Which rain jacket is really waterproof? Which functional jacket, Friesennerz, wax jacket helps in the rain? Incl. rain jacket test.
Rain jacket tested - which is the best rain jacket?
Which rain jacket is really waterproof? Is it a Frisian mink? Or a functional jacket? The last test by Stiftung Warentest dates back to 2016. The jackets recommended in it are now only partially available. Therefore, we refer here to a rain jacket test from testreports.de. This page evaluates tests and opinions from the trade press and uses them to calculate an overall rating. The test dates back to March 02nd, 2021. These are the test winners: they are definitely the best outdoor jackets. The best waterproof rain jacket currently available is this:
Outdoor Magazin chooses these as the best rain jackets:
In its current rain jacket tests, Outdoor Magazin chose these three rain jackets as the best currently on the market. All three received the rating Very Good.
As a rain jacket, a wax jacket for outdoor adventures
If you are planning longer hikes, which Ireland is ideal for, then you need stronger rain protection. So why not do it like the Irish? They prefer to wear a wax jacket that will keep them dry in all weathers. And the waxed jackets are also chic, I think. But they shouldn't be washed. A wax jacket is also often available as a rain jacket in large sizes.
A rain jacket in XXL for women is usually not that easy to find. The wax jackets for men are so chic that women can wear them too. Especially if you are out and about in rainy weather in Ireland or other northern regions, you will appreciate this.
However, one thing should be clear before buying a rain jacket like this one. A wax jacket is heavy. If you take this rain jacket with you on trips, it is recommended to wear it on the plane. It takes up too much space in the suitcase. In addition, this jacket is very heavy. So it makes sense to put them on during your journey. This leaves more space and weight for other luggage.
Or the good old Friesian ore?
Everyone who grew up at the North Sea knows the Friesennerz. The indestructible rain jacket that defies storm and rain. With rubber boots and Frisian mink you can cope with any weather at the North Sea. So why not also in rainy travel destinations around the world? Even with the Friesennerz, it takes up a lot of space in the suitcase. Its material protects against rain. However, it cannot be packed well in a suitcase. Similar to a wax jacket, it is advisable to wear it while traveling on the plane. Then there is enough space and weight for other things suitcase.
You can order your Friesennerz here:
Which rain jacket is suitable for city trips?
If a rain jacket test is not a prerequisite for buying your rain protection, then of course there are also stylish functional jackets or Friesian mink that look good. But you have to try whether they are just as waterproof. These rain jackets are good for city trips. So you're in Dublin even when it rains well protected. If you are planning an outdoor vacation, we recommend the above. We suggest some of the fancier rain jackets here:
Rain jackets for women
Raincoat
With this raincoat you are also well protected against moisture. It is lined with faux fur and has a waterproof, supple upper material. The hood is lined with cotton.
Rain jacket for cycling
An alternative are rain jackets for cycling. They are usually windproof, waterproof and breathable. All prerequisites for feeling comfortable in such a jacket even when it is wet.
Men's jackets
There are also practical rain jackets for men.
5 tips for choosing the most waterproof rain jacket
Don't let the rain ruin your day! Discover in this guide which features you should look for when buying a truly waterproof rain jacket. Be prepared for rainy days with the perfect waterproof rain jacket! From taped seams to breathability, find out the key features to look for when shopping for a rain jacket that will protect you from the elements.
Look for durable material and seam sealing
The material of a rain jacket should be strong enough to withstand the elements and endure many wears. It should also have taped seams - this prevents water from seeping through weak spots in your coat and keeps you dry. Look for jackets with features like seam tape, heat-sealed seam tape, or waterproof welds that offer excellent protection from the rain.
Choose a jacket with room to layer clothing
When buying your waterproof rain jacket, make sure you have enough space to layer your clothes. Layering allows you to trap air around your body, which acts as an extra insulator against the cold. Look for a jacket large enough to fit over multiple layers of clothing to keep you dry, warm, and comfortable no matter the weather.
Choose elements that improve performance in wet weather
Look for a rain jacket that has specific features that improve wet weather performance and keep you dry. Features like taped seams, waterproof zippers, weatherproof fabric and adjustable straps, buttons and drawstrings can help keep the elements out and keep you dry even in torrential downpours. Also consider how the jacket fits; a loose fit won't keep water out as effectively as a tight fit.
Go for durable, long-lasting zippers and buttons
Make sure the buttons and zippers on your rain jacket are strong and durable. Choose those that are reinforced with waterproof finishes like DWR (Durable Water Repellent). Also, make sure the zipper closes tightly, as regular zippers may not keep rain and wind out. Finally, consider whether replacing or repairing any part of the jacket would be difficult – this too should be taken into account when choosing a waterproof rain jacket.
Look for an adjustable and comfortable fit
The fit of your waterproof rain jacket is important for both functionality and your comfort. For example, tight-fitting jackets can be uncomfortable when you're moving or being physically active, but if the jacket is too loose, moisture can get in. Look for a rain jacket that easily adjusts to fit different sizes and body shapes. The adjustable functions should be easy to use even in the rain.
Packing list for rainy travel destinations - what must be in the suitcase?
You should definitely know what you want to do on the trip. Should it be more of a leisurely trip where you stay in pleasant hotels? Do you want to spend a lot of time in the cities? Or should it instead be a journey where you go hiking? Or even want to experience outdoor life on the Wild Atlantic Way in all its adventurous facets?
Then you should think twice about whether the rain jacket should be rather light - for city trips. Or whether it should endure something instead, for example when hiking through the Connemara moors or in Donegal. There are other models for this than for a comfortable stay in the city. With the right equipment, even a trip to rainy destinations becomes one Travel for connoisseurs.
What do you absolutely need - a good rain jacket or heavy duty rain cover?
It is not easy to make the right choice here. Therefore, we have put together a selection here that makes your choice easier. These rain jackets can be conveniently ordered online.
Light rain jackets for the city or a road trip
We recommend this rain protection for city trips or a round trip without major hikes. Together with a large and resistant Umbrella *who can withstand one or two gusts of wind, you are adequately protected in cities. If there is heavy rainfall, you can also use one here Break in a café Insert.
The best rain jacket for the vacation
Which rain jacket is really waterproof? This is what the rain jacket test from Stiftung Warentest determines. Some of our recommendations are based on this test by Stiftung Warentest. This packing list contains offers for rain jackets that you can order online. You don't just need this for hiking tours.
There are travel destinations where rain is just part of it. Ireland, for example. No matter if your after Dublin, Cork, Northern Ireland or the West, there is actually no travel time on the Irish island without rain. Ireland's green is only there when it rains. But you should also take suitable rain jackets with you in other regions of the world. Appropriate rain protection is therefore essential for good equipment. Depending on the region, this can be a functional jacket, a wax jacket or a Frisian ore.
What's the best way to tackle rainy travel destinations?
However, I asked myself this question too late. Only when I Traveling in Ireland I found that a rain jacket is more practical than an umbrella. Especially if, like me, you work constantly with your camera and mobile phone, you need both hands free. Therefore, an umbrella is not as practical as a rain jacket for a trip around Ireland. One hand is needed for an umbrella. If you wear a rain jacket, you have both hands free.
This is important, for example, if I want to take photos or record videos while I'm out and about. In addition, the hands remain free to carry bags, suitcases or other things. However, I would rather recommend one here Backpack for the city , or backpack to take with you. With one you also have your hands free to work. Which is the best rain jacket depends on the purpose for which you need it. So there is no such thing as the best rain jacket in the world. It always depends on what you want to do when you wear them.
Which rain jacket is really waterproof?
That tells you the water column. For example, it shows you how high the pressure must be before the material lets water through. So you are looking for the highest possible value. From 1300 mm, a material is considered waterproof. With a water column of over 10.000 mm, you are definitely protected for many outdoor activities.
How do I recognize a good rain jacket?
Good rain jackets are of good quality. It is therefore best to choose one made of material that repels water and does not absorb it.
What is better? Waterproof or water-repellent?
If the material is water-repellent, it offers better protection in the rain than waterproof material, for example. In any case, water cannot easily penetrate these materials.
Which rain jacket for Ireland?
Hardly anyone will experience a trip to Ireland without rain. The maritime climate of the island makes sure of that. At the same time, however, the climate on the Emerald Isle is so warm that a light functional jacket is sufficient with normal rainfall. It should protect against wind and moisture, but does not have to warm you up. Dressing in layers is usually best. You should therefore think carefully about which functional jacket to take with you on the trip. A good rain jacket or functional jacket also makes a trip to rainy areas a great experience.
Which rain jacket are we presenting here?
In our selection of rain jackets you will find, for example, functional jackets that have passed a rain jacket test by the trade press. But you can also find rain jackets that have not been tested. We recommend this especially for city trips, where there are always opportunities to seek shelter from heavy rain showers. Ultimately, it comes down to where and when you need a rain jacket. With these rain jackets and functional jackets, we wish you a good mood and fun exploring your travel destination even in bad weather.
By the way: You also know
- the best You need walking shoes for wide feet?
- Practical gifts for hikers
- packing list for the vacation
- and our Packing list for winter trips (not only in Canada)?
- What do you need for hiking?
- Vacation for two with a suitcase
- packing list beach vacation - What needs to be in the suitcase?
- Ireland travel tips for your vacation
- Bon appetit in Ireland
- Checklist beach vacation
- Slovenia Karawanken in the rain
- Enjoy the outdoors actively
- Buy a tent in the tent shop
Source Which functional jacket is the best: on-site research and the rain jacket test by Stiftung Warentest. However, our opinion remains our own.
Text Which functional jacket is the best © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline, Travel blog for connoisseurs
Photos Which functional jacket is the best: © Copyright Amazon and Canva
Last update on 7.09.2023/XNUMX/XNUMX / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Product Advertising API
So, when it pours out of buckets, I prefer not a rain jacket, but a dry place in front of the peat fire in the pub.
Greetings
Reto
Hello Reto,
haha, that's obviously the best solution. Only one is not always equal ...
Best regards,
Monika
As a dog owner, of course, I also own rain jackets. And I especially like the wax jackets in English style. But honestly, when it pours out of buckets is nothing better than a classic Friesennerz ;-)
Best regards
Sabine
Liebe Sabine
I already thought of that too. However, I do not like it that much because I'm always so sweaty in it.
Best regards,
Monika
When I read the title of this post, I actually had to smile. But I agree with you completely, rain jackets are also a lot more practical for me than an umbrella. Since I was on my trip in many countries exactly during the rainy season, I also realized how great it is to have a really good rain jacket. Unfortunately, at the beginning I only had one made of “water-repellent” material, but that's not enough in heavy rain showers. I then bought a 100% waterproof jacket and was really happy with it. The investment was definitely worth it!
Best regards,
Michaela
Dear Michaela,
I can empathize with you. My experience with “water-repellent” jackets made me look for better offers. Not only that these are usually not very comfortable to wear because they stick to the skin when they are moist. Most of the time, they don't really protect against moisture. I would rather spend a little more money and then be protected against moisture.
Best regards,
Monika
Cool post, because I've been looking for the perfect rain jacket for ages. As a sports and UK blogger, that's a real must-have. I'm particularly pleased that you paid attention to style and not just functionality.
Dear Sandra,
that's just how I feel. I do not like these sticky rain jackets at all, which are offered everywhere at cheapest prices. They are, I think, very uncomfortable to wear, especially in summer, when the temperatures are mild. Then I prefer to do without rain protection and do not sweat. Instead, I find the jackets that I recommend here very practical. And they look good too.
Best regards,
Monika
Hey, absolutely, the right Jack is especially important.
Warm greetings to you!
Dear Jenny,
you're right. I noticed that in Ireland. What is practical, I have only discovered there. Maybe my contribution helps others to better prepare for such a trip.
Best regards,
Monika