Best Waterproof Jackets for Walking & Hiking (UK-Tested Picks)
A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you’ll take for a hike. Because outdoors lovers know that some of the best walks can happen under grey skies!
The challenge is finding the perfect jacket that’s right for you, especially with different waterproof ratings, fabrics, and features to consider. For a quick loop after work or a full day out in the hills, a wild and wet adventure in the countryside or a wind whipped coastal walk, they can need different layers to match the occasion.
So we've rounded up some of the best waterproof jackets for men and women, across a range of styles and price points to suit different budgets and hiking habits, to help you find which one is the one for you.
What Features Make a Good Hiking Waterproof Jacket
As we discussed in our how to choose a waterproof jacket guide, there are two main features that come into play when looking at hiking jackets:
- Waterproof: How much rain the fabric can hold back before it lets water through, shown by the mm hydrostatic head rating
- Breathability: How well the fabric lets built-up sweat and moisture escape, so you stay comfortable as you climb and cover the miles
Then you've got supporting features like:
- Stretch: How freely the fabric moves with you, which may become more important if you're planning a particularly energetic hike or one that involves lots of climbing
- Packability: How easily the jacket folds down and fits into your backpack when you’re not wearing it
Plus, you might also place value on insulation, particularly if you're a big hiker throughout the colder months.
Which of these features matters most to you will usually come down to how and when you hike. Think of your usual hiking conditions as the constant, and the features as the variables you’re weighing up against it.
For example:
- If you hike regularly in moderate to heavy rain, that's your fixed point, and so the waterproof rating (the variable) should be high enough to handle such weather.
- But if you're hiking in spring or summer months only, now that's your fixed point, so you will likely only need to wear the jacket for short bursts, so the variable of ease of carry, aka packability, becomes the most essential.
So sometimes you will be trading off a slightly higher waterproof rating for the packability if you need to keep within a budget, or you may love a softshell jacket, so you're willing to invest in that. Or you might be planning on wearing it for the whole hike, and the highest tech is what you're prioritising the most.
With all that in mind, let's look at some of the top picks for waterproof walking jackets available at Avenue 85 right now, with a mix of those features across the board. So you can compare and contrast, and see which one is the best for you and the type of walking you love to do.
Best Women's Waterproof Jackets for Walking
Starting with our women's walking jackets, and there's lots of choice from some fantastic outdoor brands.
The table below shows a snapshot of the jackets side by side, with those key features we mentioned, so you can start to see which one is looking most likely as the best option for you.
|
Product |
Waterproof rating |
Breathability rating | Stretch | Packable | RRP |
| 5,000mm | 5,000 g/m²/24 hours | × | ✔ | £50.00 | |
| 8,000mm | 3,000mvp | ✔ | × | £125.99 | |
| 15,000mm | 15,000 g/m²/24 hours | × | ✔ | £70.00 | |
| 15,000mm | 15,000 g/m²/24 hours | ✔ | × | £120.00 | |
|
Craghoppers Womens National Trust Cinquefoil Waterproof Jacket |
20,000mm | 30,000 g/m²/24hours | × | × | £125.00 |
| 15,000mm | 15,000 g/m²/24 hours |
✔ |
× | £100.00 | |
| 20,000mm | 30,000 g/m²/24hours | × | × | £200.00 |
Regatta Womens Pack It III Waterproof Packable Jacket
Best for: Budget-conscious walkers who want a lightweight, packable jacket for occasional showers rather than sustained, heavier rain
Key Features for Hiking
- Waterproof rating: 5,000mm
- Breathability rating: 5,000 g/m²/24 hours
- Lightweight polyamide fabric
- Durable water repellent finish
- Adjustable shockcord hood
- Packs away into stuff sack
- 6 colours across sizes 8 to 26
Any hikers on a budget tend to love this Regatta waterproof!
Trespass Womens Bele II Waterproof Softshell Jacket
Best for: Hikers who love a comfy, good-looking softshell jacket with reliable waterproofing to match
Key Features for Hiking
- Waterproof rating: 8,000mm
- Breathable: 3,000mvp
- Windproof
- Adjustable zip off hood
- 3 zip pockets
- Flat cuff with tab adjuster
- 94% polyester, 6% elastane
- 4 colour choices across sizes 2XS to 2XL
For UK hikers and coastal walkers, the Bele II is a mid-range choice that provides reliable waterproof protection for everyday sort of rain, with some breathability built in to help manage the airflow as you walk.
As stretch fabric has been included, your upper body and arm movements are more naturally supported, which is great for those more active hikes. The windproofing is also a plus, particularly for when you're up in the hills or by the ocean.
Softshell jackets are often popular with hikers due to their typical comfort, and when they are waterproof like this one, even better!
Regatta Womens Corinne IV Waterproof Packaway Jacket
Key Features for Hiking
- Waterproof rating: 15,000mm
- Breathability rating: 15,000 g/m²/24 hours
- Durable water repellent finish with taped seams
- Mesh lined
- Concealed hood with adjusters
- Reflective trim
- 2 zipped lower pockets
- Packaway (lower left side pocket converts into belt bag)
- Lightweight 100% polyamide fabric - 80 gsm
- 15 colour choices across sizes 8-26
The main draw with the Corinne IV is its packability combined with its high waterproof rating.
With a hydrostatic head rating of 15,000mm, it delivers more substantial rain protection than the average packable jacket, so it's not just for those short bursts of wet weather. It makes for a great choice for anyone who wants the convenience of being able to leave it in your backpack when needed, but still desires an unpredictable UK weather ready level of waterproofing!
Complementing its ability to keep you dry is its ability to keep you cool with its equally high breathability, plus its mesh lining. You've also got a couple of zipped pockets, and plenty of colours and sizes to shop from. Fantastic features all round.
Dare 2b Womens Ultralite Waterproof Jacket
Best for: Hikers who have lightweight at the top of their features priority list, but still value the high waterproofing tech to keep them dry
Key Features for Hiking
- Waterproof rating: 15,000mm
- Breathability rating: 15,000g/m²/24 hours
- Windproof
- Durable water repellent fabric finish & fully taped seams
- 360 degree stretch fit and advanced articulation
- Commercial grade abrasion resistant fabric
- Reflective technology maximises visibility as you move
- Grown on hood with a technical wired peak & an adjuster to the back
- UV shielding (UPF) of 50+
- 3 colour choices across sizes 8 to 20
It's in the name with this one: ultra-light!
Walkers who are on the hunt for a lightweight waterproof jacket will find a lot to like here. Especially as you don't have to sacrifice weather protection for portability, because Dare 2B has given the jacket some high tech, with waterproofing and breathability both sitting at 15,000; great for heavier rain and longer hikes.
The freedom of movement that walkers need to retain is also factored in with the 360-degree stretch fit, so whether you twist and turn, jump up, dash across fields, climb up and over obstacles, the material should move with you and not restrict your actions. A must for those who love to make the most of their time outdoors and all it brings.
Craghoppers Womens National Trust Cinquefoil Waterproof Jacket
Best for: Hikers who want high-performance waterproofing and breathability for longer walks in wet UK weather
Key Features for Hiking
- Waterproof rating: 20,000mm
- Breathability rating: 30,000g/m2/24hrs
- Adjustable hem
- Regular fit
- 5 pockets
- 26" length
- Grown on hood with drawcord adjusters to front
- Weight: 630g
- 2 colour choices across sizes 8 to 20
Regular hikers who don’t let a rainy forecast put them off may find this Craghoppers jacket a winner!
A 20,000mm waterproof rating and 30,000g/m²/24hrs breathability takes the Cinquefoil towards the higher-performance end of this list, so it’s a jacket that’s well-suited to the heavier, wetter weather we can often see in the UK. It's also got adjustable features to help you get the fit just right, with plenty of pockets too.
It’s a little more substantial in weight than some of the lightweight packaway options on our list, but it’s one you’ll likely be wearing from beginning to end of your walk, so the higher-performance, reliable protection is what you’re prioritising here.
Regatta Womens Birchdale II Waterproof Jacket
Best for: Walkers who want a highly waterproof jacket with plenty of freedom of movement
Key Features for Hiking
- Waterproof rating: 15,000mm
- Breathability rating 15,000 g/m²/24 hours
- Durable water repellent finish with taped seams
- VisionAlign Hood Performance - A technical fitting hood construction that dynamically syncs with your head to give un-restricted view whilst in motion
- Articulated sleeves for enhanced range of movement
- Water repellent centre front zip with inner zip guard & drainage channel
- 2 zipped lower pockets
- Adjustable shock cord hem
- 100% recycled polyester stretch fabric - 165 gsm
- 12 colours across sizes 8 to 22
The Birchdale II is a great all-rounder, with the waterproofing and breathability that’s well-equipped for UK weather and the rain it tends to bring with it. You'll stay dry as you hike, with the rain staying on the outside of the jacket, and the airflow being nicely managed within.
There’s lots been included to help you move comfortably too, with articulated sleeves and stretch fabric part of the design. The technical hood is another hiker-ready feature, made so your view isn’t restricted while you’re on the go.
We also have to mention the huge range of colour choices that's typical of Regatta! The brand knows people love to find something that suits their personal style, and outdoor clothing is no different. So you can go for something bright or something neutral, or something in-between, whatever feels most like you.
Craghoppers Womens Orrest Waterproof Jacket
Best for: Autumn and winter walks where extra warmth is welcome
Key Features for Hiking
- Waterproof rating: 20,000mm
- Breathability rating: 30,000g/m2/24hrs
- Warmth rating 2 - Enhanced mid level insulation
- Zipped security pocket
- O/S map pocket
- Adjustable hem
- 2 colour choices across sizes 8 to 20
Craghoppers has designed the Orrest for colder walks in UK weather, where staying warm is just as important as keeping the rain out. The slight trade-off becomes that the built-in insulation does make it less versatile for use across the year, but as a warm waterproof jacket, it does exactly what’s needed.
You've got those high waterproof ratings again, similar to other jackets on this list, and this tech is complemented by the warmth from the insulation. Breathability comes in at a seriously impressive 30,000g/m2/24hrs too, which helps keep that balance between staying warm and having that overly clammy feeling that comes when you work up a sweat on a hike.
Alongside the weather protection, you've got multiple pockets, and an adjustable hem to help with the fit overall. A fantastic choice for those willing to invest a little more to get the protection and warmth.
Best Men's Waterproof Jackets for Walking
Moving onto the gents, and we've got another stellar line-up of waterproof jackets that are great for hikers up and down the UK.
The table below gives you a quick snapshot of how the men's picks compare before we get into the picks:
|
Product |
Waterproof rating |
Breathability rating | Stretch | Packable | RRP |
| 15,000mm | 15,000 g/m²/24 hours | × | ✔ | £70.00 | |
| 15,000mm | 15,000 g/m²/24 hours |
✔ |
× | £70.00 | |
| 5,000mm | 5,000 mvp |
× |
✔ |
£59.99 | |
| 20,000mm | 30,000 g/m²/24 hours | ✔ | × | £160.00 | |
| 30,000mm | 30,000 g/m²/24 hours | ✔ | × | £100.00 | |
| 20,000mm | 20,000 g/m²/24 hours | ✔ | × | £100.00 | |
| 15,000mm | 15,000 g/m²/24 hours | ✔ | × | £120.00 |
Regatta Mens Lyle IV Waterproof Jacket
Best for: Regular walkers wanting reliable rain protection in a lightweight design that packs away neatly into a rucksack
Key Features for Hiking
- Waterproof rating: 15,000mm
- Breathability rating 15,000 g/m²/24 hours
- Durable water repellent finish
- Part mesh, part polyester taffeta lining
- Concealed hood with adjusters
- Reflective trim
- 2 zipped lower pockets
- Adjustable shock cord hem
- Packaway - lower left side pocket converts into belt bag
- Lightweight 100% polyamide fabric - 80 gsm
- 20 colour choices across sizes Small to 5XL
This is the level of weather protection you’d want from your waterproof jacket if you're a regular hiker, and you've got the added benefit here of the Lyle IV being packable. The best of both worlds, some might say!
At 15,000mm, it will keep you dry during any wet weather you might face on your walks, and the breathability to match helps with the general comfort; particularly over longer distances or if it's a particularly active trail. You've got also secure pockets, an adjustable hem to get the fit right, plus it remains lightweight.
Regatta gives you lots of choice with the colour and size you want to go for, and it's got a nice, neutral overall design that will team up nicely with your outdoor clothing.
Regatta Mens Moutdale Waterproof Softshell Jacket
Best for: Those who walk regularly and want the perfect blend of a softshell with waterproof credentials
Key Features for Hiking
- Waterproof rating: 15,000mm
- Breathability rating: 15,000g/m²/24 hours
- Durable water repellent finish
- 98% polyester; 2% elastane
- 6 colour choices across sizes small to 5XL
The Moutdale brings softshell comfort to the men's waterproof jacket category, with a small amount of elastane added for stretch and a more relaxed fit.
The 15,000mm waterproof rating and matching breathability put it on par with several of the other shell jackets on this list, so you still get that reliable weather protection out on the trails, just as a softshell. It looks the part too, with a nice, versatile design that can also be used for other outdoor activities or even everyday life.
Regatta is known for bringing fantastic choice to outdoor lovers, and any hikers who have been seeking out a waterproof softshell can end their search here!
Trespass Qikpac Waterproof Packaway Jacket
Best for: Walkers who want an ultra-compact lightweight jacket that will keep them dry in any unexpected showers along the way
Key Features for Hiking
- Waterproof rating: 5,000mm
- Breathability rating: 5000mvp
- Windproof
- Full elasticated cuff and hems for a more comfortable fit
- Dimensions once packed in bag: Length - approx. 17.5cm Circumference - approx. 33.5cm
- 3 colours across sizes 3XS - 3XL
The Qikpac is designed around one main idea: packing down as small as possible. Once folded away, this jacket is easy to keep in your backpack when you're on the move, so it's great for hikers who like to stay prepared.
Trespass has kept the design simple and neutral, and this helps with its versatility. You can grab it out of your backpack whenever needed, and it will zip up nicely over any fleeces or baselayers you've currently got on. This is one of the reasons why hikers love it!
At 5,000mm, the waterproofing is more modest than some others on the list (such as the packable Lyle IV discussed above), and it works best as a lightweight waterproof jacket for more showery type weather, if you’re only planning a short hike, or you want something versatile to store as a backup for multiple outdoor adventures.
Dare 2b Mens Torrek Breathe Out Waterproof Jacket
Best for: Hikers who tend to cover a lot of distance or steep climbs, and need high tech to help them stay dry and comfy
Key Features for Hiking
- Waterproof rating: 20,000mm
- Breathability rating: 30,000g/m²/24 hours
- 2.5 layer lightweight stretch fabric
- Durable water repellent fabric finish
- Fully taped seams
- Underarm ventilation zips
- Chest pocket with water repellent zip
- Adjustable cuffs & hem
- 8 colour choices across Small to 3XL
The Torrek is a popular choice for hiking in the UK because it combines a high level of waterproof protection with very high breathability, so you know you will be kept dry in most weather that you might face out on the trails.
It does sit at a slightly higher price point than some others on this list, but when you start totting up all that it delivers, it earns its place there. It's got lots of hiker-approved features, such as the underarm ventilation zips that help the airflow to keep you cool, and the stretch fabric is also great for matching your movement during a hike.
If the weather (and your activity levels) will likely put your outer layer through its paces, this may be the one to opt for as it will give you that invaluable peace of mind.
Craghoppers Mens Ponsa Waterproof Jacket
Best for: Hikers who want it all: top waterproofing, breathability, stretch, and storage in one jacket
Key Features for Hiking
- Waterproof rating: 30,000mm
- Breathability rating: 30,000g/m2/24hrs
- Stretch fabric
- Adjustable hem
- Slim fit
- 30" length
- Grown on hood with drawcord adjusters to front & back and peak insert
- Zipped security pocket & O/S map pocket to outer
- Weight: 500g
- 5 colour choices across sizes Small to 2XL
When you think of a walking jacket, you think of something like the Ponsa, because it truly is outdoors-ready. High waterproof rating, high breathability rating, stretch fabric, lots of pockets, adjustability... it's ticking all the right boxes for regular hikers.
Looks wise, it's everything you expect Craghoppers to be: smart and stylish. There are adjustable features on the hem and the hood, plus it comes in a slim fit design, with a few different colours to pick from too.
Do you love taking on the wetter, wilder end of UK walking? This is the type of sturdy waterproof jacket that matches the challenge!
Regatta Mens Birchdale II Waterproof Jacket
Best for: Those who want a strong all-rounder for all types of weather
Key Features for Hiking
- Waterproof rating: 20,000mm
- Breathability rating: 20,000 g/m²/24 hours
- Durable water repellent finish with taped seams
- Grown on technical hood with adjusters
- Articulated sleeves for enhanced range of movement
- Water repellent centre front zip with inner zip guard & drainage channel
- 100% recycled polyester stretch fabric - 165 gsm
- 16 colour choices across sizes Small to 5XL
The Regatta Birchdale II is one of the more technical men's waterproof jackets on this list, with an impressive waterproof and breathability rating. A 20,000mm hydrostatic head rating makes for a strong all-rounder; keeping you dry whether it’s a bit of light rain or the heavens truly do open.
The stretch fabric is also worth noting, as this is a handy feature for those who take on more steeper climbs or often find themselves needing more of a give in the material. You've also got articulated sleeves to help with this mobility too, so all in all, it is a solid pick for adventurous, ready-to-go hikers.
Similar to other Regatta jackets on this list, you have a huge range of colours to pick from, so you can go for something neutral like a black or navy, or there are also brighter shades to choose.
Regatta Mens Maland Insulated Waterproof Jacket
Best for: Cold-weather hikers who don’t want to let cold temperatures cut their walks short
Key Features for Hiking
- Waterproof rating: 15,000mm
- Breathability rating 15,000g/m²/24 hours
- Durable water repellent finish
- Insulation weight - 140gsm
- 2 zipped lower and 2 zipped chest pockets
- 100% polyester stretch fabric - 165gsm
- 3 colour choices across sizes Small to 3XL
Cold, wet weather doesn't have to mean staying indoors, and if you have the Regatta Maland, you don't need to worry about staying warm and dry when you're out exploring!
This jacket steps up with some fantastic waterproofing for hikers enjoying the UK weather in all its glory. At 15,000mm, it's pushing you up into those higher rating brackets, giving you more protection from the rain, and then the breathability comes in to help the general comfort. Then you've got the built-in insulation, which adds warmth that is perfect for taking on the winter air.
It is an outer layer that's made for the colder months of the year, so hikers will usually grab a packable jacket for the spring/summer hikes, then invest in this one as their main warm waterproof.
Best Waterproof Jackets for Walking FAQ
We've hopefully now given you some great jackets to add to your hiking clothing, and so before we wrap up, let us run you through the answers to a few commonly asked questions on all things waterproof walking jackets.
What is the best waterproof jacket for walking in the UK?
Different walks tend to call for different waterproof jackets, so it's difficult to dub one single jacket as the "best". It's usually "best for", i.e. best for a hiker on a budget.
For example, if you’re just heading out on a short hike on a dry day, a lightweight packable jacket in your backpack will likely be all you need. But if it’s a full-day hike in the wetter or colder months of the year, you want something with a high waterproof and breathability rating, stretch fabric, maybe some insulation.
To help you find which one is best for your situation, we've listed out lots of choices across price points, waterproof ratings, supporting features, and more.
What is the difference between a waterproof and water-resistant jacket?
A waterproof jacket is designed to keep you dry in different types of wet weather, whereas a water-resistant jacket is limited to just very light drizzle.
The hydrostatic head rating (that’s the mm figure you’ll see listed) tells you how much water pressure a waterproof fabric can hold back before it gives in. It needs to be at least 1,500mm to qualify as waterproof under general industry standards. The higher the rating, the wetter the weather it will protect you from. If you'd like to learn a bit more about the differences, we've covered it in our full guide to waterproof vs water resistant.
Given how quickly we all know that the weather can turn here in the UK, a waterproof jacket tends to be the safe bet for hiking!
What waterproof rating do I need for walking and hiking?
For most UK walking and hiking, a waterproof rating of 10,000mm to 20,000mm is recommended, as it will keep you dry against more prolonged rain and wet conditions.
However, if you’re heading out for shorter routes or you mostly hike in the drier months, you may wish to stick with something in the 5,000mm to 10,000mm range, as this will still offer protection through light showers.
And if you’re hiking somewhere exposed to the elements, there’s lots of wet weather expected, or you’re more of a year-round, all-conditions type hiker, you will want to be looking closer to the 20,000mm end of the waterproofing scale for peace of mind and the type of protection you’ll need.
Do I also need waterproof trousers for hiking?
Waterproof trousers are usually recommended as part of your walking kit, because a waterproof jacket only protects your top half, leaving your legs exposed to the wet weather.
You’ve got two options to consider:
- All-in-one waterproof walking trousers
- Waterproof overtrousers that are packable and go on top of your regular walking trousers (or shorts or leggings)
We’ve also rounded up some great picks for the best waterproof trousers for UK hikers to make things simple!
Shop the Best Waterproof Jackets for Hiking at Avenue 85
There you have it, our full round-up of the best waterproof jackets for walking and hiking.
As you can see, there’s no single winner here, as it all comes down to matching the features to how and when you hike. Maybe that’s a high waterproof rating for longer routes, easy packability for those just-in-case days, or a bit of insulation for the hardy cold-weather hikers out there.
So Regatta or Trespass, Craghoppers or Dare 2B, whichever jacket you’ve spotted that has got your name on it, you'll soon be sorted for your next hike. Explore our full range of walking jackets below, and we hope you enjoy your adventures outdoors!
About the Author
A dad to two energetic boys, James spends his weekends juggling football matches, skate parks, and Sunday afternoons at Disley’s very own Lyme Park. While he might not get to hit the golf course as often as he used to, he’s all in for family adventures in the great outdoors - coffee in hand and his favourite Ecco walking shoes on his feet. On the Avenue 85 blog, James loves to help other families make the most of their time outside by sharing his tried and tested tips, whether it’s finding the best waterproof jacket for a rainy day or discovering the best local walks that are perfect for little legs to explore!