How do I choose the right rainwear?

Criteria to consider when selecting rainwear

Other Features to look for in a rain jacket

Generally the Unisex raincoats are loose-fit and a half size larger than normal clothing while the Womens raincoats matching your normal clothing size. This can vary though, so go after the largest measurement that fit you for the most comfortable fit.

Construction rain gear – key characteristics

Good quality rain gear is designed to deal with anything from a light shower to a heavy downpour. It's also got to be comfortable, durable and good at keeping your body at the correct temperature. Warm enough, but not too hot.

Fit The fit should encourage layering underneath, but shouldn't be too loose. Remember that you should be able to cinch your rainwear down so it's snug enough if the weather turns. Move your arms, bend your knees. A full range of motion is essential.

A rain jacket is a waist-long rain suit. Windcheaters are made of nylon or polyester, whereas raincoats are made of a combination of two or more materials, such as nylon, polyester, rayon, cotton, wool, etc. Windcheaters have a single layer of fabric. A rain jacket or raincoat has a multi-layer of fabric.

Relaxed Fit: Every day, standard waterproof jackets will have a relaxed fit and a longer length for extra protection. Active Fit: Neither snug nor too baggy, these jackets will provide enough room for you to wear another layer underneath like a fleece or softshell.

In the simplest sense, a waterproof jacket offers the highest level of protection from rain and snow. While a water-resistant jacket offers a good, but lower level of protection. Though there's a little more to it than that. The difference between water-resistant and waterproof arises from the fabric.

All pieces that Rains release are deliberately crafted for a larger than usual fit. Rains say that's because all of their products are designed to cater for Denmark's large number of cyclists. If you're a cyclist and would prefer a larger fit, then choose your usual size.

Though companies disagree on test standards, you can trust that any gear that a major brand designates as “waterproof” can stand up to a serious squall. Waterproof/breathable: This type of performance rainwear keeps rain from getting through to your skin, while also moving sweat back through to the outside world.

Best Raincoat Brands

Notable options include Gore-Tex, known for its exceptional waterproofing and breathability; eVent, highly breathable and waterproof; Pertex Shield, known for its lightweight qualities, and H2No by Patagonia, which is highly regarded for its sustainability and protection.

If you are out for a day in the mountains, you should look for your main waterproof to be rated 5000mm or higher, and most good waterproofs will be around 10,000mm, the highest being around 20,000mm for the wettest conditions. A lower rating means the water will eventually get through if the rain is heavy.

The coating means you shed raindrops like water off a duck's back, at least while the garment is still relatively new. But from abrasions such as pack straps against shoulders, repeated downpours, and at-home washing, the DWR coating wears off bit by bit until your rain clothes become more sponge than duck's feather.

10,000mm – 15,000mm: A jacket in this range will withstand most downpours as well as heavy snow, but will soak through over time if subjected to pressure, such as crashing in wet snow, kneeling or sitting down, or a heavy pack.

Nylon or Polyester: which is better for raincoats? Polyester resists water better when compared to Nylon. Therefore Polyester is better for raincoats.

While the classic yellow color is still a solid choice for casual wear, for a more dressed-up look, opt for a jacket in a neutral color such as navy, olive, or khaki. In my opinion, the mac coat is the best raincoat option to wear over a suit.

There are a few ways that you can identify if your jacket is waterproof. For example, waterproof jackets often have multiple layers to ensure that you're warm but fully protected. Waterproof jackets will also have taped seams and waterproof zips.

In rain jackets, a waterproof membrane is a super thin, super lightweight barrier that prevents liquid moisture from getting through.

“Some windbreakers have water-resistant finishes that can keep light rain out for a short amount of time, but they're not designed to be worn in continuous wet weather,” Baltazar explains.

In general, too, raincoats are more versatile than umbrellas. The umbrella is good for two things — walking in the rain and standing in the rain. The raincoat, on the other hand, has a variety of functions.

It depends on what you're planning to use it for. If you're getting after it outside and don't want to sweat, I'd suggest you spend the money on a jacket with a Gore-Tex or other high-end membrane. A sweaty jacket is uncomfortable, yes, but sweat is also your enemy in the high alpine.

Raise your hands in front of you and see if the wrists aren't too exposed. See if the sleeves still look good when buckled up. Try to touch your shoulder with the opposite hand, this way you will check if the shoulder area isn't too tight. Perfect raincoat needs to be a perfect fit for you.

The technology involved does mean that membrane jackets are more expensive than coated alternatives though. If you plan on getting active outdoors, it's definitely worth paying extra for the additional comfort. You may notice that there are two types of membrane waterproof, 2-layer and 3-layer.

There are several types of waterproof materials that are used in rain jackets, but most fall into three categories: rubberized raingear, coated nylon, and Gore-TEX. Rubberized or plastic jackets usually made from PVC are excellent at repelling water and often very inexpensive.

If you are buying a waterproof coat for walking about town or dropping the kids to school, a waterproof rating of 2,000-5,000mm will be more than enough. If you were planning a weekend in the mountains, we would advise a rating of 5,000-8,000mm as the conditions can be much harsher.