Best waterproof jackets for women for changeable weather

Be prepared for any showers heading your way.

Best waterproof jackets for women for changeable weather

by Rosie Floyd |
Updated on

With all the rainy weather we have been having lately, it seems like the right time to talk about the best waterproof jackets for women. We're well into the summer now, but before you know it, those rainy autumn days will return. It's almost time to say goodbye to sunny skies and hello to stormy clouds. When it comes to walking jackets, whether you love a coastal or countryside look, there's a brand to reflect your taste in nautical stripes, Barbour jackets, and more.

Of course, here in Britain, the weather is notoriously unpredictable, so while we're faced with beautifully clear skies one minute, we could have an outburst of rain the next. You never know when you'll get caught in a shower, so it's always handy to have a jacket to keep you protected, just in case. Whether you are looking for stylish spring coats for women to wear for the change of season – a raincoat is a must-have for all the different weather we're bound to experience.

Best waterproof jackets for women at a glance:

 Best lightweight waterproof jacket: Peter Storm Women's Weekend Jacket – Buy now on Go Outdoors
• Best waterproof jacket for autumn: Trespass Everyday Womens Waterproof Jacket – Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best waterproof jacket for outdoor pursuits: Rainforest II Extreme Womens Waterproof Jacket – Buy now on Mountain Warehouse

If you're looking for hiking gear or camping clothing, knowing the difference between water-repellent, water-resistant and waterproof is good. Terminology around outdoor clothing can get technical, with waterproofness and breathability measurements. But if you're looking for a casual jacket for summer, style, weight and pocket size are the key considerations. Also, consider the washing instructions—waterproof jackets can be washed, but certain fabric conditioners must not be used because they can destroy the effectiveness of the waterproof membrane.

Want something lightweight but waterproof that can go in the car's boot if the weather turns? Stay dry and comfortable with a jacket for all seasons. Like trainers for walking, it's worth splashing out on a good quality jacket, considering it's one of those items of clothing that you're likely to wear the most. Think of it in terms of cost per use; the jacket will be an investment. Plus, it looks better than a plastic poncho!

Best waterproof jackets for women

Tested

Best all-round lightweight waterproof jacket

Peter Storm
Price: £35 (RRP £100)

www.gooutdoors.co.uk

Fashion meets function with the Peter Storm Women's Weekend Jacket. Waterproof and breathable, this flattering nautical-style jacket has a fishtail style that can be adjusted at the waist. It has two bellowed pockets with stud closures and one internal pocket to keep valuables dry in showery weather.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, says: "This jacket has been a godsend this summer. I bought it for a trip to Scotland, but it's been raining down south so much that I've been wearing it daily. I bought it a size up because I was anticipating wearing fleeces and jumpers under it. The jacket is true to size, and I feel very comfortable.

"It's lightweight and rolls up into a compact size without creasing, so it is ideal for travel. It keeps the wind chill out and doesn't make me hot in warm and rainy conditions. In particular, the hood is extremely well designed as it stays in place even in wet and gusty weather. I also like the deep pockets, which easily fit a mobile phone.

"In short, my jacket has become more than holiday wear; it's my go-to casual attire that's ideal whether I'm at the beach in Norfolk or up a mountain in the Cairngorms."

Pros

  • Keeps your body at a consistent temperature, whether it's warm or cool conditions
  • Practical and stylish design that complements casual weekend clothes
  • The hood stays up in the wind, and the jacket keeps the wind-chill out
  • Deep pockets can fit a mobile phone with ease, plus room to spare

Cons

  • It would be lovely if there were a more extensive range of colours to choose from
Sizes:8-20
Colours:Red, Green, Blue
Material:Polyamide

Best waterproof jacket for autumn

Trespass-Everyday-Womens-Waterproof-JacketTrespass
Price: £64.99

Stay dry in style with the Trespass Everyday Womens Waterproof Jacket. It has Tres-Shield fabric, which creates a waterproof shell, plus the seams and hood are designed to keep heavy rain out. In addition, this parka jacket is windproof, so it's a great option if you live in parts of the UK that get rough weather. The fake fur trim on the hood is removable, and it has CoatHeat fibres to insulate it, so you can tailor the jacket to suit the environment.

Reviews comment that they have repeatedly purchased this jacket over the years. It's more of an autumn/winter jacket, but given the changeable UK weather, you may also wear it in the summer. In particular, it's praised for being smart-looking, yet it's easy to grab for walking the dog. Customers comment that it comes up a bit small, so buying a size up is best.

Pros

  • Smart and stylish, even if you've just grabbed it in a hurry
  • Customers praise it for being waterproof and warm
  • Adjustable fit for comfort or if you're wearing extra layers

Cons

  • Be aware that this jacket is hand-wash only
Sizes:XS-18
Colours:Khaki, Navy, Potent Purple
Material:100% Polyester, 100% Polyester Tpu Membrane

Best waterproof jacket for outdoor pursuits

Rainforest-II-Extreme-Womens-Waterproof-JacketMountain Warehouse

The Rainforest II Extreme Womens Waterproof Jacket is designed to keep you warm and dry, even in heavy rain and stronger wind. It has taped seams, zipped pockets, and adjustable cuffs and hood, so it's practical and protective, whether hiking or simply taking a stroll along the beach on a wild day beside the North Sea. This jacket has been tested for its waterproof rating and breathability. It's been tested to 10,000mm, which can withstand heavy rain. In addition, the fabric and mesh lining allow perspiration to evaporate away to keep your core cool and comfortable. Its breathability rating is 5,000g.

Customer reviews praise this jacket for being lightweight yet warm and very comfortable. It's also waterproof and windproof, ideal for walking in nature. Reviews frequently comment that the sizing was larger than expected, so you can buy your usual size if you plan to wear layers underneath.

Pros

  • Stylish and lightweight, an ideal walking jacket
  • Windproof and waterproof – suitable for heavy rain
  • Adjustable features so you can tailor it to the weather

Cons

  • Customers comment it comes up bigger than expected, especially on the arms
Sizes:8-20
Colours:Navy, Jet Black, Grey, Burgundy
Material:Shell: Polyamide 100%, Lining: Polyester 100%, Mesh: Polyester 100%, Pocket lining: Polyester 100%

Tested

Popular ladies' waterproof jacket

Natalie Knowes/Rab
Price: £106.25 (was £125)
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=d0dbd0c339565e753f633a021d364c3d&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=DEQQEhcKTBxETkIYUBNYG1AJWxxBAFlcHA5SVV8GRxcfFgMGHQdcRFdFWUAXGlBQCRtZUgJbV0VJRFlZBl0XDw0PBVcGDgEIBQcFXRgMAlcDAAdOQlNTSVdZQw1DC0UWTwFTDB5ZWFZdUBEaQlwLU10eEh0cWxRU&x=v1

For an eco-friendly choice, go for the Rab Womens Downpour Eco Jacket. It's made from layers of recycled fabric and membrane that are 100 per cent recycled and fully recyclable. Whether you're a casual walker or an experienced hiker, this is a top choice from a quality outdoor clothing brand. Plus, it has customisable features to allow for better airflow. Lightweight and packable, this jacket is ideal for hikers who value sustainability and quality outdoor gear.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, says: "This has to be the lightest jacket I've owned. I rolled it up and popped it in my rucksack for a recent visit to Warwick Castle. Despite a day of scaling the ramparts and crawling in dungeons, I didn't feel the extra weight at all.

"It comes in various colours, and I opted for a vibrant 'Tayberry' magenta. I went for a size 12, and I'm glad I did because it is a close-fitting jacket. I've got the option of popping a fleece under it if needed. Bear in mind that the jacket is unlined. It has a breathable mesh that's great in the summer, but it will need an additional layer of warmth in the spring and autumn.

"The hood is adjustable, and the sleeves are a good length. It's practical, and it will keep your upper body dry in a sudden shower. Also, the jacket has two large zipped pockets with flaps to keep rain out. It's the ideal jacket for day trips and summer showers. It's interesting because my warmest coat is also a Rab purchased for a visit to Iceland… so now I have a Rab for all seasons!

"Most admirably, the jacket is made from Pertex® and is part of the Revolve™ Collection of entirely recyclable polyester fabrics."

Pros

  • It packs up nicely and weighs just 280g so that it can be easily carried in a rucksack
  • Better for the planet: made from recycled materials
  • Available in a wide range of stylish colours

Cons

  • Opt for a larger size if you're layering clothes otherwise, it may feel too snug
Sizes:8-20
Colours:Orion Blue/Citadel, Bering Sea, Marmalade, Deep Ink, Tayberry, Patriot Blue/ Purple Sage, Deep Heather/Red Grapefruit, Patriot Blue, Deep Heather, Black, Nightfall Blue/Alaska Blue
Material:Main: Recycled 50D polyester Pertex Shield with polyester membrane

Best waterproof jacket for sudden showers

Regatta-Womens-Waterproof-JacketRegatta
Price: £18.75+

You never know when the next shower is coming, so get prepared with the Regatta Womens Waterproof Jacket. It's a 'Pack-It-Jacket' that comes with its own carry bag. It's extremely lightweight, making it a great choice if you're having a day out at a theme park or festival and want take a jacket just to case...

The affordable price-point and range of sizes mean the whole family can have a little waterproof in their bag. This Regatta Womens Waterproof Jacket features an adjustable hood, snap fastenings, two pockets. The thin material is breathable, making it an ideal summer jacket to keep you cool in thundery conditions.

Reviews praise its value for money. Customers say it's really light and easy to pack. But, the advise is to buy a size larger as it comes up small.

Pros

  • A bestselling jacket on Amazon
  • Lightweight so it's convenient for carrying
  • Range of sizes to suit everyone

Cons

  • Customer reviews advise to buy a size up
Sizes:8-26
Colours:Midnight, Black, Pink Potion
Material:Isolite 5000 lightweight polyamide fabric

Best waterproof jacket for changing seasons

33000ft-Womens-Lightweight-Softshell-Jacket33000ft
Price: £56.99

The 33,000ft Women’s Lightweight Softshell Jacket will keep you covered through rain and shine. This jacket combines style and practicality. It boasts a high water-resistance and breathability, making it suitable for outdoor pursuits, as well as leisurewear. You'll appreciate the fleece lining if you're by the coast or hiking in the mountains. Plus, it has zipped pockets to keep valuables safe and an adjustable drawstring waist to give the jacket an elegant shape.

Customers praise the jacket for being an excellent fit and flattering. It's the ideal coat before transitioning into a bulky winter coat. In addition, it offers good protection against wind and light rain. But, do note that it's not robust enough for heavy rain and tougher outdoor conditions.

Pros

  • High water and stain resistance, plus breathable material
  • Has a polar fleece lining for warmth in spring and autumn
  • Stylish and available in a huge range of colours
  • Versatile – wear it for hiking, rainy days or for a casual walk

Cons

  • Not designed for tough or extreme outdoor conditions
Sizes:XS-3XL
Colours:Dark Green, Black, Dark Blue, Dark Grey, Greyish Blue, Grey, Khaki, Midnight Blue, Purple Melange, Wine Red, Pinkish-purple Melange
Material:96% polyester and 4% spandex

Best jacket for wet weather protection

Womens-Rothley-JacketBerghaus
Price: £168 (was £210)

www.berghaus.com

Rain and shine, a decent ladies' waterproof jacket will protect from the elements in comfort and style. This Women's Rothley Jacket is supremely geared up for wet weather without being cumbersome. It features GORE-TEX PACLITE® waterproof fabric to protect again heavy downpours and harsher outdoor conditions. Because it's slightly longer it protects more of your body from the elements, making it ideal for trekking. In addition, the dropped hem and snorkel-style hood, plus drawstring adjustments, help to keep the rain out and allow for a better fit. Also, it has two zipped pockets to keep valuables safe and dry.

Overall, customers are really pleased with their purchase and the jacket lives up to it USP. But, some reviews comment that they wish it had inner pockets as this would make it more practical.

Do note the washing and care instructions, as this jacket must only be washed and tumble dried at very low temperatures.

Pros

  • Lightweight enough to wear a fleece underneath
  • Adjustable and fits well
  • Excellent resistance to rain and wind

Cons

  • Customer reviews comment that it could do with some inner pockets
Sizes:8-18
Colours:Black, Caramel
Material:GORE-TEX PACLITE® fabric Shell: 100% Polyester with ePTFE membrane / inner: 100% Polyamide shell with polyurethane coating

Best waterproof jacket for hiking

Weather forecasts are notoriously unpredictable; no matter what your phone app might tell you, our maritime climate does what it wants. This Rab Womens Downpour Plus 2.0 Jacket is geared up to cope with the extreme wet weather and wind. It has a 2.5 layer of recycled Pertex Shield fabric. In addition, the zips are sealed to keep rain out and it has adjustable cuffs and a drawstring hem for a more secure fit.

It's a great option for adventurous travel as the left pocket becomes its own carry bag (or stuff sack) ensuring you can pack it in a rucksack. It's a superb lightweight, waterproof jacket that customers wholeheartedly praise. Some reviews comment that the sleeves are a bit long, but otherwise this is a practical and sensible outdoor garment.

Pros

  • Top pick for trekking and outdoor pursuits
  • Extremely weather resistant
  • Packed with protective features

Cons

  • Customers comment that the arms are a bit long
Sizes:8-18
Colours:Black, Pink Grapefruit
Material:100% Recycled 40D Polyamide, Pertex Shield 2.5L Technology, Fluorocarbon-free DWR, Fair Wear foundation

Best rain jacket for style

Kilnsey-Womens-Waterproof-JacketTog24
Price: £50 (was £100)

www.tog24.com

Whether it's a weekend trip to a stately home or a beer garden meal with friends, that long-anticipated quality time and natter shouldn't get rain-checked just because the sunshine has suddenly turned into storm clouds. This stylish jacket was designed in Yorkshire, so it's made with changeable weather conditions in mind.

It's a longer jacket with an elegant fishtail split and adjustable waistband to create a flattering silhouette. The mesh lining is breathable, whilst the tapered seams keep rain out. In addition, it has an adjustable hood and two-way zip for practicality.

Customer reviews indicate that they are delighted with their purchase. This jacket looks smart and keeps bottoms and legs dry, so it's more practical than shorter alternatives. It has been worn on camping trips and holidays.

Pros

  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Lovely pattern that's inspired by Whitby Bay

Cons

  • Bit limited on colour options
Sizes:8-24
Colours:Dark Indigo Scattered Star, Dark Indigo, Magenta Pink Star Print, Khaki
Material:

Best oversize waterproof jacket

Regatta-Orla-Kiely-Longline-Waterproof-JacketRegatta
Price: £63.95 (was £160)

www.debenhams.com

In certain parts of the British Isles, it's standard practice to pack a fleece and waterproof jacket, just in case. With this stylish and practical Orla Kiely Longline Waterproof Jacket more of your body is covered, so there's less need to lug multiple garments around in case of a shower. Available in two distinctive Orla Kiely patterns, this comfy oversize jacket is ideal for a walk along the promenade in blustery weather. Plus, it has adjustable cuffs and hood to keep the elements out.

Customers say it's perfect for walking the dog and it's lightweight, yet padded. However, the jacket is generously sized and can look too big on shorter people. It's best to buy a size down.

Pros

  • Comfortable, oversize jacket protects most of the body
  • Lovely choice of two Orla Kiely designs
  • Gives moderate protection – ideal for a walk along the sea front with the dog

Cons

  • Comes up big, so buy a size down
Sizes:10-16
Colours:Blue, Pink
Material:100% Polyester

Best stylish trench-style raincoat

ILSE JACOBSEN HORNBÆKIlse Jacobsen
Price: £199.99

A trench is just one of those raincoats that never goes out of style, whatever the season. This Nordic-inspired jacket is made from lightweight and waterproof rubberised PU and comes complete with feminine touches, such as the waist tie belt and flattering knee-length finish. It comes in many colours such as black too.

Online reviews comment that the soft fleece lining is lovely for keeping warm, while the shape of the jacket is flattering. Just be aware that the hood is rather large and may fall over the eyes on some people.

Pros

  • The style will be in fashion season-after-season
  • Different colours available in the same style

Cons

  • Not as wide a range of sizes available compared to other coats
Sizes:<strong> </strong>UK 8-16
Colours:White Sugar, Black
Material:Polyester

Best windbreaker raincoat

Rapbin RaincoatRapbin

In a maritime climate, you never know when the next shower will arrive, so best be prepared with a Rapbin Raincoat. Casual in style and loose fitting while also being fashionable, elevate your casual, rainy day style with this pink windbreaker raincoat. Perfect for chucking on if it starts spitting while you're out on a walk.

Customer reviews are positive about this little windbreaker, saying that it's ideal for packing in a bag in case of a rain shower. It's effective in keeping head and body dry in light wet weather, but it's not durable enough for torrential rain.

Pros

  • Huge range of colours to choose from
  • Adjustable hem and hood for a more tailored fit
  • Lightweight and packable for travel

Cons

  • Suitable for light rain only
Sizes:<strong> </strong>S-XXL
Colours:Pink, Army Green, Black, Dark Green, Grey, Khaki, Light Blue, Navy Blue, Peacock Blue, Purple, White
Material:100% Polyester

FAQS Best waterproof jackets for women

Can raincoats be washed?

If your raincoat is looking a little worse for wear, you'll want to try and get it looking its best again. Tempted to just chuck it in the washing machine? Take a look at the washing instructions before you start. Harsh detergents and hot water can cause damage to some raincoat materials, so it's always best to check the label.

Washing your coat by hand is a great way to remove any muddy marks you've picked up while out and about. Run a cloth under warm water and add some washing-up liquid until you start to get some soap suds. Then lightly rub any stains away.

If your coat is machine washable, you'll want to ensure you zip it up, fasten any buckles and poppers, and close any Velcro. You could end up spoiling your coat if any of these things get caught on the drum. Or even worse, your washing machine could get damaged! You'll want to avoid any washing powers or gels with bleach in them, as well as fabric softeners. These will ruin your coat and any waterproof coatings it may have.

Whichever method you use to wash your coat, make sure you hang it up to dry. It could be outside or in a room where you'll get plenty of ventilation. This will help you avoid having an unpleasant mildew smell on your coat.

Ask the expert

Lorna Glover, from Cotswold Outdoor, tells us the best way to clean waterproof clothing.

Should I wash my waterproof kit?

It’s a common misconception that washing a waterproof garment will damage it. However, washing them to maintain their performance is essential - the trick is washing them the right way. Things like mud, sweat, body oils, and insect repellents can contaminate your clothing's waterproofing membrane, stopping it from working effectively; sometimes, a good clean is enough to revive it.

Can I wash my waterproof kit like any other garments?

People are right to be cautious when washing waterproof kit. You should never use standard detergent or fabric conditioner, which will harm the garment’s performance. Instead, use a technical cleaner and reproofer.

We recommend washing all kits at no higher than 30°C. However, always check the care label before washing and prep properly with a good wipe down beforehand to ensure the wash is as effective as possible.

How often should I clean my waterproof gear?

This will depend on how much you use it and the intensity of your activities. When you notice your waterproof clothing is starting to absorb water instead of beading on the surface, it’s time for a clean and reproof.

Rather than getting caught out during your adventures, you can check by pouring water onto the high-wear points of your jacket, like the shoulders and cuffs. If the water soaks into the top layer of the fabric and ‘wets out’, it’s time to reproof.

This article contains expert commentary from Lorna Glover, Product Buyer at Cotswold Outdoor.

Rosie Floyd is a Pets, Homes and Garden Product Writer for Yours, specialising in home appliances, décor and furnishings, as well as all things dogs. After completing her Journalism & Media degree from Coventry University back in 2015, she started her career writing about must-visit holiday destinations, moving on to creating content around outdoor living and garden buildings, before joining the team at Bauer.

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