When it comes to choosing a new waterproof jacket, the amount of choice can seem pretty daunting. It can take a while to filter through the many features and the reviews that come with them. Finding the right jacket as a woman can also be difficult due to the large variations in length and size. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the best waterproof jackets for women currently on the market.
It’s taken me a long time to find a good quality jacket that I’m happy with, but hopefully, with this guide, you can save some hours. I’ve focused heavily on jackets specifically designed for hiking, but these can also easily be used for other outdoor activities.
For a comprehensive overview on how to choose the best rain jacket, see my complete guide here.
Best women’s waterproof jackets
Outdoor Research Aspire – Best all-rounder
This lightweight shell jacket is extremely breathable and is a versatile choice for all round adventurers. The GORE-TEX fabric with Paclite product technology, keeps the wearer impeccably dry, from the inside out, while the TorsoFlo ventilation system on the side of the jacket allow for poncho-style ventilation when body heat needs to escape.
It’s optimized for mountain use and features fully taped seams, an internal front storm flap and a fully adjustable peaked hood. With a price tag of around £130/$170, you get a really good jacket for your money. One that will last for a long time.
Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket – Best eco jacket
The Torrentshell jacket is sleek, functional and unpretentious. Made from Patagonia’s H2No fabric, the coat delivers on waterproof and breathable standards and features venting pit zips; all with welted exterior storm flaps and water repellent treated zippers. The two-way-adjustable hood with a laminated visor rolls down and stows easily and at 301g, it’s lightweight and packable—folding down into a small zippable pouch.
Like all of Patagonia’s gear, this one gets good marks for its eco-design which includes a 100% recycled nylon face. While it’s not the most tailored fit, it delivers on the basics and at £90/$119, it’s a good jacket that won’t break the bank.
Berghaus Ridgemaster Jacket – Best on fit
The Ridgemaster is a classic all season Berghaus waterproof. Made out of waterproof and breathable 2L GORE-TEX®, it’s designed for long days of walking in the outdoors, whatever the weather. It’s one of the most robust jackets in the list but, still delivers on breathability. Features include a fully adjustable fixed hood, water-resistant front zip, three zipped pockets (including a large internal map pocket), and adjustable cuffs and hem.
Despite being slightly heavier than the Patagonia Torrentshell, at 487g, it packs down to the size of a small square notepad. It also delivered the best on fit—allowing ample movement and space for layers, but not baggy.
Marmot PreCip – Best on price
The Marmot Precip is a bit of dark horse. While it’s the cheapest jacket on the list, it delivers well on functionality. The jacket is lightweight, durable and compressible and features 100% taped seams that help seal out the elements. Made from NanoPro™ fabric, the jacket does a good job of keeping you warm and dry in strong winds and light rain. However, after five hours in the pouring rain, I found this jacket did start to seep a little water (most reviews don’t appear to have experienced this problem). Likewise, while the jacket does feature a drawcord hem and hood and cuff adjustments, the fit can appear a little boxy on some.
For £60/$79, this jacket is a very affordable option especially if you’re just planning light outdoor activities. But if you’re planning lots of day-long expeditions, you may want to consider the other options.
Alpkit Women’s Balance Jacket – Best lightweight
The Balance is a fantastic mountain walking jacket at a very competitive price (£175/$230). Featuring an uncomplicated design, Balance uses a 3L fabric with a special wicking knit backer to make it more comfortable next to the skin, a PU membrane for high waterproof breathable performance, and a durable nylon face fabric. At 270g, it’s incredibly lightweight but still performs on durability and features. The peaked hood is fully adjustable, and there are two map-sized hand pockets positioned above the waist belt.
Despite Alpkit being a newcomer to waterproofs, the Balance is a well designed, durable hiking jacket. Likewise, it gets a big bonus point for its fit. It’s shaped neatly, without being over-restrictive.
Verdict
Personally, I’m a big fan of the Berghaus Ridgemaster and that’s because it fits me so well. It’s simple and performs well even in the wettest weather. However, I was especially impressed with the Alpkit. Despite being a newcomer, the company has done a fantastic job with the Balance jacket and for its weight, I was amazed at its performance.
Disclosure: I only recommend equipment I love from companies I trust. I have not been paid to review any of the products listed above and am under no obligation to give positive reviews. This page contains affiliate links. Check out our terms page for more info.
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