The Best Rain Jackets For Women, Tested By An Outdoor Expert

Besides keeping you dry, the best rain jackets for women are breathable, stylish and suitable for different climates and conditions. After testing many, I chose Outdoor Research’s Aspire II as my top pick overall because is offers excellent protection, whether you’re commuting to work or spending the day outdoors.

My colleagues also rounded up additional recommendations, depending on if you want a fashionable rain parka for city days or a rugged option you can truly weather a storm in. The best rain jackets for women can handle a light storm or a heavy downpour, depending on which ... [+] features you prioritize.

When researching the contenders, I relied on my extensive experience as an outdoor gear tester and I also spoke with several experts, including Preeti Arya , an assistant professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) who teaches courses on performance textiles, and Sara Ellis, a product specialist in the fabrics division at Gore Tex .

Here, the winners that emerged from my testing and the Vetted team’s separate review process. Our Team’s Top Picks Best Rain Jacket For Women Overall Outdoor Research Fabric: 100% polyester | Waterproofing: Two layer Gore Tex with Paclite technology | Size range: XS to 4X | Colors: 10 | Sustainability attributes: Bluesign approved Gore Tex | Warranty: Limited lifetime Best for Skip if If you want to own only one rain jacket, the Aspire II, is a versatile shell suitable for most climates and activities.

The lightweight and packable jacket can withstand heavy precipitation, protects against the wind and is ultra breathable. It’s moderately priced for Gore Tex and comes in a wide range of colors, and it is the most size inclusive jacket I tested (women’s sizes are available from XS to 4X). While there are certainly more fashionable water resistant jackets, none are likely to function as well and suit as many lifestyles as this one.

I wore the Aspire II while hiking, walking the dog, running errands and playing with my kid outside, and I stayed dry every time—even in an hourlong downpour. A handful of features keep the jacket watertight: seam tape, an internal storm flap, a drawcord hem, hook and loop cuffs and a brimmed hood.

The hood’s double adjustment points (elastic drawcords on the chin and back of the head) allow for a customized fit that moves side to side with your head and doesn’t impede your peripheral vision. Outdoor Research's Aspire II is a lightweight and packable jacket that can withstand heavy ...

[+] precipitation, protects against the wind and is ultra breathable. The Aspire II jacket also ranked high in breathability. The lightweight Paclite does its job of letting water vapor escape, and even after a 10 minute indoor rowing session, I didn’t feel overly clammy. Additionally, the jacket features zippered torso venting—two way side zippers that run from the bottom hem to the underarm—and you don’t have to be a dedicated hiker or an outdoors person to appreciate the added functionality.

This is a great travel feature, as the jacket can be tossed on over a backpack poncho style when you get caught in a sudden shower, or it can fit over bulky layers. —Tested by Ebony Roberts Best Value Rain Jacket For Women Helly Hansen Fabric: Polyurethane | Waterproofing: Polyurethane (PU) coating | Size range: Women’s XS to XL | Colors: 3 | Sustainability attributes: Bluesign product | Warranty: Limited one year Best for Skip if If you need a great value rain jacket for colder climates that see a lot of precipitation, the Helly Hansen Moss can withstand heavy showers and is comfortable to wear.

It’s one of the most rainproof and wind protective jackets I tested. The Moss retails for about $100, and you can sometimes find it through various retailers on sale for as low as $60—a huge step down in price from many jackets similar in design. It’s not as breathable and packable as my top pick, but for casual everyday use, it looks good and will keep you dry.

The Moss aced my test where I stood in the shower wearing it, and handled heavy Pacific Northwest rain just fine. The thick rubbery fabric, welded seams, wrist snaps and storm flap over the front zipper make it nearly impossible for water to find a way in. The hood design isn’t as roomy as others, but it does cinch around the face well.

I also preferred the longer length of the Moss as it kept more of my body dry during everyday errands. Unlike the other longer jackets I tested, the front zipper isn’t two way adjustable, so mobility is slightly hindered when doing things that require you to bend or stretch your legs. If you like the style of the jacket but want something shorter, the Moss is also available in hip length and stylish women’s trench.

The Helly Hansen Moss can withstand heavy showers and is one of the rainproof and wind protective ... [+] jackets I tested. The trade off for such stellar water protection is that the Moss doesn’t excel at breathability, which is fine on a chilly morning, but if it’s warm outside or you’re doing something active, there’s nowhere for that heat to escape but through the perforated holes under the back yoke, which offer little ventilation.

The care instructions say to avoid putting it in the dryer (heat can damage the rubbery polyurethane material), so it needs to air dry, but the slick fabric is wipeable, so spot cleaning will extend the time between launderings. Helly Hansen offers a 1 year warranty on manufacturing defects, and the Moss comes with its own repair patch that you can use to fix small tears or holes at home.

—Tested by Ebony Roberts Best Casual Rain Jacket For Women Lululemon Fabric: Glyde fabric | Waterproofing: Waterproof Glyde fabric | Size range: 0 to 20 | Colors: 1 | Sustainability attributes: N/A (not listed) | Warranty: Practical lifetime Best for Skip if With a classic fit with room for layering and long silhouette, the sleek Rain Rebel Jacket is stylish enough for work and can also be worn casually for errands.

It’s also quite breathable thanks to a strategically placed back vent and its moisture wicking liner. The Rain Rebel looks more stylish than the Aspire Trench, but it was edged out across performance categories. Like the Aspire Trench, the Rain Rebel has a drawcord to cinch in the waist, a well fitting adjustable hood and a two way zipper.

If the Aspire Trench feels too outdoorsy for you, this jacket is comparatively priced, a little warmer and a little chicer. —Tested by Ebony Roberts Best Breathable Rain Jacket For Women Cotopaxi Fabric: 100% recycled polyester | Waterproofing: 10k/10k membrane with C0 DWR finish, 10,000 mm waterproof rating | Size range: XXS to XXL | Colors: 7 | Sustainability attributes: Bluesign product, PFAS free | Warranty: Limited lifetime, repair services Best for Skip if Cotopaxi creates sustainable outdoor gear that’s ethically made and the Cielo Rain Trench follows suit.

Available in solid colors and fun color blocking options, it’s made of 2.5 layer recycled polyester with a Durable Water Repellant (DWR) coating that makes water bead up rather than soak through. The longer cut provides protection and an internal waist cinch easily adjusts for a trimmer look. There’s also a back vent for breathability, so you won’t feel too muggy when wearing it in wet conditions.

—Reviewed by Becky Eaton Best Performance Rain Jacket For Women The North Face Fabric: 100% recycled ripstop nylon | Waterproofing: DryVent 2L with non PFC DWR finish | Size range: XS to 3X | Colors: 4 | Sustainability attributes: Recycled product, non PFC finish | Warranty: Limited lifetime Best for Skip if With a waterproof, nylon ripstop exterior and a three piece hood that locks into place, the Antora is designed to stand up to inclement weather.

It’s a shorter length, meaning extra fabric won’t add bulk to your excursion, but the drop tail hem can be tightened to keep water from splashing in. I also love the storm flaps over the front zippers, which add to the sleek and sporty profile while keeping personal items secure. —Reviewed by Becky Eaton REI Fabric: 40 denier nylon Gore Tex | Waterproofing: 3 layer Gore Tex waterproof/breathable fabric | Size range: XXS to XXL | Colors: 5 | Sustainability attribute: Bluesign product | Warranty: Limited lifetime Best for Skip if The versatile Beta LT Jacket is made for exploring with design details like a helmet compatible hood, zippered underarm vents for cooling off quickly and a drop hem that can comfortably fit a harness underneath.

Its light weight won’t hold you back, and the Gore Tex shell will protect you on the rainiest days. While the zippers are water resistant, the brand recommends against storing fragile items that aren’t water safe in the pockets. —Reviewed by Becky Eaton Best Rain Parka For Women Everlane Fabric: 100% recycled polyester | Waterproofing: Water resistant finish | Size range: XXS to XL | Colors: 3 | Sustainability attributes: Recycled product | Warranty: N/A (not listed) Best for Skip if This jacket from Everlane scored high for its style points.

With an oversized fit that makes layering easy, a hidden drawcord for defining the waist and a high low dolphin hem that’s softly curved at the bottom, you’ll stand out in a sea of shapeless raingear. This is only suited for light rain conditions, however, and according to reviewer comments, it likely won’t hold up in a downpour.

—Reviewed by Becky Eaton Best Warm Rain Jackets For Women Finisterre Fabric: 100% recycled nylon | Waterproofing: 10,000mm Hydrostatic Head Rating | Size range: 8 to 16 | Colors: 2 | Sustainability attributes: FC free recycled shell, GRS certified recycled synthetic insulation | Warranty: Limited one year Best for Skip if This midweight jacket from Finisterre is perfect sustainable option if you’re looking for a warm, waterproof layer in transitional seasons.

While it’s not meant for arctic conditions, the recycled synthetic insulation provides low profile warmth and the recycled nylon shell is rated for light rain. The cuffs, hood and waist are all adjustable for the perfect fit, plus the extra pockets provide handy storage. —Reviewed by Becky Eaton Lululemon Fabric: 100% polyurethane | Waterproofing: Waterproof Glyde fabric | Size range: 0 to 14 | Colors: 1 | Sustainability attributes: 100% RDS certified down insulation | Warranty: Practical lifetime Best for Skip if The Snow Warrior Parka packs a punch if you’re looking for a waterproof jacket designed for true winter wear.

Lululemon’s proprietary Glyde fabric and sealed seams help wick rain away, plus the 600 fill power down insulation adds warmth. The inner collar and hood also have a detachable faux sheepskin lining for added cozy versatility. While its thigh length offers even more protection against the elements, some people found the coat to be a little too bulky.

—Reviewed by Becky Eaton Best Lightweight Rain Jacket For Women Columbia Fabric: 100% nylon | Waterproofing: Omni Tech waterproof | Size range: XS to 3X | Colors: 14 | Sustainability attributes: N/A (not listed) | Warranty: Limited lifetime Best for Skip if With a lightweight shell that provides plenty of rain resistance, the Arcadia II is packable, adjustable and comfortable thanks to a soft mesh lining that also adds slight warmth.

It also comes in a nice range of colors, including brights and neutrals, and has an adjustable hem that can tighten to block out the elements. —Reviewed by Becky Eaton Best Rain Jacket With Removable Hood Nordstrom Fabric: 60% polyester, 40% cotton | Waterproofing: Water resistant | Size range: XS to XXL | Colors: 2 | Sustainability attributes: N/A (not listed) | Warranty: Limited lifetime Best for Skip if With an oversized fit and trench coat inspired storm flaps, Bernardo’s rain coat is both practical and stylish.

The fabric is a smooth to the touch cotton blend that’s wind and water resistant and since there’s no lining, it has a lighter weight than some of our other rain jacket picks. —Reviewed by Becky Eaton Best Trench Coat For Women Outdoor Research Fabric: 100% polyester | Waterproofing: Two layer Gore Tex with Paclite technology | Size range : Women’s XS to XXL | Colors: 5 | Sustainability attributes: Bluesign approved Gore Tex | Warranty: Limited lifetime Best for Skip if The Outdoor Research Women’s Aspire Trench is a mid thigh length version of my top pick.

It retains the everyday features that make the Aspire II a great jacket, but in a longer silhouette that’s especially suited to people who want a more stylish option, thanks to the cinchable waist and drop tail hem. It’s great for urban settings, where you’re sitting on park benches and commuting on public transit, and it’s equally capable for general outdoor activities.

If you plan to travel, the highly packable Aspire Trench takes up little room in a suitcase and can transition from city sightseeing to hiking in the rain. The added length doesn’t feel restrictive around the legs because the two way front zipper can be unzipped at the bottom for added movement. The side snaps can also be opened, which makes sitting down and bending your knees easier.

I appreciated the extra leg protection the trench provides, and I did not miss the side zip ventilation of the shorter version because the Gore Tex material is already plenty breathable. During the rowing machine test, I was able to move freely and didn’t overheat. The adjustable hood is large enough to fit most hairstyles and can be snugged up using the drawcord on the back (although it doesn’t stow, should you want to keep it completely out of the way or remove it).

The Aspire Trench's length doesn’t feel restrictive around the legs because the two way front zipper ... [+] can be unzipped at the bottom for added movement. The Aspire Trench also has watertight front pocket zippers and a storm flap over the main zipper. In an extended downpour, I was completely dry, and the jacket itself dries quickly after being hung up wet.

It’s not as warm as others I tested, like the Lululemon Rain Rebel Jacket , but it does have a slightly looser fit that allows layers to fit well underneath. The Aspire Trench also has a protected external chest pocket, which fits my smartphone. I preferred this pocket over the internal pocket on the Lululemon jacket because you don’t have to unzip your jacket to access your items in the rain.

It can be machine washed and tumble dried, so caring for the Aspire Trench is as easy as the shorter version. —Tested by Ebony Roberts Best Packable Rain Jacket For Women REI Fabric: Recycled ripstop nylon | Waterproofing: Peak 2.5 layer waterproof breathable laminate | Size range: XS to XL | Colors: 4 | Sustainability attributes: Bluesign approved Gore Tex | Warranty: Limited Best for Skip if This jacket packs a mean punch considering it only weighs 11.4 ounces: not only is it windproof up to 60 mph, it also has a 2.5 layer ripstop nylon shell with sealed seams and a durable water repellent (DWR) coating to protect against the rain.

If you tend to run warm, the breathable fabric and zippered armpit vents should help keep things breezy. My favorite feature is how easy it is to pack away for travel or storage; it stuffs into its own left pocket and zips closed. —Reviewed by Becky Eaton Best Luxury Rain Jacket For Women Barbour Fabric: Cotton, polyester | Waterproofing: Weather resistant waxed cotton shell | Size range: 4 to 16 | Colors: 1 | Sustainability attributes: N/A (not listed) | Warranty: Limited lifetime Best for Skip if Since 1894, English brand Barbour has been making outerwear that holds up against the elements, and the Highclere Wax Jacket joins the ranks.

The waxed cotton shell is both rugged and classic with stylish details like a two way zip, a Tartan lining that can be shown off by cuffing the sleeves and a hood that detaches to transform this into a barn coat style. While it may cost more than most raincoats, Barbour jackets are designed to last a lifetime and their repairs—and shell rewaxing—can help extend its longevity and rain protection.

—Reviewed by Becky Eaton Why Trust Forbes Vetted At Forbes Vetted, we are passionate about all kinds of clothing and accessories, including outerwear. We understand that there are endless options for every category, and that’s why we’ve tested, evaluated and analyzed everything from women’s ski pants to winter coats .

As editors and writers, we put in hours of critical research to find the best, high quality products at a variety of price points so you can make smart shopping decisions. Whether it’s rain jackets, shoes or even eyeglasses , readers trust us to provide honest recommendations and accurate information.

We also regularly update our articles to ensure we’re sharing the most current products. This rain jacket article was most recently updated in January 2024. How I Tested The Best Rain Jackets A rain jacket needs to perform well under wet conditions while also keeping you comfortable, so I established testing criteria to determine which ones would serve you best for everyday use, whether you’re walking the dog, commuting to work or chasing your kid on the playground.

The main function of a rain jacket is to keep you dry, and all the jackets I considered are at minimum water resistant enough to see you through a light shower or commute to work. At best, they’re fully water protective, keeping the heaviest downpour at bay. I wore the rain jackets I tested for two months on the rainy West Coast, mostly around Squamish, ...

[+] British Columbia, running daily errands, walking my dog and being active outdoors. I looked for rain jackets in a wide range of sizes and curated my contenders list for the everyday, aiming for versatile jackets that wouldn’t break the bank and would look good transitioning between activities, whether that’s walking outdoors for a while or just heading to the grocery store.

Rather than just homing in on technical features (which I did take into account), I also considered those with streetwear appeal, choosing a variety of silhouettes and fabrics. I also looked at warranties, making note of brands that have stellar return policies or product guarantees. What makes a garment sustainable is largely up for debate, but I checked for PFC free finishes and third party certifications like Bluesign or Oeko Tex , plus I made note of other verifiable attributes.

I wore the rain jackets I tested for 2 months on the rainy West Coast, mostly around Squamish, British Columbia, running daily errands, walking my dog, carting around my son and being active outdoors. I also wore each jacket in the shower for 10 minutes to simulate a heavy downpour and exercised on my indoor rower for 15 minutes to see how breathable each jacket was when I worked up a sweat.

During all this, I paid close attention to: Outdoor Research's Aspire II has zippered torso venting—two way side zippers that run from the ... [+] bottom hem to the underarm—so you can wear the jacket poncho style or over bulky layers. When selecting winners, I also considered each jacket’s intended use, versatility and packability, choosing jackets with universal appeal that should suit most everyday routines.

How To Pick The Best Rain Jacket A rain jacket should fit your lifestyle and your personal taste, says Rutson. Before investing in one, consider where you live, the types of activities you do and the features that matter most. “It always comes down to the context of your life,” she says. “Make your choice with both style and practicality in mind.” Most modern rainwear utilizes a breathable waterproof membrane.

While Gore Tex is the most recognizable name in the waterproof fabric technology game, there are dozens of other proprietary membranes that work similarly. These jackets are constructed in two, two and a half or three layers. In a two layer jacket, a face fabric, usually polyester or nylon, is laminated to a waterproof and breathable membrane that’s protected by a hanging liner.

A two and a half layer jacket is similar in that it has an outer layer bonded to a waterproof and breathable laminate, but there’s also a porous half layer that gives the jacket added durability. Three layer jackets are typically the toughest, with the membrane sandwiched between the face fabric and another layer of bonded fabric to add protection.

Fabric technology will certainly drive the cost of a jacket up, so for most people, a two or two and a half layer jacket will suit their everyday pursuits just fine. Outside of these types of shells, there’s also waxed cotton jackets and rubbery polyurethane (PU) jackets, which don’t have the breathability but can handle heavy rain well.

Almost all rainwear is treated with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish, which allows water to bead off and helps keep the breathable membrane working by preventing moisture from saturating the fabric. Some of these treatments contain environmentally harmful PFCs, which is why more brands are moving toward non PFC DWR alternatives and third party certifications.

When purchasing your rain jacket, look for transparency around what water repellent finishes a brand is using and choose a product that aligns with your values. DWR is not permanent, though. When a fabric starts to soak up water, or “wets out,” it’s time to revive the repellency, which is easy to do with at home products like Nikwax’s waterproofing spray or wash in solution .

All rain jackets need some degree of breathability, whether it’s for light everyday use or robust outdoor activities, because there’s nothing worse than a jacket that feels like a sauna. Casual jackets might have simple solutions like ventilation holes or mesh inserts, while more technical jackets that fall under the waterproof and breathable category will have the layered membrane system described above that allows water vapor—a.k.a.

sweat—to escape through micropores without compromising the jacket’s ability to block rainwater from the outside. If you’ll be active or in a warm climate, look for a jacket with a high degree of breathability. For colder climates or short stints in the rain, breathability is probably less of a concern.

Being able to move freely is important in any jacket, so find a style and fit that moves with you, not against you. For most urban settings, a mid thigh length or longer is appropriate because it’s more useful and stylish, keeping you dry on city benches and your clothes underneath protected. For outdoor pursuits like hiking or working in the garden, a shorter jacket tends to offer more unrestricted movement.

However, you may need to wear a pair of rain pants to keep your legs and rear end dry. Some rain jacket fabrics have a healthy dose of stretch, while others are rigid and unforgiving, so choose a size that has enough room in the shoulders, arms and midsection, especially if you plan to layer up. There are some staple rain jacket elements that make sense in almost all circumstances, like hand pockets and simple adjustment features.

Add ons like side zips and welded seams add functionality but cost more (and they’re potential failure points). Prioritize what’s important to you and skip out on what you don’t need, says Arya, advising not to opt for anything overbuilt for casual everyday use if that’s all your jacket is for.

At the same time, don’t skimp on features that are going to keep you comfortable. Most waterproof jackets have a hood, and while some people consider them essential, others can’t stand them. Whether you need a hood depends on how you’ll be using your rain jacket. For quick city transit commuting, you might get by without one; if you’re going to be doing anything outdoors for an extended time, it’s a nice feature to have on standby.

Less technical rain jacket hoods usually have one drawstring, while more specialized jackets have hoods with multiple adjustment points and a stiff brim. If you do opt for a hood, make sure it can be adjusted to keep the rain off your face and that it moves with you when looking up and down and side to side, especially if you plan to cycle to work.

Packability won’t be a top consideration for most people, but if you plan to travel with your rain jacket, you’ll want one that rolls up small and takes up little space in your luggage, says Rutson. Heavy lined jackets are good for home but aren’t well suited to life on the road; however, choose a jacket that’s too lightweight, and it might not have enough substance to keep you warm in cooler climates.

My Expertise As a writer who has covered outdoor gear and apparel for nearly a decade, I’ve written multiple rainwear guides for brands like REI and as gear columnist at Outside. In that time, I’ve tested dozens of rain jackets and spoke with nearly as many experts on the topic. I’m also based in the Pacific Northwest, where it rains about 180 days of the year, so I’m almost always wearing something waterproof.

For this story, I interviewed multiple experts, including Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) assistant professor Preeti Arya , who teaches courses on finishes, fabric development and performance textiles. Arya spoke at length with me about materials, waterproofing and sustainability. I interviewed Sarah Rutson , former vice president of global buying at Net a Porter, about what makes a stylish rain jacket and how to find one that fits in with your lifestyle.

I also spoke with Sara Ellis, a product specialist in the fabrics division at Gore Tex, one of the world’s foremost innovators in waterproof garment technologies. Ellis has been with the brand for 15 years and told me how waterproofing systems work and how best to care for them. I also had a chance to virtually tour Gore Tex’s testing labs, including its rain room, environmental chamber and biophysics lab, and I implemented some of these ideas—such as using a water dropper to make comparative assessments—into my own testing process.

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