With spring showers on the horizon, it’s time to start thinking about outerwear that can stand up to wet weather.

Rain jackets and raincoats both repel water, but they have some key differences.

Read on to find out what makes mountain hardwear rain jacket womens different from raincoats so you can choose the right one for your needs.

Lightweight and Packable

One of the biggest differences between rain jackets and raincoats is their weight and packability.

Rain jackets are made from lightweight, waterproof fabrics like Gore-Tex that can be compressed down small enough to fit in your back pocket or purse.

This makes them a great choice for hiking, backpacking, or other active pursuits where you want wet weather protection without a lot of bulk.

Raincoats are generally heavier and made from materials like vinyl, rubberized cotton, or waxed cotton.

They don’t compress down as small and are better suited for activities like walking the dog or commuting where you have space to stow them when not in use.

Designed for Aerobic Activity

In addition to being lightweight, rain jackets are designed with features that make them ideal for aerobic activities.

They have ventilation systems that allow sweat vapor and heat to escape, preventing you from overheating during vigorous exercise. The fabrics are also highly breathable.

Raincoats tend to be warmer and better suited for more casual use. They lack the ventilation features of rain jackets, so they can get hot and clammy if you’re active in them.

More Durable Water Protection

The waterproof fabrics used in quality rain jackets provide exceptional wet weather protection.

Most have a minimum waterproof rating of 10,000mm, with high-end jackets rated over 20,000mm.

This means the fabric can repel water pressures exceeding heavy rain and storms. The seams are also sealed to prevent leaks.

In comparison, raincoats typically have lighter water resistance around 1,500-5,000mm.

Their seams may also allow water to seep through with enough exposure to rain or wind.

Raincoats work fine for a stroll in a light shower but lack the hardcore water protection offered by technical rain jackets.

Better Fit for Active Use

Rain jackets are designed to move with you during aerobic activity. They utilize articulated shapes and stretch fabrics that allow a full range of motion without restriction. Their trim silhouettes are not baggy or bulky.

Raincoats have a looser, boxier fit that allows layering underneath. But this bulkier fit can impede movement compared to the streamlined cut of rain jackets.

More Versatile Styling

Thanks to innovations in waterproof fabrics and taped seams, rain jackets can take on sleek and stylish silhouettes from trench coats to bombers.

Many people wear them as everyday outerwear because they look good in addition to being functional.

Raincoats have a more utilitarian, basic look. While they come in different lengths and colors, their styling tends to be less refined than rain jackets. They’re primarily focused on function over fashion.

So in summary, rain jackets are lightweight, breathable, durably waterproof, and designed to move with active wearers.

Raincoats offer budget-friendly wet weather protection better suited to more casual use.

Consider your needs and priorities, and choose the wet weather gear that aligns with how and where you’ll use it.

With the right outer layer, you can comfortably enjoy the outdoors no matter what the skies bring.