Stay dry in style: Shop the best waterproof jackets for women

If you enjoy morning runs, brisk dog walks, cycles to work or long hikes, you've probably experienced the occasional strike of bad weather. But you don’t mind a storm, as long as you have a good jacket.

With its waterproof fabrics and wind-resistance designs, a waterproof jacket is, in our opinion, an essential investment for fending off rain, strong winds and bad hair days.

So, if you're on the hunt for your next piece of outerwear, look no further. We've hand-selected the best of the best that will keep you dry no matter what the weather throws at you.

The best waterproof jackets for women at a glance

Best waterproof jackets for women overallBest packable waterproof jacketBest budget-friendly waterproof jacketBest lightweight waterproof jacket

Best waterproof jackets for women overall

Photo: GO Outdoors

Dare 2B Women’s Veritas III Waterproof Jacket

You save £72.05 (60.04%)£120

Specifications

• Packable: yes

• Colours: two

With its all-weather protection, breathability and high-performance design, this durable piece comes out on top as the best waterproof jacket for women. Here’s why.

Designed to weather any storm or mountain, this garment is made from a flexible four-stretch fabric that wicks away sweat to keep you dry and worry-free on the go.

Since the material stretches in all directions, it will move along with your body as you walk, hike, or run so it won’t chafe or rub against your skin. It also withstands everyday wear and tear whilst providing a supportive fit that feels like a second layer of skin.

As for pockets, this jacket has plenty, that also boast water-repellent zips. From its standard lower pockets, chest zips, internal pockets and ventilation zippers under the armpit, Women's Veritas III Waterproof Jacket should keep you dry and comfortable regardless of what comes your way.

Best packable waterproof jacket

Photo: John Lewis

Mac In A Sac Origin II Unisex Packable Waterproof Jacket

Specifications

• Packable: yes

• Colours: two

Packable and versatile, this signature Mac is designed to stand the test of time and go the extra mile to keep you prepared when travelling outdoors.

Whether you’re hiking, cycling or going for a run, this lightweight waterproof helps you stay dry and comfortable without adding extra bulk to your backpack or weight to your carry-on when packed up.

When caught in a downpour, its elastic cuffs, temperature regulation and weatherproof design prevent water from coming through onto your clothing so you stay warm and protected.

Best budget-friendly waterproof jacket

Photo: Decathlon

Decathlon Women’s Windproof & Water-Repellent Hiking Jacket

Specifications

• Packable: yes

• Colours: three

This waterproof jacket may have a low price point, but it packs a powerful punch in terms of practicality and functionality.

An ideal light rain jacket, this breathable piece comes with a waterproof coating, windproof fabric, a tightening hood for gentle winds, plus a pocket that doubles as a pouch for storing your jacket when it's not in use.

Plus, it’s pretty big on convenience, too. Thanks to its half-zip design and loose fit, this jacket can be easily pulled over your clothing without faffing around with long zips, so when it begins to drizzle, you will be covered in no time.

And at just under £10, it’s an absolute steal!

Best lightweight waterproof jacket

Photo: Regatta

Regatta Women's Pack-It III Waterproof Jacket

Specifications

• Packable: yes

• Colours: 14

Lightweight, breathable and packable, this jacket is the perfect companion for every outdoor adventure.

Vibrant in bold pink, the Women's Pack-It III may be cut a slim profile but it’s full of features to keep you looking your best wherever you go. And if pink isn’t for you, you’re in luck – it’s also available in 14 other colours from bold to basic.

With its polyamide waterproof fabric, this lightweight garment will keep you dry in both humid and damp environments, so you won't have to worry about excess sweat while braving a storm. Whatever your climate, this piece can handle it.

But what sets this jacket apart from most is its taped seams and unlined design. No stitching means no tiny holes and enhanced waterproof protection, preventing water from seeping through.

As for convenience, this garment can be folded down to fit in your pocket or bag, so you don't have to carry it around if the sun comes out.

Available in 13 sizes, your perfect fit awaits you with this jacket.

Best hooded waterproof jacket

Photo: GO Outdoors

Rab Women’s Downpour ECO Waterproof Jacket

Specifications

• Packable: yes

• Colours: two

Want to maintain your cool, even when it pours? This eco-friendly jacket does just the trick.

Made from 100% recycled materials, this cute, yet practical two-toned purple jacket is equipped with the second-highest water resistance rating for outdoor gear. In other words, it’s highly rainproof and waterproof under very high pressure. 

It’s not short on features either. 

With its drawstring hem, deep-venting pit zips and velcro cuffs, you can adjust the jacket for a perfect fit without the risk of overheating. And in the event of heavy rain, the adjustable hood and chin guard are handy to protect your face, hair, glasses and other accessories from becoming damp or wet.

So, if you’re looking for a sustainable piece of gear that doesn't compromise performance, this is it.

Best stylish waterproof jacket

Photo: Berghaus

Berghaus Women's Swirlhow Hooded Jacket

Specifications

• Packable: no

• Colours: three

Sleek and waterproof, this casual jacket will shield you from the rain without compromising on style.

A neutral colourway makes this coat easy to pair with your clothing while Berghaus' two-layer waterproof construction ensures you stay dry even in the worst rainstorms. Essentially, it's a great everyday staple that can protect you from bad weather without alerting the fashion police.

But we especially love the flexibility of this jacket. A drawstring allows you to adjust the waistline if you prefer a closer fit to the body, an oversized hood keeps your hair dry, zipped pockets keep your phone protected or your hands warm and a longer length provides extra protection and coverage to keep your outfit dry. 

The best part? Berghaus knows extreme weather conditions or long wear can age your jacket so they offer free repairs for stitching and zips that become loose so your jacket will always be good as new.

Best women's waterproof jacket for hiking

Photo: The North Face

The North Face Women’s Hikesteller Parka Shell Jacket

You save £14.50 (10%)£145

Specifications

• Packable: no

• Colours: six

It's no secret that The North Face jackets are built to endure tough weather and extreme sports. This parka shell jacket is no exception.

Specifically designed for hiking, this regular-fit garment offers excellent water and wind resistance, so you can hike as far as you want without turning back when bad weather strikes.

And as you're on your trek, its quick drying technology, temperature regulation and sealed elasticised cuffs help keep you from overheating and prevent your skin from getting soaked when Mother Nature brings the rain.

Best waterproof jacket for cycling

Photo: Sweaty Betty

Sweaty Betty Commuter Waterproof Cycling Jacket

You save £114 (60%)£190

Specifications

• Packable: no

• Colours: one

An avid cyclist needs a jacket that can handle whatever comes their way on the road and this Sweaty Betty Commuter Jacket does just that.

Made from lightweight, waterproof fabric in a classic navy colourway, this jacket will protect you from downpours, strong winds and storms. It has an extra wide fit hood so you can still wear a helmet comfortably, two side zips for storing all your cycling essentials and a cuffed neck and sleeve so no water gets onto your clothes.

A lot to love, right? Well, there’s more.

Sweaty Betty spared no detail in the design of this jacket. It fits closely so as not to flail about when you cycle and has a flattering dipped back hem that catches any stray droplets as you pedal while a shorter front keeps your jacket out of the way.

Most importantly, the reflective piping ensures that you are visible on the road at night or in low-light conditions. After all, a safe and comfortable ride is what we all want.

How to choose the best waterproof jacket for women?

Waterproof jackets come in all shapes and sizes with some garments offering added features such as moisture-wicking and temperature-regulation properties. So, to ensure that you get the perfect fit, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Usage: If you're looking for a jacket to frequently accompany you on outdoor activities, walks or morning jogs, you'll need a garment that is durable, reliable and most importantly highly waterproof.

• Breathable fabrics: Most waterproof jackets are made with breathable, lightweight materials for superior comfort and protection on the go. But you'll find that some garments go the extra mile with temperature regulation and moisture-wicking properties to ensure that you stay cool and dry on rainy days. 

• Type of outdoor activity: Whether you're a keen runner, cyclist, hiker or simply want to be adequately protected when the heavens open, the type of activities you enjoy and how rigorous they are should help determine how many special features and functions you'll require in your jacket.

• Style and design: Waterproof jackets generally have a classic feel, but if you're looking for something trendy, there are options featuring vibrant colours that won’t compromise your style.

Photo: GO Outdoors /Berghaus

Which is better, waterproof or water-resistant jackets?

In the battle between waterproof and water-resistant jackets, waterproof jackets most often come out on top.

According to Trespass, waterproof garments offer maximum protection from rain, wind and even snow as their layers work to prevent water or moisture from getting inside. Meanwhile, water-resistant jackets can only resist water droplets to a certain extent, so they are generally best suited to drier environments.

What are the best waterproof jackets for women?

When bad weather strikes, the best waterproof jackets will protect you, your clothes, hair and essentials from all of the elements.  

So, if you’re still unsure about your next piece of outerwear, these are a few standouts that we think are worth adding to your wardrobe.

In terms of function, all-weather protection and breathability, the Dare 2B Women's Veritas III Waterproof Jacket makes the top of the list of the best waterproof jackets for women, keeping you dry and comfortable on the go.

If you’re wondering what is the best lightweight waterproof jacket, we’ve got your back. The Mac In A Sac and Regatta Women's Pack-It III Waterproof are both lightweight garments that are easy to store and carry without sacrificing performance, breathability and water protection.

Finally, if you want to stay dry in style, the neural and effortlessly chic Swirlhow Hooded Jacket is just the piece for you.