If you live in the UK, you already know the score. Rain arrives without warning, whether you are halfway up a hill in the Lake District or just heading out for the afternoon. Finding the best waterproof jacket UK shoppers can rely on is not just about staying dry. It is about being comfortable, protected and ready for whatever the weather throws at you.
This guide covers everything you need before you buy. From waterproof and breathability ratings, to jacket types and care advice, it’s all covered below. Whether you are after a hiking jacket for the hills, a lightweight waterproof jacket for travel, or a durable waterproof jacket for the daily commute, knowing the key differences between each style will help you decide.
What Makes a Waterproof Jacket the Best?
Not all waterproof jackets are equal. The difference between one that holds up and one that lets you down usually comes down to a handful of technical details. Understanding these makes choosing much simpler.
Waterproof Ratings Explained
Every waterproof jacket carries a hydrostatic head (HH) rating, measured in millimetres. This tells you how much water pressure the waterproof fabric can handle before moisture starts seeping through. The higher the number, the stronger the protection.
Here is how the waterproof rating system breaks down:
Rating (mm) | Waterproof Level | Breathability (g/m²/day) | Best For |
0 to 1,500mm | Water resistant | Not rated | City commuting, light rain, short walks |
Up to 2,000mm | Waterproof | Up to 5,000 | Everyday use, dog walking, commuting |
Up to 5,000mm | Waterproof | Up to 10,000 | Hiking, hill walking, countryside walks |
Up to 10,000mm | Extreme waterproof | Over 15,000 | Mountain hiking, coastal walks, heavy rain |
Trespass jackets offer ratings up to 10,000mm. The DLX range goes up to 20,000mm for the most demanding mountain conditions
DWR Coating vs Waterproof Membrane
Most quality waterproof jackets rely on two things working together. The first is a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating on the outer fabric, which causes water to bead up and roll off rather than soaking in. The second is a waterproof membrane inside the jacket that stops water passing through the waterproof fabric entirely.
A jacket with only a DWR coating is water-resistant. It handles light rain well but will let moisture through in sustained wet weather. A fully waterproof jacket combines DWR with a membrane and fully taped seams, creating a complete barrier against the elements.
Read more in our guide to water-resistant and waterproof jackets and find out how waterproof and windproof jackets differ too.
Why Breathability Matters as Much as Waterproofing
A jacket that keeps rain out but traps sweat inside is not doing its job properly. Breathability is the other side of the equation, and it matters more than many people realise when they are choosing a waterproof coat.
Breathability is measured by the Moisture Vapour Permeability (MVP), expressed in grams per square metre over 24 hours. The higher the number, the more efficiently the jacket moves moisture away from your body. Trespass jackets start at 3,000mvp, with the DLX range reaching 10,000mvp for highly breathable performance in demanding conditions.
Think about it in practice. If you are hiking uphill with a pack on, your body is generating real heat. A highly breathable jacket keeps you dry from the rain outside and from your own exertion inside. For lower-intensity use like walking the dog or commuting, a lower breathability rating is perfectly fine.
Best Waterproof Jacket UK by Activity
The best waterproof jacket UK for one person may not be the right fit for another. A hiking jacket built for climbing Ben Nevis is a very different piece of kit from a packable jacket you stuff into a travel bag. Here is a breakdown by activity, along with a seasonal guide for UK weather conditions.
UK Seasonal Weather Guide:
Season | Temperature | Rainfall | Recommended Jacket |
Spring (Mar-May) | 8-15°C | Moderate showers | Lightweight waterproof jacket with breathability |
Summer (Jun-Aug) | 15-25°C | Light to occasional heavy rain | Packable jacket with ventilation |
Autumn (Sep-Nov) | 7-14°C | Frequent, heavier rain | Midweight waterproof with windproof features |
Winter (Dec-Feb) | 0-7°C | Heavy rain, occasional snow | Heavy-duty, insulated, fully waterproof |
Best for Hiking and Hill Walking
For anything beyond a casual stroll, you want a jacket rated at 5,000mm or higher. A good hiking jacket will have fully taped seams, an adjustable hood, and solid breathability to keep you comfortable on the move.
Trespass jackets offering 5,000mm waterproof protection and 5,000mvp breathability, will offer a reliable balance for UK hill walking and longer days out. If packability matters, the Qikpac range folds into its own pocket, hits the same protection rating and uses Tres-Shield® technology for consistent all-day performance.
Explore the full range of waterproof walking jackets or head to the men’s waterproof jacket collection. We also have a detailed guide to men’s waterproof jackets: sizing, style and fit.
Best for Everyday Use and Travel
Not every jacket needs to be built for the mountains. For commuting, travel or casual outdoor use, a lightweight waterproof jacket or softshell gives you comfort and solid protection without the bulk. The key is finding one with enough room underneath for a mid-layer on colder days.
Trespass softshell jackets are flexible, easy to move in and well suited to everyday use. Parka jackets are also a stylsih casual option that still perform well when the weather turns, making them far more capable than they look.
Browse the full women’s waterproof jackets range for styles that cover both performance and everyday wear.
Best for Kids and Families
Kids do not slow down for rain, and their jackets should not either. The Trespass kids range uses the same waterproof technology as the adult line, just scaled for smaller adventurers. Whether it is a school run, a camping weekend or a day on the hills, there is a junior jacket to match the trip.
Check out our guide to best kids’ waterproof jackets or browse the kids’ waterproof jacket collection directly.
Types of Waterproof Jackets: Which Style Suits You?
With so many styles available, it helps to know what each one is built for. Here is a quick overview of the main types in the Trespass range.
Outer shell jackets: The most technical option, built for demanding conditions with maximum waterproof protection and breathability. These are often the gold standard of waterproofing but can lack warmth so it is often a good idea to pair them with a more insulating layer.
Packaway jackets: The Qikpac range folds into its own pocket, making it a brilliant packable jacket for unpredictable days. This style is perfect for packing on warmer days, just in case there is a sudden downpour, making it one of the best waterproof jackets for UK weather.
3-in-1 jackets: Three ways to wear one jacket, with a removable inner for extra warmth when you need it. These are bulkier to pack if you are going on a trip, but offer a solution to changing conditions.
Softshell jackets: A lightweight jacket with a relaxed fit, often offer windproof protection, as well as some options with moderate waterproof ratings. These are a popular option for hikers and hill climbers, often being paired with a thin outer shell for protection against the wet and cold conditions.
Parka jackets: Casual and stylish, but often still made from high performance materials that provide good waterproof and breathability ratings.
Ski jackets: Offer the very best protection and often have special features such as goggle and pass pockets, snow skirts and helmet-compatible hoods. While these may be the very best waterproof jackets available, they may be overkill for the daily dog walk and commute.
2-Layer, 2.5-Layer and 3-Layer Construction
The layer count refers to how the waterproof membrane is constructed inside the jacket, not how many items of clothing you are actually wearing. It directly affects durability, breathability and how the jacket feels against your skin.
A 2-layer jacket bonds the membrane to the outer waterproof fabric, with a separate loose lining hanging inside. These are the most affordable option and work well for casual everyday use. A 2.5-layer jacket removes the separate lining and prints a pattern directly onto the inside of the membrane instead. This makes the jacket lighter and more packable, which is why many lightweight waterproof jackets and packable jackets use this construction.
A 3-layer jacket bonds the outer waterproof fabric, membrane and inner lining together into a single structure. The result is a more durable, highly breathable jacket that holds its shape over time. This is the construction used in mountaineering jackets, where long-term performance matters most.
Key Features to Check Before You Buy
Before committing to a jacket, it is worth going through a few specific details. These are the things that separate a jacket that performs in real wet weather from one that just looks good in the shop.
Here are the main features to look for:
Taped seams: Fully taped seams seal every stitch point against water ingress. Critically taped covers the main seams only, which is fine for light rain but not reliable in sustained heavy rain.
Adjustable hood: A fully adjustable hood that stays in place in the wind is essential. A helmet-compatible hood is also definitely worth having if you are planning on cycling or climbing.
Cuffs and hem: Velcro cuffs or elasticated cuffs stop wind and rain working up your sleeves. An adjustable hem seals out draughts at the bottom of the jacket.
Waterproof zip and pockets: A storm-flap-covered front zip keeps the main entry sealed in heavy rain. Check that hand pockets and chest pockets are zipped pockets rather than open ones, as open pockets let water collect.
Underarm zips: If you run hot during high-intensity activity, underarm zips are a feature worth looking for. These ventilation zips allow airflow without removing the jacket, helping to regulate body temperature on the move.
Packability: Consider how small the jacket compresses if you hike or travel regularly. The Qikpac range packs into its own pocket for easy carrying on the trail.
How to Look After Your Waterproof Jacket
A well-cared-for waterproof jacket can last for years. The main thing to watch is the DWR coating. It wears down gradually with use and washing. When water starts soaking into the outer fabric rather than beading off, it is time to re-proof.
Wash your jacket with a specialist waterproof cleaner rather than standard detergent. Fabric softeners break down the DWR coating, so avoid them completely. After washing, gentle heat from a tumble dryer or a warm iron with a cloth between the iron and the fabric can reactivate the DWR layer.
It is also worth knowing that many modern waterproof jackets now use recycled polyester and recycled materials. Some brands are also moving to PFAS-free DWR coatings, which are better for the environment without compromising waterproof performance.
For a full step-by-step, read our guides on waterproofing and cleaning your jacket, how to wash your waterproof jacket and how to re-proof your jacket.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a waterproof and a water-resistant jacket?
A water-resistant jacket uses a DWR coating to cause water to bead up and roll off the outer fabric. It handles light rain well but will eventually let moisture through in sustained or heavy rain. A waterproof jacket goes further, adding a waterproof membrane and fully taped seams on top of the DWR coating. Together, these create a complete barrier. For most UK outdoor activities beyond a short walk, a fully waterproof jacket is the more reliable choice.
What waterproof rating do I need for hiking in the UK?
For day hikes and hill walking in the UK, a rating of at least 5,000mm is a solid starting point. This handles prolonged rainfall and most conditions you will encounter on UK trails. For mountain walks, exposed coastal routes or anything in harsh terrain, 10,000mm or above will provide more advanced coverage and gives you the confidence to focus on your activity rather than your equipment.
How do I know when my jacket needs re-proofing?
The clearest sign is when water stops beading on the surface and starts soaking into the outer fabric instead. This is called wetting out, and it means the DWR coating has worn down. The jacket may still be technically waterproof underneath, but a saturated outer layer reduces breathability and makes the jacket feel heavier and colder. Re-proofing restores the DWR layer and brings performance back. Most jackets need re-proofing once a season or so, depending on how heavily they are used.
Can I wear a waterproof jacket all year in the UK?
Yes, and given the UK climate, it is often a good idea. In spring and summer, a lightweight waterproof jacket or packable jacket gives you decent protection without the bulk. In autumn and winter, a heavier jacket with windproof features and a higher waterproof rating is more comfortable in sustained rain and cold. A 3-in-1 jacket is a practical year-round choice, giving you the flexibility to adapt as the seasons change.
Ready to Find Your Best Waterproof Jacket?
Whether you are planning a weekend in the hills, commuting through city showers or kitting the family out for outdoor adventures, Trespass has a waterproof jacket for you. Explore the full range and filter by waterproof rating, activity and size to find the right fit.
Browse women’s waterproof jackets, men’s waterproof jackets, kids’ waterproof jackets or shop the waterproof walking jacket range.
