The 5 Best Lightweight Waterproof Jackets for Women

We all have our favourite jackets. 

The comfy, cosy winter one you pull out when you can see your breath in the air. The one hanging by the door that you chuck on for walking the dog or pottering in the garden. And then there’s the one that’s just right for classic British weather — when it’s raining, but not quite cold enough for a big coat. 

The lightweight waterproof jacket.

A layer like that should be in everyone’s wardrobe, especially if you love hiking, camping, coastal walking, bike rides, climbing, or just getting on with your day when the weather can’t make up its mind. 

Our collections are stocked full of great options from brands we trust — which is brilliant, but it can also make it hard to choose. When everything says it’s waterproof and looks good on screen, how do you know which one’s actually right for you? 

So we’ve rounded up five of our top choices, with a mix of styles, budgets, and features, to help you find the one that fits how you like to get outdoors.

 

What to Look for in a Good Lightweight Waterproof Jacket

It’s important to note that “Best” can mean different things depending on what you need. 

You might need something that packs into a backpack, or something that keeps the rain out on school runs. Or maybe something that holds up on long hikes in the hills. 

But there are a few features that come up again and again in the jackets we trust most.

So here’s what’s worth checking:

• Waterproof rating: This is usually shown as a Hydrostatic Head (HH) number. It’s a good way to tell how well a jacket will cope in the rain. For general use, anything around 5,000–10,000mm is a solid start. Keen for more info? Check out our guide on waterproof vs water-resistant.
• Breathability: You know that clammy, sweaty feeling you sometimes get in a waterproof? That’s usually because the fabric doesn’t let moisture out. A decent breathability rating means you’ll stay cooler and more comfortable.
• Fit: A decent fit makes a big difference. Most lightweight waterproofs are designed to sit just below the hips and allow room for layering. Some run longer, some more fitted — it’s worth thinking about how you’ll wear it and what with.
• Useful features: Zip pockets. A proper zip with a storm flap. A hood that stays up when it’s windy. These are the things that make a jacket much nicer to wear when it’s wet.
• Adjustability: Toggles, drawcords, Velcro — being able to tighten or loosen things around the hood, cuffs, or waist helps the jacket move with you and block out wind and water.
• Taped seams: Not the flashiest feature, but an important one. These stop water sneaking in through the stitching.
• Packability: If you want something you can throw in a backpack or keep in the car, it helps if it packs down small, especially if you’re short on space or always on the go.

You might not need every feature. But these are some good things to keep in mind when you're searching for your new favourite.

 

Our 5 Best Womens Waterproof Lightweight Jackets

 

1. Regatta Womens Pack It III Waterproof Packable Jacket

Best for: Everyday wear, commuting, camping, dog walks, keeping in the car

Key Features:

• Waterproof rating: 5,000mm
  
• Breathability: 10,000g/m²/24hrs
  
• Packable: Yes — packs into its own stuff sack
  
• Fabric & finish: Waterproof Isolite 5000 polyamide with durable water-repellent finish
  
• Adjustability: Shockcord-adjustable hood
  
• Pockets: Two side pockets
  
• Fit/design details: Longer hem (71–81cm depending on size)
  
• Sizes available: 8–26
  
• Colours available: 7 choices including Blue, Grey, Pink
• RRP: £50

 

Why We Like It

Up first on our list is one of our most popular jackets from Regatta. This British brand is known for its versatile women’s outdoor clothing, and you can always rely on them to do the basics really well.

This one’s designed specifically as a packable jacket, so it’s a fantastic option for anyone who loves hiking, camping, or just wants to keep something handy in the car or bag for unexpected showers. It’s got a decent waterproof rating, especially for the price, and packs away into its own little stuff sack.

Style-wise, it goes just as well with a jumper and leggings as it does with waterproof trousers and wellies. The slightly longer length gives you a bit more coverage than some other lightweight jackets, and you’ve got a good range of colours to choose from.

It’s simple, practical, and ticks a lot of boxes for an everyday waterproof you can rely on.

 

2. Craghoppers Womens Caldbeck II Waterproof Jacket

Best for: Long walks, travel, year-round wear, changeable weather

Key Features:

• Waterproof rating: 20,000mm
  
• Breathability: 30,000g/m²/24hrs
  
• Packable: No
  
• Fabric & finish: Recycled polyester stretch fabric with AquaDry membrane; PFC-free DWR
  
• Adjustability: Grown-on hood with adjusters, inner drawcord waist, stud-adjustable cuffs
  
• Pockets: Six — including zipped security pocket and OS map pocket
  
• Fit/design details: 29" length, dropped hem, articulated sleeves
  
• Sizes available: 8–20
  
• Colours available: Red Sandstone, Blue Navy, Wild Olive
• RRP: £160

Why We Like It

Next up is the Caldbeck from outdoor and travel clothing brand Craghoppers.

The first thing we noticed about this one is how thoughtfully it’s been designed. Everything works together: from the stretch fabric that’s great for walking with poles or dogs, to the multiple pockets (including a handy security zipped one for valuables), to the adjustable hood that actually stays put when the rain hits.

With a serious waterproof rating, and high breathability to match, it's a great pick if you’re out in all sorts of weather. The fit feels secure but not heavy, and it layers well — ideal if you’re walking year-round or heading off on trips where you’ll get a bit of everything.

It’s at the higher end of the price range, but if you’re looking for something built to handle proper weather and built to last, it’s one to have on your radar.

 

 

3. Trespass Womens Quikpac Packable Waterproof Jacket

Best for: Hiking, weekend wear, throwing in your backpack

Key Features:

• Waterproof rating: 5,000mm
  
• Breathability: 5,000g/m²/24hrs
  
• Packable: Yes — folds into its own pouch
  
• Fabric & finish: Waterproof polyester with taped seams
  
• Adjustability: Grown-on hood with adjusters
  
• Pockets: Two zipped side pockets
  
• Fit/design details: Slightly fitted cut
  
• Sizes available: 2XS–2XL
  
• Colours available: Black, Navy, Peach Blush, Moss
• RRP: £59.99

Why We Like It

It’s no surprise we’ve included a Trespass waterproof jacket on this list, as reliable waterproofs are truly at the heart of the British brand. And, for us, this one is everything you want from a packable jacket: light, practical, and looks great.

You can choose from great colours, and it has a simple sporty aesthetic, so it’ll slot into your outdoor wardrobe easily. We think it’s got a nice, slightly fitted shape, so it doesn’t tend to sit oversized or baggy. You can wear a fleece underneath or just stick with baselayers if the temperature’s not too breezy.

Store in your car or hiking backpack, and it’ll bring you peace of mind for all those wet weather days.

 

 

4. Berghaus Womens Deluge Pro 3.0 Waterproof Walking Jacket

Best for: Hikes, wet weather days, wearing year-round

Key Features:

• Waterproof rating: 15,000mm
  
• Breathability: 20,000g/m²/24hrs
  
• Packable: No
  
• Fabric & finish: Hydroshell waterproof shell with storm flap
  
• Adjustability: Adjustable hood
  
• Pockets: Two zipped hand pockets
  
• Fit/design details: Regular fit, suitable for layering
  
• Sizes available: 8–16
  
• Colours available: Dark Blue, Cavern Pink, Aura, Light Terrain
  
• RRP: £120

Why We Like It

If you love getting out into the hills or being along the coast, a proper waterproof jacket for walking is worth the investment. Berghaus is known for its spot-on designs, particularly when it comes to hiking clothing, so we love the Deluge Pro as an option for more serious walkers.

It’s structured enough, and packed with enough technical features, to hold up in heavier rain, but still has that lightweight feeling that makes it adaptable year-round. Layer it with a fleece in winter or throw it on over a t-shirt and leggings for a summer walk that looks like it might end in a downpour.

Hiking in all weather often gives you the best memories (and the best stories), but staying dry is usually what makes them enjoyable. This jacket isn’t the cheapest on the list, but if you’re often out in the rain, it’ll more than earn its place in your kit.

5. Dare 2b Womens Torrek Hooded Waterproof Walking Jacket

Best for: Hiking, Technical performance, All-weather outdoor activities

Key Features:

• Waterproof rating: 30,000mm (ARED 30/30)
  
• Breathability: 30,000g/m²/24hrs
  
• Packable: No
  
• Fabric & finish: Recycled waterproof and breathable stretch fabric with water-repellent finish; taped seams; recycled mesh inner lining
  
• Adjustability: Adjustable cuffs and hem; wired peaked hood with high collar and adjusters
  
• Pockets: Two zipped lower pockets, one zipped chest pocket, one internal zipped pocket
  
• Fit/design details: Articulated sleeves for enhanced movement
  
• Sizes available: 8–20
  
• Colours available: Berry Neon Pink, Moonlight Denim
• RRP: £140

 

Why We Like It

Dare 2B is a brand all about pushing the limits, bringing you the best-looking, most-innovative gear for your adventures. The Torrek is one of their popular ranges, and so it just makes sense that it’s part of our round-up.

It’s probably the most technical jacket on this list, and you feel that in the details. Starting with the seriously impressive waterproof and breathability rating, then going into the finer design points like the high collar and adjustable cuffs, and rounding it off with plenty of zipped pockets inside and out. 

For anyone wanting a lightweight waterproof jacket that focuses on performance, the Torrek steps up.

 

How to Choose the Right Womens Lightweight Raincoat for You

All five jackets on this list are waterproof, practical, and worth considering — but the right one for you depends on how you’re planning to use it.

• Want the best waterproof protection?
  Go for the Dare 2b Torrek or the Craghoppers Caldbeck II. Both have high waterproof and breathability ratings, and are built for all-day wear in proper weather.
  

• Need something packable?
  The Regatta Pack-It III and Trespass Quikpac both fold down small, making them great for commuting, camping, or chucking in a backpack just in case.
  

• Looking for comfort and movement on long walks?
  The Berghaus Deluge Pro 3.0 gives you space to layer and a bit more structure, without feeling heavy. It’s a good all-rounder for year-round walks.
  

• Sticking to a budget?
  The Regatta and Trespass options are both under £60 — affordable, but still waterproof enough for everyday use.
  
  

The table below lays out the key info side by side, so you can quickly compare and see which one ticks the right boxes for you.

 

Final Thoughts

A bit of drizzle, a lot of wind, or a full-on downpour — once you’ve got a jacket you trust, you’re good to go. As we wrap up our list of best womens waterproof lightweight jackets, we hope you have spotted a new favourite jacket to add to your wardrobe!

If you have, you'll find it linked above, or, alternatively, check out our full womens packable jackets collection for some more brilliant choices.

 

 

About the Author

Jen is our in-house writer here at Avenue 85, with a lifelong love of the great outdoors and all it brings. She’s spent years travelling all over the world, hiking through hills and up volcanoes, camping under the stars, and figuring out how to pack for every kind of weather — but still swears British rain is the most unpredictable of the lot! From understanding just how waterproof is waterproof to reviewing the best pair of boots, Jen’s here to help you make sense of the gear you’re wearing and get more out of every jacket, layer, and feature.