Georgia 4-H Consumer Judging
Raincoats
Rainwear has come a long way since the days of the one-size-fits-all plastic poncho. Today, fabrics are
made with advanced technologies that make them waterproof, breathable, windproof, stylish, and much
more. Quality raincoats can be found in all kinds of designs and in a range of prices, from just a few
dollars to hundreds of dollars. A smart consumer needs to know what features are really useful in a
raincoat.
Raincoat Styles
The many styles of raincoats reflect the priorities of their owners. From designer trench coats to plastic
ponchos, there is a wide range of options when it comes to rainwear. Here are the main styles commonly
used today.
Ponchos
Despite their reputation as cheap rain gear, ponchos are the best choice of raingear in hot climates.
Ponchos are ideal for places where a raincoat with sleeves would be too hot, but a lightweight raincoat
would not stand up to a torrential downpour. They are also useful to cover items like backpacks. Ponchos
are most often made with heavy-duty plastic like PVC but there are also ponchos made with special
woven materials. Characteristics of quality ponchos include covered pockets, breathability, taped seams,
adjustable hoods, and thumb loops. They generally reach as far as the wearer’s knees for maximum
dryness and they fold up into a small lightweight square. Look for a poncho that comes with its own
pouch.
Anoraks
Unlike ponchos, anoraks are generally made for cold climates. Of all the types of rainwear, the anorak
usually has the most insulation. A true anorak is a pull-over hooded jacket, often with drawstrings at the
waist and the wrists. While the term is sometimes used interchangeably with "parka," a parka usually
opens in the front and may not be completely waterproof. Both anoraks and parkas are padded and
intended for cold weather.
Additionally, there is a style of anoraks that are known as “windproof” jackets or windbreakers. These
jackets are usually unlined and fold up into a pouch for travel.
Trench coats
Trench coats had their beginning in WWI as rainwear for army officers and soon became a fashionable
item. They are usually knee-length with a belt at the waist. Common colors are tan, beige, black, or olive
green but other colors are available. The trench coat style of rainwear has become a classic in the
wardrobes of professionals, both for men and women. It can be layered over almost any kind of clothing.
It is intended for mild climates and acts mainly as a buffer against wind and a barrier against rain. A
trench coat is a good choice for those who want functionality along with style.
Active wear
The most advanced technologies are used in raincoats designed for hikers, climbers, and other outdoor
sports enthusiasts. Many of these designs can be worn casually as well. They offer the highest degree of
protection and breathability, as well as convenience. Whether looking for an all-purpose raincoat for
casual use or a raincoat designed to be worn by those involved in strenuous activities, a quality raincoat
can be found in this category. They can be layered for increased versatility. On a cool day, active wear
raincoats can be worn with just a T-shirt. If it suddenly turns chilly, it can be paired with a sweatshirt or
long-sleeve shirt for added warmth. Since these raincoats are made for outdoor activities, breathability is
one of the most important characteristics of a quality raincoat in this category.
Quality Raincoat Features
Many features distinguish a quality raincoat from one that will leave you cold and wet. For example, even
if the waterproofing is good, rain can enter at the neck or seams. Baggy hoods can cover the eyes while
unprotected pockets will let valuable phones or cameras be damaged.
Here are the main features of high-quality raincoats.
Breathable Waterproofing in Raincoats
Rainwear is grouped into three broad categories: water resistant; waterproof, breathable; and waterproof.
The category you need depends on the amount of time you plan to be spending in the rain and the
intensity of your activity.
-Type 1: Water-Resistant Rainwear
This type of rainwear is designed to keep you dry in a drizzle or light rain. Water-resistant outerwear is
breathable and usually less expensive than waterproof, breathable outerwear. Soft shells and
windbreakers are two examples of water-resistant outerwear. T
-Type 2: Waterproof, Breathable Rainwear
Running, hiking, backpacking, kayaking…the list goes on. If you plan to exercise or play hard in the
outdoors and aren't scared off by a little rain, opt for outer garments that are both waterproof and
breathable.
Making a fabric waterproof, yet breathable, is highly complex. When raincoats are waterproof but not
breathable, body heat is trapped inside and make the wearer sweat, defeating the purpose of
waterproofing. Many different kinds of special fabrics have been developed to avoid this. The two main
kinds of waterproof fabrics are laminates and coated fabrics.
Laminated fabrics are more breathable and durable than coated fabrics. Because of this, they are usually
more expensive. Laminates are usually used in high-end garments for serious mountain climbers,
backpackers, paddlers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. Coated fabrics are more vulnerable to abrasions
so they are better suited for light activity such as day hikes or use around town. These coatings and
laminates have many names including System Three, HyVent, Gore-Tex, MemBrain, and NeoShell.
There are also many water-resistant, breathable, soft shell jackets available to the consumer. Sometimes
marketed as rainwear, they will usually not stand up to heavy rain. The advantages of such jackets are
breathability, portability, and price.
-Type 3: Waterproof Rainwear
The classic PVC vinyl rain jacket worn by your local crossing guard is an example of a non-breathable
rain jacket. These will keep you dry in low-impact activities like light walking around town. Many poncho
type raincoats are non-breathable. However, because it's open underneath, a poncho usually has some
ventilation, and is long enough to cover most of your lower torso.
Raincoat Comfort
There are several features that make a raincoat comfortable. These include:
Venting
Any kind of venting feature on rainwear improves breathability, regardless of fabric. Venting allows heat to
escape during activity to keep the wearer cooler and drier. Venting can be typically found under arms (pit
zips or mesh lining), on the back, in zippered, mesh-lined pockets.
Adjustability
Adjustable cuff closures, hoods, and cinch cords are ways of better sealing out rain, snow, and wind.
Adjustability also helps you customize your rain jacket fit.
Fit
The fit should encourage layering underneath, but shouldn't be too loose. Remember that you should be
able to cinch your rainwear down so it's snug enough if the weather turns. Move your arms, bend your
knees. A full range of motion is essential. Raincoats are also made to fit men, women and children
differently. Arm length, shoulder and chest measurements are different.
Lining
Many raincoats are designed with a lining to help keep wearers comfortable and warm. In some cases, a
lining may be thick enough to stand in for a winter jacket. Wearers who would like their rainwear to be a
bit more versatile can choose removable lining, so that it can be used in both cold and warm weather.
Style
Those who want rainwear for casual use do not necessarily want to look like they are prepared for a
hurricane or ready to go outdoor camping for a week. Even raincoats designed as activewear are made in
stylish designs that are not just for athletes. Wrinkle-resistant material is an important attribute of a
raincoat that can be used in a variety of situations. This is especially useful when the raincoat might be
stored for long periods in a car or bag. Those looking for a stylish raincoat may choose to shop for one
with an adjustable waist and detachable or hideaway hood.
Other Features
Other features that also set a quality raincoat apart from the rest are reinforced, taped seams, water-tight
zippered pockets, and two-way zippers. Taped seams seal the holes that are made when sewing fabrics
together. Seams may also be covered with a waterproof adhesive. Watertight, zippered pockets protect
cell phones, cameras, wallets, and other valuable items. Single or double storm flaps to cover zippers
offer more protection. Two-way zippers are often available in rainwear for added comfort and to aid in
ventilation if needed.
Raincoat Comparison
The features needed in a raincoat depend on the use. Durability might be the most important aspect for
one person while another wearer might value breathability. The following table can be used to help
narrow down options.
Use and Priorities
Light rain, formal occasions,
Type of Raincoat
Trench coat
business wear
Light rain, casualwear
Heavier rain, warm to hot
Moderate rain, all-purpose use
Waterproof or water-resistant material, style,
tailored fit
Active wear
Water-resistant, casual comfortable design,
breathable materials
Poncho
climates
Heavy rain, colder climates
Some Important Features
Adjustable hood, sleeves, waterproof woven
material
Anorak
Zippered ventilation for temperature
regulation
Heavier Active wear
waterproof pockets, taped seams, hood
Consumers need to look for quality rainwear to protect them from the elements. There are many types
available that offer both comfort and protection. By comparing types and features, every consumer can
find the perfect raincoat for their needs.
Prepared by:
Cheryl Varnadoe
Extension 4-H Specialist, Georgia 4-H
University of Georgia Extension
May, 2014