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9 best women's festival waterproofs

We may have our fingers crossed for sun, but - let's be realistic - we're packing for rain. These are the macs to keep your denim dry and your hair frizz-free(ish)

Tuesday 02 June 2015 15:38 BST

From bitter experience, we know that the best coats for British festivals are ones that are slightly longer than your average outdoorsy jacket to cover up as much of your clothes as possible (no more damp denim cut-offs or soggy skirts). They will also ideally have tapered seams, a decent-sized hood and some secure pockets to keep moisture off you and your valuables. The best, and slightly more expensive ones, will be made of breathable fabric to see you through those damp but muggy (and muddy) days. How much you decide to spend will depend on how much wear you want out of it post-festival season. There is a selection here to suit all budgets; from lightweight pack-away options to more substantial coats for serious deluges.

1. Bayeux II: £40, regatta.com

The British outdoor clothing specialists has had an image overhaul in the last year with a focus on turning out quality, well-priced outdoor gear that appeals to a more style-conscious demographic. The Bayeux II ticks all those boxes; it’s made from a waterproof, windproof fabric and the hood and cuffs are adjustable to keep all water out. It comes in four bright colours and all have a soft striped jersey lining. Plus the large front pockets coupled with the internal one means there’s enough space to stash all your main stage essentials. It’s not as long as some on the list but it will still give you decent protection.

2. Latitude: £135, seasaltcornwall.co.uk

It’s the little differences that make this one stand out from the pack in the style and practicability stakes; it cinches in at the waist, has leather toggles, is a few inches longer than a standard jacket and it’s made from a cotton mix material that keeps it breathable. The lining is super comfy too. Choose from green or navy in sizes 8-20. We’ll be wearing outs with a turned up sleeve when the rain’s not too heavy.

3. Penfield Gibson Blue Floral: £120, amazon.co.uk

The US brand’s gear is designed to stand up to New England’s weather (as wet as ours) so it’s a good bet for UK festival goers. The Gibson parka’s A-line silhouette with cinchable waist will fit over all your outfits and this one is made from a breathable, water-resistant fabric so you’ll stay cool and dry in summer showers (though it's probably not one for serious deluges). We like this festival-appropriate paisley print but it also comes in bright blue, navy and tan.

4. Cooperative A-Line Fisherman Jacket: £55, urbanoutfitters.com

Urban Outfitters’ ranges are synonymous with summer festivals. Our pick of is rainwear this season is this button-up fisherman-style jacket in a flattering A-line shape and available in three colours. Those large pocket are big enough to stash some Glastonbury booze in, too.

5. Parka: £126, petit-bateau.co.uk

Petit Bateau is known for its hard-wearing, quality children’s wear but it also does stylish basics well for adults too. The brand’s classic waterproof is always a safe bet but if you want something lighter, this one made from a technical fabric is super-lightweight with cool contrast white detailing. The poppers on the cuffs and drawstring hem mean you’ll keep the water out and the bright tomato colour ensures your mates will spot you in the crowd.

6. Peter Storm Women’s Parka In A Pack: £25, blacks.co.uk

If the forecast is so-so but you’re worried there might be an occasional shower, a lightweight mac that packs away is a clever choice. This one, available in both plain and patterned sizes will do the job. You can adjust the waist to make it that bit more fitted and it’s available in sizes 8-18.

7. Drystar Coat: £55, marketplace.asos.com

Lots of the more glam-looking macs aren’t actually waterproof. Drystar bucks that trend. The British brand’s coats come in five shimmery shades with names suited to summer partying – ‘ice blue’, ‘ocean’, ‘mocha’, ‘pink fizz’ and ‘silver mist’. The generous hood and sleeves designed to roll back will please style mavens, but the fabric’s sufficiently techy that you’ll stay dry in even the heaviest downpours.

8. Smooth Mate Vinyl Hooded Coat: £150, hunterboots.com

For something a bit different, try this longer unisex coat made from a semi-transparent vinyl from the welly specialists. Drawcords at the hem and cuffs and hood plus zipped pockets means everything will stay really dry. Choose from four more unusual colours, including lavender.

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9. Women’s Packaway: £39.99, joules.com

A slightly more substantial pack-away option, this one won’t crease when you stuff it back into its pouch and it is roomy enough to wear over layers but you can adjust the waist for a flattering fit. It comes in three designs but the bright pink one is our pick for its visible-in-a-crowdness.

Verdict:

Regatta’s Bayeaux II is a great price for a waterproof, lined jacket and with four colours to choose from, there will be one that works with your festival wardrobe. If you have a bit more to spend, we’d go for Seasalt or Petit Bateau’s practical but stylish options.