Rain jackets have moved on a lot since the days of Paddington Bear’s famous yellow mac, but not all are equal. From Gore-tex lining to waterproof seams, there are numerous features you need to consider when choosing a rain jacket for men – and some brands know that better than others.
Photo: Gill
A trusty rainjacket is unquestionably the most reliable way to stay dry, but the best rain jackets do much more than that. They combine water resistance, wind protection, breathability and style. The latter shouldn’t be underestimated either – a clunky, heavy-duty raincoat might work perfectly well on a jungle trek, but lesser so in the city, where a shower can catch you off guard. With today’s technology, many rain jackets now offer temperature regulation too, meaning they work just as well hiking up a snow-capped peak as they do on a drizzly summer’s day in London. With so many to choose from, we’ve selected five of the best rainjacket brands for men, based on value for money, water-resistance and additional features, such as chin guards and doubled-seamed hems.
Patagonia
Patagonia is a well-known adventure brand, but it’s also very fashionable – the label of choice for tech start-ups and creatives. It offers at least 10 different rainjackets to choose from, ranging from the UltraLight Packable Jacket to the heftier City Storm Rain Parka. The Torrentshell 3L Jacket is one of the most affordable on offer, at £160 ($220). Simple and unpretentious, it uses three-layer H2NO Performance Standard technology to create a waterproof and breathable jacket with long-lasting waterproof durability. It’s eco-friendly too, made with organic cotton, recycled nylon and a commitment to donate 1% of profits to environmental organisations.
Buy at Patagonia.com
The Northface
(Photo: Thenorthface.com)
Waterproof is what The North Face does best. The outdoor recreation brand offers a range of different rain jackets, but the North Face Apex Flex is a best-seller. Unlike most rain jackets, it provides insulation as well as water resistance, crafted from a thick and tactile material that you can also layer. It’s a highly adaptable raincoat too, suitable for sunny strolls and heavy sudden downpours. If you’re keen to experiment with the Futurelight technology, you could also opt for the flagship Futurelight Jacket. It was developed with nano-spinning techniques, typically used for water-filtration systems which add air permeability to the waterproof membrane.
Buy at TheNorthFace.com
Gill
Gill is the tested and respected choice for technical sailing gear, and it only makes sense the American company makes sturdy and reliable rain jackets. For everyday use, the Pilot Jacket stands out for its comfort and durability. Designed with XPLORE 2-layer fabric technology, taped seams, and adjustable cuffs, it is sure to keep water out yet remain breathable. A rollaway hood packs into the collar, making it stylish and functional. For those who spend a lot of time on the water, the Gill Coastal Jacket is a solid choice. Designed for unpredictable coastal conditions, this jacket includes high visibility features and state-of-the-art technology.
Buy at Gillmarine.com
Helly Hansen
(Photo: Hellyhenson.com)
Specialising in ski-wear, Helly Hansen is hardly a stranger to the cold, but it’s their wet weather wear that we’re interested in. You can choose from a range of different coats, from light wear shell jackets to high-performance raincoats, but the insulated range is most popular. The Ervik Jacket features two layers and lining, an adjustable hood and an anti-change chin guard. Best of all is the Helly Tech(r) technology, which offers waterproof, windproof and breathable protection, with 205 more insulation than regular outwear.
Buy at Hellyhansen.com
Marmot
Marmot offers a range of environmentally friendly rainjackets for men using EVODry, GORE-TEX and NanoPro technology. While the GORE-TEX range is a tried-and-tested favourite, we’re also impressed by the NanoPro technology. The microporous coating is durable, plus the entire coat is made with 100% recycled, sustainably produced and PFC-free materials. The Precip Eco-Anorak is particularly impressive, featuring an adjustable hood, DriClime Lined Chin Guard, zippered hand pockets and elastic drawcord hem to keep the wind, as well as water, at bay. It’s available in a range of bold colours too.
Buy at Marmot.com