In the words of Alfred Wainwright, "there is no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing." For residents of boggy Britain, where rainfall exceeds 150 days annually, a reliable waterproof jacket is an essential year-round staple. Whether tackling mountain trails or navigating the daily commute, investing in a jacket that is fully waterproof, breathable, and well-fitted is crucial. Our expert has rigorously tested 15 jackets in rainy hike conditions to identify the very best options for women.
Why Trust This Review
Our reviewer is a seasoned adventure travel writer and gear tester with over a decade of experience evaluating outdoor equipment globally. Having tested more than 100 raincoats in diverse environments—from the summit of Mount Kenya to local pathways in Cornwall and the Cotswolds—and recently contributing to two UK walking guides for Lonely Planet, she brings unparalleled expertise to this assessment.
Testing Methodology
The testing process took advantage of Britain's relentless recent rainfall, allowing for extensive evaluation of each jacket's performance during long, wet days outdoors. Jackets were tested on hikes across the country, from Stickle Tarn in the Lake District to the sea-sprayed Cornish coast. The mild weather also facilitated assessments of breathability on muddy trails and city streets. New jackets used in this review were donated to the Julian Trust Night Shelter in Bristol, a charity providing outdoor kit to homeless individuals.
Top Picks for Women's Waterproof Jackets
Best Waterproof Jacket Overall: Montane Torren
Price: From £259.95 at Outdoor Action.
The Montane Torren is an award-winning jacket for good reason. Its lightweight and comfortable design is technical enough for high-altitude adventures yet suitable for casual activities like dog walking. The recycled nylon shell offers high waterproofing without harmful chemicals, using Montane's Petrichor technology. Features include a helmet-compatible hood, harness-compatible pockets, and articulated arms for excellent mobility. However, it is limited to pastel colours and plain black, and the price may be steep for casual use.
Best Budget Waterproof Jacket: Craghoppers Caldbeck II
Price: From £48 at Craghoppers.
Ideal for dog walks, school runs, and weekend strolls, the Craghoppers Caldbeck II is a no-nonsense, longer-length jacket with a fitted hood and AquaDry membrane for effective shower protection. Made from recycled polyester, it offers a relaxed fit with room for layering. While discounts vary by colour, it remains good value even at full price, though styling is more practical than fashionable.
Best Premium Waterproof Jacket: Arc'teryx Beta AR
Price: From £449.89 at Cotswold Outdoor.
For those prioritizing dryness above all, the Arc'teryx Beta AR uses PFC-free Gore-Tex Pro for serious weather protection, remaining breathable in harsh conditions. Its streamlined fit allows for layering, with details like a helmet-compatible hood and water-resistant zips. While expensive, it excels in mountain missions and pub walks, though casual users may find it overkill.
Best Waterproof Jacket for the Mountains/Pros: Rab Latok Gore-Tex Pro
Price: From £336 at Ellis Brigham.
Designed for breathability, durability, and protection, the Rab Latok Gore-Tex Pro features a 28,000mm hydrostatic head rating and a female-specific fit. It includes a Recco reflector for rescue detection and remains lightweight at 366g. However, its technical features and price make it unsuitable for casual country walkers.
Best Packable Jacket: Haglöfs Front Proof
Price: From £114 at Ellis Brigham.
Perfect for changeable weather, the Haglöfs Front Proof is lightweight and packable, using Haglöfs' Proof technology for rain protection. It is less breathable than premium Gore-Tex shells and has a minimalist design with limited pockets, but its weight and packability make it a brilliant all-rounder for unpredictable conditions.
Best Waterproof for Fit and Comfort: Klättermusen Allgron 2.0
Price: £500 at Klättermusen.
The Klättermusen Allgron 2.0 offers a soft-touch fabric and a longer cut for enhanced warmth and dryness. It features full waterproofing, ventilation zips, and a built-in Recco reflector. However, it is pricey and has fiddly bungee cords on the wrists.
Best Jacket for Breathability: Montane Phase
Price: From £178 at LD Mountain Centre.
Using Gore-Tex and Montane's Barrier technology, the Montane Phase excels in breathability, making it ideal for fast-paced hikes and outdoor pursuits. It includes a helmet-compatible hood and articulated arms but has long sleeves and limited sizing.
Best Jacket for Skiing: Tierra Roc Blanc Gen 4
Price: £480 at Trekitt.
Designed for serious winter weather, the Tierra Roc Blanc Gen 4 features three-layer Gore-Tex Pro fabric, a generous cut for layering, and mountain-specific details like ventilation zips. It is an investment piece with limited sizes and colours.
Additional Recommendations
- Seasalt Janelle: A warm parka with a longer cut, fully waterproof and made from recycled materials, but not breathable enough for sports.
- Patagonia Torrentshell: A casual waterproof jacket with fun colours and ethical production, though breathability is limited.
- Mammut Ducan: Offers a soft liner and tough waterproofing, but fit may be inconsistent.
- Cotopaxi Cielo: An eco-friendly option with stylish looks, suitable only for light showers.
- Sweaty Betty Nimbus: Provides instant warmth but lacks breathability.
- Helly Hansen Lilja: A long raincoat for city use, with great waterproofing but limited breathability.
- Columbia Ampli-Dry II: Light and packable with good breathability, though it feels flimsy compared to top performers.
Key Considerations When Buying
Waterproofing: Ensure jackets are labelled "waterproof," not just water-resistant. Look for technologies like Gore-Tex or own-brand membranes, with hydrostatic head ratings: 1,500mm for water resistance, 5,000mm for steady rain, and 10,000-20,000mm for torrential conditions.
Breathability: High-quality jackets use breathable membranes to wick away moisture, preventing overheating during active use. Consider your activities—casual wear may suit insulated parkas, while hiking requires lightweight, ventilated designs.
Design and Fit: A good fit includes snug waist, cuffs, and neck, with features like taped seams, sealed zips, and adjustable hoods. For technical pursuits, look for helmet-compatible hoods and harness-friendly fits.
Budget: Prices vary widely; aim for around £150 for a versatile jacket, with premium options over £200 justified for serious outdoor conditions. Note that waterproofing diminishes over time and can be restored with treatments like Nikwax.
This article, originally published on 15 December 2024, was updated on 19 February 2026 to include new products and current prices. For more insights, explore guides on the best umbrellas and women's walking boots.
