We’re not going to sugarcoat it: Rain kind of sucks, especially if you have things to do (like go to the grocery store or walk the dog). But you know what makes a dreary day a bit more palatable? A fabulous raincoat. From a cheery, color-blocked anorak to a classic trench you’ll wear for years, here are the 17 best water-resistant raincoats on the market right now.
The 17 Best Raincoats for Women, from a Classic Slicker to an Everyday Trench
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Published Apr 8, 2022
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Best Raincoats for Women at a Glance
- Best Overall: Stutterheim Mosebacke Jacket
- Best Under $100: The North Face Antora Jacket
- Most Inclusive Size Range: Lands’ End Squall Raincoat with Hood
- Best for Travel: Cole Haan Packable Hooded Rain Jacket
- Best Extra-Long Silhouette: ASOS Padded Rain Coat
- Best Mid-Length Design: Lululemon Rain Rebel Jacket
- Best Trench Coat: Lauren Ralph Lauren Cotton Trench Coat
- Most Versatile Design: Barbour Beadnell Waxed Cotton Jacket
- Best for Outdoor Adventures: Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket
- Best for Running: Brooks Canopy Jacket
- Best Cape Silhouette: Rains Cape
- Best Statement Design: Cotopaxi Cielo Rain Anorak
- Best Certified Vegan Design: Hunter Waterproof Jacket
- Best for Petites: L.Bean Trail Model Rain Jacket
- Best Maternity Rain Jacket: ASOS Maternity Recycled Parka Coat
- Most Color Options: Columbia Arcadia II Rain Jacket
- Most Eco-Friendly Jacket: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L City Coat
Stutterheim
1. Stutterheim Mosebacke Jacket
Best Overall
- Why we love it: Fully waterproof, flattering silhouette, built to last
Since its launch in 2010, Stutterheim has solidified itself as a maker of top-tier rain jackets that can truly withstand the elements and the test of time. The Swedish brand is best-known for its classic, minimalist silhouettes in a slew of gorgeous colors, ranging from muted pastels to moody jewel tones to Curious George yellow, and, of course, classic black. But the Mosebacke is our favorite silhouette from the brand because of its generous cut (which is excellent for those with wider hips or bigger butts), and it encourages water to slide away from your legs. The hood also has a drawstring, so you can cinch it tighter around your face to prevent drops from seeping in through the neck.
The North Face
2. The North Face Antora Jacket
Best Under $100
- Why we love it: Fully waterproof, adjustable hood, made from 100 percent recycled fabrics
Leave it to The North Face to make a supremely cool-looking rain jacket that’s also highly technical. The Antora is available in ten different colors (some have the contrasting colorblocking shown above, others come in solid shades), so you can choose depending on how you plan to wear it—whether that’s over your work attire or out in the mountains. As for some more practical specs, both the hood and hem are adjustable with drawstrings, and the front zipper, which is sealed to keep out moisture, is doubly protected with a placket that’s secured with hook-and-loop panels. And if that doesn’t convince you, perhaps the perfect 5-star rating and rave reviews will do the trick.
Lands’ End
3. Lands’ End Squall Raincoat With Hood
Most Inclusive Size Range
- Why we love it: Available in plus sizes, two-way zipper, machine washable
If you want a waterproof topper that will also keep you cozy during chilly, wind storms, Lands’ End’s Squall jacket is a great option. It’s fleece-lined, so you don’t need to wear a chunky turtleneck underneath to stay warm, and the outer waterproof layer repels even the heaviest rainfalls. The coat is machine washable (score!) and comes in plus sizes, as well as petite and tall lengths. We also appreciate the high neck and adjustable hood that protects your face and neck, and the three roomy pockets in the front for storing all your essentials.
Amazon
4. Cole Haan Packable Hooded Rain Jacket
Best for Travel
- Why we love it: Packs into its own pocket, adjustable waist, removable hood
It’s always smart to carry a raincoat with you while traveling, just in case the weather takes a turn, but it also shouldn’t take up too much space in your suitcase. That’s why we love this lightweight Cole Haan number, which folds into its own pocket for easy storage. And if the weather improves, you can easily remove the hood for more of a utility jacket look that won’t seem out of place on a sunny afternoon. Note that the jacket isn’t lined, so it’s better suited for warmer weather, and we suggest sizing up if you plan on layering it over thicker knits.
ASOS
5. Asos Padded Rain Coat
Best Extra-Long Silhouette
- Why we love it: Head to calf coverage, covered placket, under $100
This beige jacket has a lightweight padding that adds warmth without adding bulk, which makes it ideal for early spring days. We love the snap front closure, which lets you leave the lower buttons undone if your legs require some extra wiggle room. (And don’t worry about rain seeping through between the snaps because there is a sizable placket that covers them and will keep your front nice and dry.) Oh, and the tall stand collar prevents water from slipping in at the neck. Reviews suggest the coat runs big, so you should consider going down a size for a more fitted style.
lululemon
6. Lululemon Rain Rebel Jacket
Best Mid-Length Design
- Why we love it: Machine washable, hidden phone pocket for extra protection, reflective details on the cuffs
This longline style is cut to that Goldilocks length that won’t overwhelm petite frames, while still offering plenty of coverage for those on the taller end of the spectrum. A sweat-wicking inner liner makes this lululemon stunner a great option for warmer months (there’s a vented back for even better breathability), and the generous fit gives you plenty of room to move around, should you break this out on a hike or a brisk walk around the city. Our only wish is that it came in more colors other than classic black or cedar green—although that green is one of the prettiest hues we’ve seen yet. Reviews also suggest it runs a tad small, so if you’re between sizes, we suggest sizing up.
Nordstrom
7. Lauren Ralph Lauren Cotton Trench Coat
Best Trench Coat
- Why we love it: Water resistant, adjustable cuffs, machine washable
You can never go wrong with a classic trench, especially if it’s also water-resistant and able to take on the elements. (Not all trenches are, so be sure to read the label). This traditional design has gorgeous tortoiseshell buttons and a matching belt and cuff buckles. The slightly flared bottom sends rain droplets away from your lower body, and there’s plenty of length to cover your hips and thighs without overwhelming your frame. And because this trench eschews trendier touches for a truly classic look, it’ll stay in style for years and years to come.
Bloomingdale's
8. Barbour Beadnell Waxed Cotton Jacket
Most Versatile Design
- Why we love it: Versatile design, lightweight, duchess approved
This classic Barbour silhouette isn’t the most waterproof option on this list (if you’re looking for something that can withstand torrential downpours, check out the Stutterheim Mosebacke jacket above), but the weatherproof design is fantastic for those unpredictable spring and fall days you’re caught in a little drizzle. It doesn’t look like your typical raincoat, but rest assured, the waxed cotton will keep you dry and warm once those clouds start to roll in. And the relaxed fit means you can comfortably wear a chunky knit underneath for even more warmth. Did we mention that Kate Middleton is a fan?
Backcountry
9. Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket
Best for Outdoor Adventures
- Why we love it: Packs into its own pocket, waterproof, breathable
Whether you’re hiking or cycling, this Outdoor Research jacket will keep you dry and happy. It’s incredibly lightweight and packs into its own chest pocket (making it great for stowing into a backpack or panniers), and it strikes that balance between being roomy enough to offer a good range of motion but not so big that water can sneak in at the neck or cuffs. On that note, the seams and zippers are fully sealed, so you can feel confident about staying dry. P.S. If you are between sizes, we suggest opting for the larger size, especially if you plan to layer or do activities that require a lot of movement like climbing or even pitching a tent.
Brooks
10. Brooks Canopy Jacket
Best for Running
- Why we love it: Lightweight, packs into its own pocket, hidden phone pocket offers bonus rain protection
A bit of rain isn’t going to keep you from getting that run in, and this Brooks jacket will keep you comfortable no matter what the weather is doing. The material, while water resistant, is wonderfully breathable to help wick away sweat without letting in rain. The hood can also be rolled up into the collar should the sun find its way through, and the entire jacket can be packed into a pocket complete with straps so you can wear it on your back. The generous cut also gives you better range of motion in case you want to sneak in some squats or lunges after your run without a constrictive hem getting in your way.
Rains
11. Rains Cape
Best Cape Silhouette
- Why we love it: Great for cycling, generous fit, chic color options
Denmark-based company Rains makes fantastic outerwear, but we’re particularly big fans of this fun cape silhouette as a poncho alternative that is guaranteed to keep you dry and looking stylish. Because of the generous cut, you don’t have to stress about sizing up for chunky knitwear or down for layering over thinner spring dresses. The adjustable hood comes with a cap brim to better keep rain out of your eyes without impeding your peripheral version, and there are snaps under the arms that are helpful for cinching the arms during heavier downpours.
Cotopaxi
12. Cotopaxi Cielo Rain Anorak
Best Statement Design
- Why we love it: Bright color options, lightweight, sustainable design
This super-lightweight, packable anorak is best for lighter rain (it’s definitely waterproof, but won’t provide much in the way of warmth) or to stick in your backpack or work tote just in case. It’s made from PFC-free recycled materials and fabric scraps, hence the fun colorblock pattern, and will definitely stand out in dreary gray weather. There’s also a front drop-in pocket with a fully-sealed zipper closure, as well as a kangaroo hand pocket so you can keep your phone and other water-averse items safe. Plus, the two zippers on either side of the hips (?) allow for greater range of movement when you need it (i.e., while hiking or running), and the hook-and-eye panels on the cuffs allow you to adjust ventilation.
Hunter
13. Hunter Waterproof Jacket
Best Certified Vegan Design
- Why we love it: Waterproof, lightweight, fun color options
This adorable raincoat is 100 percent vegan, from the color used to dye it into multiple cheery colors to the waterproof materials that are guaranteed to keep you dry. It’s also surprisingly breathable, thanks to a back vent and underarm eyelets, to keep you more comfortable in even the most torrential downpours. The fit on this Hunter jacket is highly adjustable, with pulls on the hood and at the waist and snaps at the cuffs, all of which allow you to tweak the silhouette to fit exactly as you like. Our only gripe? You’ll have to spot or hand wash the coat, but we still think it’s worth the investment (especially if you go for a darker color like black or navy that’s less likely to show scuffs or dirt).
L.L.Bean
14. L. Bean Trail Model Rain Jacket
Best for Petites
- Why we love it: Available in petite and plus sizes, under $100, made from recycled materials
If you’re tired of settling for oversized fits that drown your frame in extra fabric, we highly suggest checking out this L.L. Bean topper, which comes in petite and plus sizes (XS to XL). The Trail Model has a streamlined silhouette that’s roomy enough to feel comfortable but not so large that you’ll feel like a kid playing dress up. The shoulders, waist and arms have all been adjusted to fit a petite frame, meaning it’s cut for the 5-foot-2 and under crowd. The waterproof materials are machine washable and dryer friendly, making it a cinch to keep clean. Oh, and it also packs up into its own pocket for easy storage on the go. Basically, this raincoat is an absolute must have.
ASOS
15. Asos Maternity Recycled Parka Coat
Best Maternity Rain Jacket
- Why we love it: Under $50, extra-long silhouette, made from recycled materials
While there are certainly other maternity raincoats with flashier details, this ASOS design earned a spot on our list for two main reasons: its unbeatable price tag and timeless design. For less than 40 bucks you get head-to-toe (or at least head-to-calf) rain coverage that will look chic no matter the season, meaning you can break it out again for any future pregnancies without feeling dated. Heck, you could rock this coat even if you’re not pregnant and simply enjoy the extra room and greater range of movement it gives you.
Columbia
16. Columbia Arcadia Ii Rain Jacket
Most Color Options
- Why we love it: Waterproof, available in plus sizes, packs into its own pocket
This lightweight jacket by Columbia works as an everyday topper and as a solid layer for outdoor adventures like backpacking or hiking. Available in a whopping 16 different colors—from pastel lavender to cheery red—all of them come in sizes XS to 3X. In terms of rain-protection, the Arcadia II doesn’t disappoint. It’s entirely waterproof with sealed seams and zippers, and both the hem and hood are adjustable with easy-to-use drawcords. It’s also one of the highest rated jackets on Columbia’s site, with more than 1,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating.
Patagonia
17. Patagonia Torrentshell 3l City Coat
Most Eco-Friendly Jacket
- Why we love it: Sustainably made, waterproof, lightweight
This simple but classic slicker is Fair Trade Certified and was made using practices that protect the environment, build sustainable livelihoods and boost economic empowerment. Plus, as a founding member of 1% for the Planet, Patagonia has committed to donating one percent of its annual sales to nonprofit partners in support of environmental solutions. Of course the Torrentshell does more than give back and look cute. It’s also fully waterproof and breathable to keep you dry and comfortable while you commute. A tall collar and adjustable hood work together to prevent water from dripping in through the neck, and the tapered fit is incredibly flattering.
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