Anoraks & Rain Jackets: Materials, Style Tips & Brands

What’s the Difference?

Anorak: Pullover with half-zip, hood, and often a kangaroo pocket. Great for layering and casual wear.
Rain Jacket: Full-zip construction designed for waterproof protection. Ranges from lightweight travel versions to rugged outdoor shells.

Best Materials for Rainwear

Selecting the right fabric determines your level of protection, comfort, and style:

Gore‑Tex & ePTFE Membranes: Top-tier waterproofing and breathability. Found in technical shells like Arc’teryx Beta.
PU‑Coated Nylon/Polyester: Cost-effective, fully waterproof, less breathable—ideal for casual commuters.
DWR (Durable Water Repellent): A finish that makes water bead off fabric; works best with sealed seams and inner membranes.
Waxed/Oilskin Cotton: Heavy, stylish, traditional—think Barbour Bedale—but requires reproofing.
Recycled & Eco Fabrics: Sustainable choices using recycled polyester/nylon and PFC‑free finishes.
Nikwax Analogy Systems: Directional waterproofing used by brands like Páramo—heavy but breathable.

Performance vs. Style Features

Waterproof vs Water‑Resistant: Waterproof withstands heavy rain; water-resistant is for lighter showers.
Layer Counts:
- 2‑layer: Membrane + shell—light but less durable.
- 2.5‑layer: Shell + membrane + print—lightweight but stiffer.
- 3‑layer: Shell + membrane + lining—robust and long-lasting.
Ventilation: Pit-zips and back vents prevent overheating.
Packability: Some designs fold into a pocket—perfect for travel.
Sustainability: Recycled materials and PFC‑free coatings boost eco-credentials.

Styling Tips: How to Wear Them

Women’s Looks:

Sporty Casual: Bright anorak, skinny jeans, trainers or wellies.
Chic Layering: Longline raincoat over a midi dress with boots.
Festival Flair: Patterned anorak, shorts, and combat-style rain boots.

Men’s Looks:

Urban Minimal: Sleek waterproof trench over chinos and loafers.
Outdoor Functional: Tech shell, cargo trousers, hiking trainers.
Countryside Smart: Waxed jacket, rugged boots, denim.

Practical Pointers:

Adjustable hoods and waists for personalised fit.
Look for drawstrings and cinch features in muddy or windy conditions.
Layer with fleeces or mid-layers for colder months.

Top Rainwear Brands at a Glance

Use Case	Recommended Brands & Features
Daily Commute	Rains – minimalist PU-coated styles; Mac in a Sac – lightweight packables; Patagonia Torrentshell – recycled 3‑layer shell
Technical Hiking	Arc’teryx – Gore‑Tex shells (Beta, Atom); Mountain Hardwear – DryQ/Gore‑Tex options
Countryside & Tradition	Barbour – classic waxed jackets; Helly Hansen – Helly‑Tech waterproofing
Budget-Friendly	Columbia, Mac in a Sac, Craghoppers – good value rain protection
Sustainable Picks	Patagonia, Páramo eco-fabrics, recycled materials, PFC‑free finishes

Introducing Tellar.co.uk — Making Fit Easy

Rainwear fits vary wildly. Barbour may run boxy, Rains can be narrow, and Arc’teryx is shaped for athletic builds. Guessing size across brands leads to returns and wasted money.

Tellar.co.uk is your free sizing solution. We map your measurements (bust, waist, hips) to brand-specific sizing—covering over 1,500 brands across tops, trousers, outerwear, dresses, and more.

How It Works

Create your free profile with basic measurements.
Search for any brand (e.g., Barbour, Rains, Arc’teryx).
See your recommended size—tailored to your body, not generic charts.

Save time, avoid returns, and get the right fit first time.

👉 Create Your Profile on Tellar

Relevant Styling & Size Guides on Tellar

Make sure you're choosing styles that not only look great but also fit beautifully. Explore our tested guides:

Best Rain Jackets for UK Weather Reviewed
Barbour Sizing Guide: Waxed Jacket Tips
Lightweight Anoraks That Actually Fit
Patagonia Torrentshell Sizing & Fit

Follow Tellar for Fit Science & Style Insights

Stay connected for ongoing styling deep dives, fit science, new outerwear trends, and in‑depth brand reviews:

Instagram: @Tellarsizing
Twitter/X: @TellarSizing
Facebook: Tellar Sizing
Pinterest: TellarSizing

Final Thoughts

Anoraks and rain jackets are no longer just practical—they’re style statements. From sleek urban designs to rugged countryside classics, there’s something for every lifestyle. And whatever you choose, fit matters most.

Use Tellar.co.uk to confidently select your size across brands—no mistakes, no waste, just perfect-fitting outerwear ready to handle any downpour.

Find your real-fit size today—it's free, easy, and smart.