With Daylight Savings Time now in full swing, days are getting longer. And that means we’re swapping the frosty mornings for drizzly afternoons. Now is the time to refresh your spring wardrobe by replacing those bulky puffer coats with something sleek, comfortable, and—most important of all—waterproof.
“Rain jacket” is quite the umbrella term and can encompass a wide variety of styles. The classic rain jacket has a longer silhouette, snap button closures, and a hood. It is made from a waterproof material like nylon. Alternatively, a more casual style will crop at the waist and look more like a traditional jacket or hoodie. Then there are the specialty coats—think Barbours and Burberry trenches—which are just as practical, but with a more stylistic lean to them.
No matter the style, most rain jackets are made to be a little oversized. This is a functional design choice, ensuring that the majority of your upper body is covered from unpredictable weather conditions. This is especially noticeable in the arm length and hood size, both of which have an inch or two added to cover your sleeves and face. Because of this, don’t be mistaken in trying to adjust your regular jacket size to fit the listed measurements of a garment; instead, embrace the oversized fit. You’ll be more comfortable because of it.
From waxed jacket classics to sleek Scandi brands, the right rain jacket is the key to stay dry and stylish this spring. Here are a few of our favorites.
Photo by Hamed Darzi on Unsplash
Top Rain Jackets for Spring
Photo via Rains
Rains Long Storm Breaker
Danish brand Rains has long been a favorite for its minimalist style that pairs well with anyone’s wardrobe. Reinforced with added features to keep you dry, including a cinched hood and elasticated cuffs, this is one of those jackets you’ll be reaching for every time the sky looks even slightly grey.
Photo via Patagonia
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket
It’s hard to find a jacket that’s easier to throw on than Patagonia’s Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket. Coming in a variety of subdued colors, it has the perfect balance between gorpcore and streetwear, making it the perfect option for anyone who wants to elevate the basics. And if you’re looking to head out on a hike this Spring, the Torrentshell jacket can fold up into its own left pocket and easily clip to your backpack. Leave it to Patagonia to think of everything.
Photo via Arc'teryx
Arc’teryx Solano Jacket
For a sleek look, Arc’teryx’s trimmed-down Solano jacket is a stripped-down option for anyone who doesn’t need the bells and whistles, but still wants to look their best. For the Solano, it’s all about the fabrics. With a GORE-TEX shell and a stretch woven lining, this jacket will give you all-day comfort and breathability while being durable enough to wear season after season.
Photo via Uniqlo
Uniqlo BLOCKTECH Parka
For a budget-friendly option, Uniqlo’s parka has long been a go-to option for menswear fans. With its generous silhouette and no-frills design, you’re looking at a jacket that’s utilitarian without sacrificing on style—or busting your budget.
Photo via Land's End
Land’s End Squall Waterproof Rain Jacket
Land’s End has slowly but surely been on the rise in recent years, following a similar trajectory as Abercrombie & Fitch. Its Squall rain jacket harkens back to its yachting history, with a vibrant yellow shell that will definitely stand out among the monochromatic and dark neutrals of most rain jackets on the market today.
Photo via Mack Weldon
Mack Weldon Stormchaser Mackintosh Jacket
For a classic yet refined alternative to a traditional rain jacket, a mackintosh is the way to go. Its long-line silhouette and generous sleeves make it ideal for those who wear a suit to work, while the cotton-polyester blend shell offers a more natural look than PVD—without sacrificing its 10K waterproof rating.
Photo via Barbour
Barbour Bedale Waxed Jacket
The granddaddy of them all, the Barbour may not look like your traditional rain jacket, but it’s as classic as they come. Designed for the English countryside and co-opted by Brooklynites and menswear icons alike, the Barbour Bedale’s waxed exterior, flannel lining, and corduroy collar all have a rustic feel that only gets better with age.
Photo by Thomas Chizzali on Unsplash
How to Wash a Rain Jacket
Because rain jackets are almost always a synthetic material, it’s easy to assume they don’t need to be washed as often as, say, a cotton shirt or a wool sweater. That said, it’s still important to give them a refresh every now and then, especially if you live in a large city where pollutants tend to cling to the fabrics.
Always read your jacket’s care tag to avoid any surprises, but for a traditional rain jacket made from nylon, polyester, or PVC, washing is fairly straightforward. First, wipe any excess dirt off the garment before you put it in the washing machine. Next, wash your jacket by itself with warm water and on a gentle cycle. If possible, add a second rinse to ensure any excess detergent is removed as it tends to stain the waterproofing material when dried. And speaking of detergent, Patagonia recommends its Storm Clothing wash, which helps restore s jacket’s waterproofing, but any gentle detergent will do. When the washing cycle is complete, transfer to your dryer and set to tumble dry low.
