In the UK, you can’t necessarily count on sunshine and blue skies, which is why it’s imperative to have a decent raincoat on hand. While a proper waterproof can be expensive (if it does the job well), it’s well worth the investment if you can find one that’s functional throughout the year and works well with your wardrobe.
Best high street waterproof coats in 2022
I’ve put together six of my absolute favourite raincoats that cover a few different styles, shapes and price points to hopefully make that decision a bit easier.
Uniqlo’s Blocktech jacket
First up is this classic waterproof coat from Uniqlo. Excellent value, this raincoat with its straight, simple shape and minimal design is water-repellent, windproof and lightweight so perfect for all-weather conditions.
Wear it with: Styled right this coat looks great with sports or gym gear, as well as jeans and trainers if you have to head out in the drizzly rain.
Arket’s rain coat
At £135, this waterproof raincoat is on the more expensive side but it’s a great investment. I love the slightly oversized design that goes below the knee, with a drawstring hood meaning you’ll be pretty much fully covered in the rain.
Wear it with: Style it with some chunky waterproof rain boots. You’ll be indestructible.
Zara’s quilted puffer
The quilted puffer style raincoat is still a massive trend and this comfortable and super stylish one from Zara is reversible with one side plain black if you want to play it safe, and on the other a greenish, light brown.
Wear it with: Wear it with a matching tracksuit and trainers for an easy, casual daytime look or with jeans and boots for when it’s colder. Whether you’re going out for brunch, walking the dog or just popping to the shops, it’s got you covered. Literally.
Hunter’s waterproof smock jacket
Hunter is the first brand that springs to mind for good quality, British weather-proof clothing and at £135, their waterproof vinyl smock isn’t cheap but it’s certainly not unreasonable. Instead of the usual straight-up-and-down silhouette, this coat has a drawcord that cinches in the waist so the bottom half flares out and creates more of a defined shape. It’s fully waterproof but the fabric is quite thin so don’t expect it to keep you really warm on a frosty winter morning – this one’s perhaps better for those springtime showers.
Wear it with: Heading out for the evening and worried a sudden downpour might catch you out, but it’s too warm for a heavy winter waterproof? This raincoat’s your answer. Why? It’s lightweight enough to roll up in your bag, so it doesn’t need to dampen your style all night long. But will be an understated and sleek layer should you need it.
Rains’ Curve jacket
Rains is a self-styled ‘outerwear lifestyle brand’ and for me they really are one of the first brands to make practical outerwear cool. Their first product was a take on the classic rubber raincoat but they’ve since branched out, all with the intention of combining form with function and, of course, excellent quality. Their Curve jacket is perfect for those of us who don’t want a raincoat to look like a raincoat. In this neutral taupe colour, the Curve jacket plays on the traditional trench coat with big pockets and tie-up belt.
Wear it with: This one is great for dressier outfits as it looks a bit more formal. Whether it’s your workwear or something more fun on the weekend, throwing this on over the top won’t ruin your look. At £105, it’s still in the mid-section of the price scale. Win-win.
Rains’ waterproof cape
This is the Rains take on the classic rain poncho. At £95 this is also one of the more affordable options out there that doesn’t compromise on quality or style. Plus, you can bet you won’t see many other people in this. The minimal colourway is super sleek and because it’s a poncho you don’t have to worry about squashing the sleeves of jumpers or jackets.
However, if you do want the option of sleeves you can create these with the snap fastenings at the arms. Very versatile. It’s even practical for cycling thanks to the thumb loops which mean it won’t flap about while you’re on the go.
Wear it with: Layer up on top with oversized shirts, jumpers, and sweatshirts (you’ve got the room underneath!) and pair with leather skinnies or straight leg jeans below to balance out the silhouette.
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