What to look for in a raincoat?

I have my eye on these two, but Elizabeth P's experience has me cautious. I want a raincoat that is actually a raincoat. It doesn't have to be completely waterproof, but I do want to wear it in light to moderate rain and be able to stay reasonably dry. Not to take an hour long walk in the rain, but running errands, into and out of stores, I want to stay dry or why bother?

Neither of these describes the level of protection, whether they are waterproof, water resistant or nothing much at all. One is 100% polyester and one is a cotton-poly blend. How can I tell?

I don't like the stiff, crunchy fabric some raincoats seem to have, or the rubbery fully waterproof kind either. I want a soft "hand" but definitely water resistant. Is there such a thing? Any ideas what to look for, or specific recs would be appreciated!

Nordstrom

Lauren Ralph Lauren A-Line Raincoat (Regular & Petite) (Nordstrom Exclusive)

$198.00 $148.49

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Nordstrom

Calvin Klein Double Breasted Trench Coat

$158.00

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8 years ago

Diana

Veteran

In my experience the water resistant/proof ones will say so on the description bc it's a big selling point. I wouldn't buy one that did not say so.

Other things I look for are either a collar that I can turn up, or a hood - helps prevent your neck from getting wet! packable is nice but not strictly necessary.

ETA: I have an older version of this one (mine is double breasted and has no hood) and I like it. It's water resistant and so far has kept me pretty dry.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/vi.....ltback=632

Anonymous

Yeah, as Diana says...and not to sound like a big know-it-all, but DD works for North Face and comes home every night and tells me all sorts of random facts about jackets I'd never thought I'd want to know. Real waterproofing is seldom seen on your average jacket. Water resistant treatment is more common , but even then, your average department store trench coat is no more water resistant than your sweater Nylon is the best, cotton in anything will not be resistant at all. Nylon doesn't breathe though, and cotton will a bit. Go gear or go home

abc

I have an lover version of the CK one you linked to. I love it. I don't go out in torrential downpours but it serves my needs and with the removable lining it works for most seasons for me. I'm actually headed on a biz trip next week and it's the only outerwear I plan on taking. Mine is about 4 years old. Washes well too. Good luck. I guess it depends on how waterproof you need it to be. This one fits my moderate needs.

Firecracker (Sharan)

I have last year's version of the Calvin Klein coat, and it's fine for Seattle weather. With the lining, it works for me through our winter, and I usually don't bother with an umbrella. It works fine for exactly the type of use you are describing, Peri. The RL coat is such a pretty color, though! And I imagine it would be comparable.

gryffin

Peri - I also own the CK lined hooded trench. Hum, must be at leasta 4 yr old. I do always carry an umbrella so I don't expect it to keep me dry, but I've never had any issue with it. It's one of those magical less expensive coats that behaves like a much more expensive brand. Perfect placement and size on hoodm belt, sleeves, pockets. Great removable lining. So stylish and elegant that my 22 yo receptionist asked me where I got it and bought one for herself! FWIW, great coat if you are not hiking and trekking where you need true waterproof material in which case I would vote with lisap go for gear. This is also 4 seasons with the zip out lining. Great piece!!

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Try the Gallery brand and size down.

Peri

Okay! I added this one and ordered all 3!

Gallery Two Tone Long Silk Look Raincoat (Regular & Petite)

$210.00 $139.90

rachylou

For a real raincoat, I buy the ones at the hardware store. Lol. Not hip.

Bonnie

I'm sure you'll like one of the raincoats you ordered. I just ordered a Travelsmith raincoat that is highly rated because I want a packable one for travel and everyday.

Sal

My last coats have been Marmot. This is the new version of the current one.

http://marmot.com/products/det.....jacket-new

I wear them for wet weather walking, sports viewing, hiking, and even sometimes as a wind resister.

Yes they look like gear but I think they are quite cute.

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