If there's one item of clothing that's pretty much a non-negotiable in the UK, it's a rain coat. Because even though it's spring, the weather is throwing everything at us at the moment - from a day of sun to torrential rain the next. Made using a range of technical fabrics that mean they're waterproof (and sometimes windproof), a durable jacket to protect whatever you're wearing.
This doesn't need to mean a washout for your wardrobe because when life gives you lemons, why not follow that old adage and make the sartorial equivalent of lemonade (which is, in this case, means investing in one of the best rain coats for women that delivers on function as well as fashion)? Our fashion team are seasoned travellers with a flair for stylish outdoor wear, (and staying dry) have rigorously tested some jackets so you are in safe hands.

Let's face facts: they might not be known for their style prowess like scarf coats, for example. Or have the same fashion pedigree as, say, trench coats. In fact, one may evoke distant memories of school trips to historic sites, an anorak worn over your uniform as you stand in the rain half-listening to a story about Oliver Cromwell. I'm not bitter (promise!). But I do regret the limited array of waterproof jackets that were on offer during my childhood. Now, however, I'm making up for lost time. Because a waterproof no longer means drab. Or boring. Instead, brands have actually started to marry function with form, resulting in a whole new breed of excellent rain-resistant cover-ups.
What to know before buying a raincoat
When shopping for a raincoat, Johanne Dindler, Head of Design at Rains, said the first thing to consider is functionality. ‘Look for taped or welded seams and a coated material to ensure waterproofing,’ she advised. But beyond the basics, it’s the subtle design touches that truly elevate a piece into an everyday staple. ‘You’ll need smartly placed ventilation to keep it breathable all year round,’ she explained. ‘Snap closures on the cuffs help prevent water from entering easily, and an adjustable drawstring hood can keep the rain off your hair - and block out the wind too.’
Dindler also highlighted the importance of choosing a coat you’ll actually want to wear. ‘The aesthetic is just as important. Go for a timeless and minimal design you actually want to wear.’
Any insights into waterproof tech, breathability, design, fit, pricing?
While some people assume there’s a limit to innovation in outerwear, Dindler said that couldn’t be further from the truth. ‘We continuously rework fabrics to enhance their performance, durability, functionality, and aesthetics.’ One of the Rains standout developments has been its refined PU, which she described as “both breathable and waterproof, thanks to years of experimental research.’ She added that their material range is constantly evolving. ‘Most recently, we introduced an exciting new three-layer construction technique,’ she said, referring to the brand’s ongoing investment in textile innovation.
When it comes to fit, Dindler stressed that a good raincoat should complement your wardrobe. ‘You should be able to pair your rain jacket with any outfit,” she said. ‘We carefully work with proportions and silhouettes that allow room for layering, without compromising on our sleek and sophisticated look.’
Her final piece of advice: don’t overlook rain pants. ‘They’re a must-have here in Denmark, especially for people who cycle everywhere,’ she said. Worn with a jacket, they offer full-body protection and help keep your outfit underneath dry and intact. ‘Plus, they create a cohesive look,’ she added.
How we tested the best raincoats for women
Drawing on our existing knowledge of the best rain jacket brands like Rains, Columbia and Regatta, Grazia's editors came up with a short list then put them to the test on a day that was a mix of blustery and drizzly at times, the kind of weather conditions where a rain jacket or water-resistant parka would definitely have come in handy. We were reaching for these coats on our lunch time walks, our work meets and weekend staycations. Out of 20 jackets we tested 10 made our final guide. We considered a few different factors before making our final decision, including durability, value, comfort, design, style and water-resistance. These picks had to perform well while remaining stylish and practical for everyday.
Whatever you're wanting to achieve with your rain jacket - something lightweight that can be folded into a pocket or something lined to double up as a winter coat - you can rest assured that it's about as far from that pac-a-mac as humanly possible. Style forecast: cheerier than expected. Tested by our team, here are the best rain jackets for women that truly worth investing in.
Best Rain Jackets For Women 2025, At a Glance
Best Overall Rain Jacket: Regatta Corinne IV Waterproof Parkaway Jacket
Most Stylish Rain Jacket: Rains Long Jacket
Best Everyday Wear Rain Jacket: Columbia Explorer's Edge II Waterproof Insulated Jacket
Best Rain Jacket For Dog Walks: Sweaty Betty Motion Longline Waterproof Parka
Best Affordable Rain Jacket: New Look Grey Unlined Hooded Raincoat
Best Designer Rain Coat: Arc'Teryx Veilance Fora Coat
Shop: Best Raincoats for Women 2025
Best Overall Rain Jacket

www.regatta.com
Joey Yip, Former Fashion Assistant said, ‘As you can see, this is a seriously stylish rain jacket that hits the upper thigh for a snug fit that mirrors the retro vibe of sportswear cover-ups. Its biggest pro is that it's so lightweight, meaning I can pack away into a pocket or a belt bag and won't make you feel soggy on the move. I wore this to a festival and held up against sweaty bodies, drinks and buckets of rain. While its not long enough to shield my whole body it did a pretty decent job, I wasn’t sick after being outside the whole day even after the heavens opened. The fact that it’s cropped meant I could show a little leg and my outfit wasn’t serving tent. It gets our best overall coat because of the price (£48.95!) and techy features that mean it's more than capable of keeping you dry (and feeling cool in both senses of the word).’
Pros
- Breathable and lightweight
- Packs away into a belt bag or pocket
- Machine washable
Cons
- Hip-length hemline meaning you'll have to buy waterproof trousers for full protection
Sizes | UK 8-26 |
Material | 100% polyamide |
Colours | Six |
Use | Daily use for light rain |
Weight | 80gsm |
Returns and warranty | 30 days to return your order |
Technology | Isolite: Lightweight waterproof, breathable and windproof fabric |
Most Stylish Rain Jacket

www.uk.rains.com
Natalie Hammond Senior Fashion News Editor said, ‘Rains is definitely known as the 'fashion' choice if you're looking for a rain jacket (the clue's in the name). The good news is that it's also one of the market leaders when it comes to waterproof gear that won't let you down when it matters (i.e. when the heavens decide to open). Its Long Jacket is an elongated version of the brand's classic rain jacket, offering even more protection from light rain. I love pulling this out when its dreary outside and I have to make my 1 hour (plus) commute. This jacket doesn’t make me feel icky, sticky and uncomfortable which I’ve found with old raincoats I’ve had. The best thing about this jacket, however, is that it doesn't feel like you're wearing something 'functional'. It's pleasingly stylish, especially in this shade of sand, which reminds me of a trench coat.’
Pros
- Protects against windchill
- Elongated silhouette with fishtail hem
- Adjustable cuffs
- Back yoke with concealed vents for breathable comfort
Cons
- Waterproof but mostly suitable for light rain
Sizes | XS-XXL |
Material | 100% polyester |
Colours | 12 |
Use | Daily use for light rain |
Weight | 540 g |
Returns and warranty | 30 days to return your order |
Technology | W3 Water Performance Level<br>Waterproof protection from light rain |
Best Everyday Wear Rain Jacket

www.columbiasportswear.co.uk
Natalie Hammond Senior Fashion News Editor said, ‘Columbia's Explorer's Edge™ is perfect if you want a durable cover-up to wear day in, day out. Its selling point is maximum warmth, minimum weight - and both elements were absolutely true in my experience. I also love that it has an in-built layer with thumb holes (and the fact that you can adjust the cuffs and waist as soon as it's really pouring to hunker down while you're out and about). If you want to be able to fit bulky jumpers underneath when it gets to winter, however, I would advise sizing up as the body-skimming fit means that it'll quickly start to feel snug.’
Pros
- Breathable with vented underarms
- Maximum warmth with minimum weight
- Full adjustability (drawcord hem, velcro cuffs)
- Comfortable chin guard
Cons
- Hip-length hemline meaning you'll have to buy waterproof trousers for full protection
Size range | XS-XL |
Materials | 100% polyester, 100% recycled polyester, 80g Microtemp XF II 85% recycled polyester/ 15% polyester |
Colours | Purple, black, pink |
Use | Hiking, walking |
Weight | 80g Microtemp XF |
Returns and warranty | 30 days to return your order |
Techology | Omni-Tech™ waterproof/breathable fully seam sealed<br>PFC-Free Durable Water Repellent |
Best Affordable Rain Jacket

www.newlook.com
Whitney Editorial Assustant said, ‘New Look's waterproof jacket comes in at £39.99, which is a very reasonable figure considering it's more than capable, in my experience, of keeping you dry in drizzle. Unlined and lightweight, it comes in two chic shades - grey and khaki - that feel just as appropriate for the office as for off-duty. It's not as heavy-duty as the insulated jacket from Columbia, but for the price (and for daily use as opposed to hikes or countryside walks), it delivers. I packed this jacket in my suitcase on my trip to Wales last spring, and as a high street find, it surpassed my expectations. I do wish the hood was slightly bigger.’
Pros
- Adjustable hood
- Lightweight and easily foldable
- Machine washable
Cons
- Unlined meaning limited insulation
Size range | UK 8-18 |
Materials | 100% polyester |
Colours | Grey and khaki |
Use | Daily use for light rain |
Weight | Lightweight |
Returns and warranty | Within 28 days of purchase |
Technology | Water resistant |
Best Designer Rain Jacket

arcteryx.com
Gavi Weiss Fashion Assistantsaid, ‘As a fashion assistant I’ve come across my fair amount of samples and I can say the Arc'Teryx's waterproof jacket is the gold-standard when it comes to all-weather protection and one of our favourite winter coats, providing all-year-round coverage from rain, snow and driving winds. I took it on a shoot to Madeira on the mountains, and i was getting beat by the wind and it held it’s own. Dare I say it’s also the chicest of the bunch - not a guarantee when it comes to rain gear - and has a purposely oversized fit to allow for extra layers when the weather turns biting. The price might be something of a sticking point but, when it looks this good, you'll probably wear it as your standard winter coat.’
Pros
- Four-season protection from rain, snow, and driving winds
- Fit accommodates winter layers
- Back vent for comfort
- Adjustable hood
- Machine washable
Size range | XS-XL |
Materials | N40p GORE-TEX fabric with 3L tricot technology |
Colours | 3 |
Use | Heavy-duty use for rain, snow, and driving winds |
Weight | 605g / 1 lb 5.3 oz |
Returns and warranty | 30 days to return your order |
Technology | Gore-tex - fabric shields you from rain, snow, and driving winds. |
Best Packable Raincoat for On-The-Go
www.joules.com
Jada Langola-Walters, Social Media Assistant said, ‘I am obsessed with this coat, it looks designer but minus the three figure price tag. I’m getting Burberry vibes. It’s perfect for casual strolls, and I got so many compliments while wearing it. The fact that it’s packable makes it ideal for on-the-go and travel - it’s cute and practical. This will transition me from casual to fancier settings, with a little accessories.’
Pros
- Hood with adjustable bungee toggles and mesh lining
- Style is unique
- Packs into flap pocket - great for travel
Cons
- Fits a bit oversized
Size range | UK 6-26 |
Materials | Main 100% Recycled polyester. Lining 100% Polyester. Main Lining 100% Polyester |
Colours | 4 |
Use | Casual strolls |
Returns and warranty | 28 days to return your order |
Technology | Waterproof with taped seams |
Best Raincoat for Heavy Rain
www.johnlewis.com
Gabriela Velasco, Junior Bookings Editor said, ‘I feel like this jacket speaks to my personality. It’s so fun, it doesn’t feel like I’m wearing a raincoat. I wore it on a Scotland staycation when it was chucking it down, and I stayed bone dry. The cut and hood give you proper protection, and the adjustable waist means it actually looks flattering. The big pockets are a win too - you can fit all your essentials in there - lip balm, phone, keys. I find that heavier, poorly ventilated raincoats can feel so uncomfortable after long use, but this is not the case. It’s proper waterproof, not just ‘showerproof.’
Pros
- Longline, hooded design offers good protection from rain
- Adjustable waist and hood
- Big pockets for essentials
- Waterproof
Cons
- Colourway might not be suited to everyone
Size range | UK 8-20 |
Materials | Face: 61% cotton, 39% polyamide, Back: 100% polyurethane, Lining: 100% polyester |
Colours | Limeade/Light Sand |
Use | Heavy rain |
Returns and warranty | 30 days to return your order |
Best Lightweight Raincoat For Activities
www.lululemon.co.uk
Renee Washington, Digital Fashion and Beauty Writer said, ‘I’m trying to be on my fitness bag this year and this jacket fits the bill. I’ve taken it for jogs around the park and its made for movement, and it shows. It has stretch, which makes it so comfortable, and it cinches in at the waist, giving me shape. My waist? Gone. I was pleasantly surprised that it’s fleece-lined - extra warmth without adding bulk. It’s not the roomiest, so layering isn’t really an option, but for working out, it’s perfect, because you’re not going to layer anyways. That said, I probably wouldn’t reach for it in a full downpour.’
Pros
- Cinches in your waist - form flattering
- Four-way stretch
- Fleecey on the inside
- Reflective details
- Thumbholes for working out
- Waterproof, windproof and breathable
Cons
- Hard to layer underneath
Size range | UK 4-18 |
Materials | Pocket Lining: 100% Recycled PolyesterBody: Face: 85% Nylon, 15% Elastane, Middle: 100% Polyurethane, Back: 95% Polyester, 5% ElastaneSide Panels: 82% Nylon, 18% Lycra® Elastane<br> |
Colours | 4 |
Use | Great for running |
Returns and warranty | 30 days to return your order |
Technology | RepelShell™ water-repellent fabric |
Best Full-Length Raincoat
www.uk.rains.com
Whitney Jones, Editorial Assistant said, ‘This is hands down the best full-length raincoat I’ve ever worn. The fabric feels so smooth, and it’s lightweight but somehow holds up even in a proper downpour. Having a big bust I’m use to coats just not sitting right. I wore a size L and it fit perfectly, it hangs really nicely without feeling boxy. The adjustable sleeves are a nice touch too. It was pouring down a few days ago, and thanks to the W3 Water Performance, I stayed completely dry. My shoes not so much.’
Pros
- Waterproof, windproof and breathable
- Hangs nicely on the body
- Sleeves are finished with snaps so are adjustable for a loose or tight fit.
Cons
- Quite light
- Waterproof but mostly suitable for light rain
Size range | XS-XL |
Materials | 100.00% PES (Polyester) |
Colours | 3 |
Use | Light rain |
Weight | 560g |
Returns and warranty | 30 days to return your order |
Technology | W3 Water Performance Level<br>Waterproof protection from light rain |
Best Size Range
Renee Washington, Digital Fashion and Beauty Writer said, ‘This coat is huge - but that’s exactly why I love it. It’s meant to be oversized, and it just works. I usually wear a size 8, but I could have easily gone for a 6, 8, 10, or even 12 and still had that cool, slouchy fit. The size range is impressive, which is amazing for plus sizes. It’s breathable but still keeps you warm, and the black goes with literally everything. Honestly, you wouldn’t guess it’s high street.’
Pros
- Made with Stormwear™ Ultra technology, which means it's fully waterproof with taped seams
- Stylish and sleek
- Will fully cover your body
- Nice to layer under, plenty of room
Cons
- Only one colour available
- Quite long in length
Size range | UK 6-24 |
Materials | 100% polyamide (exclusive of trimmings), Lining - 100% polyester |
Colours | 1 |
Use | everyday to day life |
Returns and warranty | 35 days to return your order |
Technology | Stormwear™ Ultra - provides great wet weather protection |
Best Raincoats FAQs
What’s the difference between waterproof and water-resistant raincoats?
To put it simply, waterproof raincoats block all water, while water-resistant repels just some.
How can I tell if a raincoat is breathable?
It’s best to look for fabrics with moisture-wicking technology or ventilation features.
What features should I look for in a quality raincoat?
It really depends on the purpose you want it serve, we suggest you look out for sealed seams, an adjustable hood, durable fabric, and reliable zippers.
What’s the best way to care for my raincoat?
Its always best to follow the manufacturer's instructions, typically gentle washing and air drying.
Does buying a designer raincoat really make a difference?
Often, yes, with a higher price point you can expect higher-quality materials, construction, and style.
How do I choose a raincoat suitable for different seasons?
Layering capabilities and fabric weight are key; shed a few layers for warmer, and add more for when temperatures drop.
Which length is best for a women’s raincoat?
It depends on the purpose you have for the coat - from the hip-length for mobility to longer for more protection.
Who makes the best raincoats for women?
We’ve listed the best raincoats for women above.
Which is the best brand for raincoats?
Again, it depends, but we rate the ones featured in this article. Brands like Arc'teryx, Rains, and Barbour are consistently highly rated.
What is the best raincoat for heavy rain?
Look for raincoats with high waterproof ratings, storm flaps, and secure closures.
Renee Washington, Grazia's digital fashion and beauty assistant, is highly immersed in the online world, often going viral for niche fashion finds. With a degree in Journalism and a passion for wispy lashes and streetwear, she provides insights into fashion and beauty through the perspective of the modern fashion girlie.