Raincoat Buying Guide: Pick the Right One

Choosing the right raincoat means understanding different materials, waterproof ratings, and intended use. The best raincoat for you will balance protection, breathability, and comfort based on your typical weather and activity level.

Key takeaways:

• Waterproof ratings in millimeters (mm) indicate how much water pressure a fabric can withstand; 5,000mm is for light rain, 15,000mm+ for heavy downpours.
• Breathability, measured in g/m²/24h, prevents clamminess inside the jacket, especially important for active use.
• Fully taped seams are crucial for truly waterproof garments, preventing water from seeping through stitching.
• Consider the material: PU-coated fabrics are good value, while Gore-Tex or eVent offer premium performance.

What do those waterproof ratings (like 5,000mm) actually mean?

Waterproof ratings tell you how much water pressure a fabric can withstand before it starts leaking, measured in millimeters (mm). This number comes from a hydrostatic head test: a tube is placed over the fabric, filled with water, and the height of the water column (in mm) before water seeps through is the rating. A higher number means better protection against heavier rain and pressure.

For example, a rating of 5,000mm means the fabric can resist a 5-meter column of water. For context, light rain typically exerts less than 5,000mm of pressure. Standing or sitting in wet conditions, or wearing a backpack, increases pressure on the fabric, requiring a higher rating.

Here's a quick guide to what different ratings generally mean for real-world use:

Why does breathability matter in a raincoat?

Breathability prevents you from getting soaked from the inside out by your own sweat, even when it's raining. When you exert yourself, your body produces moisture. A breathable fabric allows this water vapor to escape, keeping you dry and comfortable. If a raincoat isn't breathable, sweat condenses on the inside, making you feel clammy and cold, even if no rain gets in.

Breathability is often measured in grams per square meter per 24 hours (g/m²/24h). This figure indicates how much water vapor can pass through a square meter of fabric in a day. A higher number means more breathability. For casual use, 5,000 g/m²/24h might be fine. For active pursuits like hiking or cycling, you'll want 15,000 g/m²/24h or higher to manage sweat effectively.

What's the deal with "taped seams"?

Taped seams are crucial for a truly waterproof raincoat. Even if a fabric itself is completely waterproof, the tiny needle holes created during stitching can let water seep through. Seam taping involves applying a waterproof tape or sealant over all the seams on the inside of the jacket.

There are two main types:

• Critically taped seams: Only the most exposed seams (like shoulders and hood) are taped. This is common on less expensive jackets and offers good protection for light rain.
• Fully taped seams: Every single seam on the jacket is taped. This provides maximum waterproofness and is essential for any raincoat designed for heavy or prolonged rain. Always look for "fully taped seams" if you need serious rain protection.

What materials are raincoats made from, and which is best?

Raincoats use a variety of materials, each with pros and cons. The "best" depends on your budget and specific needs.

• PU-Coated Nylon or Polyester: These are common and affordable. A polyurethane (PU) coating is applied to a base fabric, making it waterproof. They can be less breathable than membrane-based fabrics and might feel a bit stiff. Good for casual use or emergency rain gear.
• Gore-Tex: This is a well-known brand for a reason. Gore-Tex fabrics use a microporous membrane that is both highly waterproof and very breathable. Water droplets are too large to pass through, but water vapor (sweat) can escape. It's durable but generally more expensive.
• eVent: Similar to Gore-Tex, eVent is another high-performance membrane. It's often praised for being exceptionally breathable, sometimes even more so than Gore-Tex, by allowing sweat vapor to pass through directly without needing to build up before diffusion. It's also on the pricier side.
• Paclite (Gore-Tex Paclite): This is a lighter, more packable version of Gore-Tex. It's great for travel or when space is limited, but it often sacrifices some durability and breathability compared to standard Gore-Tex.
• Waxed Cotton: A traditional material, often seen in heritage brands. It's water-resistant rather than fully waterproof, as it relies on the wax to repel water. It needs re-waxing periodically and isn't breathable, but it looks stylish and is very durable.

For most people, a good balance of value and performance comes from a quality PU-coated polyester or nylon with a decent waterproof rating (10,000mm+) and fully taped seams. If you're active outdoors in wet conditions, investing in Gore-Tex or eVent is usually worth it for the superior breathability and comfort.

How should a raincoat fit?

A raincoat should fit comfortably, allowing for a range of motion and potential layering underneath. It shouldn't be too tight, which can restrict movement and compromise the waterproof membrane, nor too baggy, which can let wind and rain in.

Here are some fitting considerations:

• Layering: Try it on over the type of clothes you'd typically wear underneath, whether that's just a t-shirt or a fleece jacket. You need space for a mid-layer without feeling constricted.
• Sleeve Length: Sleeves should extend past your wrists, even when you raise your arms, to prevent water from running down your forearms.
• Hem Length: The hem should ideally cover your hips to protect the top of your pants.
• Hood: A good hood should be adjustable to cinch around your face, move with your head, and ideally fit over a hat or helmet if you use one. Look for drawstrings at the back and sides.
• Mobility: Perform some basic movements: reach up, bend down, twist. The jacket shouldn't pull uncomfortably or ride up significantly.

Generally, if you're between sizes, sizing up slightly is often a safer bet for a raincoat to accommodate layers.

What are common mistakes when buying a raincoat?

People often make a few key errors that lead to dissatisfaction. Avoiding these will help you pick the right one.

1. Confusing Water-Resistant with Waterproof: Many jackets are labeled "water-resistant," meaning they'll shed light rain for a short time. True waterproof jackets have a high hydrostatic head rating (e.g., 5,000mm+) and, critically, fully taped seams. Always check for both.
2. Ignoring Breathability: A highly waterproof jacket without good breathability will make you feel clammy and uncomfortable, especially if you're moving around. Look for a g/m²/24h rating, particularly for active use.
3. Prioritizing Style Over Function (or vice-versa): While aesthetics matter, don't buy a stylish jacket that won't keep you dry in the actual rain you expect. Conversely, don't get an ultra-technical jacket for walking to the car if a simpler, more comfortable option would suffice.
4. Not Considering Packability: If you plan to carry your raincoat in a bag "just in case," a heavy, bulky jacket will be a nuisance. Look for lightweight, packable options, often made with 2.5-layer or Paclite fabrics.
5. Forgetting About Features: Adjustable cuffs (Velcro is good), a proper storm flap over the main zipper, and a well-designed, adjustable hood are not minor details. They significantly impact how well the jacket protects you from wind and rain.

By focusing on the waterproof rating, breathability, seam construction, and how it fits your intended use, you can pick a raincoat that truly keeps you dry and comfortable.