Best Rain Jackets for Women in 2021

At some point, you’ve probably felt the pressure of grey clouds on your back whilst out and about. Perhaps you were hiking in the Scottish Highlands or trekking in the French Alps. Just getting the fire lit to cook your camp meal on — ah, you can’t beat camping in the rain! Or maybe you’ve been caught out in a heavy downpour wearing a rain jacket that simply didn’t live up to its waterproof promise? Either way, since hiding under a well-placed rock or tree isn’t always a practical option, a lightweight rain jacket is an essential addition to your outdoor kit list, wherever your adventures take you.

• The 15 best rain jackets for women in 2021
• What to looking for when choosing a rain jacket
• Features of rain jackets

Picking the right rain jacket, however, can feel like quite a task. There’s certainly a lot of styles and brands on the market to choose from. So how do you know which is the best rain jacket for hiking or climbing or mountaineering, and which is more appropriate for everyday use? Well, fortunately, your friends at Cool of the Wild have been asking the same questions and our insatiable interest in the great outdoors has led us to put together this list of the best rain jackets for women in 2021.

Disclaimer: We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases.

Looking for some cracking men’s options? Take a look at our pick of the best rain jackets for men.

The 15 best rain jackets for women in 2021

Columbia Outdry Ex Eco Tech Jacket

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly rain jacket that performs as well as its less responsible competitors then look no further than the Columbia Outdry Ex Eco Tech Jacket. Not only is the fabric of this jacket made from 100% recycled polyester, all of its components are also constructed with recycled materials too. Impressive! But not as impressive as how efficiently this thing beads water and keeps out even the heaviest downpours. It’s also highly windproof and has an exceptionally well-fitting hood which, when cinched down, keeps out sideways rain and doesn’t fill with air in windy conditions.

The lack of stretch in the fabric makes it less versatile than other jackets on our list, but it makes up for it with an unusual design that certainly makes it stand out from the crowd, on or off the trail.

For more information read our full review of the Columbia Outdry Ex Eco Tech Jacket.

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Columbia | Cotswold Outdoor | Amazon | REI | Backcountry

Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket

The latest version of the classic Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket has ditched virgin materials and instead is made from recycled ripstop nylon. It’s a staple in the wardrobe of every outdoorswoman; whether you’re a hiker, cyclist, runner or climber. The lightweight and tough fabric offers good levels of wind protection and waterproofness that competes fiercely with the Montane Atomic Jacket. The feel, look and design are also similar, featuring pit vents and a highly adjustable hood that keeps out stormy weather with ease. Additionally, and conveniently, the jacket packs into its own pocket.

Higher intensity adventurers may find that the breathability could be better. However, the pit vents keep air flowing well during runs and ascents. The jacket is also stylish enough for everyday wear.

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Cotswold Outdoor | REI | Patagonia

Berghaus Extrem 5000 Vented Waterproof Jacket

New to the Berghaus range, the Extrem 5000 Vented Waterproof Jacket is one of the highest rated rain jackets on our list, along with the Arc’teryx Beta and Mammut Meron. This hardshell jacket has a 3-layer Gore-Tex membrane for superb wind and waterproof protection in all but the most extreme conditions. It’s designed to withstand rotten mountain weather, sleet and sideways rain, but without neglecting the importance of movement and comfort.

As well as the all-important pit-vents, the jacket features a large, helmet compatible hood, extra length at the back, a high collar, 4 pockets and a two-way zip. And despite its initially stiff feel, the fabric and fit makes it well suited to high energy activities like ski-touring / splitboarding and mountaineering, as well as hiking.

It comes with a high price tag, which reflects the high quality and performance. Not a budget-friendly option and a little overkill for everyday rainwear. But for prolonged time in ropey and demanding conditions, this stylish jacket hits the spot in almost every area.

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Berghaus | Amazon

Montane Women’s Atomic Jacket

Updated for 2020, the classic Atomic Jacket by Montane is better than ever, offering improved breathability at a lower weight. In fact, aside from Montane’s Minimus Stretch Ultra Jacket, the Atomic is the most lightweight rain jacket on our list, with a highly appealing price-tag attached to it, too. Though it doesn’t have a Gore-Tex membrane, the Pertex Shield technology offers excellent waterproofness that is also windproof and breathable. The addition of zippered pit vents further helps temperature control and internal moisture build-up, and the relaxed fit provides plenty of room for layering and movement. Add to that a slightly shiny and tough 40 denier nylon exterior and you’ve got yourself one robust work-horse of a rain jacket that is ideal for hiking and everyday wear.

For more information read our full review of the Montane Women’s Atomic Jacket.

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Montane | Cotswold Outdoor | Amazon

Jack Wolfskin JWP Shell

Though the Columbia Ex Eco might just come up trumps in terms of sustainability, this Jack Wolfskin JWP Shell is not far behind. Made from recycled Texapore Ecosphere stretch fabric, and offering PFC-free waterproofness, this jacket ticks some huge eco-friendly boxes without compromising on style and performance. The simple, modest design means that casual hikers can glide seamlessly from the trail to the town making it an ideal rain jacket for travel and everyday wear. Plus, it packs down into its own pocket for easy carrying. Performance-wise, the two-layered jacket (it has a mesh lining) deals with moderate rainfall well, and does a very good job at blocking out the wind, too. The outer stretch fabric also makes it a good option for more active adventures. Its main downside, however, is the hood design which can be slightly problematic when a combo of heavy rain and strong winds hit you – it can’t be cinched down at the front so the wind fills it up and blows it backwards. This is no problem in less severe conditions.

For more information read our full review of the Jack Wolfskin JWP Shell.

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Jack Wolfskin | Cotswold Outdoor | Amazon

The North Face Nevero Jacket

The North Face Nevero Jacket is a stylish yet highly practical rain jacket for winter adventures, everyday wear and rainy days in the shoulder seasons. It is lined with a combo of polyester mesh and nylon lining for a little extra warmth, durability and comfort. Plus, there is a hook and button tab inside the back of the collar that links up with compatible fleece layers like the Glacier Fleece. This, together with the casual fit, make it ideal for winter hiking in changeable conditions or even skiing in moderate conditions.

The outer Dryvent fabric is fully waterproof with a luxurious and soft feel. And the roomy hood is easily adjustable via a single draw cord at the back. This cinches in the front and back of the hood to keep it in place in even the most windy conditions.

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Cotswold Outdoor | The North Face

Arcteryx Beta SL Jacket

The Beta SL Jacket from Arc’teryx really excels when it comes to lightweight rain jackets. This jacket makes use of Paclite technology and super lightweight N40r GORE-TEX fabric and GORE-TEX zippers which, aside from being highly waterproof, makes the jacket easily packable. At less than 300 grams you’ll hardly notice that it’s inside your pack. The Beta SL women’s rain jacket is designed to provide maximum comfort whilst walking, it is highly breathable, with two side pockets which are large enough to hold a phone or GPS device, and an adjustable peaked hood. There’s no excess fabric on the Beta SL either, it’s stylish trim fit and laminated cuffs keep the weight and bulk to a minimum and also reduce the possibility of snagging on branches or flapping on gusty days. While the Beta SL is a little on the pricey side it’s certainly a practical and efficient companion on a rainy hiking trip.

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Amazon | REI | Backcountry

Mammut Meron Light HS

If you’re heading into the mountains then the Meron Light HS by Mammut is worth taking a look at. This hard-shell rain jacket features a 3-layer GORE-TEX design which is both waterproof and breathable without becoming bulky or limiting movability. Meanwhile, the moisture-wicking outer layer has a 28,000 mm water column, which should be tough enough withstand even the heaviest downpour. In terms of practicality, the Meron Light HS has an internal pocket for storing valuables, easy to use Velcro cuffs, and an elastic hem which fits snuggly on the hips. The Meron Light HS is also a good choice for climbers. The two front pockets are harness compatible while the single pull hood is large enough to accommodate a helmet.

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Cotswold Outdoor | Amazon

Montane Minimus Stretch Ultra Jacket

The super flexible Montane Minimus Stretch Ultra Jacket is made for situations when movement and breathability are essential, for example running, or trekking in humid climates. It has a slim design, with shaping elbow darts, adjustable waist and elasticated cuffs which fit tightly to the body without restricting movement. The Pertex Shield material provides waterproof protection of up to 20,000 mm, which is comparable to its higher-priced GORE-TEX competitors, and at only 175 grams the Minimus Stretch Ultra Jacket is the lightest on our list. It’s also one of the best lightweight rain jackets for travel due to its portability, the Minimus Stretch Ultra Jacket conveniently packs inside its own pocket. Another great feature of this rain jacket is that it’s headphone compatible, with an opening for MP3 cable in the left pocket, so you can listen to music whilst exercising.

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Cotswold Outdoor | Amazon

RAB Downpour Jacket

This is ideal for anyone wanting a reasonably priced rain jacket to pop in their back ready for a rainy day. The Downpour Jacket comes with an integrated stuff sack making it both easily packable and portable, meanwhile, the 2.5-layer Pertex Shield fabric is quick drying so it can be stored soon after use. The fabric is not as breathable as GORE-TEX but the jacket is fitted with 2 YKK pit zips and 2 side pockets which provide a decent level of ventilation. The hem and hood use a simple drawcord and the cuffs can be adjusted with Velcro loops for a tailored fit.

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Amazon | REI | Backcountry

Marmot PreCip Jacket

Admittedly this is one of the heavier rain jackets on the market but it’s still one of the best in terms of value for money. The PreCip Jacket from Marmot is made from 2.5 layers NanoPro and ripstop nylon making it highly resistant to wind and water as well as hard-wearing. The fabric is also DWR (durable water repellent) treated and features fully taped seams to make sure that the water stays out. For ventilation, the jacket has 2 pit zips, 2 zip hand pockets and a full-front zip with a hook and loop storm flap. The PreCip Jacket also has a roll-away hood which makes it more comfortable to wear with a backpack after the rain stops. The hood is also attached to the shoulders instead of the collar so it can be worn up without closing the zip. This jacket may not be the most durable or lightweight option but it’s certainly a step ahead of other budget raincoats and is highly suited to everyday use.

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Amazon | Backcountry

Columbia Arcadia II

Columbia has created the Arcadia II rain jacket for urban users looking for and an affordable jacket for getting around town or day hikes. This is the perfect jacket to tuck inside your bag on your way to work or take with you when there is only a mild chance of wet weather. The polyester mesh lining does add to the weight of the jacket but even with this the Arcadia II packs away inside its pocket and weighs only 300 grams.

The Arcadia II is the cheapest item on our list. Despite this, it’s sufficient to keep you dry during short exposures to wet weather. The 100% nylon fabric and Omni-tech coating do a good job of repelling moisture and the fully sealed seams prevent the wind and rain from seeping in. That said, the Arcadia II probably won’t hold up to the same gnarly weather and heavy downpours that its pricier competitors can deal with. Furthermore, the material is not particularly breathable so this rain jacket is better suited for use in cooler temperatures.

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Amazon | Backcountry

Berghaus Ridgemaster

If the prospect of trekking through mountain regions in rain, wind, or even snow, doesn’t phase you then you’ll need a jacket which can hold up to these conditions. Berghaus have created the Ridgemaster with this in mind. The 2-layer GORE-TEX membrane fabric is designed to hold up to tough weather conditions in all 4 seasons. The jacket has a fully adjustable hood for a comfortable fit and excellent rain protection.

The jacket’s mesh liner provides some extra insulation, which is ideal if you’re out in cooler climates. But this compromises on breathability slightly and is, therefore, not the best rain jacket for trekking in warmer climates or during long ascents. The fit is also roomy enough to allow for a mid-layer but fitted enough that it doesn’t inhibit movement or catch on things whilst walking.

Weighing in at nearly 500 grams this is definitely not the lightest rain jacket on the market, but for extreme hikers and tough weather you might find that it’s worth the extra weight.

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Amazon

Outdoor Research Panorama Point Rain Jacket

The Panorama Point Rain Jacket by Outdoor Research is a stylish addition to any wet and windy hiking trip. It comes in a range of understated colours which makes it suitable for city use as well as hiking excursions. For maximum comfort and water protection, the cuffs and hem can be fitted using a simple drawstring while the hood is fully adjustable and wire brimmed so your face will be sheltered from crosswinds. Like the ThunderShadow (below) the Panorama Point Jacket is made from 40D mechanical stretch ripstop fabric, making it suitable for a range of activities and weather conditions.

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Amazon | REI | Outdoor Research

The North Face Apex Flex Gore-Tex 2.0

The North Face Apex Flex Gore-Tex 2.0 is one stylish-looking, slim-fitting rain jacket. But it’s not just its good looks that have won the hearts of rain jacket wearers of late. It offers superb waterproofness via a seam-sealed 3-layer Gore-Tex shell that also maintains excellent breathability when stepping up a gear on steep ascents. Couple that with zippered pit vents, and temperature regulation is a breeze. Along with the Berghaus Ridgemaster, this is one of the heavier jackets on our list. But it makes up for it’s weight by offering superb durability, and an exceptionally soft and stretchy face fabric. Comfortable, flexible, hard-wearing and waterproof  makes the Apex Flex as well suited to long trips in the backcountry as it is to rainy days about town.

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Amazon | Backcountry

What to looking for when choosing a rain jacket for women

The fit

Rain jackets that are designed specifically for women have a very different cut to men’s jackets. Some are subtly shaped with discrete darts in all the right places. Whilst other women’s jacket designs are much more fitted to the female form. The cut that you choose will depend heavily upon your own figure and curves. But also on how many layers you prefer to wear underneath your rain jacket. A highly fitted jacket over a single base layer will provide plenty of room for movement. Add in a couple more layers, however, and you may find that a very fitted cut doesn’t leave quite enough roominess to be unrestrictive and totally comfortable.

Waterproofing

The primary function of a rain jacket is to protect you from the rain! If it does this well, then it will also protect you from the wind. In the past waterproof jackets were renowned for keeping water out, but creating internal condensation — which kind of defeated the point! Thankfully, waterproofing technology has come a long way in recent years and most jackets have a waterproof membrane that is also breathable. This means that moisture generated on the inside of your jacket (sweat and condensation), can get out of the jacket without moisture from the environment (rain) getting in. Clever stuff!

Gore-tex is the most well-known brand that creates waterproof and breathable membranes for jackets. But there are more and more alternatives emerging, that are usually cheaper that Gore-Tex. Some brands even create their own versions. Either way, a waterproof membrane that is also breathable is a non-negotiable feature of modern-day rain jackets.

Weight

There are certain scenarios where the weight of your rain jacket has little effect or relevance on your activity. Obviously you don’t want to be lugging around a 2lb jacket on your back. But the nature of rain jackets means that there is no reason for them to be especially heavy. Under 1lb (450g) is suitable for most outdoor adventurers, unless your are trail running, or trying to keep your pack weight as low as possible on long distance treks.

Features of rain jackets

• Pit and side zips/vents

  Ideal for getting a bit of extra air flowing to help regulate your temperature on big ascents or in hot and humid conditions.

• Hand pockets

  Usually zippered, hand pockets on rain jackets are essential. Some are even lined with cozy soft fabric for chilly hands to enjoy.

• Chest pocket

  Super useful for carrying mobile devices, maps or keys. Chest pockets are zippered, and found either on the inside or outside of some, but not all, rain jackets.

• Stuff sack

  A useful added extra that doesn’t come with all rain jackets.

• Hood

  An essential feature that all rain jackets will have. A high neck, peak and adjustable drawcord are desirable features of a good hood.

• Hem drawcord

  Most rain jackets cinch in at the hem with a drawcord to adjust the fit to the wearer.

• Cuffs

  Some jackets have elasticated cuffs. But most have a velcro tab that can be fitted easily over gloves.

If it’s wet enough to warrant putting a rain jacket on, then you’ll probably need to keep your bottom half dry too! Check out our pick of the best waterproof pants for men and women.