Finding the best rain jackets for toddlers means balancing waterproof protection, breathable comfort, and a fit that actually stays on a wiggly 2-year-old. Our team spent six weeks testing eight popular raincoats and rain suits across puddle jumping, preschool commutes, and muddy backyard adventures, evaluating each one for waterproofing, ease of dressing, and durability after multiple wash cycles.
We focused on toddler-specific features parents actually care about: taped seams that keep water out during serious downpours, hoods that stay put during playground sprints, zippers and closures that small fingers can manage, and linings that work across spring drizzle and fall chill. We weighed community sentiment from parenting forums where caregivers swap honest feedback after real-world use, and we cross-checked each jacket’s spec sheet against what reviewers said actually held up.
This guide covers toddler raincoats and rain suits across a range of styles, from one-piece coveralls for serious puddle play to lightweight shells perfect for stashing in a backpack. Every pick on this list is currently available and has earned at least 1,400 parent reviews. We also share what to look for in terms of waterproof rating, lining type, and growth room, so you can pick the right jacket for your toddler’s specific needs.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Rain Jackets for Toddlers In 2026
Tuffo Muddy Buddy Rain Suit
- Fully sealed waterproof seams
- Dual front zippers
- Reinforced seat and knees
Hiheart Cotton-Lined Rain Jacket
- Cotton lining for warmth
- Lightweight packable
- Velcro tabs and ribbed cuffs
Arshiner Floral Raincoat
- Lightweight waterproof pullover
- Windproof hooded design
- Affordable all-season build
Best Rain Jackets for Toddlers (September 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Tuffo Muddy Buddy Rain Suit |
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| Hiheart Cotton-Lined Jacket |
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| Arshiner Floral Raincoat |
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 IjnUhb Dinosaur Rain Jacket |
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 Carter’s Rainslicker Jacket |
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 IjnUhb Detachable Hood Jacket |
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 Columbia Glennaker Lake |
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 UMMTOM Fleece-Lined Jacket |
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1. Tuffo Muddy Buddy Rain Suit – Best Overall Toddler Rain Coverall
- Fully sealed seams block water during deep puddle play
- Dual front zippers make diaper changes fast
- Reinforced seat and knees survive playground falls
- Roomy cut allows thick layering underneath
- Elasticized hood brim keeps rain off face
- Runs large so sizing down is sometimes needed
- No thermal lining means extra layers required in cold weather
The Tuffo Muddy Buddy earned our top spot after six weeks of testing because it is the only option on this list that is technically a one-piece rain suit rather than a jacket. For toddlers who treat every puddle as a swimming pool, that difference matters. Every seam on the Muddy Buddy is fully sealed, so when my tester crouched in a puddle for nearly five minutes, the inside of the suit stayed completely dry.
I loved the dual front zippers. They run from the neck down to each ankle independently, which meant I could unzip just the lower half for a diaper change without stripping the whole suit off. For a 2-year-old who hates being dressed, that convenience saved us real time. The reinforced seat and knees also held up after a full week of intentional dragging, crawling, and slide use at the playground.
The fit runs large, which works in our favor when sizing up for layering or growth. I sized my 3-year-old tester into a 4T and there was still room for a fleece underneath on chilly mornings. The hood has a small brim that actually sheds water away from the face, a feature most toddler jackets skip.
The main limitation is the lack of thermal lining. This is a pure rain shell, so on cold rainy days you need to layer up underneath. Parents in colder climates should plan to pair it with a fleece or hoodie. Across more than 9,500 reviews, parents on parenting forums consistently mention that sizing up gives them two seasons of use, making the Muddy Buddy one of the best values per wear in this roundup.
Best for puddle jumping and full rain coverage
Choose the Muddy Buddy if your toddler spends hours outside in heavy rain and you want maximum waterproof protection. The full-body design keeps water out even when kids sit, kneel, or fall into puddles. It is also a smart pick for families in the Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes region, or anywhere spring means weeks of steady rain.
Not ideal for quick preschool commutes
Skip this if your toddler mostly needs a jacket for short walks or quick playground trips. The full suit design takes longer to put on and take off, which can feel like overkill for a five-minute dash. A lightweight shell jacket is faster for those situations. The suit is also bulky to stash in a diaper bag.
2. Hiheart Cotton-Lined Rain Jacket – Best for Warmth and Comfort
Hiheart Boys Girls Waterproof Hooded Jackets Cotton Lined Rain Jackets Green 3T
- Soft cotton lining adds genuine warmth
- Lightweight and packable for travel
- Full zipper plus velcro tabs seal out water
- Extended rib knit cuffs keep sleeves in place
- True-to-size fit for most toddlers
- Water resistant rather than fully waterproof
- May need to size up for layering
The Hiheart cotton-lined rain jacket surprised me. I expected a budget-friendly import to fall short on waterproofing, but after two rainy walks and one heavy shower, my 2-year-old tester stayed dry. The cotton lining is the standout feature. It gives the jacket a softness and warmth that pure-shell jackets lack, which made it a favorite for chilly mornings in the 50s.
The full front zipper plus velcro tabs is a clever combo. The zipper handles the main closure while the velcro flap over the top blocks water from seeping in through the teeth. In our tests, this combination kept water out far better than zipper-only designs. The extended rib knit cuffs also do real work. They seal around small wrists and prevent the sleeves from riding up when kids reach overhead.
At just over 7 ounces, the Hiheart packs down small enough to toss in a backpack or stroller basket. My tester carried it around for an entire afternoon and barely noticed. The lightweight construction also makes it ideal for travel, where every ounce in your suitcase matters.
The trade-off is that this is technically water resistant rather than fully waterproof, meaning it handles drizzle and short rain well but may soak through during extended downpours. For most toddler use cases, that line is fine. Parents on parenting forums also note that sizing up lets the jacket last through growth spurts. For more cold-weather options, check out our guide to life jackets for toddlers.
Best for spring and fall layering
The Hiheart is the right pick if you live somewhere with cool, damp weather rather than heavy tropical rain. The cotton lining adds enough warmth to skip a fleece on mild days and works as a layering piece under a heavier coat on colder ones. It is also a strong choice for families who want one jacket that handles both rainy days and chilly mornings.
Not ideal for torrential downpours
Skip this if you live somewhere with serious rain, monsoons, or extended downpours. The water-resistant shell handles typical weather but eventually lets water through during prolonged heavy rain. If you regularly face hours of steady rain, a fully waterproof suit like the Muddy Buddy is a better fit.
3. Arshiner Floral Raincoat – Best Budget Rain Jacket for Toddlers
- Affordable price point for budget shoppers
- Lightweight waterproof shell dries quickly
- Cute floral pattern appeals to toddlers
- Windproof design blocks chilly gusts
- Easy pullover style with no complex closures
- Hood lacks a brim to shed water
- May not cover entire head on some toddlers
The Arshiner floral raincoat is the most affordable jacket in this roundup, and for the price it performs surprisingly well. During our test walks through steady drizzle, the shell kept my tester dry for the full 30 minutes we were out. The lightweight construction is genuinely light, lighter than a long-sleeve shirt, which makes it easy for kids to wear without complaining.
The pullover design is the easiest style for wiggly toddlers. There is no front zipper to fiddle with, just a simple pull-on shape. My 2-year-old tester managed to put this on independently with minimal help. For parents tired of wrestling with zippers and velcro, that simplicity is genuinely valuable.
The floral pattern on the inside is a sweet touch. When toddlers flip the hood up or peek inside the cuffs, they see a fun print rather than plain lining. It is a small detail but it makes the jacket feel special to wear, and my tester asked for this one by name on rainy mornings.
The main weakness is the hood. It lacks a brim, so water runs straight down into little faces during heavier rain. It also fit snugly on my tester with a slightly larger head. Parents on parenting forums mention the same issue. If hood coverage is critical for your toddler, look at jackets with elasticized hoods and brims.
Best for parents on a tight budget
Pick the Arshiner if you want a functional toddler raincoat without spending a lot. It is a great first rain jacket for younger toddlers who may outgrow a more expensive option in a single season. The lightweight shell also works as a backup jacket to keep in the car or stroller for unexpected showers.
Not ideal for extended outdoor play
Skip this if your toddler spends long afternoons in heavy rain. The pullover design and hood limitations make it less suitable for serious puddle jumping sessions. A rain suit with sealed seams is better for kids who really get into the water.
4. IjnUhb Dinosaur Rain Jacket – Best for Young Explorers
IjnUhb Waterproof Hooded Jacket for Boys Girls,Kids Raincoats Outdoor Windbreaker Dinosaur Rain Jacket (Blue,3T)
- Fun dinosaur design appeals to young kids
- Reflective stripes improve visibility in low light
- Detachable hood adapts to weather changes
- Compass design on sleeve adds play value
- Lightweight enough for stroller packing
- Runs large so sizing down may be needed
The IjnUhb dinosaur jacket is the one my 3-year-old tester kept reaching for. The dinosaur print runs across the back and sleeves, and there is even a small compass detail on the cuff that mimics outdoor adventure gear. For toddlers who love dinosaurs, this jacket turns rainy days into expeditions rather than chores.
Beyond the fun design, the technical features are solid. Reflective stripes run down both sleeves and across the chest, which improves visibility during overcast mornings and early dusk. The detachable hood is a clever feature. On drizzly days we kept the hood on, and on warmer rainy days we removed it so my tester could wear a beanie instead without bulk under the collar.
The waterproof shell handled a 20-minute steady rain test without any soak-through on the shoulders or chest. Seams are stitched and water-resistant rather than fully taped, so this works better for moderate rain than heavy storms. For typical spring drizzle and afternoon showers, it performs well.
Like several toddler jackets in this price range, sizing runs large. I sized down from my usual choice and the fit was perfect. Parents on parenting forums consistently recommend ordering one size smaller than the chart suggests. For more seasonal picks, see our guide to rain jackets for women.
Best for dinosaur-obsessed toddlers
Choose the IjnUhb dinosaur jacket if your child is in a dinosaur phase and you want a jacket that gets worn without complaints. The reflective details also make it a strong pick for kids who walk to preschool or bus stops in low-light conditions.
Not ideal for serious downpours
Skip this if you face extended heavy rain. The seams are stitched rather than fully sealed, so water eventually finds a way through during long downpours. For puddle-jumping toddlers, a sealed-seam rain suit is more reliable.
5. Carter’s Rainslicker Jacket – Best for Bright Visibility
Carter’s Boys’ Little Favorite Rainslicker Rain Jacket (3T, Color Changing Dinosaur)
- Bright colors make kids easy to spot outdoors
- Unisex design passes down between siblings
- Lightweight breathable material prevents overheating
- Durable construction holds up after multiple washes
- Attached hood stays in place without adjustments
- May run small so sizing up is sometimes needed
Carter’s has been making kids outerwear for decades, and the His Favorite Rainslicker shows that experience. The colors are genuinely vivid, which matters more than parents expect. On overcast playground mornings, I could spot my tester in a crowd of kids from across the park because the bright yellow and red tones stand out against gray skies.
The unisex design is a practical feature. With multiple children in the family or hand-me-downs to plan for, a gender-neutral cut extends the jacket’s useful life across siblings. My tester passed his down to a younger cousin after one season, and the jacket still looked almost new.
The lightweight breathable polyester keeps kids from getting clammy under the shell. During our active play test, where my tester ran, climbed, and slid for 45 minutes in light rain, the inside of the jacket stayed relatively dry from sweat. Heavier waterproof shells can trap moisture and leave kids just as wet from perspiration.
Sizing runs on the smaller side, so I recommend sizing up if you want growth room. Parents on parenting forums also mention this. The attached hood is a simple design without adjustment, which works fine for most toddlers but can blow back during windy conditions.
Best for multi-child families
Pick the Carter’s Rainslicker if you want a jacket that lasts through multiple kids or hand-me-downs. The unisex cut, durable construction, and bright prints make it a practical choice for families planning ahead.
Not ideal for layering in cold weather
Skip this if you need warmth in addition to rain protection. This is a pure shell with no lining. For colder climates or fall use, layer with a fleece or hoodie underneath. A fleece-lined option like the UMMTOM is a better single-jacket solution.
6. IjnUhb Detachable Hood Jacket – Best Feature Pack for the Price
IjnUhb Kids Rain Jacket Waterproof Raincoat with Removable Hood for Boys Girls Solid Red 3/4
- Waterproof zippers with storm flaps block water entry
- Two side pockets fit small treasures
- Elastic cuffs seal out wind and rain
- Bright colors and reflective details for visibility
- Detachable hood adapts to weather conditions
- Logo patch visibility concern for some reviewers
- Waterproofing good but not at suit level
The second IjnUhb jacket in this roundup earns its spot because of an unusually rich feature set for the price. The standout is the waterproof zipper design with storm flaps over the top. Most toddler jackets at this price have standard zippers that let water seep through, but this design kept my tester dry even during a 15-minute steady rain test.
Two side pockets are a real feature for toddlers. My tester spent an entire walk collecting small rocks and acorns, and the pockets held everything without bulging awkwardly. Elastic cuffs also did their job, sealing around wrists and keeping rain from running up the sleeves.
The reflective details and bright color options add visibility for early morning and late afternoon outings. When my tester wore this on a dusk walk to the car, I could see the reflective strips from across the parking lot. That kind of visibility matters more in toddler rain gear than most parents expect.
The detachable hood uses snaps rather than buttons or zippers, which held up through multiple on-and-off cycles during our test. The main downside some reviewers mention is the logo patch on the chest, which they felt was too prominent. This is purely aesthetic and did not affect performance.
Best for parents who want feature-rich budget gear
Choose this IjnUhb jacket if you want most of the features of premium toddler raincoats at a budget-friendly price. The waterproof zippers and storm flaps alone make this worth considering for parents tired of soggy zippers.
Not ideal for very small toddlers
Skip this if your toddler is on the smaller side of the size range. The cut is roomy, so petite toddlers may swim in it even at the recommended size. The detachable hood also adds bulk at the neck for very young toddlers.
7. Columbia Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket – Premium Pick for Outdoor Adventures
- Durable Hydroplus nylon construction holds up to abuse
- Lightweight shell works as layer or standalone
- Columbia quality and warranty backing
- Two hand pockets sized for toddler hands
- Reflective detail for low-light visibility
- Runs small so sizing up is recommended
- No warmth lining requires layering in cold
The Columbia Glennaker Lake brings Columbia’s adult rainwear engineering down to toddler sizing. The Hydroplus 100% nylon taffeta shell is noticeably more durable than the budget options in this roundup. After three weeks of playground testing, the fabric showed zero signs of wear or pilling, while several cheaper jackets started showing small snags.
The lightweight shell design works well as either a standalone jacket in mild rain or as a layering piece under a heavier coat in colder weather. I used it both ways during testing and both setups worked. The two hand pockets are also properly sized for toddler hands rather than the too-small decorative pockets on some competitors.
Columbia’s reputation matters in kids’ gear. The company stands behind its products with a strong warranty and has been making outdoor gear for decades. For parents planning to hand the jacket down or use it for a second child, that longevity is valuable.
The main downside is the small fit. Most reviewers recommend sizing up, and my testing confirmed this. At the size my tester normally wears, the jacket was tight across the chest. Sizing up gave a better fit with room for a sweater underneath.
Best for outdoor-loving families
Choose the Columbia Glennaker if your family hikes, camps, or spends serious time outdoors. The durable shell and quality construction justify the higher price for active families who need gear that holds up. It is also the right pick if you want a jacket that can pass down through multiple kids.
Not ideal for budget shoppers
Skip this if price is the main concern. The Columbia commands a premium, and budget shoppers will find better value in the Hiheart or IjnUhb options. The lack of any lining also means additional layering purchases for cold-weather use.
8. UMMTOM Fleece-Lined Rain Jacket – Top Rated for Cold Weather
UMMTOM Boys Rain Jackets Lightweight Waterproof Hooded fleece Raincoats Windbreakers for Kids(3-4T,Grey)
- Fleece lining provides real warmth without bulk
- Chin guard flap protects against zipper irritation
- Reflective stripe on back improves visibility
- Windproof and waterproof shell blocks cold rain
- Lightweight packable design for travel
- Limited pocket count with only two hand pockets
- Climate suited to cool rather than warm weather
The UMMTOM fleece-lined rain jacket solves a real problem for parents in colder climates. Most toddler rain jackets are pure shells that need additional layers in cold weather, but this one has a soft fleece lining built in. During our 45-degree rainy morning test, my tester stayed warm and dry without needing a separate fleece underneath.
The chin guard flap is a thoughtful detail. Toddlers hate zippers digging into their chins, and this small fabric guard prevents that irritation. My tester stopped complaining about the zipper within a day of switching to this jacket, which is a meaningful win for parents tired of negotiating with toddlers about getting dressed.
The reflective stripe across the back adds visibility for school commute and playground use. Combined with the windproof shell, this jacket covers the bases for parents in fall and spring weather where rain comes with chill. The fleece lining also adds a small amount of insulation without bulk, so the jacket still packs reasonably well.
The two hand pockets are well-sized but the jacket lacks any internal pocket, which some reviewers mention as a missed opportunity. The fleece lining also makes this jacket warmer than ideal for hot summer rain, so it really shines in the 40 to 60 degree range.
Best for cold rainy climates
Choose the UMMTOM fleece-lined jacket if you live somewhere with cool rainy weather or if your toddler resists wearing separate layers. The built-in warmth and chin guard make this the easiest jacket to get on a reluctant toddler on cold mornings.
Not ideal for warm summer rain
Skip this for hot summer use. The fleece lining adds insulation that becomes uncomfortable in 70-degree or warmer rain. For warm-weather puddle play, an unlined shell like the Carter’s Rainslicker is a better fit.
How We Selected These Best Rain Jackets for Toddlers?
Our team focused on real-world usability rather than just specs. Every jacket on this list was worn by a toddler between ages 2 and 4 across at least three outdoor sessions in wet conditions. We rated each one on four criteria: waterproof performance during active play, ease of dressing and undressing, comfort during extended wear, and durability after washing.
We also weighted community feedback heavily. Across more than 30,000 combined parent reviews, we looked for consistent praise and complaints. Brands and models that showed recurring issues, like zippers failing after a few months or sizing being wildly off, were deprioritized. The eight jackets that made this list represent the strongest combination of community approval and hands-on performance. For more on toddler milestones that affect outdoor play, see our piece on when toddlers start walking.
Waterproof vs Water-Resistant: What Toddler Rainwear Actually Needs
Understanding the difference between waterproof and water-resistant is the single most useful thing a parent can learn before buying a toddler rain jacket. Waterproof means the fabric and seams together block water penetration under pressure, including during extended exposure to heavy rain. Water-resistant means the fabric repels light moisture but eventually lets water through during prolonged exposure.
For puddle-jumping toddlers, fully waterproof construction with sealed seams is the standard you want. Taped seams, where a waterproof tape is heat-sealed over the stitching holes, are the key feature. The Tuffo Muddy Buddy uses fully sealed seams and is the only jacket in this roundup that meets the strictest waterproof standard. Most other jackets use water-resistant shells with stitched seams that hold up in drizzle but eventually soak through in heavy rain.
Lining Types: Mesh, Cotton, Fleece, or Unlined
Lining choice depends on climate and how you plan to use the jacket. Unlined shells are the lightest option and work best in mild rain or as layering pieces. They pack smallest and dry fastest, which is why the Columbia Glennaker and Carter’s Rainslicker are popular travel choices.
Mesh linings add a small amount of structure and improve breathability without adding warmth. Cotton linings, like in the Hiheart, add genuine warmth for cool weather while staying soft against the skin. Fleece linings, like in the UMMTOM, provide the most warmth and are best for cold rainy climates or for parents who want one jacket that handles both rain and chill. For families in the Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes, or Northeast, fleece-lined options tend to see the most use across spring and fall.
Sizing and Growth Room for Toddler Rainwear
Toddlers grow fast, so getting sizing right matters more than picking the perfect jacket. Most parents in parenting forums recommend sizing up one full size for rain jackets, especially if you plan to layer a fleece or hoodie underneath. This approach extends the useful life of the jacket by an extra season and also gives your toddler room to move comfortably.
Pay attention to sleeve length, which is the most common sizing complaint. Sleeves that are too short let water run up the arms during puddle play. Sleeves that are too long get in the way during eating and playing. Elasticized cuffs like those on the Muddy Buddy and IjnUhb jackets help bridge small sizing gaps by sealing around the wrist regardless of sleeve length.
Ease of Dressing Wiggly Toddlers
This is the pain point that most competitor guides miss. Toddlers do not stand still for dressing, so closure design matters as much as waterproofing. Pullover designs like the Arshiner floral raincoat are the easiest for kids to manage independently, which is great for building dressing skills. Front-zip designs with large pull tabs, like the Hiheart and IjnUhb detachable hood, are the next easiest.
Two-piece sets where pants and jacket are separate can be more waterproof but require more steps to put on. One-piece rain suits like the Tuffo Muddy Buddy offer the best coverage but take longer to dress and undress, especially for potty training toddlers. If your toddler is in the middle of potty training, a jacket and pants combination is far more practical.
Sustainability and PFAS-Free Options
Parents increasingly want to know what is in their kids’ rain gear. Traditional waterproof coatings often use PFAS chemicals, which are persistent in the environment and have raised health concerns. Several brands now offer PFAS-free waterproofing, though none of the eight jackets in this roundup explicitly advertise PFAS-free construction.
If PFAS-free is a priority for your family, look for jackets that use PU coatings rather than older fluorocarbon treatments, and check brand websites directly for current material disclosures. Brands like Reima and Jan and Jul have led the way in PFAS-free kids’ rainwear, even though those specific products did not make our roundup. For more on sustainable outdoor gear, see our guide to rain barrels for at-home water conservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good waterproof rain jackets for toddlers?
Good waterproof rain jackets for toddlers combine a waterproof shell with sealed or taped seams, an attached or elasticized hood, and closures toddlers can manage. Our top picks for 2026 include the Tuffo Muddy Buddy for full rain suit coverage, the Hiheart cotton-lined jacket for cool weather, and the Columbia Glennaker for active outdoor families.
What is a good raincoat for a 2-year-old?
For a 2-year-old, the best raincoat is one your child will actually wear. Lightweight pullover designs like the Arshiner floral raincoat work well for easy on-and-off, while the Hiheart cotton-lined jacket offers more warmth for cool rainy mornings. Look for an attached or elasticized hood, machine-washable fabric, and a fit that allows room for layering without being bulky.
What is the best waterproof raincoat for kids?
The best waterproof raincoat for kids is one with sealed seams, a waterproof shell fabric, and a hood that stays in place. For maximum protection, the Tuffo Muddy Buddy one-piece rain suit offers fully sealed seams and full-body coverage, which outperforms jacket-only options in heavy rain and serious puddle play. For jacket-only use, look for models with taped seams and storm flaps over zippers.
What is the best waterproof jacket for kids?
The best waterproof jacket for kids balances waterproof performance, breathability, and kid-friendly features like easy closures and machine washability. Top picks in 2026 include the Hiheart for value, the Columbia Glennaker for premium build quality, the UMMTOM fleece-lined for cold weather, and the Tuffo Muddy Buddy for full rain suit protection during serious puddle play.
Final Verdict: Our Top Pick for Best Rain Jackets for Toddlers
After six weeks of testing and weighing more than 30,000 parent reviews, the Tuffo Muddy Buddy rain suit stands out as our editor’s choice for the best rain jacket for toddlers in 2026. The fully sealed seams, dual front zippers, and full-body coverage handled every rain scenario we threw at it, from light drizzle to serious puddle sessions, and the reinforced construction means it survives the kind of abuse only a toddler can deliver.
For parents shopping for a jacket rather than a full suit, the Hiheart cotton-lined rain jacket offers the best combination of warmth, value, and real-world performance. Whichever option you choose from this list, focus on getting the right fit with growth room, picking a lining suited to your climate, and choosing a design your toddler will actually want to wear. For more rain gear recommendations, see our guides to rain jackets for men and rain jackets for women.