7 Best Raincoats for Women, Tested by Experts
Be prepared to brave the storm in one of these stylish rain jackets.
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A wet-weather essential, a quality raincoat can protect you from a steady drizzle or a sudden downpour, especially when combined with a pair of rain boots and one of our favorite umbrellas. Whether you're facing the rain while walking around the city and want something with a stylish flare or are headed out on a hike and need something a little more technical, we've got you covered.
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we test rain gear of all kinds, including various styles of rain jackets for women and men. Over the past two years, I've researched dozens of styles from popular brands and have evaluated 17 women's raincoats in person, reviewing them in the Lab and sharing them with our consumer testers. I consider properties like construction, water-repellency, comfort, breathability and style when making my selections for the best raincoats for women.
Pros
- Zipper vents run down each side
- Aced water-repellency tests
- Hood stays securely in place
- AscentShell Dry membrane for breathability
Cons
- Some testers felt it ran snug
This jacket from Outdoor Research is ideal for everyday wear but is also a great rainy-day companion when it's time to hit the hiking trails. It features a unique zippered ventilation system with two-way zippers running from the armpit to the hemline, meaning you can adjust them to allow for the perfect amount of airflow. Once unzipped, the back of the jacket can even be draped over your backpack like a poncho to keep your belongings dry.
The raincoat is designed with a built-in Ascent ShellDry membrane, which is covered in microscopic holes that are too small for water droplets to pass through but large enough for sweat vapor to escape. In turn, it’s breathable, helping you to stay dry without feeling too sweaty. When I evaluated the raincoat in our Lab, I appreciated the substantial material that still had nice flexibility and stretch and didn't crinkle as much as other jackets we assessed. The jacket is also coated in a Durable Water-Repellent (DWR) and aced my tests for water-repellency, remaining completely dry inside after being sprayed with our standardized rain tester for five minutes.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: One tester who wore a former version of the jacket while hiking in a tropical climate shared, "This jacket is a 10 out of 10!" and explained that it kept her dry and comfy in extremely humid conditions. Some testers found the Aspire 3L to run a bit snug, especially around the hips, but the material does have some stretch, and the side vents can be unzipped just slightly at the hem for a roomier feel. According to one tester, the hood "stays perfectly in place," thanks to a fitted design with adjustable drawcords in the back and on each side.
Sizes: XXS–4X | Color variations: 9 | Material: Nylon with a DWR and breathable membrane
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Pros
- Super lightweight
- Adjustable hood, cuffs and hemline
- Folds into own pocket
- Hood can be stashed away when not in use
Cons
- Can feel stuffy in warm weather
Columbia's best-selling Switchback jacket is back in its fourth iteration and equipped with even more functional features than ever before — and it's still a total steal at just $50. The flexible hood has a drawcord on each side to keep it securely in place, and the hood can also be stashed away in the jacket's collar when not in use. Additional drawcords at the hem and hook-and-loop adjusters at the cuff allow you to achieve the best possible fit and keep wet weather out.
When I evaluated the jacket in the Textiles Lab, I was impressed that with just a few simple folds, the entire lightweight jacket could be compressed into its own mesh pocket. Best suited for light rain and short storms, the jacket is water- and stain-repellent, but it's not fully waterproof: During my water-repellency tests, the nylon jacket was able to keep the majority of the water out when it was sprayed for five minutes, but it did feel slightly damp inside.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: One consumer tester shared that she loves the lightweight feel of the jacket and added that she enjoys wearing it even when it's not raining. I've worn rain jackets from Columbia for years, including a former version of this style that lasted for several years, and the quality for the low price point really can't be beat. The drawback: Without any built-in vents or a full mesh lining, the material can stick to your skin and feel a bit stuffy in hot, humid weather.
Sizes: XS–3X | Color variations: 9 | Material: Nylon with water-resistant coating
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Pros
- Sealed seams and water-repellent finish
- Inclusive size options
- Zipper and snap closure for added protection
Cons
- No breathable lining or zippered vents
Raincoats with longer hemlines provide extended coverage from wet weather, like this thigh-length style from Athleta — one of our favorite workout apparel brands. Cut with a relaxed fit, the jacket is roomy and comfortable but also features a tapered seam and hidden cinch at the waistline for a more defined silhouette. Available in sizes XXS to 3X, as well as petite and tall, it's also one of the most size-inclusive styles I've evaluated.
Made of a recycled polyester material that's covered in a water-repellent finish and designed with sealed seams to prevent rain from getting through, the raincoat proved water-repellent when subjected to our standardized rain tester, keeping moisture from seeping through to the inside of the coat. For another layer of protection, the front zipper closure is also shielded by a panel of metal snaps.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: I've personally been wearing a former version of this raincoat for years because I love the elevated look combined with the functionalities of a more technical rain jacket. Because it doesn't feature a breathable lining or any zippered vents, I wouldn't recommend this pick for activities like hiking, and I'd avoid wearing it in higher temperatures because it can run warm. Several testers who have tried the former iteration of the jacket love the overall fit and look of the style, describing the defined waist and longer hemline as "flattering."
Sizes: XXS–3X with tall and petite options | Color variations: Black and Eden (blue green) | Material: Polyester with a DWR
Pros
- Breathable membrane
- High scores in water-repellency evaluation
- Adjustable hood, cuffs and hemline
Cons
- No mesh or zippered ventilation
At first glance, this rain jacket from Cotopaxi may seem simple, but it's packed full of functional features that helped it to stand out during evaluations. Constructed from a lightweight, recycled polyester material that's coated in a water-repellent finish, the rain jacket proved truly water-resistant in my water-repellency tests.
While there are no pit zips or mesh lining for ventilation, the jacket isn't overly hot and stuffy to wear, thanks to its breathable internal membrane. The jacket also has taped seams to prevent rain from seeping in, along with hook-and-loop cuff adjustments and a drawstring at the hemline for a secure fit. Plus, the hood is one of the more structured, fitted styles I evaluated, and successfully keeps out wet weather.
Though it doesn’t fold into its own pocket or come with a packable pouch, the jacket can be compressed into a compact size to take on the go. Pair it with the brand's top-tested travel backpack for your next outdoor adventure.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: According to testers, this rain jacket is plenty roomy enough to layer a sweatshirt or thicker top underneath, due to the boxier design. One user shared, "I stayed nice and dry in this rain jacket, and I didn't feel too hot or stuffy." A tall tester appreciated the length of the jacket, adding that the sleeves didn't feel too short or restrictive.
Sizes: XXS–4X | Color variations: 10 | Material: Recycled polyester with DWR and breathable membrane
Pros
- Back yoke with mesh panel for breathability
- Sleek silhouette
- Performed well in water-repellency tests
Cons
- Recommend sizing up for a more true-to-size fit
Every single time I've stepped outside wearing this sleek raincoat from Lululemon in New York City, I've received multiple compliments from strangers who want to know where I got it. They mention the fitted, stylish silhouette and love the length of the hemline (I'm nearly 6-feet tall, and it hits mid-thigh on me). I did size up in this style for a more true-to-size fit and to ensure I could wear a sweater underneath.
While it may not have technical pit zips or a membrane, the raincoat is made with a polyester material that has a water-resistant finish to keep the rain out. During water-repellency evaluations, the material was able to withstand being sprayed with a steady stream of water for five minutes without totally soaking through — the majority of the water beaded on the fabric's surface, and the inside of the jacket was just slightly damp afterwards.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: A tester shared, "One of my favorite features of the rain jacket is the hidden mesh panel in the back, which helps to cool me off in warm, wet weather." Testers also highlighted details like the zippered pockets both inside and outside of the jacket, the cinched waistline and the roomy hood. One tester really gave the jacket a run for its money by wearing it out in actual hurricane conditions — she said she stayed dry and loved how quickly the material dried out after being soaked.
Sizes: 0–14 | Color variations: 6 | Material: Polyester and polyurethane with an unspecified water-resistant finish
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Pros
- Structured hood with stiff brim
- Pit zip ventilation
- Sealed seams for extra protection
- Folds into its own pocket
Cons
- Loud, crinkly material
The Torrentshell 3L Jacket from sustainable fashion brand Patagonia features technical design elements like pit zips and a breathable membrane that make it a great option to don on the hiking trail, but the look is simple enough for everyday wear too.
When I reviewed the jacket in the Textiles Lab, I was impressed by its secure taped seams, which are sealed on the inside to keep water out. During standardized water-repellency tests, the material was successfully able to stop all moisture from making its way inside the jacket; instead, the water beaded right off the surface. Along with reinforced seams and water-repellent material, the main zipper is covered with a placket, and the ventilating pit zips are welted for even more defense against the rain. Plus, the brimmed hood has more structure to it than any others I evaluated, and it can be adjusted so it stays in place to prevent rain from entering.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: One tester who wore this rain jacket in both heavy rain and light showers reported that she stayed dry and comfy. Another described the jacket as "fashionable and lightweight." Both testers appreciated the adjustable cuffs for a tighter fit and loved that the jacket can be packed down into its own pocket for travel. I and testers agree that although the substantial material is ideal for repelling rain, it's quite noisy and crinkles loudly, especially compared to other jackets I evaluated.
Sizes: XS–XXL | Color variations: 9 | Material: Nylon and polyurethane with a DWR and breathable membrane
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Helly Hansen Moss Jacket
Pros
- Good value option
- Zipper and snap closure for extra protection
- Adjustable cuffs and hood
Cons
- Not breathable
Modeled after a traditional fisherman's jacket, this raincoat is designed to withstand strong downpours, plus it's a great value at under $100. It's made with a durable polyurethane material, which blocks out water, and the seams are reinforced for added protection. When I tested the material for water-repellency in the Textiles Lab, water rolled right off the surface, leaving the inside of the jacket completely dry. Many online reviewers described the jacket as "completely waterproof," and one called it "the best jacket ever."
The jacket has a double closure for two lines of defense against heavy rain — an easy-to-use zipper and a storm flap with color-coordinating snaps. Although the side pockets aren't zippered, they are covered with fabric flaps and are reinforced with rivets for added security. Adjustable snaps at the cuffs and a drawstring in the hood are helpful to achieve a better fit and stop wet weather from dripping inside. The brand offers a longer version for even more coverage as well.
WHAT TESTERS SAY: One of our testers appreciated how the waterproof material was, saying, "It's thick enough to keep me completely dry." That said, the material and design are not very breathable, and there are no zippered vents or mesh panels to allow for airflow, either. One tester shared, "It is not breathable enough for hiking, and I’d get too hot in warmer weather."
Along with the Moss jacket, I also evaluated Helly Hansen's T2 model, which is a cropped style with an ultra-chic design that testers loved, including one who shared, "Honestly, I would even wear it when it's not raining.
Sizes: XS–XL | Color variations: Essential yellow and black | Material: Polyester with polyurethane shell
Other raincoats we evaluated
We researched more than 20 raincoats and chose 17 to test in the Textiles Lab. Here are a few other raincoats we evaluated that weren't featured but are still worth considering:
- Eddie Bauer Charly Jacket: A high-quality design that's great for everyday wear, the Charly Jacket earned top marks for appearance and for its water-repellent abilities. Unlike most jackets made solely of synthetic fibers, it's made of a nylon and cotton blend material with a DWR to repel rain. Because it's thicker than other styles we evaluated, it's not ideal to wear in warm weather.
- Outdoor Research Helium Rain Ultralight Jacket: This extra-lightweight style (weighing just 6.3 ounces) was a favorite of active testers who loved to wear it on runs. The jacket has adjustable drawcords at the hemline and in the hood and folds down into its own pocket for easy transport. The downside: The material soaked through more quickly than other styles in our evaluations.
- Lands' End Squall Parka: Ideal for cold and wet weather, this raincoat from Lands' End is a heavyweight pick that GH editors and testers love. The jacket is covered in pockets, features an insulated lining for warmth and comes in regular, petite and plus sizes. When I evaluated it in Lab, I noted that the material is extra noisy, and testers agreed.
- Kuhl Stretch Voyager Jacket: Complete with a cinched waistline and an adjustable hem and cuffs, this rain jacket is designed with a streamlined fit, and it features a soft-touch membrane and outer material for a comfortable feel. Though it's made of a stretch material, some users said it's too tight on the hips, and it can be difficult to layer sweaters or long sleeves underneath.
How we choose the best raincoats and jackets
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, I initially reviewed former rain jacket testing data to determine which brands and styles have performed well in the past. I then researched raincoats online and reviewed jackets that are popular with real users, considering properties like fabric, fiber content and water-repellency before selecting jackets to evaluate in person.
I was able to review 17 of the styles in person, first taking notes on construction. This involved inspecting elements that can't be seen clearly online like seams and stitches. Plus, I evaluated the noise level of the outer material and the comfort of the inner linings.
I reviewed details like closures, hoods, cuffs, pockets, vents, yokes and more to ensure that the raincoats would actually be able to perform well in rainy conditions.
Along with construction evaluations, I conducted water-repellency tests using our rain tester. I first weighed blotting paper and attached it to the rain tester and then layered material from each rain jacket on top of the blotting paper. The rain tester sprayed the fabric and blotting paper with water at a set temperature for five minutes.
Once the tester completed its rain cycle, I removed the fabric and the blotting paper and then reweighed the paper. The more water that seeped through the rain jacket material, the more the blotting paper weighed, and the less water-resistant the rain jacket proved to be. I repeated this test using material from each coat.
In addition to Lab testing, we tried the raincoats on and wore them out in wet weather to truly put them to the test. GH analysts and consumer testers noted how well the raincoats protected them from rain and wind and shared their thoughts on properties like fit, appearance and washability if they laundered the jackets at home.
What to look for when shopping for the best raincoats
When you're shopping for a raincoat online, check out the product description to learn about the fibers and fabrics used, as well as any special features built into the jacket. Here are a few things to consider:
✔️ Fibers: The type of fiber used for a raincoat or jacket can have a drastic impact on its performance. The majority of raincoats and jackets are made with synthetic materials like nylon and polyester. These fibers are inherently hydrophobic, durable and easy to care for. However, they aren't very breathable and can leave you feeling hot and sweaty.
There are some raincoats (usually more formal styles) made with natural fibers like cotton, which can feel more comfortable to wear but they absorb moisture, so it isn't suitable for rain gear on its own. Some raincoats made with natural fibers are coated with a water-repellent finish.
✔️ Material: Most raincoats and jackets use materials like plain performance weaves or ripstop, which is a durable fabric that resists tears. Tightly woven twills are strong and commonly used for jackets made of natural fibers.
Some rain jackets feature an innovative membrane, which is a thin, porous layer of material that's designed to prevent water droplets from passing through but still allow for sweat vapor to escape. That way, you won't feel clammy or wet inside your jacket. The most popular membrane on the market is Gore-Tex, designed with pores 20,000 times smaller than water droplets so that you stay dry.
✔️ Water repellency: To stop water from soaking through your raincoat, chemical finishes or coatings are often applied to the material, which improves its ability to repel moisture. Many brands use what's known as a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) on their raincoats and jackets. Some brands use water-resistant polyurethane to coat the material and effectively prevent water from soaking through. Other finishes that help improve water repellency include waxes, oils and silicones. All of the aforementioned finishes do eventually break down and wear off with time and use, but it is possible to reapply a finish on your own to extend the livelihood of your rain jacket.
✔️ Ventilation: Along with breathable membranes, there are other ways to prevent overheating while wearing your raincoat. Some styles include zippered ventilation systems in sweat-prone areas like the armpits or throughout the torso. Other jackets feature small grommeted holes that allow air to pass through. Mesh linings and panels improve breathability as well.
✔️ Weather-proof design: Look for features like double closures combining zippers with snaps or hook and loops, or zippers covered by storm flaps for extra protection. Structured hoods with adjustable drawstrings and brims are the best option to keep the rain out of your vision. Adjustable hems and cuffs are also nice, and extra panels of fabric over the chest or back called yokes help water droplets to roll away from the body, keeping you drier.
What's the difference between water-resistant and waterproof?
Although they're sometimes used interchangeably, there is a difference between water-resistant and waterproof when it comes to raincoats and jackets:
- Water-resistant: A water-resistant raincoat is able to withstand rain to a certain extent but will eventually become soaked, and then you'll end up wet. This means jackets labeled as water-resistant aren't ideal for heavy downpours but they can help to keep you dry in light rain for short timeframes.
- Waterproof: If you're hoping to stay as dry as possible, a waterproof option is your best bet. These rain jackets are made with material that is very resistant to water, including high-pressure rain. They usually are constructed with extra features like storm flaps covering zippers and sealed seams to really keep precipitation out. In a waterproof raincoat, you should be able to stay drier for much longer because the material won't soak as easily.
Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.
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