It’s spring. And that means one piece in your wardrobe: the raincoat. An excellent one can carry you a long way — through warmer winter days that don’t warrant super-heavy topcoats, through crisp spring weather and, of course, through a deluge.
But you want a workhorse. You don’t want rain dripping through and onto your clothes, and you don’t want to walk around sweltering, either.
Here’s what to think about.
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The water. Obviously, this is the key component. Look for the terms “water-resistant,” “water-repellent” and “waterproof.” Lands’ End calls its StormRaker Jacket ($59) “water-resistant” and says rain will bead up and roll off. But REI uses the same term to mean a coat that can only handle light rain for a brief time. “Water-repellent” also means different things at different companies. Martin Cooper, senior vice president and creative director of design at Lands’ End, said, “When we say, ‘waterproof’ at Lands’ End, we say ‘squall.'” The Squall Parka ($159, on sale on the website for $79.99) promises to be waterproof, windproof and “any-kind-of-weather” proof.
Activity. This is the first question, says Dan Simon, in charge of outwear at L.L. Bean. “The key to buying the right raincoat is first asking yourself how you will use it,” he said. “Is it for commuting to work or hiking a mountain?” The more active you plan to be, the more features you want. If this is something you’re wearing to work, your focus might be a longer coat that covers work clothes. But for hiking or biking, you might want a shorter cut for a better range of motion.
“The more active you plan to be, the more important it is for the jacket to allow your own moisture out,” Simon said. For example, L.L. Bean’s TEK O2 3L Storm Jacket ($199) promises to be its most breathable, he said, with three layers of fabric that whisk moisture away while protecting from the elements. It also has an adjustable hood, two hand pockets and a chest pocket. What he calls “pit-zips” (yes, where you can unzip under your armpit) can also cool you off during a hike. For any activity, an adjustable hood is key. “This is just as important in the city as on the trail,” Simon said. “You don’t want your hood to obstruct your view of traffic or your surroundings.”
What you’re willing to spend. Prices vary. Muji has a raincoat that’s $19.95 and is the epitome of basic — it’s long, it covers you, it keeps you dry. You can even wash it (just don’t throw it in the dryer). On the pricier scale, Patagonia, for example, reaches up to $399 for the Triolet Jacket. It promises three waterproof and breathable layers, plus a host of zippers and pockets.
Style. You might not think of the small details that can make a big difference. Covered zippers, flap pockets, hoods that have a draw cord to keep them cozy. You’re going to want interior storm cuffs that can keep wind and rain out, Cooper points out. And if you want more fashion and some function? Think trench. “A chic trench is perfect for businesswear, formal occasion and light rain,” Cooper said. Switch it up with a pop of color.
Twitter @byalisonbowen
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