How to choose the right coat
A good coat is a wardrobe staple. It is the coat you reach for on a breezy seafront morning, a drizzly school run, or a weekend away when the forecast cannot quite make up its mind.
This guide is here to make the choice feel simple. Start with the waterproofing section, then use the coat picker at the end to find the best styles for your kind of day. Waterproofing keeps the rain out, breathability helps you stay comfortable when you are on the move, and insulation brings warmth when the temperature drops.
Waterproofing: what the mm means
A coat's waterproof rating is measured in millimetres using a test called hydrostatic head. In simple terms, the higher the number, the more water pressure the fabric can resist. Our raincoats range from 3,000mm to 10,000mm.
Waterproof ratings are only part of the story. The most waterproof coats may not be breathable. Warm, padded coats can be cosy but are not designed for prolonged wet weather. Details such as taped seams and a hood that fits well help keep water out when the rain turns heavier or the wind picks up.
Breathability: staying comfortable when you are out and about
Breathability is measured in gsm over 24 hours. In simple terms, the higher the number, the easier it is for moisture to escape.
• Up to 5,000gsm. An excellent choice for everyday comfort, especially if you tend to feel warm or are often on the go. Every product will list the breathability rating in the details section.
• Not breathable. Some styles prioritise rain protection or warmth first. Our Heritage coats focus on keeping the rain out. Our padded styles focus on warmth.
Which should you choose? For most people, our most waterproof styles, such as Outback or Outrider, are a fantastic choice. If you often feel warm when you step indoors, hop in the car, or pick up the pace, you will usually be happiest in a more breathable coat.
Warmth: lined, insulated, padded
Warmth comes from the lining and insulation, not the waterproof rating. It helps to think about the season and how you will wear your coat day to day.
• Lightweight and lined only. Ideal for spring and summer showers when you want something easy to pop on without feeling too warm. Our Heritage range coats (e.g. Outback) are lined but have no added insulation. They are not lightweight, however, due to the weight of the fabric.
• Insulated. A lovely option for cooler weather when you want waterproof protection plus extra warmth, without feeling bulky. If you tend to feel warm, look for a breathable rating in the product details.
• Padded coats. Designed for warmth on cold, mostly dry days. These styles are water repellent rather than waterproof, so they are best when rain is not really on the cards.
Design details that matter in real life
It is often the smaller details that make a coat feel right, especially when you wear it day in, day out.
• Hood fit. Look for a hood that sits comfortably and can be adjusted so it stays put in windy weather. Many of our styles have detachable hoods.
• Fit, length and layering. Choose the coverage you like, from hip length to full length. If you wear knitwear underneath in cooler months, make sure there is room to layer without feeling tight through the shoulders or sleeves. We state how customers find the fit overall in our review section.
• Sizing help. Each product page includes a size guide based on body measurements and a measurement guide showing the actual garment dimensions, so you can choose your best fit with confidence.
Use this quick guide to choose based on weather, comfort and warmth
Maximum rain protection, lined only, not breathable
Best for:
Staying dry in heavier rain.
Dog walkers, those who spend a good deal of time outdoors, and those who watch sports in all weathers.
• Coats to look at: Outback, Outrider, Kendal
Waterproof and breathable, lined only, for moderate to heavier rain
• Best for:
Spring, summer and transitional wear.
The school run and longer walks in changeable weather.
• Coats to look at: Hallie, Blair, Pippa
Waterproof and breathable, lined only, for light showers
• Best for:
Milder days with a risk of drizzle or short spells of rain.
Beachside strolls, shopping trips and running errands.
• Coats to look at: Beachcomber, Long Beachcomber
Waterproof, breathable and insulated, for moderate to heavier rain
• Best for:
Cooler conditions, longer periods outdoors.
Walks on cold and wet days and outdoor events as the nights close in.
• Coats to look at: Scarlet, Abigail, Isobel
Waterproof, breathable and insulated, for lighter showers
• Best for:
Cooler days when rain is lighter.
Christmas shopping and city breaks.
• Coats to look at: Tess, Imogen
Warmest padded coats, water repellent rather than waterproof, not breathable
• Best for:
Warmth on cold, mostly dry days.
Walks on a crisp, bright day.
• Coats to look at: Margot, Savannah, Laurel
