What Makes a Good Long Waterproof Coat?

All You Need to Know About Waterproof Long Coats

Hollands has been in the business of selling top-notch long coats for a while now, and so we can tell you that one of the most common questions we get from our lovely customers is: "What makes a good long waterproof coat?"

It's a great question, and one that deserves a detailed answer. After all, a good coat isn't just a purchase; it's an investment in comfort, style, and durability.

So, we thought it would be a brilliant idea to put together this handy guide to help you navigate the sometimes confusing world of waterproof long coats. Whether you're braving the British drizzle on your daily commute, enjoying a countryside walk, or simply looking to stay dry and stylish, we've got you covered. Literally!

We're here to share the key features that make a coat truly exceptional, showcase some of our top product recommendations for both men and women, and provide a few tips to help you find the best coat for you. 

Key Features of a Good Long Waterproof Coat

Alright, let's get into what makes a long waterproof coat truly fantastic. It's not just about keeping dry—although that's pretty important, isn't it?

Several features transform a coat from simply functional to downright indispensable, and we'll talk you through them below.

 

1. Waterproofing Material & Technology

The material of your coat is crucial. Of course, it needs to be waterproof - that's number one!

However, there are many different levels of waterproofing.

• Water-Repellent: This is the most basic level of waterproof fabrics. A water-repellent outdoor jacket will resist some water but won't keep you dry in a downpour.

• Water-Resistant: This material can handle light rain, but not anything too heavy or prolonged.

• Waterproof: This is what you want for your long coat! These waterproof materials are designed to stand up to water penetration. They often come with a specific "waterproof rating" which indicates how much pressure it can withstand before leaking.

Look out for coats made from Gore-Tex fabrics - these are top-of-the-line options for staying dry and comfortable in wet weather.

You also want to look for these components that make a coat truly waterproof:

• Sealed Seams: Prevents water from sneaking in through the stitching.
• Waterproof Zippers: Keeps the rain out, even at the zips.
• Durable Water-Repellent (DWR) Finish: Ensures water beads up and rolls off.

 

2. Breathability Rating

If you've bought a coat in the past and wondered why it feels damp inside after wearing it for a little while, it's likely because the material wasn't breathable.

Breathable fabric will help regulate your body temperature more effectively and make sure you stay comfortable and dry by allowing the moisture to escape. This is particularly useful for outdoor activities or humid days.

Added features which can help are:

• Underarm Vents: Allow for extra ventilation when needed.
• Mesh Lining: Helps with breathability by wicking moisture away from the skin.

3. Design & Fit

A good coat should not only be functional but also stylish and comfortable to wear. There are a few different styles to choose from:

• Classic Raincoats: Anorak-style coats or rain jackets for everyday wear, offering practicality and style without fuss.
• Trench Coats: Longer-length coats with a belted waist and often double-breasted front, originating from military use and now a staple in urban fashion.
• Parkas: Designed for colder climates with features like hoods, insulated lining, and handwarmer pockets, perfect for chilly temperatures and snow.
• Drover/Bush Coats: Rooted in equestrian and rural traditions, featuring practical elements like leg straps, detachable hoods, and large outer pockets for reliable protection.
• Ponchos and Capes: Loose-fitting, often packable jackets covering a large portion of the body, providing freedom of movement and easy layering over any outfit.

Make sure to check the fit of the coat – it should let you move easily and layer up without feeling too bulky or restrictive. Ideally, you want a long waterproof coat that looks great and feels great on!

There are also certain design features, like leg straps, which come in useful for specific activities like horse riding. So bear this in mind if you know you will be using your coat for a particular pursuit.

 

4. Length

A good rule of thumb is that a long coat should cover at least down to mid-thigh, but ideally it will go all the way down to your wellies.

There are a few benefits to having an outer layer that is a little longer than your average waterproof jacket:

• First off, a longer coat provides better coverage, which means more protection from the elements. Think about those gusty, sideways rains we often get – a longer coat keeps your thighs and even your knees dry, which is a huge plus when you're out and about. 
• Secondly, the added length offers an extra layer of warmth, particularly against the chilly air. 
• Thirdly, it saves you from having to wear waterproof trousers by keeping your thighs and knees nice and dry. 
• Finally, a well-fitted coat can elongate your silhouette, pairing wonderfully with everything from jeans to dresses.

 

5. Insulation

Think about how you’ll be using the coat: a lightweight jacket option might offer excellent protection for daily wear in milder seasons, while a heavy-duty insulated coat could be essential for outdoor adventures during cold conditions.

A good long coat should keep you both warm and dry. Some come with built-in insulation, while others are designed to be worn over layers.

 

6. Additional Features

These little extras can make a big difference:

• Pockets: An internal chest pocket is perfect for keeping your phone or wallet safe and dry, while outer pockets are great for easy access to items like keys or gloves.
• Hoods: A well-designed adjustable hood is a lifesaver in bad weather. A peaked hood in particular adds an extra level of protection, helping to keep raindrops off your face and out of your eyes – because no one wants their view blocked while navigating through heavy rains.
• Capes: Your shoulders and upper arms are often the first to get wet so capes are a great feature that can help add extra protection to these key areas.
• Reflective Details: Reflective elements on your coat enhance visibility during those dreary, dark evenings, making sure you're seen by passing cars and cyclists.
• Adjustable Cuffs: This helps keep water out of your sleeves by letting you tighten the fit around your wrists.

By paying attention to these key attributes, from the outer fabric and breathable membrane to the thoughtful additional features, you can find a garment that ticks every box and keeps you comfortable in a wide range of wet conditions.

Ultimately, that's what makes a perfect long waterproof coat!

Top Product Recommendations

Now that you know what features to look out for when rain coat shopping, let's take a look at some of our bestsellers and popular choices.

We have a wide variety of waterproof layers available on our website, but we've picked the below for their excellent breathability, maximum protection, and standout features like underarm zips.

These coats are perfect for facing heavy rains and windy weather, ensuring you stay warm and dry while looking great.

 

Womens Long Waterproof Coats

1. Jack Murphy Malvern Ladies Waterproof Bush Coat
2. Hoggs of Fife Struther Ladies Long Riding Coat
3. Jack Murphy Erin Long Waterproof Coat
4. Baleno Kensington Long Waterproof Coat
5. Lighthouse Outback Full Length Ladies Waterproof Raincoat

And if you're on a budget, don't worry! We'd also like to point you in the direction of the Champion Sandringham Long Waterproof Coat for an affordable option.

 

Mens Long Waterproof Coats

1. Jack Murphy Lambourne Men's Long Bush Coat
2. Baleno Mens Livingstone Long Waterproof Coat
3. Jack Murphy Emmet Waterproof Long Coat
4. Baleno Mens Newbury Waterproof Long Coat
5. Lighthouse Stockman Long Waterproof Coat

Again, for those looking for a budget-friendly option, we have the Champion Highgrove Long Waterproof Coat for you.

 

Tips for Finding Your Perfect Coat

At Hollands, we love helping you find that coat that feels like it was made just for you.

Before we wrap up this guide, we've put together a few insider tips:

1. Consider Your Needs: Think about what you'll primarily be using the coat for and in what weather conditions. This will help determine which features are most important to you.
2. Check Sizes: Make sure to refer to the brand's sizing guide and consider how heavy or bulky your layers will be under the coat.
3. Take Care of Your Coat: To ensure your coat lasts for years, make sure to follow care instructions and properly store it when not in use. This will help maintain the waterproof membrane and overall quality.
4. Invest in Quality: A good coat is a valuable investment that will keep you dry and comfortable for years to come. If you can, sometimes it's better to spend a little more for a high-quality coat that meets all your needs.

If you have any questions or need further guidance on finding the ideal long coat for your needs, our team is always here to help. Please don't hesitate to reach out – we love chatting about coats almost as much as we love wearing them!

 

Summary

In the ever-changing British weather, having the right coat can make all the difference. We hope this guide has shed some light on what to look for when selecting your next outerwear staple.

Browse our full collection of mens long waterproof coats and womens long waterproof coats to find your perfect match.

And if there are any other burning questions you'd like us to tackle on our blog, drop us a comment below. We're all ears and ready to provide you with the expert advice you need.

 

About the Author

Living on his family farm in the beautiful countryside, Mark Holland understands the importance of a coat that can withstand the unpredictable British weather. With his down-to-earth approach and many years of experience in the clothing industry, he is dedicated to helping you find outerwear that not only looks good but also performs when you need it most. Join him as he shares his knowledge and expertise to help you navigate the world of coats with confidence.