Thursday, March 25, 2021

Review: I Need A Raincoat.

Update: We got a house! I'm not going to live in a van down by the Willamette River. But, I still desperately need a PNW-approved raincoat. I have my Helly Hansen (which, if we're being honest, is a tidge tight right now) but I want something that's not insulated - just a raincoat. I also want it in a color that isn't black or olive green. In a fit of optimism, I ordered that cute Madewell raincoat but it's going back:

It runs big. Really big. This is a medium and I am swimming in it! It's also not quite my color. Hmph, here are a few other contenders:

This one is Athleta and I've been waiting impatiently for it to show up online (it was in the catalog months ago!) I think the color is an interesting neutral but it's really expensive and it's sherpa-lined, which is not really what I need right now. Still, I might keep my eye on it.


This J.Crew raincoat is super cute, a classic shape, and also comes in bright yellow and navy. But, it's a little bit too perky-preppy for me in these colors. If it came in camel or gray I'd probably be all over it. 

This is by Seasalt (thanks for the rec, Make!Do!) and I love the easy shape and the interesting color. I'd never heard of this brand out of Cornwall, but it's definitely on my radar now. 


This is a less-fashion-more-function option from The North Face. I do like that it's a classic trench coat color but is also fully waterproof. 

Finally, my dark horse option, I am pretty into this Babour rain jacket I found on Nordstrom Rack. Something about that very British plaid lining! Navy isn't usually my jam but something about this is very appealing. It also comes in a soft gray, just FYI.

What do you guys think? Any suggestions? 

24 comments:

  1. PNWer here. Highlight recommend going with something waterproof (or highly water resistant), especially since umbrellas are not a thing here. I know that means fewer options, but it's worth it! It doesn't typically pour up here, but the sprinkles definitely accumulate and not getting soggy makes everything better.

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    1. Yes, all of these options are waterproof (not just water-resistant, which is bullshit.)

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  2. I love the Seasalt one! The interesting color with a simple, but stylish design win me over.

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  3. I went to a Madewell store to figure out my size for that raincoat, I knew there was no way I'd be able to guess. My Madewell tops are XXS through M, EYE ROLL. I got it in the pink and I LOVE it. The pink is cooler and bluer than it looks online. Looks like the Barley is maybe not saturated enough for you? You wanted it a little warmer/brighter? Of all these, I think I like the Barbour the best. It looks so functional it goes right over into design, if that makes sense.

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    1. I love the pink in theory but didn't think it would work on me. I don't mind the barley color (though I do wish it was more saturated, yes) but the fit is definitely not for me. I'm glad it worked for you!

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  4. Seasalt is THE BEST. I moved to Scotland 3 years ago and they're all I wear now. I have a winter raincoat for 1/4 of the year and an unlined one for the rest of the time. They're so well-made, are waterproof while still breathable, and the customer service is excellent. Buy all the Seasalt!

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  5. I live in Seattle and I have a Patagonia raincoat that I love - it's an older style that is no longer available, but similar to this one: https://www.patagonia.com/product/womens-torrentshell-3-layer-city-rain-coat/27119.html?dwvar_27119_color=SGRY&cgid=womens-jackets-vests-rainwear

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  6. I live in Seattle. In the PNW it’s totally acceptable to own (hoard) a collection of outerwear (do you need a dressy raincoat AND a casual raincoat? Probably yes. A warm raincoat and a lightweight packable option? Probably yes.) I have a sleek black option for meeting days & fancy occasions, and a beloved olive green Jcrew option that’s not waterproof but has giant pockets and you’d have to pry it from my cold dead hands.

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    1. Give me time! I never need an excuse for a new jacket.

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    2. Yes to a collection! Different lengths, fabric weights, level of waterproofness...you need it all to be properly equipped.

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  7. I have this Eddie Bauer one; currently on sale. Paid full price, no regrets.

    https://www.eddiebauer.com/p/20612683/women%27s-girl-on-the-go(r)-trench-coat?sp=1&color=Dk%20Charcoal%20Htr

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  8. I love the Seasalt or the Barbour! Hope you find one you love!

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  9. This is functional, not fashion, but amazing for rain, especially the adjustable hood. I have the primaloft lined version (which is now too small...) and am waiting for a sale or coupon to buy this mesh lined version. https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/82668?page=h2off-raincoat-mesh-lined

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  10. I just bought the J Crew Perfect Lightweight Jacket and really like it. Love the drawstring waist. I also looked at the Everlane ReNew Anorak but sizing seemed dicier so I figured I’d order the J Crew and if that didn’t work I’d try Everlane.

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  11. PNW'er here...I just bought that Barbour one in gray from Nordstrom Rack and LOVE it. Good size hood, lots of pockets, rain beaded right up when I wore it today. Highly recommend. The sleeves are long, but I am tall so it doesn't bother me. Some people might want them tailored. Agree with those above who recommended Patagonia (can sometimes find on sale at REI) or Eddie Bauer. I have the EB Charley rain parka, and it is very good in the rain.

    I just received that new J Crew classic raincoat you show above, and it is going straight back. It is rubbery feeling, not breathable, zipper feels cheap, and the only pockets are those 2 drop in ones with snaps. Not practical for busy people in this climate, in my opinion.

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  12. I like the Seasalt one. Not from PNW but often wear raincoats instead of using an umbrella. A good fitting hood and a jacket that is comfortable and not too tight is the key.

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  13. Not a PNW'er but I have a Patagonia rain jacket. I got mine at a tag sale for my kid who ended up not liking the look. Looking it up, it is kind of spendy. BEST RAINCOAT ever. I have 2 big dogs who want to go out no matter what. It keeps me all dry no matter how long I am out. I think it's at least partly the hood? Comes out over my face. Not really a strong fashion choice but very, very servicable. I cannot love this coat enough.

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  14. I just got this one and it's very cute and extremely lightweight: https://www.columbia.com/p/womens-pardon-my-trench-rain-jacket-1839841.html?dwvar_1839841_color=649&pos=0

    Not sure it's totally waterPROOF, but it is definitely water resistant.

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  15. I often steal my husband's Pendleton and I love it. Thinking about this one for myself. https://www.pendleton-usa.com/product/womens-techrain-hooded-anorak/10438.html?dwvar_10438_color=3126#q=coat&start=34&sz=30&cgid=W450

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  16. I'm in Portland and my HH coat from NR (IIRC you have the same one?) is my most-worn in the winter. This time of year, though, you mostly want something lighter for the warmish rain. And definitely a hood. Rain is accompanied by wind more often than not so umbrellas aren't super useful. My current shell raincoat looks fine but it's definitely function over fashion: https://www.rei.com/rei-garage/product/120835/marmot-essential-jacket-womens

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  17. I just got the J.Crew one and love it! It fits great and I am a fan of bold colors and green in particular. And I love the anchor lining.

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