The Long Waterproof Coat Debate: Full-Length or 3/4 Length?

What is the Best Length for a Waterproof Coat?

Rain and Britain is one of those classic pairings we just can't seem to ignore. And where we are in the UK, we're no stranger to expecting extra rain (just ask anyone who's listened to The Beautiful South's "Manchester"). It may be unavoidable, but it’s not all bad, as it’s the perfect excuse to invest in a new raincoat!

But with so many types of coats available, one question always pops up: What is the best length for a coat? Full length or 3/4? Naturally, you might have guessed we're a fan of long coats, but we do have a fantastic selection of three-quarter length coats as part of our collections. Both coat styles have their perks, and we’re here to help you figure out which one fits your lifestyle best.

So, let’s walk through what each has to offer, and by the end of this guide, you’ll hopefully feel a bit more confident about which raincoat deserves a spot in your wardrobe.

Why Does Coat Length Even Matter?

Just like you have maxi, midi, and mini dresses, raincoats come in different lengths too. You’ve got your classic waterproof jacket that sits around your waist, a 3/4-length coat that reaches around knee length, and then there’s the full-length coat that sits just below the top of your wellies.

For example:

• Baleno Kensington Long Waterproof Coat: The length is approximately 120 cm.
• Jack Murphy Cotswold 3/4 Waterproof Coat: The length is approximately 88cm.

Coat length isn’t just about how much of your body it covers; it can make a difference in terms of comfort, freedom of movement, and how well your coat performs in different weather conditions. That extra coverage of a full-length coat might be a lifesaver on those days when the rain seems to come from every direction, but it might feel a bit much if you’re just dealing with light drizzle on a quick dash to the shops.

And, of course, height can play a role, too. If you’re on the shorter side, a full-length waterproof coat could feel a bit overwhelming, while a 3/4-length coat might hit just the right balance.

Full-Length Long Waterproof Coats

For those who are no strangers to the great outdoors, whether it’s dog walking, hiking, or even just standing on the sidelines at a kids football match in wet weather, a full-length coat can be a game-changer.

The Benefits of Full-Length Coats

1. Maximum Coverage
   A full-length coat covers your body almost entirely, particularly when paired with wellies. This is particularly useful when the rain doesn’t just fall straight down but swirls and splashes up from the pavement. You’re not just protecting your upper body and core, but also your legs - so you don't need to worry about waterproof trousers.
2. Perfect for Outdoor Adventures
   If you’re someone who spends a lot of time outdoors something like dog walking (i.e. doesn't have an off day due to the rain!), a full-length coat can be a wise investment. It just means you will always have a "proper coat" for all kinds of weather.
3. Style Factor
   Many waterproof long coats, like those from Baleno and Jack Murphy, come with sleek, classic designs that flatter your figure rather than overwhelm it. They give you that timeless trench-coat look, but with the added bonus of waterproof fabrics.

The Downsides of Full Length Coats

Full-length coats, while protective, can sometimes feel a bit bulky. If you’re just dashing out to run errands or spending a short time outside, they might feel like more than you need.

And since they cover so much, full-length coats don’t always show off your outfit underneath or your favourite boots. If you like to express your personal style and mix up your looks, a long coat might not be the easiest way to do that.

3/4 Length Waterproof Coats

A 3/4-length coat offers a different kind of practicality - one that’s ideal for busier lifestyles, where flexibility and freedom of movement are key.

The Benefits of 3/4-Length Coats

1. Freedom of Movement
   3/4-length coats are generally lighter than their full-length counterparts, making them a great choice for everyday wear. If you’re in and out of the house, car, or public transport, you’ll appreciate the ease of movement and the lighter feel of a shorter coat.
2. Versatile Style
   Shorter coats are naturally more versatile. You can pair them effortlessly with jeans, leggings, or even dresses. And, as a bonus, you get to show off your favourite boots or wellies, which is a nice touch if you’re proud of your footwear collection!
3. Fit Considerations
   We all have different body shapes, and sometimes a shorter coat just feels more comfortable, especially if it fits better around the waist or hips. Plus, if you’re on the shorter side, a 3/4-length coat might sit just right.

The Downsides of 3/4-Length Coats

While 3/4-length coats have their advantages, they do come with one key drawback: in heavy rain, your legs aren’t as protected. This means you may need to wear waterproof trousers if you’re out for longer in a downpour, which can be a bit of a hassle if you hadn’t planned on needing them.

Another thing to keep in mind is that shorter coats don’t provide as much warmth in cold weather. When the weather turns chilly, you may need to layer up more underneath, especially if it’s windy or damp.

Which One Is Right for You?

Deciding between a full-length and 3/4-length coat ultimately comes down to how you live your life and what matters most in a raincoat.

A few questions we tend to ask are:

1. How Much Time Do You Spend Outdoors?

If you’re spending a lot of time outside, especially in heavy rain, a full-length coat is probably a strong contender. It’ll give you that longer coverage without the need for extra layers like waterproof trousers. For anyone living in a more rural area or doing regular outdoor activities like walking, full-length will serve you well.

But if your outdoor time is more about short trips to the shops, the school run, or casual weekends out, a 3/4-length coat should give you enough protection. Plus, you’ll benefit from its lighter weight and ease of movement.

2. Do You Mind Layering?

One of the downsides to 3/4-length coats is that you might need to wear waterproof trousers. If you don’t mind carrying or layering these when necessary, a 3/4-length coat could still be the right choice. On the other hand, if you want to stay dry without needing to think about extra layers, go for full-length.

3. What’s Your Style Preference?

Both coat lengths have their own stylish appeal. Full-length coats are timeless and offer that elegant trench-coat silhouette, while 3/4-length coats are more playful and allow you to show off your footwear. If fashion is as important as function for you, think about how you’d style each length and which works better with your wardrobe.

Summary

So, full-length or 3/4-length - what's it going to be? Whether you're after the all-out coverage of a long coat or the everyday ease of a 3/4, the perfect coat is out there just waiting for you to take it for a spin!

If you’re still weighing your options, don’t worry. We've got a wide range of long coats and 3/4-length coats to shop from, including incredible brands like Baleno, Jack Murphy, and Lighthouse.

About the Author

Sarah Holland lives in the British countryside and has a serious love for coats—the collection in her wardrobe is proof! She’s always on the lookout for outerwear that combines practical features for the outdoors with a style that you actually want to wear, believing a good waterproof coat should be your go-to for both comfort and looking good. Now, she’s here to share her insights and help you discover your next perfect coat.