The very first rain jackets are widely attributed to Charles Macintosh. They owed their creation to the advent of rubber making processes in the 19th century, however, where previous attempts to manufacture rain jackets had painted a liquidized rubber solution that created a sticky and uncomfortable fabric, Macintosh had the genius idea of simply sandwiching a piece of rubber to create a waterproof membrane —and so the mackintosh was born.
Some 200 years later, raincoat evolution now takes in a wide range of innovative materials and designs, elevating the humble mac to a practical and stylish garment for any environment. However, with such a wealth of different materials to choose from, how do you know which is best for you? Here, we explore those questions and more, as well some of my expert tips on choosing the right raincoat for your application. Read on to learn more.
Why Material Choice Matters for Rain Jackets?
Waterproof fabric technology has come a long way since the earliest rain jackets made out of rubber, canvas or waxed cotton cloth. Today, you’ll find a wealth of advanced fabrics that offer superior protection and a wealth of other features. I would suggest considering the points below when selecting the right material for you.
- Waterproofing —The ability to keep you dry in heavy rain is the foundational feature of any rain jacket. However, depending on how you want to use it, certain materials will provide better protection than others.
- Breathability —You want a jacket that allows sweat vapor to escape while preventing water from entering. This is particularly useful when working or undertaking other activities.
- Durability — You don’t want your jacket to fail in a thunderstorm! Consider how long the jacket will last under regular use, especially in harsh weather conditions.
- Weight — From heavyweight to ultralight, the weight of your chosen jacket will be dictated by how you want to use it. Lighter jackets are ideal for backpackers, while heavier jackets are better for working.
- Comfort — Different fabrics offer varying levels of softness and stretch, contributing to overall comfort. Choose a jacket that feels comfortable and fits your needs.
Types of Rain Jacket Materials and Their Features
Whether you’re looking for a waterproof hi-vis for site working or you need a lightweight, stuffable jacket for your next hike, there’s a rain jacket material that will fit the bill. Below, we explore some of the most popular materials currently available.
- SealTex
SealTex is a waterproof material often used in heavy-duty rainwear and rain gear designed for industrial or marine environments. It is a type of PVC-based fabric that is known for being highly durable and fully waterproof, but it offers minimal breathability. This makes it ideal for use in settings where prolonged exposure to heavy rain is expected, but ventilation isn’t a priority.
2. Polyurethane (PU) Coated Fabrics
PU-coated fabrics are commonly used in waterproof jackets and raincoats. This laminate involves a thin layer of waterproof material being applied to the outer fabric, creating a barrier against water. While not as breathable as more advanced fabrics, PU coatings are more affordable and still provide excellent water resistance.
Check out this Charles River rain jacket for women that feature PU coating and windproof fabrics.
3. Polyester
Both nylon and polyester are common raincoat fabrics. Nylon is lightweight and durable, while polyester is more affordable and quicker to dry. Nylon jackets often have better water-repellent properties due to the DWR coating applied during manufacturing.
4. Softshell Fabrics
Softshell fabrics prioritize breathability over full waterproofing. These jackets are often water-resistant, meaning they can handle light rain but aren’t ideal for prolonged exposure to downpours. They’re typically used for activities requiring high mobility, like hiking or cycling.
5. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
PVC is a waterproof material commonly used in traditional raincoats and rain gear. While it’s 100% waterproof, it lacks breathability, making it best suited for short-term use in heavy rain.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rain Jacket Material
A good place to start when choosing a raincoat for your needs is to carefully consider the materials it is manufactured from. I would suggest thinking about the following.
Breathability
A breathable rain jacket allows perspiration to escape while keeping you dry from external water. This is important if you’re active in your rain jacket or wearing it for long periods. Softshell fabrics often have a breathable membrane.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing is arguably the most important feature of any raincoat. Materials like PU-coated fabrics and PVC are commonly used to create a waterproof jacket. Always check for a durable water repellent (DWR) finish on the outer layer to ensure long-lasting protection.
Durability
The durability of rainwear depends on the layer construction and the strength of the fabric. Materials like nylon and taffeta are more durable than polyester and PVC. If you need rain gear that will last through rough conditions, prioritize jackets made from resistant fabric.
Weight and Packability
For those who hike, travel, or cycle, a lightweight rain jacket is crucial. Fabrics like nylon and polyester tend to be lighter, whereas PVC and PU-coated fabrics can be bulkier.
Expert Tips for Choosing the Right Rain Jacket Material for Your Needs
Having supplied countless customers with the best rainwear over the years, there are a few things that I think are good to remember when choosing the right fit for you. Check out these expert tips I have compiled using feedback from our customers.
Assess Your Activity Level — If you’re engaging in high-intensity activities either on site or in challenging conditions, prioritize a breathable fabric with a breathable membrane. For lower-intensity or short-term outdoor use, PU-coated or PVC jackets are fine.
Balance Waterproofing and Breathability — High waterproofing can sometimes limit breathability, so choose materials that strike the right balance. For instance, softshell jackets offer moderate water-resistance while allowing more air circulation, making them ideal for active use.
Consider Durability Based on Environment — If you plan to be in challenging conditions, choose more durable outer fabric like nylon or ripstop fabrics. Nylon with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating is tough and water-resistant, ideal for long-term use.
Evaluate Weight and Packability — For hiking or travel, an ultralight rain jacket made from materials like nylon can offer waterproofing without adding unnecessary weight. Consider a packable design if portability is a priority.
Check for Extra Features — Look for features that enhance performance, such as taped seams, waterproof zips, and multi-layer construction. These details improve waterproofing and help prevent water from seeping in through vulnerable areas of the jacket.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice for Your Next Rain Jacket
Whatever type of material you go for, make sure that your rain jacket is well-designed and robust enough for your activities. This might mean features such as double stitching and windproofing for construction sites, or even fire retardant fabrics that can offer increased safety in challenging environments. Additionally, for even greater protection, explore our collection of waterproof trousers and outerwear here.
About the Author
Nick Warrick
Nick Warrick is the Sales Manager at All Seasons Uniforms. With over 15 years of experience in the work uniform business, he has worked with hundreds of clients across 20 different industries. Holding bachelor’s degrees in both Business Administration and Information Technology, Nick revamped the company’s online presence, offering its customers a new uniform shopping experience.