The best waterproof jackets for men and women, tried and tested by hiking experts

Telegraph

21-05-2025

It rains a lot in Britain – 133 days a year, according to the weather researchers at Current Results – and you never know when you might get caught. In this country, finding the best waterproof jacket is one of the most important decisions you'll ever make (along with choosing a pair of wellington boots).
A brief glimpse at online clothing stores will confirm there are many types out there, including traditional raincoats, sporty shells, Scandi-style rubberised coats and hardcore mountaineering jackets. You'll find polyester numbers, Gore-tex linings and even wax coatings. How do you decide which one's for you?
As outdoors writers, Sarah and I spend much of our lives in cold, rainy, windy weather. It's been great training to be reviewers of waterproof jackets. We also run and cycle, so we were keen to see how this year's crop of jackets handled those conditions too. You can read our full reviews further down, followed by the answers to some frequently asked questions. But if you're in a rush, here's a quick look at our top five:
Which are the best waterproof jackets of 2025? At a glance
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How we tested the best waterproof jackets
We tried out these jackets in the most extreme weather possible, while hiking, running, cycling and later tried our own version of the hydrostatic head test, used in the industry to measure how much water pressure it takes to penetrate a fabric. To mimic the HH test at home, we stretched a section of each jacket over a bowl, covered it with water and came back in the morning to see if any water had seeped through. All of the jackets reviewed here passed this test with no leakage.
Breathability is rated using something called the moisture vapour transfer rate (MVTR), measuring the amount of moisture that passes through a square metre of fabric over 24 hours, but this requires specialist equipment. We settled for jogging uphill and cycling hard to test how comfortable the jackets were to wear while perspiring.
Here's what we found, starting with Sarah's guide to women's jackets. Jump straight to Richard's guide to men's jackets if you prefer. If you're heading out into the wilds this winter, you may also find our guide to the best walking boots useful.
1. Best Buy Waterproof Jacket for Women: Rab Firewall Mountain
Rab has been making tough kit for climbers and mountaineers since the 80s and their hi-tech fabrics are among the best on the market today. The newly launched Firewall Mountain jacket for men and women uses a three-layer Pertex Shield, which is a highly waterproof and highly breathable form of nylon.
On test, I found the Firewall Mountain was also highly windproof – it kept me warm and dry in cold storms, but I still felt comfortable and cool in warm spring rain, with wide pit zips adding further breathability. I loved the well-fitting hood, which can be adjusted and which sports a stiff peak to keep rain well away from your face.
The female-specific fit of the women's iteration of the Firewall Mountain is great, too, with room to fit layers underneath. It fits nicely over a rucksack and the soft-lined collar feels nice against the skin. The sleeves were on the long side, but are adjustable with Velcro.
Rab are a sustainable pick. This jacket uses PFC-free materials and the company aims to be net zero emissions by 2030. Aimed at hikers, scramblers and mountaineers, this is a great all-mountain shell, although you could pick something cheaper if you just want a casual waterproof for walking the dog.
Key specifications
Fabric: Three-layer, chemical-free recycled Pertex Shield fabric
Features: Adjustable hood with protective peak, fleece-lined chin guard
Waterproofing and breathability: 20,000mm HH; 20,000 MVTR
2. Best Value Waterproof Jacket for Women: Jack Wolfskin Highest Peak
When you think of waterproof jackets, your mind might wander to the stiff, scratchy fabric of old. You'd be surprised just how soft and flexible the Jack Wolfskin Highest Peak Jacket is, while remaining completely waterproof.
My favourite feature of this jacket is that it stuffs completely into one of the hip pockets for easy carrying. My second is that it's Bluesign-approved – an internationally recognised sustainability standard which limits the use of harmful substances. If anything breaks, Jack Wolfskin also offers a repair service.
I tried this over two weeks worth of rainy dog walks in December. If anything was going to test its waterproofness, that torrential rain would. I'm pleased to report the Jack Wolfskin jacket stood firm and provided some warmth as well. The large pockets warmed my hands, although they do sit a little far back for my liking.
Despite the three-layer shell, the jacket is surprisingly lightweight and breathable if you're hoping for a summer hiking jacket, with the welcome addition of pit-zips. The hood is soft, rather than having a stiff peak. This is necessary for packability but not quite as effective at keeping rain off your face. Other than these small niggles, the Jack Wolfskin is a brilliant, weatherproof, travel-friendly basic.
Key specifications
3. Best Waterproof Jacket for Summer: Arc'teryx Beta Lightweight
You'd be forgiven for baulking at Arc'teryx's prices. At face value, there seems to be little difference between this and the Jack Wolfskin above. But look more closely and you notice the nuances – the lightweight 40 denier GORE-TEX, articulated construction for complete mobility, a reflector to help in search and rescue situations, a chin guard with brushed microsuede for extra comfort… the list goes on.
Does the regular dog walker need an Arc'teryx jacket? No, a cheaper waterproof will be perfectly adequate. But a regular hiker who'll get the cost per wear value? You'd struggle to find better.
The Beta Lightweight Jacket is Arc'teryx's most versatile waterproof jacket, designed for breathability over warmth, mountain climbing over commutes. As the name suggests, it's as lightweight as they come, weighing just 355g, so you can stuff it in a rucksack when the rain passes (you might have to venture abroad for that miracle).
It has all the usual premium features in pit zippers, a full-coverage hood that actually covers your face, adjustable cuffs, hem and hood, hand pockets, an internal pocket and Bluesign sustainability credentials. It's soft to touch and from what my Arc'teryx converted friends tell me, will last a while.
Key specifications
4. Best Light Hiking Waterproof Jacket: The North Face Dryzzle Futurelight
The Dryzzle has been around for a few years now, but this year's offering is made from a new, more breathable fabric called Futurelight. First impressions were that it was fitted, fashionable and light. I had no problem with sweat build-up after a high-energy jog. It also happened to be windy that day and I felt well-protected against the gusts, especially with the hood up and the storm flap in place around the neck.
This is not a jacket that stretches lower at the back, so I wouldn't recommend it for cycling when your backside is more exposed. However, it does have a zipped chest pocket which is great for a mobile. It's great for easy hiking and is well-made, like all North Face products.
Key specifications
5. Best Packable Waterproof Jacket: Montane Cetus Lite
Montane may be a British brand, but these Montane Cetus Lite waterproof jackets, available in pastel and muted colours, have more of a Scandi vibe. I tested this on a camping trip in Sussex during a yellow weather warning (not to be recommended), so trust me when I say it's been put through the ringer. The adjustable hood, cinchable hem and adjustable sleeves meant I could stopper any gaps between the coat and my skin.
A previous complaint I've had with Montane has been that the hood hasn't come forward enough to block rain from hitting your face. That problem has been solved here with a structured peak that protrudes and dips back down the fully encase your head.
One tiny thing the jacket is missing compared to others are pit-zips. The jacket is breathable, but hikers will miss that feeling of getting some air under their arms after a sweaty trek.
But I'm being picky. Really, it's a reliable waterproof jacket which packs down small enough to stuff in a bag and looks the part. It doesn't irritate my skin when I do the zip right up; in fact, it's soft enough to be worn with a t-shirt, next to my skin.
Key specifications
6. Best Waterproof Jacket for Wind Protection: Berghaus Highraise
I like the feeling of being protected around the neck as that's where the wind and rain seem to penetrate first. And I don't like the wind. So I was immediately attracted to the Highraise with its distinctive collar. It makes for a practical jacket that keeps the elements at bay while also managing to look slimline.
It has enough pocket space to carry a map or two in its outer pockets, something that Richard is keen on, while also having an inner pocket with plenty of space. Its other clever design point is that the outer pockets can be adjusted so that they open from either the top or the sides. The Highraise is also comfortable with a soft inner lining.
It's made of Gore-Tex, which performed well, keeping the wet out. I did feel a little sweaty after returning from a two-mile jog, but I think that was more to do with wearing too many inner layers than anything to do with the breathability of the jacket.
Key specifications
7. Best Waterproof Jacket for Jogging:Lululemon Cross Chill
This is a flattering jacket that's designed for running (and if that's your passion, check out The Telegraph's guide to the best running shoes for women and the best fitness trackers). But it can just as easily be used for cycling and walking. It has a chest pocket, back pocket and two side pockets for extras like gloves, one with an internal section for a mobile.
The hood isn't big enough for a helmet if you're a cyclist. On the plus side, there was no problem with peripheral vision. The logo is made of a reflective material, which keeps you visible if you're out after dark. The sleeves have an extra bit of stretchy material with a thumb hole. I wouldn't use this coat in the depths of winter, since there's not enough room for multiple layering, but it does have a fleecy interior, making it good for a wet and windy day.
Key specifications
8. Best Waterproof Jacket for Versatility: Trail Hipe Shell
Reviewed by Keira Clarke
If you are active outdoors, you'll be pleased to hear this is made from a 2.5-layer fabric with Hipe technology, which is a waterproof, windproof and breathable fabric developed by Peak Performance. On bitterly cold days, it also did a great job of keeping me snug. Despite this, I still think it would be particularly useful in the warmer months because it's so lightweight.
The hood is also spacious enough to fit a helmet underneath if you need to and there's an adjustable drawcord at the bottom hem. The sleeves also have adjustable cuffs if you want to increase their grip. The pockets have plenty of storage and zips to secure a phone, wallet or to just be somewhere to keep your hands cosy.
The only downside to this jacket is that it is quite close-fitting. It was too tight in the chest area but pretty loose around the waist. I'd recommend sizing up.
Key specifications
1. Best Buy Waterproof Jacket for Men: Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity
Founded in Norway in 1877, the Helly Hansen brand has its eyes on the cutting edge of fabric technology. The Lifa Infinity fabric used here is a microporous membrane which is both waterproof and breathable, blocking rainwater while allowing sweat to escape before it condenses and cools the body. When I went for a fast 15-minute uphill jog, I couldn't detect the slightest hint of residual sweat, while the overnight leakage test suggested it would work well as a roofing material.
Its three-layer construction means that while it's arguably a bit heavy for hot summer hikes, it's incredibly tough. This is the jacket I'd choose for an off-piste excursion on a mountain trek where I might get scraped by rocks or thorns.
It has large side pockets that can easily fit an OS map (hurrah) and huge vents under the armpits that can let air in when your muscles are flexing. It also has two-way zips, which means you can open and close the pocket both upwards and downwards. The hood, which can easily accommodate a helmet, has adjusters both front and back. It also moves with the head to left or right without obscuring vision, which many hoods don't.
Finally, the jacket has a RECCO reflector in the peak of the hood, which reflects the beam from the radar detectors used by rescue teams. A potential life-saver. Expensive it may be, but you won't find a competitor as tough and long-lasting as this one.
Key specifications
Material: Lifa Infinity membrane and recycled PFC-free three-layer fabric
Features: Underarm vents and double-zipped side pockets
Waterproofing and breathability: 20,000 mm HH; 20,000 MVTR
2. Best Value Waterproof Jacket for Men: Regatta Wentwood VI
Regatta's Wentwood VI combines an outer rain jacket and a removable lightweight thermal layer. Worn together, they offer a high level of protection against rain and cold – perhaps too much. If you're a hot-blooded person, walking too hard in the double-layer configuration will be a sweaty business. Worn individually, the outer layer makes for a reasonably snazzy rain jacket, while the inner layer offers a wind- and shower-proof option on cooler days. It'll be good for runners.
Given its 'three options for the price of one' flexibility, the Regatta offers remarkable value for money. There are one or two downsides, though. If you're arthritic or have trouble with fiddly fixtures, the bottom end of the main zip will be a challenge and the little drawstrings attached here and there could be frustrating for less nimble fingers.
On the plus side, I like the way the collar and hood lie on your shoulders when the hood is down. When it's up, the slim peak keeps the rain off without obscuring vision. Another nice touch is the phone pocket on the breast (although left-handed people will curse that it's on the left side). Finally, both the inside pockets of the inner layer are plenty big enough to store a map, which is far more convenient than fishing around in your rucksack when it's wet.
Key specifications
3. Best Light Waterproof Jacket: Montane Men's Phase
As anyone who's argued over the thermostat knows, men are more prone to overheating than women. What such men want is a waterproof that's as good as it can possibly be at keeping the rain off, but which has no interest in keeping you warm. Step forward Montane's Men's Phase, a mid-length waterproof (it comes down to the bottom of your jeans pockets) which is quite happy to see you shivering because it knows no one can touch it for pure, Gore-Tex powered rain-repellence.
Weighing little more than a magazine and folding down to about the same size, the Men's Phase is designed to sit in your backpack, ready to be whipped out in a sudden downpour. When the rain stops, it dries off with a few shakes.
It's sold as a hill-walkers jacket, but I keep one in the pannier of my bicycle for emergency use and it has proved invaluable. Anything thicker than this would take up too much space and have me arriving at work pouring with sweat.
Being made of pro-grade Gore-Tex, the Phase is expensive, but we've seen it in sales with around 50 per cent off, at which price it's a steal. It's the only waterproof layer you'll ever need, but if you're headed to Antarctica, best pack a jumper as well.
Key specifications
4. Best Breathable Waterproof Jacket: Ariat Spectator
Ariat was founded in Pennsylvania in the 1990s, primarily producing footwear for horse riding. This is the coat they recommend for family and friends braving the British weather to stand ringside.
We tried the 'Team' colour, which features a navy body with a striking red stripe down each shoulder. Having said that, the breathable fabric, sealed seams and ergonomic fit still suits this to hikers – although you may want to size up. We found this comes up a little small.
There are adjustable hood and cuffs and a two-way zip for customisation. The jacket is fully lined, so you'll still get a little warmth. It doesn't pack down in the same way as other thin waterproof jackets, but I'd say it's far more versatile.
Key specifications
5. Best Packable Waterproof Jacket: Jack Wolfskin Pack and Go Shell M
This is a multi-purpose pick-up-and-go jacket designed for spontaneity. It looks good and has top-level waterproof and breathability ratings. It certainly performed during a blustery beach walk in February and kept the sweat at bay during my running test. The finishing touch to this well-designed package is the stuff sack, which magically appears when the left-hand pocket is turned inside-out. It even has a loop for hanging it up.
The JWP has a mesh lining around the torso and inside the hood, with a polyester lining on the sleeves which is soft and comfortable. The hood has its adjustment toggle at the back, which I find easier to adjust than jackets with toggles only at the front. It also does well in the eco-stakes, with a fabric made of recycled plastic and no PFCs.
Key specifications
Material: Two-layer Texapore Ecosphere Stretch fabric and mesh lining made of recycled plastic
Features: Adjustable hood and two pockets, one of which doubles as a stow pouch
Waterproofing and breathability: 20,000mm HH; 15,000 MVTR
6. Best Looking Waterproof Jacket: Shackleton Markham Hardshell
At nearly twice the price of the Helly Hansen above, you'd be forgiven for thinking the Shackleton is a case of style over substance. With a silhouette that would please a 60s mod, there's no doubt it's pretty – it even has a Recco reflector for mountain rescue.
Many of the waterproofs we tried have a too-small peak and not enough room behind your head, so that you have to keep pulling the hood forward to keep the rain off your face. The Shackleton has plenty of room inside the hood and the most substantial peak we tried (aside from the Helly Hansen), keeping your face completely dry without readjustment.
The extra headspace also keeps you cooler. The fabric is not the lightest we tried, being made of three layers of 'bio-nylon' (not GoreTex), but it's breathable enough to wear in a steamy August rain shower (as I did), partly thanks to vents in the yoke. The matte-effect material is water-repellent enough to fling 100 per cent of the droplets off with a single shake. It fits nicely at the shoulder but has plenty of room around the tummy, reaching the bottom of your backside but cut a little higher at the front, parka-style.
Key specifications
7. Best Waterproof Jacket for Summer: Finisterre Rainbird
This was easily the lightest jacket on test. Its fabric is recycled and its waterproof and breathability credentials are top-rated. It's not designed for warmth and should be worn with base layers on cold days, but is a great option for summer on easy woodland walks or blustery strolls along the seashore. Without being tailored, it still looks good and has a bit of stretchiness in the fabric to accommodate some movement if you're climbing or moving your arms a lot for short periods.
Its two external pockets have a narrow opening, but will just about fit a map. The jacket's inner surface has a 'soft touch' finish and makes far less of a rustling noise than most other waterproofs. Great for twitchers and nature watchers.
Key specifications
Waterproof Jacket FAQs
Is Gore-Tex the best waterproof material?
In short, yes. Gore-Tex has a sheet of membrane fused into the fabric of the jacket, which lets air out but not water through. As you can see in the diagram below, Gore-Tex is porous, but its holes are tiny, allowing air – but not water – to pass.
However, many manufacturers have developed equivalent breathable waterproof fabrics, such as The North Face's Futurelight and Helly Hansen's Lifa, which Richard and Sarah found to be effective. You may also come across names like eVent, MemBrain and a host of own-brand layers, which range from good to mediocre.
With some cheaper jackets, waterproofing is sprayed on rather than sewn in. This can be effective, though it does wear off after time. The spray is replaceable, but that comes at a cost. On the plus side, jackets like this can feel lighter and more breathable.
What is the warmest waterproof jacket?
Scandinavian brands like Rains, Helly Hansen, Grundens and Stutterheim mimic old rubber fishermen's or workers' coats and are good for cold weather, though on a warm rainy day, you'll find yourself in a pool of sweat. Many lighter waterproof jackets come with a fleece lining and are nearly as cosy.
What is the best packable rain jacket?
Brands like Jack Wolfskin, The North Face, Patagonia, Mammut and Marmot make good shell jackets. These are designed to be light outer layers and don't necessarily keep you warm, but they can be effective at keeping you dry. Because they're so thin, you can scrunch them up and carry in a bag, making them great for showery weather.
How much should you spend on a waterproof jacket?
In our tests, we found the sweet spot to be somewhere around £200, although some brands such as Regatta make good, adaptable waterproofs for under £50. The good news is that the best technical waterproof jackets are quite frequently discounted.
How to clean waterproof jackets
The best way is with a sponge and a non-abrasive cloth, so you don't damage the waterproof treatment. If you have to machine wash, do so at 30°C. Use liquid detergent rather than powder, which can damage Gore-Tex in particular. For more formal styles (e.g. designer Macs), you would need to dry-clean, although it may then need re-proofing. Essentially, it's always best to read the label for the best advice.