NewsBeat
Best waterproof jackets for men and women, tested on rainy hikes and coastal walks
We all need at least one good waterproof jacket, whether for day-to-day wear or for hiking and other active pursuits.
They range from lightweight shells to insulated winter jackets, but all feature a waterproof material (often with a membrane such as Gore-Tex). “In practical terms, they’re fully waterproof,” says Ben Darby, an outdoor expert at Trekitt. “They let through water vapour from sweat, but stop rain droplets from getting through the fabric.”
Premium makers like Arc’teryx, Montane and The North Face sell waterproofs for upwards of £500. Decent affordable models from the likes of Superdry and Dare2b come in at around £100, while other labels including Tierra, Berghaus and Rab occupy the middle ground.
Models from all of these brands and more are reviewed in this guide, which features both the best men’s waterproof jackets and the best women’s waterproof jackets. It is checked and updated regularly.
The best waterproof jackets: At a glance
How we test waterproof jackets
Our reviewers, Pete and Abby, test waterproof jackets by wearing them on hikes and in daily life. Pete lives in Leeds and tested all of his waterproof jackets in the Peak District, while Abby gave hers a test on the beaches in her home town of Newquay in Cornwall. They both also gave the material an extra ‘spray test’ using a shower or watering can to assess the waterproofing. Testing is completed over several weeks, allowing for each jacket to be worn in various weather conditions.
We check for any leaks or water transfer into the jacket, and also consider each model’s breathability, deducting marks for overheating or excessive sweat build-up during walks. Many wearers need a waterproof jacket that packs down conveniently into a backpack, so we also consider weight (relative to type and size) and bulk.
Construction quality is also an important point of difference, so we pay close attention to the finishing of components such as taped seams, waterproofed zips and layered construction. Finally, we assess the fit and comfort of each jacket, particularly during vigorous movement, and take into account the ease of adjusting the hood, cuffs and hem.