How to choose the best waterproof jacket

A Which? member waterproof jackets survey revealed that not all are made equal. Some won't necessarily shelter you from the wind, prevent you from getting clammy on a long hike or keep you bone-dry in drizzle.

To ensure it's an excellent jacket all round, you’ll need to ensure it has all the necessary technical specifications.

A poorly designed jacket can allow water to seep in. In contrast, features that enable air to enter the jacket, such as vents and adjustable cuffs, can improve its breathability and comfort.

So whether you’re investing in new gear for your next adventure or you’re looking for a gift for an outdoorsy loved one, read on to help you select the best jacket for the job.

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Look at the waterproof jacket rating – and check the seams

When buying a jacket, check the tags or online description for the waterproof rating, known as the hydrostatic head. It’s measured in millimetres – the higher, the better – but a 5,000mm minimum is recommended. 

Taped and sealed seams prevent water from getting in through the holes created during manufacturing. If you can see the seams, it won’t be waterproof.

A jacket with storm flaps (a piece of fabric that covers the jacket's zips) will also help to keep you dry by preventing water from entering the coat via zip openings.

Ensure it has a close fit

Choose a relatively close-fitting jacket to prevent it from flapping in the wind. However, it should be roomy enough to allow you to move freely and wear a jumper beneath.

The right-sized waterproof will also cover your lower back when you lift your arms to help keep the rain out. A drop tail (where the back of the jacket is longer than the front) is particularly useful. This feature gives you more coverage when bending forward and is particularly handy for cyclists.

Not all waterproofs do their job as well as others. See how different brands measured up against each other in our waterproof jackets survey. 

Check waterproof jackets for adjustability

Decent walking jackets will have drawstring hoods and hems – and often waistlines too – to fit more snugly and improve insulation. It’ll also protect you from wind and rain. Just check where the toggles will rest against your body, as they could dig in and prove uncomfortable during a long walk. 

An adjustable hem and waistline lets you use the waterproof jacket's toggles to tighten the coat to improve fit and aid insulation. 

Lastly, Velcro cuffs can help to keep out water and allow for ventilation in dryer conditions.

Inspect the hood on your waterproof 

A well-fitted hood should protect your face from the elements without restricting your view. A stiffened peak will help to prevent the hood from bending in the wind and direct the rain away from your face. You should be able to adjust the hood easily, even when wearing gloves.

Fixed hoods will prevent water from running down your neck and back, as will detachable hoods with a good overlap between the hood and collar. 

Look for a waterproof jacket with breathability technology

Breathability is vital if you plan to be active when wearing your jacket. Underarm ventilation (pit zips) will help, but beware that wearing a rucksack can make accessing your jacket's pit zips trickier. It could also distort the shape of the zip, increasing the chances of water entering. Ideally, take your rucksack along to the shop to try it on with the jacket.  

More vital than choosing a jacket with zip ventilation is selecting one with a membrane (Gore-Tex is the best known). This stops rain droplets from entering but allows sweat and heat to escape. Cheaper jackets tend to have a water-repellent coating only, so they are less breathable. While that’s fine for wearing around town in the rain doing some shopping, it will fall short on a rainy hike in the Lake District. 

Opt for a jacket with good pocket accessibility

Firstly, check there are enough pockets for your needs – and that they’re big enough. You may need just one for your phone and keys to walk the dog around the block. Serious hikers might need pockets large enough to carry an OS map and inside pockets to keep valuables dry.

When selecting a jacket, trying it on with a rucksack will also show you the pull it will have on the pocket positioning. And take a pair of gloves to see how easy it is to open the pockets while wearing them.

Check how environmentally conscious the waterproof jacket brand is

PFAS (or PFCs) are synthetic chemicals traditionally used to make products waterproof – a job they do well. But they impact the planet by taking up to 1,000 years to decompose. Look out for PFC-free products.

Paramo, the best-rated brand in our waterproof jackets survey, guarantees all its products are PFC-free. 

See more on where to shop for waterproofs from PFC-free labels. 

Shop Paramo jackets

How should I take care of my waterproof jacket?

1. Don’t scrunch up your jacket; it can stress the fabric. Always fold or hang the jacket to prevent damage.
2. Dirt can adversely affect the jacket's water repellency, so keep it clean.
3. Coated and membrane jackets may lose their water repellency over time. Washing your jacket with liquid soap to remove dirt, then tumble drying and/or ironing it on a cool setting, may help. If not, try using a wash-in re-proofing product available from outdoor retailers. Avoid excessive washing, as this will also reduce the coat's water resistance more quickly.