For all of our friends in the sunny spots of the world, you may be basking in the glow of endless sunshine, even as fall has arrived. But for those in tropical areas or climates with a lot of rainfall, this season is hitting you with inch after inch of precipitation. Since we here at The Manual want you always to be prepared for anything, we think it’s high time to help you figure out the best rain jacket to pick up to keep yourself dry in the wet season.
Now, a lot of brands will tell you that they have the best, but we have done the research and we think we have found the jackets that will truly work the best with and on top of your stellar wardrobe. But first things first, some criteria that we want to get out of the way.
What makes a good rain jacket
When it comes to a rain jacket, there are some things you want to keep in mind. First, the price. If it is a really good price, meaning it feels relatively cheap, then you may end up getting wet anyway, so pay attention to the price and do the research before buying.
Second, know the difference between waterproof and water-resistant jackets. Waterproof means it can handle whatever squall comes your way without worrying about your clothes underneath. Water resistant simply means it will hold light rain at bay for a shorter period of time before it starts to falter.
And finally, what do you need it for? If you’re looking for something that’s perfect for your everyday trek to the office in the city, there’s a jacket for you. If you’re are looking for something that holds up for a four-day hike across the Andes Mountains to Machu Picchu, we have what you need. There will always be some crossover, but be sure to consider what we in the business refer to as “design intent.”
For the office trek: St. Andrews Sand Mackintosh
At the end of the day, if you are shopping for the right rain jacket for everyday protection of your suit wardrobe or your business casual wardrobe, your search should begin and end with the original Mackintosh. It was the first rain jacket around the 1820s, and then it was perfected a century later with the innovation of the trench coat. This is the choice you should make when you want to protect your suits.
| Specifications |
| 100% cotton |
| Double-breasted button fastening |
| Internal tab with press-stud fastening for interchangeable liner vest |
| Single vent |
| Slip side pockets |
| Detachable waist belt with buckle fastening |
| Long sleeves with buckle adjusters at cuffs |
| Water-repellent material |
For the day on the trail: Aether Apparel Storm All-Weather
Whether you are traversing the valleys between mountains on the way to old ruins or trekking the path to base camp in Nepal, Aether Apparel should be one of the first brands you look into. It specializes in getting you out of the house and on the way to your dream destinations, especially if you’re off the beaten path. Also, much of its stuff looks fantastic in Apres ski style, as well.
| Specifications |
| 100% nylon in the back and 100% polyester on the front |
| Waterproof |
| Wind-resistant material |
| Sealed seams |
| Regular fit |
| Rated for lightweight, 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit |
For the camping trip: Patagonia Triolet Alpine
If you are headed into the wilderness, there are some brands that just come to mind when you need gear. Patagonia is at the top of that list because it makes everything suitable for enjoying the outdoors without worrying about needing anything from home. If the rain interrupts your camping trip, this jacket will let you ride it out without cutting it short.
| Specifications |
| 3-layer, 100% recycled GORE-TEX ePE performance fabric |
| Helmet-compatible hood |
| Two Napoleon chest pockets with watertight zips and zipper garages |
| Two welted front pockets stay clear of a harness or a pack waistbelt |
| One interior drop-in pocket |
| Concealed RECCO reflector makes you searchable |
For the morning run: Nathan Stealth 2.0
Let’s face it, nobody looks outside at 5 a.m. with the rain coming down and WANTS to go outside and get their run in — at least no one sane, right? But the marathon is calling, and you can’t afford to miss a day right now. Nathan provides this Stealth 2.0, which lives up to its name by being barely there. It will keep you dry and allow you to get the run in while staying dry.
| Specifications |
| UltraAire extremely lightweight noise free, two-way stretch fabric that dries quickly |
| Wind- and water- resistant DWR finish repels water |
| Zippered left chest pocket fits keys or essentials and packs into a pocket with a loop for storage |
| Ventilated back allows heat to escape |
| Attached hood with drawstring keeper holds hood in place |
| Thumb holes to layer with gloves/base layers (Electric Blue, Bright Lime/Sailor Blue, no holes) |
| Reflective logo on right and arrow design on both sleeves |
Best all-around rain jacket: Burberry Short Heritage Car Coat
If there was any question about what the best all-around rain jacket would be, you should have at least known it was going to come from Burberry. This company is the standard for men’s rainwear. British excellence and quality with style and staying power make this the powerhouse brand that has lasted for seemingly since the beginning of time.
| Specifications |
| Single-breasted button closure |
| Side-button welt pockets |
| Button-tab cuffs |
| Back button vent |
| Burberry check lining and undercollar |
Unless you’re fortunate enough to live in San Diego or some far-flung island with 350 days of sun each year, you need good wet-weather protection. No matter if you never leave the city, you hike every week, or you only take weekend camping trips every six months, you must pack a good rain jacket. Whatever your budget, one of the waterproof coats above is sure to fit the bill.
