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Bring it on, Raincouver. From bright looks for urban commuters to weatherproof hiking gear, we've got you covered.
There’s nothing like November in Vancouver to make you realize how badly you need a new raincoat. Yup, there’s no denying that the rainy season is here. And while you might wish you could hibernate in front of the fireplace for the next five months (just me?), getting caught in a downpour is inevitable. All there is to do is dust off your light therapy lamp (again, just me? Can you tell I struggle with the rain?) and prepare as best you can. Luckily there are plenty of rain jackets out there to keep you toasty dry wherever life takes you, from climbing the Grouse Grind to slogging to the Skytrain station.
From eco-friendly zip-ups to stylish pullovers, here are 10 rain jackets to get you through rainy season in Vancouver. Because if there’s one item of clothing that’s sure to be a staple in your wardrobe, it’s your raincoat. Stay dry, folks.
Founded in Vancouver in 2016, Baro’s raingear has quickly become a local favourite because of its consistently good quality, clever use of recycled material and stylish designs. Baro’s Brockton coat ($328) lives up to the hype. A fish-tail cut in the back ensures ease of movement while fully taped seams and a waterproof zipper keep water out. Stylish and functional? That’s a win in our book. barodrywear.com
READ MORE: Baro Drywear Makes Local Raingear We Love
For a jacket you can feel good in and about, look no further than Norden’s Dane raincoat ($248). Not only is it made from 100% recycled materials, but it’s also vegan, PETA certified and REPREVE certified (a fibre made from recycled bottles that really walks the walk in terms of durability and quality). This mid-length button-up has elastic wristbands to lock out drips and comes in black, olive and cloud. Plus, the Montreal company also has great buy-back and full-circle programs that offer store credit or discounts for your old coat so it can be donated to keep someone in need warm. nordenproject.com
Vancouver-based brand Arc’teryx never fails to impress with their high-quality trekking gear, so it’s no surprise they have a swoon-worthy rain shell, available in men’s and women’s, in their new collection. Made with lightweight but durable Gore-Tex material, Arc’teryx’s Norvan LT hoodie ($500) features a slim fit, breathable fabric and a cinchable hood. It was designed for “trail runs and high output activities” but we won’t tell if you use it for drizzly morning coffee runs instead. arcteryx.com
Get back to the basics with Herschel Supply’s Classic rain jacket ($100). Part of this Vancouver-based brand’s new Uniform collection, a gender non-conforming line “inspired by the Pacific Northwest and journeys throughout the city,” this coat has a three-piece hood and waterproof stretch fabric. Plus the pockets in the front are nice and deep so you keep your phone and wallet (plus lots more) perfectly dry. herschel.ca
READ MORE: Our Top 7 Looks from Herschel’s New Genderless Clothing Line
Who doesn’t want a splash of sunshine on a rainy day? Helly Hansen’s W Kirkwall II raincoat ($160) promises to be a “modern, feminine take on the classic Helly Hansen fisherman’s coat” and honestly, it delivers. This chic urban coat will keep you nice and dry on your morning commute, with a removable waist tie and snap button closes. It even comes with a handy repair kit so you can patch it yourself if you need to. hellyhansen.com
If you’ve ever had to stuff a soggy raincoat into your bag, this one’s for you. Lolë’s new Piper Packable In A Backpack rain jacket ($149) actually transforms into a compact backpack, so you can easily bring it along for that unexpected afternoon shower and then tuck it away without leaving your whole bag damp. It falls just above the knee for optimal rain coverage and has an adjustable hood, waist and sleeves so you can customize for the perfect fit. lolelife.com
A quintessential B.C. raincoat, the Anorak jacket ($325) by Victoria-based Ecologyst is a gender-neutral pull-over quarter zip that easily transitions between wilderness adventures and city life (they were first worn in the Arctic, after all). Ecologyst also offers a lifetime guarantee, so you can easily get any tears mended at any time. It’s made from an organic cotton Ventile, which is both waterproof and breathable. ecologyst.com
READ MORE: Move Over, Patagonia: A First Look Inside Ecologyst’s New Sustainable Manufacturing Facility in Victoria
A fan favourite (just take a peek at its over 4,000 5-star reviews), The North Face’s Venture 2 Jacket ($150) really thinks of it all. Don’t believe us? Just check out the pit zip vent that allows you to air yourself out if (when) you get a little sweaty on your hike. Available in sizes XS to 3XL in both men’s and women’s, you can choose from a variety of vibrant colours including pikes purple, rose tan and emberglow orange heather. It’s also available in the neutrals. thenorthface.com
From a collaboration with Chinese designer Angel Chen, Canada Goose’s Mordaga rain jacket ($1,295) combines all the durability of a trekking coat with a stylish silhouette sure to make a statement in city life. The oversized fit makes it perfect for layering, so you can use it all year round and, and with seven (!!!) exterior pockets, there’s plenty of room to keep everything you need dry. If bold looks are your thing, be sure to check out the lotus pink or fortune red colours. canadagoose.com
If a downpour doesn’t dampen your motivation to go for a run, opt for Lululemon’s Cross Chill Jacket RepelShell ($198). Fleece backing keeps your muscles cozy in chilly autumn weather and the water and windproof outer shell provides good weather protection. The fitted cut is super flattering while still hiding enough zippered pockets for your phone and keys. shop.lululemon.com