Stay dry in style with our expert rainwear advice
What good is a rain jacket if it leaves your legs sodden and doesn’t adequately cover your clothing? If you ask us, not much good at all. Sure, cropped rainwear has its uses in active pursuits where you need a full range of motion, but for schlepping to and from the office on a wet and windy day, a bit more coverage to keep your outfit protected from puddles is no bad thing.
The best long rain coats for men extend down the body to cover the thighs. In being designed this way, they encourage rain to run off and straight down to the ground instead of soaking into your legwear. They’re cut roomy for layering up, and most of them feature classic, timeless styling that means they’ll pair well with pretty much anything.
As far as transitional rainwear goes, it doesn't get much better than this. So allow us to walk you through the need-to-know information, including the brands doing this type of outerwear best.
What are rain coats made of?
A good question, but one that unfortunately doesn’t have a clear-cut answer. Rain coats actually come in a variety of materials, each with its own benefits. Gore-Tex, for example, is a modern fabric that’s fully waterproof and breathable. This material is perfect for keeping you dry in heavy rain without feeling stuffy or leaving you drenched in sweat. This makes it perfect for active applications, such as hiking, but it works well for casual use too.
On the traditional side of things, we have materials like waxed cotton and gabardine. Barbour is known for its waxed cotton coats, which are water-resistant and offer a rugged, classic look. The same can be said of heritage rainwear brands like Aquascutum and Burberry that use gabardine – an early waterproof fabric with a clean, classic look – in their outerwear.
How should a rain coat fit?
Fit is always important, but even more so when a garment is intended for layering. The best long rain coats for men should be functional as well as stylish. It should fall to your knees or just above, offering full coverage against rain. There should be enough room for popping some knitwear or an insulated layer underneath in colder months without it feeling too loose.
The sleeves should reach the wrists or just past, providing full coverage but not overextending too much. Shoulders should sit comfortably without restricting movement, and the coat should drape smoothly over your body, giving you a sharp, polished look without being bulky.
Are rain coats waterproof?
Not all rain coats are fully waterproof. Some are only water-resistant, which means they can handle light rain but might not hold up in the absolute heaviest of downpours. Waterproof materials, like Gore-Tex or rubberised PU fabrics, offer full protection from the rain. Water-resistant fabrics, such as waxed cotton or gabardine, are more suitable for lighter rain but just be aware that they may absorb water in extreme conditions.
The best long rain coats for men: The Brands to Know
Private White V.C.
Private White V.C. is a British brand known for its heritage-inspired designs and high-quality craftsmanship. Made in Manchester, its long rain coats are built to last and designed for both style and function. These coats often feature water-repellent fabrics that offer solid protection from rain without sacrificing a classic look. A Private White V.C. coat is perfect for men who want a combination of tradition and modern practicality in their rainwear.
Rains
Rains brings a minimalist, Scandinavian aesthetic to rainwear. Its long coats are made from lightweight rubberised cotton, which is fully waterproof. The clean, simple design is ideal for men who need a reliable coat that also looks sharp. Whether you’re walking to work or running errands in the city, a Rains coat offers a sleek solution to staying dry. The breathable material also ensures comfort during unpredictable autumn weather, making it a top choice for urban commuters.
Burberry
Burberry is an iconic British brand famous for its beautiful trench coats. These long rain coats, made from water-resistant gabardine, offering protection from light showers while maintaining breathability. A Burberry coat often features the brand's signature check lining, adding a touch of classic British luxury. If you’re looking for a rain coat that’s as suited to the office as it is to weekend wear, Burberry offers the perfect blend of heritage and high-end style.
Mackintosh
Mackintosh is one of the most respected names in rainwear, offering fully waterproof coats made from rubberised cotton. These are some of the best long rain coats for men. Renowned for durability and craftsmanship – perfect for men who need reliable protection from heavy rain. The brand’s designs are minimalistic, with clean lines that give its coats a timeless appeal. A Mackintosh coat is an investment in long-lasting rainwear that will keep you dry season after season while still looking polished.
A.P.C.
French brand A.P.C. offers long rain coats that are both stylish and functional. Its coats are usually crafted from water-resistant materials, making them better suited to light showers than torrential downpours. A.P.C.’s designs are minimalist, with a focus on clean lines and simple details, making its coats versatile for both casual and formal settings. If you’re after a rain coat that complements a pared-back, European aesthetic, A.P.C. is a great option for understated elegance.
Asket
Asket is known for its focus on sustainability and transparency. Its long rain coats are made from recycled fabrics and are water-resistant. These coats are designed with a timeless silhouette, meaning you can wear them for years without worrying about trends. An Asket rain coat is ideal for men who value minimalism, eco-friendly materials, and thoughtful design. The brand’s commitment to sustainability makes it a good choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact while staying stylish.
Barbour
A true icon in British outerwear, Barbour is famous for its waxed cotton coats. Its long rain coats are water-resistant and perfect for country walks or everyday wear. With a rugged yet classic look, a Barbour coat is built to last and improves with age as the waxed finish develops character over time. The brand’s coats offer a heritage style that’s as functional as it is fashionable. If you need a durable rain coat with a timeless aesthetic, Barbour is hard to beat.
Velasca
Velasca brings Italian craftsmanship and flair to its rain coats. The brand is known for creating lightweight, water-resistant coats that are perfect for milder rainy days. A Velasca long coat combines traditional tailoring with modern functionality, offering a sleek and refined look. These coats are a great choice for men who want an elegant rain coat that transitions easily from casual to formal settings, while still offering enough protection to keep you dry in light showers.
Percival
Percival is a contemporary British brand that combines quirky design with practicality. Its long rain coats are waterproof and often feature fun details, such as colourful linings or unique fabric textures. A Percival coat is ideal for men who want a rain coat that stands out from the crowd while still offering solid protection from the elements. The brand’s coats are versatile, stylish, and perfect for those who like to add a bit of personality to their outerwear.
Uniqlo
For those looking for an affordable option, Uniqlo delivers with its range of water-resistant long rain coats. These coats are designed to be lightweight and functional, making them perfect for everyday wear. A Uniqlo coat offers a simple, minimalist design that works well for casual settings. While it may not have the luxury feel of other brands, Uniqlo provides great value and reliable protection for men on a budget who still want to stay dry and look good.
Not what you were looking for? Why not check out some Gore-Tex options instead?
