is undoubtedly one of the best options on the market today. With a relaxed, boxy fit, it is ideal for styling with high-waisted items as well as providing a sporty look if athleisure is your thing.
Rains has exploded onto the fashion scene in recent years, largely thanks to its stylish approach to practical outerwear - and at a reasonable price, too. This short jacket is just the right length to have you feeling covered without being swamped, making it ideal for everyday wear, and it's available in a wide range of colours.
Available in classic black or nightshade blue, this puffer coat is oversized to allow for layering, and plus the funnel neck and elasticated cuffs will keep you extra warm. One customer called it: "lovely, cosy and warm and even though padded it's not heavy to wear, making it comfy in the car."
The best waterproof jackets recommended by our team
Best overall waterproof
This clever coat design offers you three for the price of one. The removable quilted lining makes it wearable during wet, warmer months, while the gilet-like lining of the parka can also be worn alone as a light quilted jacket. It’s 100% waterproof, and the adjustable cuffs, taped seams, and hood ensure you're fully protected from rain and wind. It's also breathable, so you're warm and protected but at a comfortable temperature. It has been thermal tested to -30°C, so it'll keep you toasty on cold, wet days.
Considering its size, it's easy to pack down, making it great for packing in a suitcase or camping rucksack. Mountain Warehouse is also one of our top picks for what to wear skiing, so you can be sure of high quality.
What the team said: "It’s a good length for keeping almost all of you dry, covering your bum and some of your thigh (depending on your height). The only downside is it’s not particularly fashion-forward, but if it’s practicality you’re after, then look no further."
Waterproof rating: Tested to 10,000mm, it is suitable for heavy rain.
Breathability rating: It has a great breathability rating, measuring 5,000g in testing. This means during the 24 hours it was measured over, the fabric allowed sweat and other moisture to pass through the fabric and keep you cool, not sweaty.
Best for everyday
Columbia's range of waterproof jackets is one of the best on the market, not least due to the reasonable price points. Whether you are after a long, short, padded, lightweight, patterned, or plain jacket, you can find a reliable Columbia waterproof coat that won't break the bank. This particular jacket gets our vote for everyday wear as it is light and breathable - ideal for wearing on warm but wet weather days. With four-way stretch and an adjustable hood, hem, and cuffs, it offers a range of comfortable fits.
What the team said: "This is the ultimate throw-on-and-go waterproof jacket. It kept me fully dry during a walk in heavy rain, but didn't feel too heavy or suffocating. The hood worked well to keep my hair dry and covered, whilst the spacious pockets kept belongings safe and away from the rain. Ideal for everyday wear, it is light and comfortable."
Waterproof rating: Omni-Tech™ waterproof technology crafted for storm protection.
Breathability rating: Underarm venting to keep you dry and cool, perfect for light exercise.
Best for warmth
Waterproofs tend to be packed full of great tech to stop you from getting soaked, but they aren't always so good at keeping you warm. However, with Berghaus, you get the best of both worlds. With a layer of insulation underneath the waterproof shell fabric, it keeps you delightfully dry and toasty. You can adjust the hood for a better fit - ideal when you're trying to keep the rain out, and the coat also features inner cuffs to help keep the chill at bay. Made from over 50 per cent recyclable materials, this is also an eco-conscious choice.
What the team said: "This coat is certainly more functional than fashionable and only comes in three colourways, but this is the most sensible of choices. It even has two zip closure pockets for your rainy day essentials."
Waterproof rating: Hydrostatic Head - 11,667mm
Breathability rating: 13,308g/m2/24hrs
Best cropped
A cropped rain jacket may seem like a slightly impractical buy, but this North Face number is undoubtedly one of the best options on the market today, particularly if you're petite. With a relaxed, boxy fit, this is ideal for styling with high-waisted items for an athleisure-inspired look. Extremely waterproof and featuring an adjustable hood, it's the ideal on-the-go jacket when you want something extremely reliable but also stylish.
What the team said: "The North Face is known for its high-quality outerwear pieces that are designed for cold and wet weather, so we were expecting big things from this cropped jacket. It certainly didn't disappoint. With a relaxed, boxy fit, it is one of the more trendy waterproof coats we have seen, plus the light but durable waterproof fabric kept us dry even in the most vicious of downpours."
Waterproof rating: The Quest jacket promises an impenetrable barrier to rain and snow for guaranteed dryness, and it does work. The water-repellent finish works like a charm over the body and on the hood, so your torso and hair will be covered no matter the weather.
Breathability rating: The outer layer of the jacket is made from a lightweight, two-layer fabric called DryVent™ that works to keep you protected from wind without trapping heat. Plus, the boxy shape allows for airflow even when layered over chunky knits.
Most stylish
Rains has exploded onto the fashion scene in recent years, largely thanks to its stylish approach to practical outerwear - and at a reasonable price, too. This short jacket is just the right length to have you feeling covered without being too swamped, making it ideal for everyday wear. With adjustable cuffs and concealed vents on the back, it is delightfully practical without being unfashionable. Available in loads of different colours and prints, there is bound to be one that works with the rest of your closet.
What the team said: "It's more of a stylish raincoat than a practical one in appearance, although it's as good as the waterproof one that I wear for hiking. I love how it's super lightweight, so you can wear a jumper underneath it when it's colder outside or just on its own if you're out and you get warm. This also makes it really easy to pack away in a bag, and it doesn't take up too much space while not being one of those specific pack-away coats. It's 100% waterproof - the raindrops just sit on top of the coat, so you can brush them off really easily and the coat is basically dry.
"It has buttons that do up the coat in the middle instead of a zipper, which felt more premium - these do up the coat equally well, though, and no rain gets in. The hood is another great part as it has a peak, which means you don't get any rain on your face."
Waterproof rating: Fully waterproof and windproof, so it will protect in all weathers.
Breathability rating: Engineered ventilation to keep you cool throughout the day.
Best puffer coat
Don't be fooled, this one might not look as technical as the others, but it's not a case of style over substance.
What the team said: "Living on the coast with a dog and three kids, I’m constantly dashing in and out of the house or car in all kinds of weather, and this is the only coat I’ve stuck with for years. The oversized design is very now, but also perfect for adding extra layers underneath when it’s really cold, yet it never feels bulky – unlike other quilted puffers I've tried over the years.
"While it’s showerproof rather than officially waterproof, I've been caught in downpours and stayed warm and dry. I also love that it’s completely machine washable and can be tumble dried - game changer. Truly a versatile and reliable coat I reach for again and again. I can rock a beanie, wellies and a huge scarf on the football sidelines or style it up for a night out with friends."
Waterproof rating: This one is more suitable for short showers rather than torrential downpours.
Breathability rating: While this jacket doesn't come with a breathability rating, the lightweight fabric will keep you from overheating.
Best waxed jacket
If it’s a sleek coat you’re after, then this one is a front-runner. British clothing brand Fairfax & Favor is a Royal Family favourite, and it's easy to see why. This longline waxed coat doesn't come with a hood; however, it's beautifully crafted and perfect for someone who doesn't love the more practical look of traditional waterproof jackets.
What the team said: "Until now I've always prioritised style over practicality, but with a Cocker Spaniel who wants to run around in the park even when it's pouring with rain, I needed a coat that would keep me dry in what feels like the drizzliest February ever. What I love about this coat is that it looks and feels stylish, but it's working hard to do its job and keep me dry. I've worn it to work as well as on long walks, and it gets full marks from me."
Waterproof rating: This longline coat has been designed to keep you bone dry on the wettest of days. With a more fashionable approach, it's great for daily use during wet weather, but it's probably not the one to pick for outdoor hikes and camping.
Breathability rating: There's no specific breathability rating, but it's crafted in a specialist breathable and water-resistant fabric.
Most breathable
Made using Futurelight technology, the waterproof fabric provides an excellent moisture barrier, whilst remaining breathable too, regulating body temperature, keeping you comfortable and sweat-free. Not only that, it’s made from recycled materials to reduce landfill waste.
What the team said: "The North Face has really pulled it out of the bag with this waterproof jacket. Plus points include a snap-locking storm flap to keep the wind out, secure zip pockets and adjustable hem and cuffs. It's also available in several colours and a wide range of sizes, adding inclusive appeal."
Waterproof rating: Using seam-sealed FUTURELIGHT™ 3L, this coat should give good waterproofing, giving it an own-brand website level rating of three - for waterproofing (higher than repellent and resistant). It is also windproof.
Breathability rating: Although the jacket doesn't specifically discuss breathability, the fashion team found that this waterproof jacket helped regulate body temperature and stopped them from feeling sweaty.
Best for commuting
Finisterre is a brand that was recommended by three team members when we set out on our quest to find the best waterproof jackets. The Stormbird style is very lightweight, so you can take it off and fold it down into a bag very easily, making it ideal for rainy commutes.
What the team said: "The Stormbird combines total waterproofing with surprisingly lightweight materials. It's an all-seasons jacket - I've worn this in the deepest winter layered up with jumpers underneath, and in April showers. The cinchable hems around the waist and hood are very useful when the rain comes, but otherwise unnoticeable, and the same goes for the three deep external pockets that I hide my phone in. While I went for the forest green for a more outdoorsy look, I've since spotted many women wearing the black colourway on my commute, and it pairs perfectly with office wear as it does with workout gear".
Waterproof rating: The 20,000MM hydrostatic head rating means this is extremely waterproof and will withstand storms and heavy rain.
Breathability rating: The impressive 15,000GM2 rating makes this coat suitable for intense activity, whether that's a hike or a busy commute.
How to choose a waterproof jacket
There are some key things to look out for when choosing the best waterproof jacket. The lingo can be confusing and sites use a lot of abbreviations for technical terms that can make you think a product has higher specifications than it actually does.
- Waterproofing technology: Some designs will specify how much water the coat can withstand with a measurement in millimeters like "10,000mm." The higher this number, the more waterproof it is. Your need will be based on your waterproof usage. For those looking for clothing for hiking outfits or for daily dog-walking coats, you're best off picking the highest protection possible.
- Breathability: Some waterproof fabrics can feel stuffy and sweaty once wet, so breathability will help you feel less hot.
- Practical features: Mesh detailing, ventilation, and fabric weight.
- Design: From look and feel to trend-led choices. We've considered cut and how flattering the jacket is, to colour options and design aesthetic.
It's important to establish what level of waterproof coat you need. Many brands offer coats that give a level of 'shower protection' which is fine for most daily occurrences, light rain between home and the car or nipping to the shops. However, if you like to get out and get off-road, you'll need to invest in a raincoat that can really withstand a downpour.
Sometimes the most practical and functional rainwear isn't the most stylish, so again you need to consider if you're happy to compromise on fashion credentials to get the maximum level of protection.
FAQs
Why does breathability matter?
The breathability of a coat or jacket ensures you don't get too hot and sweaty while wearing it. This is particularly important in waterproof jackets, as they are often coated in finishes or made from non-breathable fabrics, so they can be quite warm and make you feel sweaty.
Look out for...
- Eyelets under armholes to increase breathability and ventilation. A number of brands we looked at did not list breathability test results, but if coats have vents and underarm eyelets, these are also good indicators of good breathability.
- Conceal vents in the back of a jacket - same great protection from rain, but again with added ventilation.
- This formula g/m2/d represents the level of breathability of a fabric. It is sometimes found in the product specification; take note of the number preceding it. Anything below 800 doesn't have huge amounts of breathability. Between 800-3000 has a medium level of breathability - the most common level for good quality, water-resistant coats, as it gives breathability and still protects from the rain. Anything over 3000 is high-end and most common in high-performance weather wear and offers the highest level of breathability. The breathability test is done by measuring how much sweat or moisture the fabric allows through over a 24hr period, as letting it out through the fabric stops you from getting too warm.
How can you tell if a coat is really waterproof?
When picking the best waterproof jacket for women, it's important to learn the right keyphrases to look out for. If you're wondering which is better, waterproof or water resistant, our handy guide below may help you choose what level of protection you need - water-repellent, water-resistant or waterproof.
Water-repellent: You'll have seen water-repellent fabric; this is where the beads of water sit and roll off the top of the fabric. It repels water, but it is not impervious to water like waterproofing.
Water-resistant: This means it is made from fabric that resists water, meaning it is super hard for water to penetrate the fabric's top layer. But it is not necessarily a complete, hard barrier.
Waterproof: No water should be making it through a waterproof jacket, but you also need to take note of just how waterproof a jacket is, what level of rain or water they have measured its waterproof-ability to.
When you look at the specification for a waterproof jacket, look out for test results of its waterproof abilities. This is measured in millimetres and refers to the amount of water pressure the coat can withstand before it starts to let water in.
Taped, sealed or bonded seams - usually a seam is where two pieces of fabric are stitched together, and if you see seams on your regular clothes, they would leave you open to the elements. For rainwear, look for covered seams or those bonded with glue to help with water resistance.
What is the highest waterproof rating for a jacket?
- Anything from 1000mm-3000mm has a low resistance to water, probably only appropriate for light showers.
- 3000mm-5000mm gives a strong resistance. This is probably the most likely level you will see both from coats in this guide and from waterproof jackets on the main market.
- 5000mm is high resistance and what you should look for from high-quality rainwear specialists.
- 10,000mm is an excellent level of rain protection, most likely from activewear/outdoor clothing labels or highly specialised brands.
What is better waterproof or water repellent jacket?
The kind of jacket you ultimately go for depends on what you'll be using it for most - if you're wearing it for a quick walk around the park, you might only want a water repellent style, whereas if you're going on long hikes where you'll be exposed to the elements for longer periods of time, a fully waterproofed jacket is no doubt a wise investment to make.
Are GORE-TEX jackets 100% waterproof?
GORE-TEX is an incredible patented fabric - a membrane with billions of pores that are approximately 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet, it stops water from getting in but allows sweat to escape, meaning you'll keep cool rather than clammy. While the fabric itself will largely keep you dry, you may find that some condensation gathers, so it's important to look for waterproof jackets with breathability features such as under-arm vents and eyelets.
Like any outerwear, proper maintenance is key - if you know how to wash a waterproof jacket, your GORE-TEX jacket is likely to last much longer as washing, drying and reheating GORE-TEX helps to maintain the fabric's Durable Water Repellent membrane.
