Rain Gear in Ireland

A light weight waterproof jacket is good. Since I'm sure the weather will be cool or cold, look for a jacket with a fleece zip out liner.
If you will be out in the weather all day and possibly hiking, take a pair of waterproof pants too. Don't wear a light color jacket if you are climbing around ruins. It gets VERY dirty. I know from experience.
We've used our waterproof pants on a couple of trips. It just makes for a nicer day to stay dry on the rainy days.

It depends on what you plan to do, but a plastic poncho is light an practical. You can buy them almost anywhere in Ireland

I'd also suggest getting some good shoes that you can waterproof. I got a pair of suede Merrills years ago and sprayed them with the waterproofing stuff you get in the store, and they repel water like a duck's back. Especially when it's colder, having dry shoes can make or break your day.

Here's what I pack:

http://www.polyvore.com/mens_travel_pack_list/set?id=1440268

For rain I like a windproof/waterproof shell that is packable (translate to no-lining). Make sure you shop for waterproof, most stores sell water-resistant which won't keep you dry more than a quick dash from door to car.

Features I like are an adjustable hood (I prefer a full-time hood rather than one that tucks into the collar), long enough to keep my bottom dry, zip pockets outside and extra pockets inside. If vented, I prefer zip-vents because a windy day will let rain in through the vents.

For warmth I layer beneath the shell rather than bringing a liner. I pack a light-weight washable wool sweater and a light-weight (100 weight) full-zip fleece (it's hard, but not impossible, to find full-zip unless it's 200 or 300 weight). If it's really cold, I wear both over a t-shirt and under the shell.

Some kind of water proof shoe is helpful too. I pack Eccos because they're waterproof, comfortable, light-weight and can be dressy when needed. I used to pack water-proof Dockers oxfords with lug-soles. I liked them but they didn't dress up as nicely. I add acrylic socks because they wash easily on the road.

If you're not worried about dressing up. Pack light weight hikers with Goretex. Costco has a great wool-blend hiking sock that's not too expensive.

I want to second Brad's recommendations. I know that most of my experience is in Scotland, but there's nothing like GoreTex to keep both your feet and body dry. I usually bring a fleece that will fit under the jacket and then buy a sweater which becomes one of my souvenirs. ; )

Pam

I really appreciate all the suggestions. I have never taken rain gear before and want to be prepared so we can keep on going even in the rain. I know that Ireland in November is iffy for weather but who cares - we'll be in Ireland! Thanks so much.

Leave the umbrella home--it will either get blown inside out or you will poke someone in the eye with it. I speak from experience.

I do take a small umbrella (that fits into a pocket) if we are just walking around a town with no wind and light rain. I didn't use to but now I don't go without it. :-)

We wouldn't be without a huge umbrella in Ireland.

Brad's suggestions are perfect. I also like the idea of waterproof pants. I didn't have them and my pants got soaked. It was not such a big deal in August, but in November it could be pretty nasty. If you decide to skip the waterproof pants, I would advise you not to take jeans. They take forever to dry.

I would never bring an umbrella for the reasons given. If you have a good hood, you don't need one.

And make absolutely sure you get waterproof, not water resistant. It makes a huge difference.

i always keep a small umbrella in my daypack and a north face water repellant (not water resistant but repellant) wind breaker type jacket that rolls up to also keep in the daypack...

Gore-tex is fabulous. The spray waterproof stuff is good. I highly recommend the "smart wool" socks! Mine were a lifesaver with Vasque gore-tex hikers. I also love these hiking shoes (low tops) they feel like really supportive tennis shoes.They are truly waterproof. I don't know about you, but if my feet get cold or wet I am done in. The smart wool socks are a bit pricey but are soft and warm and wick away moisture. Happy Trails.
(p.s. yes on the umbrella)

They are a pain to pack, but I brought wellies (rain boots) with me to Ireland this past March. I was so glad I ended up bringing them; I was able to fully explore outside in the fields without worrying about getting my shoes all wet and muddy.

What I did was wear them onto the plane, and then once on the plane I took them off and just wore comfy socks.

Wellies! A good idea but would they not be big for packing? Maybe you could by a cheap pair over here?

As for an umbrella, I agree with maybe a small umbrella but do not attempt to bring it to the Cliffs of Moher!

Alternatively another weather proofing item we have here in Ireland are roofs, We have them on most buildings and especially useful on pubs!! stops the drops ruining the head of your Guinness!

After 5 weeks in Ireland & UK during June -
We selected clothing that would also work during
periods of no rain. Two pairs of shoes (one a tennis
or similar) Waterproof or water-resistent lite jacket. Umbrella for each person. Wide brim water-
resistent hat = geat for rainy days & hot/sunny days.

When we traveled to the UK at Christmas time, the only change was a warmer jacket, knitted hat & gloves.

Enjoy
Dale