Hiking Raincoats

With so many different types of raincoats available, how do you know which is best? It can be a bit of a minefield, but understanding some of the basics and key terms of rainwear technology can help narrow 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 waterproof trousers and hiking boots to keep you dry when hiking in heavy rain.

MEN'S RAINCOAT

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

A hard shell jacket is waterproof, breathable, and keeps you dry in heavy rain. Though they aren't insulated so you'll need to combine them with a hiking base layer and mid layer in winter. Soft shell jackets integrate 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 meet the required standards. Also 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 can wear either piece on its own.