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Best Rain Jackets for Women in 2024

Woman wearing one of the best rain jackets for women

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.

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 2024.

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ProductWeightBest useWaterproofCost
Rab Arc Eco waterproof Jacket375g / 13.2ozEveryday / hiking / runningPertex Revolve$$$
BAM Longaford Waterproof Recycled Jacket260g / 9.2 ozEveryday / hikingYes$$
Fjällräven High Coast Hydratic Jacket281g / 9.9ozEveryday / hiking / bikingYes$$$
Paramo Alta III Jacket702g / 24.7ozWinter hikingNikwax Analogy$$$$
Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket300g / 10.6ozHiking, biking, runningH2No$
Berghaus Extrem 5000 Vented Waterproof Jacket481g / 17ozHiking, mountaineering, ski touringGore-Tex$$$$
Montane Women's Atomic Jacket250g / 8.8ozHiking, biking, runningPertex Shield$
Jack Wolfskin JWP Shell360g / 12.7ozHiking / everydayTexapore Ecosphere$$
Mammut Meron Light HS331g / 11.6ozMountaineeringGore-Tex$$$$
Montane Minimus Stretch Ultra Jacket175g / 6.1ozTrail Running / endurancePertex Shield$$
Rab Downpour Jacket281g / 9.9ozGeneral / everydayPertex Shield$
Marmot Precip Jacket430g / 15.1ozHiking / every DayMarmot NanoPro$
Columbia Arcadia303g / 10.6ozCasual hiking / every dayOmni-tech$
Outdoor Research Panorama Point Rain Jacket273g / 9.6ozHikingVentia$$

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

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The 14 best rain jackets for women in 2024

Rab Arc Eco Jacket
Rab Arc Eco Close Up

Rab Arc Eco waterproof Jacket

Eco-conscious:100% post-consumer recycled polyester, fluorocarbon-free DWR and recyclable

New to the Rab range in autumn 2021, the Rab Arc Eco waterproof Jacket is a superb choice for those looking for a reasonably priced waterproof jacket for active adventures.

With pit vents, a spacious and adjustable hood, and extra length at the rear hem, this stylish jacket performs as well hiking in the rain as it does on cold and windy runs. Yes, it’s not the most lightweight jacket and there’s not the flex in the fabric you’d want in regular running jackets. However, the breathability is excellent, considering its weight, and the fit provides just enough movement for being comfortably active.

The Arc Eco is the kind of jacket you’d happily wear during everyday life making it an all round versatile option. It also competes fiercely with the Houdini Leeward Jacket in terms of eco-friendly performance, but with a much friendlier price tag!

For more information read our full review of the Rab Arc Eco waterproof Jacket.

Pros

  • Good hood design
  • Good breathability
  • Highly waterproof and windproof
  • Zippered hand pockets
  • Pit vents
  • Extra length at the hem

Cons

  • Not very packable
  • No Two-way zip
  • No chest pocket

Find the latest price at:
Rab | REI | Amazon

BAM Longaford Jacket
BAM Longaford Jacket details

BAM Longaford Waterproof Recycled Jacket

Eco-conscious: Made with 98% recycled materials and designed to be recyclable

Weighing the same as the Columbia Eco Shell, the BAM Longaford Waterproof Recycled Jacket is another eco-friendly rain jacket but with a more appealing aesthetic for everyday wear. BAM have also taken their commitment to sustainability a step further by creating a jacket that is 98% recyclable at the end of its life.

A HH rating of 10k/10k provides waterproof protection in light rain. This, along with its lack of length at the hem, mean that this mid-priced waterproof jacket is not the best option for big trail days or multi-day hikes. However, its soft, lightweight, moderately breathable fabric and sleek design make it ideal for everyday wear, running and walking in changeable conditions. It’s also highly packable, stuffing into its own hand pocket, and boasts chest and back vents for extra airflow in warmer conditions.

For more information read our full review of the BAM Longaford Waterproof Recycled Jacket.

Pros

  • Soft and aesthetic fabric
  • Chest and shoulder vents
  • Packable into pocket
  • Internal stuff-it pockets

Cons

  • A little on the short side
  • Waterproofness is limited to light rain

Find the latest price at:
BAM Clothing


Fjallraven High Coast Jacket
Fjallraven Coast Jacket details

Fjällräven High Coast Hydratic Jacket

Eco-conscious: Fluorocarbon-free impregnation and made from recycled materials

Weighing only 281g / 9.9oz, the Fjällräven High Coast Hydratic Jacket is one of more lightweight jackets on our list and is highly packable, squishing down to around the size of a Nalgene bottle. In most areas, it compares fairly closely to the Patagonia Torrentshell and the Montane Atomic, offering good waterproofness (HH of 10k) in prolonged light rain and heavier showers but not extended exposure to more extreme conditions. It also boasts zippered side vents which are a little more user friendly than regular pit vents. Additionally, the hood is very well designed with a high neck for extra protection and good adjustability.

What doesn’t compare to the Torrentshell and Atomic jackets is its rather hefty price tag. Yes, you are buying into the excellence and high quality that Fjällräven offers, but we’d rather see some better waterproofing properties.

If you can stomach the investment, then the High Coast is a really well designed, versatile and stylish jacket that is ideal for everyday wear as well as hiking, biking, canoeing and camping.

For more information read our full review of the Fjällräven High Coast Hydratic Jacket.

Pros

  • Packable and lightweight
  • Easy to use side vents
  • Very well fitting hood
  • Two-way zip

Cons

  • No packable pocket
  • Waterproofing should be better for the price

Find the latest price at:
Amazon


Paramo Jacket
Paramo Jacket details

Paramo Alta III Jacket

Eco-conscious: PFC-free water repellent finish and fully recyclable through Paramo

Winter hiking in cold and changeable conditions can be a tricky thing to negotiate when it comes to layering and temperature control. But the new Paramo Alta III Jacket seems to have just about cracked it! Combining a 4 layer construction for extra warmth and wind protection with a superbly waterproof shell, the Alta is a popular choice for good reason. Yes, it may be one of the higher priced waterproof jackets on our list and the heaviest, but it’s brimming full of practical features that make it more than just a waterproof jacket, not to mention the comfort and protection that it provides.

Firstly, the adjustable hood is one of the best I’ve worn, boasting a wired rim that really does keep the rain off your face. Secondly, like the Houdini jacket, the extra length at the hem is a highly appealing option for keeping your backside warm and dry when the rain is coming at you from all directions.

It’s also hard not to mention how well this jacket deals with incessantly wet conditions and internal moisture build up. The Nikwax Analogy Waterproof technology provides a unique combo of wind and waterproof protection, light insulation and moisture management that expertly keeps the inside of your jacket dry from sweat and condensation. It’s clever stuff! But the best part is that the fabric performance is indefinitely renewable with Nikwax Aftercare.

Pros

  • Superb hood design
  • Warm
  • Arm vents for cooling
  • Highly waterproof and windproof
  • Zippered hand pockets
  • Two-way zip
  • Chest pocket is big enough to hold a map!
  • Extra length at the hem

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Overkill for summer
  • Not packable
  • Heavy

Find the latest price at:
Paramo


Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket
Patagonia Torrentshell jacket details

Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket

Eco-conscious: Bluesign approved fabric is made from recycled nylon

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.

For more information read our full review of the Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket.

Pros

  • Highly versatile
  • Great hood
  • Pit vents
  • Decently waterproof
  • Highly packable
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Not as breathable as other options
  • Could be a little longer at the back

Find the latest price at:
Cotswold Outdoor | REI | Patagonia


Berghaus Women's Extrem 5000 Vented Waterproof Jacket
Berghaus Extrem 5000 jacket details

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 Houdini W’s Leeward Jacket 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.

For more information read our full review of the Berghaus Extrem 5000 Vented Waterproof Jacket.

Pros

  • Highly waterproof and windproof
  • 4 pockets
  • Extra length at the back
  • Helmet compatible hood
  • Stylish

Cons

  • Hood is big – it takes some work to cinch it down
  • Pricey
  • One of the heaviest options on our list

Find the latest price at:
Berghaus | Amazon


Montane Atomic JacketMontane jacket details

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.

Pros

  • Lightweight (250g / 8.8oz)
  • Windproof
  • Adjustable and roll away peaked hood
  • Elasticated and adjustable hem
  • Zippered pit vents
  • Zippered hand pockets

Cons

  • Not as stylish as other options
  • Shiny exterior makes it look like a rain jacket!

Find the latest price at:
Montane | Cotswold Outdoor | Amazon


Jack Wolfskin JWP Shell
Jack Wolfskin jacket close ups

Jack Wolfskin JWP Shell

Eco-conscious: Made from 100% recycled materials and PFC-free

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.

Pros

  • Reasonably lightweight 360 g (12.7oz)
  • Highly packable
  • Simple design

Cons

  • No pit vents
  • Hood design is no good in windy conditions

Find the latest price at:
Jack Wolfskin US | Jack Wolfskin UK | Cotswold Outdoor | Amazon


Mammut Meron Light HS

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.

Pros

  • Large front pockets
  • Suitable for climbers
  • Lightweight and highly durable
  • Breathable

Cons

  • Body length could be longer

Find the latest price on:
Cotswold Outdoor | Amazon


Montane Minimus Stretch Ultra Jacket

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.

Pros

  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Stretchy fabric
  • Easily Packed
  • Headphone Compatible

Cons

  • Not as waterproof as other jackets

Find the latest price on:
Cotswold Outdoor | Amazon


Rab Downpour Jacket

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.

Pros

  • Lightweight and very portable
  • Pit-zips for extra ventilation
  • Reasonable price

Cons

  • Not as breathable as other fabrics

Find the latest price on:
Amazon | REI | Backcountry


Marmot Women's Precip

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.

Pros

  • Highly waterproof and windproof
  • Unique hood design
  • Machine washable
  • Economical

Cons

  • Less durable than other jackets
  • Heaviest item on our list

Find the latest price on:
Amazon | Backcountry


Columbia Arcadia

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.

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Adjustable hood and waist
  • Velcro wrist adjustments
  • Machine washable
  • Reasonable Price Tag

Cons

  • Limited breathability
  • Not suitable for extreme weather or mountaineering

Find the latest price on:
Amazon | Backcountry


Outdoor Research Panorama Point Rain Jacket

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.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Stylish design
  • Elasticated cuffs and hems
  • Wire brimmed hood for extra rain protection

Cons

  • Sizes are smaller than average

Find the latest price on:
Amazon | REI | Outdoor Research


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 vents on jacket

    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.

  • Jacket pocket

    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

    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.

  • Packed jacket

    Stuff sack

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

  • Hood on rain jacket

    Hood

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

  • Jacket drawcord

    Hem drawcord

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

  • Cuff on jacket

    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.

About the author

author-beth

Originally from the UK and currently based in Turkey, Beth Carter is a full-time adventurer, former scout, and vegan traveller. When she’s not hiking long-distance trails with an oversized pack on her shoulders, you’ll probably find her peddling up and down scenic roads, or pitching a tent in a far-off mountain range. On the odd occasion, you might even see her sitting at a keyboard, coffee at the ready, typing about her latest outdoor pursuit.

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