Raincoats

With so many different types of raincoats available, how do you know which is best? It can be a little bit of a minefield, but understanding some of the basics and key terms of rainwear technology can help you narrow down your search.

WOMEN'S RAINCOAT

A good women's raincoat will be ""waterproof"" rather than ""water-resistant"", as a waterproof raincoat will offer the best protection from the elements. A water-resistant jacket can only handle light showers for a brief time.

Pair your raincoat with a pair of waterproof trousers and hiking boots to keep dry when hiking in heavy rain.

MEN'S RAINCOAT

When shopping for a men's raincoat, look for something breathable which wicks away perspiration - great if you're active walking. If you’re planning any activity that gets your blood pumping then this is your kind of gear.

A hard shell jacket is waterproof and breathable and will keep you dry in heavy rain. Though they aren't insulated so you'll need to combine with a hiking base layer and mid layer in winter. Soft shell jackets integrates an insulating layer with a water-resistant shell, meaning they're breathable but will provide less protection from the rain.

GIRLS RAINCOAT

A girls' raincoat that's waterproof and windproof will provide the best protection for your child. This means the jacket has undergone tests to ensure it meets the required standards. Alsio look out for useful features like a hood, taped seams, and drawcord adjustment as these will provide the ultimate protection.

BOYS RAINCOAT

Whether you're looking for a black, blue, or yellow raincoat that's fully waterproof, or a packable poncho for a school trip, you'll find lots of options for a boys' raincoat at Decathlon.

If you're looking for something a little warmer, a 3-in-1 jacket combines a rain jacket with a fleece jacket or an insulated shell. The inner fleece jacket normally zips into the rain jacket so you also have the option of wearing either piece on its own.