For the past six or seven years, I've had an LLBean H2Off raincoat with zip-in lining. While I've certainly gotten my money's worth out of it, I'm wondering if there is a better ladies' raincoat on the market. I always go to England in late May-early June, and have often found myself sweating while running for a bus, walking quickly through an air terminal, etc. I usually don't put the lining in. The only time I felt I needed it was in 2016, on a very rainy and blustery day in London. Can anybody recommend a raincoat, preferably one that would cover my butt? I will also be wearing this to work so it needs to cover cardigans, etc.
Thanks!
Posted by
WestCentral MN
282 posts
I really like the Kuhl Stretch Voyagr jacket (not the insulated version). I own two of these. I gained weight and needed a larger size! When I ordered the second one, I got it from REI. The zipper would not zip. I could try 50 times and get it to zip maybe once. That one was returned, and then I ordered directly from Kuhl online. This one I kept because the zipper works great. The zipper on the one from REI was a slightly different design from the one I got directly from Kuhl. Maybe it was an older jacket and they updated the zipper design??? I like the length of the coat and the feminine cut. For your reference, I am 5'4" and about 165 and have the large. When I weighed 140-150 I fit in the medium.
Posted by
Land of La
8680 posts
I love my Ex Officio rain coat. I got a mens because it has more pockets. The interior ones are perfect for your passport.
Its light weight, not lined, no sweating. Hits just at my knees. Nearly 8 years old. Looks like new.
Posted by
Duluth 🛶
6354 posts
You might find some ideas in this thread from about 3-4 months ago. https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/packing/packable-rain-jacket
Posted by
SE Pennsylvania
2391 posts
I've been really happy with this one. Even the hood works, probably because it has a lightly stiffened brim.
https://www.outdoorresearch.com/products/womens-aspire-trench-287622?variant=46252768035137
Posted by
Snohomish, WA
2035 posts
I have that OR Aspire jacket, but not the trench length. I love it and it has withstood the test of Iceland!
Posted by
Vancouver, BC, Canada
1200 posts
If you want to reduce sweat and maximize waterproofness, look for two things: 1. a waterproof breathable membrane like Gore-Tex and 2. vents.
There are lots of waterproof breathable membranes which are usually applied as a coating on the inside the fabric. They're usually advertised as 2, 2.5 or 3 layer membranes, the latter being the most expensive.
A membrane is breathable so it will definitely feel much more comfortable compared to being wrapped or sealed in a garbage bag or saran wrap. However, if you do any physical exertion, you will still end up sweating or building up some condensation. It is simple physics. If you are sweating more than the water vapor can pass through the membrane, you will end up with condensation.
That is where vents help to exhaust body vapor and heat from inside the jacket. Many cheap non-breathable polyurethane jackets have vents in the back. What I look for are underarm zippers in a good rain jacket with a waterproof breathable membrane. I zip up when it is cold outside and when I'm not doing too much activity. As soon as I exert myself I unzip the armpit vents and allow body heat and vapor to vent out. If I don't let sweat build up, I feel warmer and more comfortable.
Posted by
Vermont, USA
697 posts
I have had my Kuhl Jetstream Trench for years and love it. It’s my everyday rainwear at home and I bring it on every trip. It packs light, keeps me dry (nice long length) and still looks great after lots of wear. The jacket has a slim, tailored look but I can still layer underneath it if it’s cold out.
https://www.kuhl.com/kuhl/womens/outerwear/ws-jetstream-trench/?color=BLACKOUT
Posted by
Southern Oregon
565 posts
DebVT - does the Kuhl have pit zips? Cute jacket!
Posted by
Bend, OR
762 posts
My daughter has this and it’s on sale right now at Rei
https://www.rei.com/product/164446/rei-co-op-rainier-long-line-rain-jacket-womens?color=MAUVEWOOD
Posted by
OP
Pennsylvania, USA
641 posts
Thanks to everyone for your replies. Special thanks to @funpig for explaining about what makes a jacket breathable. It will help me narrow my search.
Posted by
Vermont, USA
697 posts
Luv2Travel -- just saw your question.
The Kuhl trench does not have pit zips. It is my walking-around jacket, so I've never used it when I'm working hard. It IS very lightweight and breathable and I've never felt overheated, but I wouldn't wear it for serious hiking or anything strenuous (although I wouldn't hesitate to bring it if I were traveling and just using it here and there for some quick hikes).
I separately have a waterproof tech jacket that I wear for running that is designed very differently, and also another rain jacket for wearing when I do barn chores that is sturdier and has a much more roomy cut (I'm outside a lot and need precision gear, lol).
Hope that helps!
Posted by
755 posts
I bought two from Eddie Bauer in different colors and they are long, hitting below the butt, slim fitting, have pockets and a hood, and are very packable.