10 Best Waterproof Jackets for Festivals 2025
Festivals in the UK mean unpredictable weather, so a reliable waterproof jacket is essential. Whether you're dancing in the rain at Glastonbury or camping at Reading, the right jacket keeps you dry, comfortable, and mobile. Here's a quick rundown of the top 10 jackets for 2025, covering options for every budget and need:
- The North Face Papsura: Lightweight and breathable, perfect for active festival-goers (£165).
- Regatta Corinne IV: Budget-friendly with decent rain protection (£21 on sale).
- Montbell Versalite: Ultralight and compact, ideal for packing light (£145).
- Helly Hansen Adore: Combines insulation and waterproofing for colder days (£125).
- Patagonia Torrentshell 3L: Dependable mid-range option for heavy rain (£135).
- Columbia OutDry Extreme Mesh: External waterproof membrane for top-tier protection (£180).
- Rains Long Jacket: Stylish longline design with moderate rain defence (£85).
- Arc'teryx Beta AR: High-end, durable, and highly waterproof (£500).
- Berghaus Paclite Dynak: Lightweight and packable for festival convenience (£95).
- Rab Downpour Plus 2.0: Breathable and compact for all-day comfort (£110).
Quick Comparison Table
| Jacket | Waterproof Rating | Breathability | Weight | Packability | Price (GBP) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The North Face Papsura | 15,000mm | 12,000g/m²/24hr | 420g | Good (stuff sack) | £165 | Active use, durability |
| Regatta Corinne IV | 10,000mm | 8,000g/m²/24hr | 380g | Excellent (packs small) | £21 (sale) | Budget-friendly option |
| Montbell Versalite | 20,000mm | 15,000g/m²/24hr | 87g | Outstanding (ultralight) | £145 | Lightest and most portable |
| Helly Hansen Adore | 12,000mm | 10,000g/m²/24hr | 340g | Very good | £125 | Warmth and waterproofing |
| Patagonia Torrentshell 3L | 20,000mm | 10,000g/m²/24hr | 352g | Good | £135 | Reliable rain protection |
| Columbia OutDry Extreme | 25,000mm | 8,000g/m²/24hr | 465g | Fair | £180 | Heavy rain and durability |
| Rains Long Jacket | 8,000mm | 5,000g/m²/24hr | 520g | Poor | £85 | Style-focused festival wear |
| Arc'teryx Beta AR | 28,000mm | 20,000g/m²/24hr | 445g | Good | £500 | Premium performance |
| Berghaus Paclite Dynak | 15,000mm | 15,000g/m²/24hr | 295g | Excellent | £95 | Best all-rounder |
| Rab Downpour Plus 2.0 | 20,000mm | 20,000g/m²/24hr | 374g | Excellent (rolls into hood) | £110 | Breathability and comfort |
Choose based on your priorities: budget, weight, packability, or weather resistance. Pair your jacket with a quick-dry towel like Dansu for extra comfort. With the right gear, you’re ready for any festival rainstorm.
Top 10 Waterproof Jackets 2024
1. The North Face Papsura
The North Face Papsura is the go-to ultralight jacket for festival enthusiasts who want to stay dry without being weighed down. Made with The North Face's FUTURELIGHT 3L fabric, it provides reliable waterproofing and breathability - perfect for dancing through rain showers or tackling muddy festival paths. Let’s dive into its technical features, user feedback, and practical highlights.
This jacket is built with movement in mind, making it ideal for high-energy activities. GearJunkie gave it an impressive 8.9/10 rating, even crowning it the "Best Fast & Light Technical Rain Jacket". The ISPO Award Jury also praised its minimalist yet functional design, stating:
"This jacket is perfect for everyone who wants to go fast and light. It is small, packable, and light while being waterproof and breathable integrating The North Face's own membrane technology. The no-frills design is perfect for modern-day alpinism."
However, reviewers have noted that while the Papsura excels in most conditions, prolonged exposure to severe weather can test its waterproofing limits. The absence of pit zips is another drawback, as it reduces ventilation during intense physical activity.
On the sustainability front, the jacket is crafted from 100% recycled nylon and finished with a non-PFC DWR coating, aligning with eco-conscious values.
Technical Features
Let’s break down the jacket’s performance in more detail:
Waterproofing
The North Face hasn’t provided specific hydrostatic head ratings for the Papsura. That said, its FUTURELIGHT 3L fabric is engineered to handle most weather challenges typical of UK festivals, keeping you dry when it matters most.
Breathability
In 2019, The North Face reported that its FUTURELIGHT fabric achieved a moisture vapour transmission rate of 75,000. This means it’s highly effective at releasing heat and moisture, ensuring comfort during active use.
Lightweight Design
Weighing just 224g for a men’s medium and 200g for women’s sizes, the Papsura is so lightweight you’ll barely notice it’s there, making it perfect for those always on the move.
Packability
One standout feature is its packability. The jacket can be neatly tucked into its own right-hand pocket, making it easy to store in a bag or clip onto your gear when not in use.
Whether you're braving a downpour or just need a lightweight layer, the Papsura combines practical performance with thoughtful design, making it a solid choice for festival-goers and adventurers alike.
2. Regatta Corinne IV Waterproof Parkway Jacket
The Regatta Corinne IV Waterproof Parkway Jacket is a fantastic choice for festival-goers on a budget, offering reliable protection without emptying your wallet. Originally retailing at £70, it’s often available for as little as £21 - a bargain for students and young adventurers alike. Made with Isolite 5000 fabric, it combines solid waterproofing with breathability, making it a dependable companion for those unpredictable festival days.
Here’s what makes the Corinne IV a standout option.
Joey Yip, Former Fashion Assistant at Grazia Daily, tested the jacket during a festival in 2025 and shared:
As you can see, this is a rain jacket that hits the upper thigh for a snug fit that mirrors the retro vibe of sportswear cover-ups. Its lightweight design allows it to fold easily into a pocket or a belt bag and won't make you feel soggy on the move. I wore this to a festival and withstood sweaty conditions, spilled drinks, and heavy rain. While it’s not long enough to shield my whole body, it did a pretty decent job. I wasn’t sick after being outside the whole day even after the heavens opened. The fact that it's cropped meant I could show a little leg, and my outfit wasn’t serving tent. It gets our best overall coat because of the price (£35!) and features that mean it's more than capable of keeping you dry (and feeling cool in both senses of the word).
Let’s dive into the technical details that make this jacket festival-ready.
Waterproof Rating
The Corinne IV uses Isolite 5000 fabric with fully taped seams to ensure you stay dry, even in typical UK festival weather. While Regatta doesn’t provide specific hydrostatic head figures, the jacket’s durable water repellent (DWR) finish helps rain bead off the surface instead of soaking in.
Breathability
Whether you’re dancing or trekking between stages, the jacket’s breathability rating of 10,000g/m²/24 hours ensures moisture vapour escapes, keeping you comfortable and sweat-free.
Packability
Portability is key at festivals, and this jacket folds neatly into its own belt bag. It’s easy to store and quick to pull out when rain clouds roll in.
Weight
Weighing just 80gsm and made from lightweight 100% polyamide fabric, the Corinne IV is designed to be as unobtrusive as possible. You can clip it to your belt or tuck it into a small bag without adding bulk.
Additional features include a concealed hood with adjusters, reflective trim for better visibility, two zipped lower pockets for your essentials, and an adjustable shockcord hem for a snug fit. With a user rating of 4.4/5.0, it’s a proven performer that’ll keep you dry and looking sharp when the weather takes a turn.
3. Montbell Versalite
The Montbell Versalite is a standout choice for festival-goers who value lightweight gear that’s easy to pack. Weighing just 182g and folding down to the size of an apple, this jacket practically vanishes into your bag until you need it. It offers dependable rain protection without adding unnecessary bulk, making it a convenient option for unpredictable weather.
Made with 2-layer Gore-Tex Windstopper fabric and 10-denier nylon, the Versalite strikes a balance between performance and minimal weight. While it handles light to moderate rain well, its ultralight design means it’s not the best option for prolonged heavy downpours.
Waterproof Rating
With a waterproof rating of 20,000mm, the Versalite is well-suited for typical British showers. However, it’s worth noting that its performance may falter during extended exposure to heavy rain.
Breathability
The jacket boasts a breathability rating of 43,000 g/m²/24hrs, measured using the JIS L-1099 B-1 method. This makes it an excellent choice for those who plan to stay active while wearing it.
Packability
Designed for convenience, the Versalite compresses down to just 7 x 7 x 14 cm and includes its own stuff sack. When packed, it’s roughly the size of a 330ml can, making it incredibly easy to carry.
Weight
At just 182g, the Versalite is impressively lightweight, ensuring you can carry it all day without it becoming a burden.
The jacket has received strong reviews from various platforms, with a 4.7/5 rating on ThePackableLife.com, 4.4/5.0 on CleverHiker, and 3.9/5 on Better Trail. It’s a great pick for those who prioritise portability and breathability over heavy-duty waterproofing in extreme conditions.
4. Helly Hansen Adore
The Helly Hansen Adore Insulated Rain Coat combines warmth and waterproofing, making it a solid choice for those chilly, drizzly festival days.
This jacket is equipped with HELLY TECH® PERFORMANCE, waterproof YKK zippers, a PFC-free DWR finish, and 60g PrimaLoft insulation. It also includes three outer zippered pockets and reflective wrist cuffs, giving it a sleek and practical look.
Testing in New York showed it performs well against cold winds and light rain during spring, though it struggles to fully shield against heavy downpours.
Here’s a closer look at how it holds up in festival conditions.
Waterproof Rating
The Adore isn’t the most waterproof jacket on the market, but it does a good job of keeping you dry in typical spring showers. For British festivals, where rain is often steady rather than torrential, this coat is a reliable companion.
Breathability
Rated 4/6 for breathability by Helly Hansen, the Adore strikes a balance between air circulation and weather protection. This means you’ll stay comfortable whether you’re dancing near the main stage or walking between festival areas .
Weight and Fit
At 730g, the Adore is heavier than ultralight jackets, but its sporty cut earns it a 5/6 lightness rating. Reviews suggest it "runs small", so it’s worth sizing up for a more comfortable fit .
5. Patagonia Torrentshell 3L
The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L is a dependable mid-range jacket designed to tackle the unpredictable weather often found in the UK. Featuring Patagonia's H2No Performance Standard waterproof and breathable barrier, it delivers solid performance across a variety of conditions. From light drizzles to heavy downpours at festivals, this jacket strikes a great balance between protection and practicality. Its durable water repellent (DWR) coating ensures rain beads up and slides off, while the membrane continues to perform even during prolonged exposure to wet conditions.
"Weather protection is where the Torrentshell truly shines. I've worn this jacket through hours-long downpours in the Cascades and stayed completely dry underneath." – Naomi Hudetz, Co-founder and Director of Analytics and Digital Innovation, Treeline Review
The jacket has also proven itself on demanding trips, such as a three-day backpacking adventure in near-constant rain with gusts reaching 40 mph, where it kept users dry throughout.
Here’s a closer look at the technical features that make the Torrentshell 3L a festival-friendly choice.
Waterproof Rating
With a 20,000mm waterproof rating, the Torrentshell 3L is built to handle everything from light showers to intense rainstorms, provided it’s properly maintained. This high level of water resistance has earned it praise for its reliability. In OutdoorGearLab’s tests, it scored 8.7/10 for water resistance, with only a small 2-inch square of underlayer affected after repeated 15-minute downpours.
"The Torrentshell 3L landed towards the front of the pack in water resistance, competing with much more expensive models." – Zach Lovell, Review Editor, OutdoorGearLab
Weight
Weighing 400g (14.1 oz) for the men’s version and 350g (12.4 oz) for the women’s, the Torrentshell 3L sits comfortably in the mid-weight category. OutdoorGearLab gave it a weight rating of 7.3/10. Despite not being the lightest option out there, reviewers note that it’s far from cumbersome, making it a suitable companion for commuting, travelling, or hiking.
Packability
Portability is another strong point for this jacket. It packs neatly into its own left-hand pocket, compressing down to the size of a large grapefruit or a 1-litre bottle. A carabiner loop allows you to attach it to a pack or harness when it’s not in use. While the fabric’s stiffness can make packing slightly tricky, the compact size and added durability of its three-layer design make it a practical choice for day trips and festival outings. For many, the sturdiness of the material is a worthwhile trade-off for its reliable performance.
6. Columbia OutDry Extreme Mesh
The Columbia OutDry Extreme Mesh takes waterproof technology to the next level, offering top-tier protection and breathability. Unlike traditional designs that hide the waterproof membrane between layers, this jacket places it on the outside, creating a fully seam-sealed barrier that’s completely waterproof.
For festival-goers, this jacket is a game-changer. It keeps you dry no matter the weather, while the internal mesh lining ensures comfort, even during long, active days.
"OutDry™ Extreme Mesh keeps you dry inside and out with a fully seam-sealed, impenetrable external membrane and breathable mesh fabric lining, so you feel comfy in a downpour" – Columbia
Countryfile.com gave this jacket a glowing 4.5/5 rating, highlighting its lightweight design and exceptional waterproofing. During heavy rain, water beads up and rolls right off the surface, and - unlike many jackets - it never needs reproofing, making it perfect for unpredictable British festival weather.
Waterproof Rating
The OutDry Extreme technology delivers consistent waterproof performance thanks to its unique external membrane. Unlike jackets that rely on DWR coatings (which wear off over time), this design provides immediate and reliable protection.
The external placement of the membrane prevents the fabric from soaking through, ensuring the jacket performs well even during long periods of rain. This makes it ideal for multi-day festivals where you might face hours of wet weather without a break.
Breathability
With a Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 2,720 g/m²/24h, this jacket offers excellent breathability, a significant improvement over older models. The internal mesh lining adds to the comfort, stretch, and breathability.
Chris Townsend, Equipment Editor at TGO Magazine, noted the mesh feels softer and more comfortable on the skin compared to smooth-lined alternatives.
"Breathability is quite good. The mesh has felt damp after hours in heavy rain but this hasn't transferred to inner garments much and there's been no visible condensation. I think the mesh is holding condensation until it can pass through the outer fabric." – Chris Townsend, Equipment Editor, TGO Magazine
While the jacket doesn’t feature underarm zips, the mesh pockets can be left open for extra ventilation. Another key advantage is that the OutDry Extreme membrane doesn’t rely on DWR treatments, meaning its breathability won’t diminish over time. The mesh lining also handles condensation well, keeping your inner layers dry and ensuring lasting comfort during long festival days.
Weight
Weighing just 329 grams (11.6 oz) for the men’s version, the OutDry Extreme Mesh is impressively lightweight. It’s significantly lighter than many three-layer jackets while still offering superior waterproof protection.
This low weight makes a noticeable difference during festivals, whether you’re carrying it between performances or wearing it all day. Its lightweight build, combined with its durability, ensures it doesn’t weigh you down.
Packability
The jacket folds neatly into its own hand pocket, making it easy to stash in a small bag or clip to your belt when the weather clears. Unlike bulkier waterproofs, this jacket’s compact size makes it a perfect companion for festivals, where mobility and convenience are key.
With its lightweight design, reliable waterproofing, and smart packability, the Columbia OutDry Extreme Mesh is a standout choice for anyone braving the elements at outdoor events.
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7. Rains Long Jacket
The Rains Long Jacket combines sleek Scandinavian style with reliable waterproofing, making it a popular choice for UK festival-goers. Crafted from Rains' signature PU fabric with welded seams, this unisex jacket features a longline design that’s both practical and stylish for unpredictable weather.
Key details like the hood with a built-in cap, snap fastenings along the front, side pockets with snap closures, and a fishtail hem offer extra protection while maintaining a clean, modern look.
With a strong customer rating of 4.6/5 from 52 reviews, it’s clear this jacket has won over festival enthusiasts. Priced at approximately £85 (around €99.90), it provides a good balance of quality and affordability. Below, we break down the features that make it a festival essential.
"Light, attractive looking, good fit and waterproof!" – Jill D. from the United Kingdom, July 2025
Waterproof Rating
The jacket boasts a 5,000mm water column rating, giving it solid protection against moderate to heavy rain. While this rating ensures dependable waterproofing, some users have commented that it’s "mostly suitable for light rain". Thanks to its welded seams and PU fabric, it effectively keeps water out, making it ideal for the UK’s infamous mix of sudden downpours and persistent drizzle.
Breathability
To combat condensation, the jacket includes thoughtful ventilation features like under-arm eyelets and a back yoke with concealed vents. These additions allow airflow without compromising its waterproof qualities, keeping you comfortable even during long, active festival days. Whether dashing between stages or standing in a crowd, this balance of breathability and protection ensures all-day wearability.
Weight
At just 510 grams, the Rains Long Jacket offers a lightweight feel without sacrificing durability. Despite its longer cut, reviewers frequently praise its comfort and portability, making it a practical choice for extended use during festivals.
Packability
Even with its longer length, the jacket is easy to pack, making it a convenient option for festival-goers. This feature is particularly valuable when the weather turns suddenly, allowing you to quickly pull it out when needed and store it just as easily when the sun reappears.
8. Arc'teryx Beta AR
The Arc'teryx Beta AR is a high-performance waterproof jacket designed to offer top-tier protection in even the harshest conditions. Made in Canada, this shell has earned a reputation for being versatile and reliable, making it a strong contender for festival-goers who refuse to compromise on quality.
The jacket is built with a combination of 80-denier and 40-denier face fabrics for durability, complemented by watertight zippers and fully taped seams to keep moisture out. Its adjustable, helmet-compatible hood features a separate collar for added neck protection. Scoring an impressive 9.8/10 for weather protection from OutdoorGearLab and a 4.8/5 rating from Switchback Travel, the Beta AR has solidified its place as a top choice.
"Arc'teryx claims this shell is unfailingly waterproof, snow-ready, and rugged due to its use of GoreTex Pro fabric."
Let’s break down its key features.
Waterproof Rating
The Beta AR boasts a 28,000mm hydrostatic head rating, putting it among the most waterproof jackets available. Thanks to its Gore-Tex Pro construction, it provides excellent protection against heavy rain and wind, perfect for the unpredictable weather often seen at UK festivals. Reviewers frequently highlight its ability to withstand extreme conditions, making it a dependable option for all-weather use.
Breathability
Equipped with a Gore-Tex Pro membrane and pit zips, the Beta AR offers ventilation when needed. However, it’s worth noting that during high-intensity activities, it can feel quite warm. OutdoorGearLab rated the jacket 5.0 out of 10 for "Venting and Breathability", commenting that while it can become "very hot and sweaty" during exertion, it eventually does an "ok job of breathing once we sufficiently raised the relative humidity".
Weight
Weighing 442g for a men's medium and around 468g for a large, the Beta AR strikes a balance between durability and weight. While it’s not the lightest option on the market, its rugged construction ensures long-lasting performance. For comparison, the Arc'teryx Beta SL weighs about 340g, while ultra-light alternatives like the Montane Pac Plus (275g) and Haglöfs L.I.M GTX II (270g) trade durability for a featherweight build.
Packability
The Beta AR can be compressed into its own hood, creating a compact bundle of about 1.5 litres. One reviewer noted, "at 16.5 ounces, it's hardly super light or super packable". While Arc'teryx describes it as light and packable, festival-goers prioritising weather resistance over pack size will likely find this trade-off worthwhile.
9. Berghaus Paclite Dynak Jacket
The Berghaus Paclite Dynak is a solid choice for festival-goers looking for lightweight, waterproof protection against the unpredictable British weather. Featuring 2L Gore-Tex Paclite technology, this jacket focuses on functionality and simplicity, making it a practical addition to your festival gear.
Berghaus sums it up best:
"Built with only the features you need so it packs down small and won't steal much space in your rucksack."
Waterproof Rating
This jacket's 2L Gore-Tex Paclite construction promises "full waterproof protection that's famously lightweight and breathable". It performs well in light to moderate rain, but during heavy or prolonged downpours, the storm flap-secured pockets may allow some water in . While it excels at keeping you dry in most conditions, it’s worth noting its limitations for more extreme weather.
Weight
Weighing approximately 360–365g for a men’s medium and 281g for a women’s UK8 , the Paclite Dynak falls into the lightweight category. This makes it easy to carry around all day without adding unnecessary bulk to your festival essentials.
Packability
One of the standout features of this jacket is its packability. It compresses down to the size of a 500ml drinks bottle, making it perfect for slipping into a small rucksack or even a large pocket. When the rain clouds roll in, it’s ready to go in seconds.
Breathability
Thanks to the Gore-Tex Paclite membrane, the jacket offers decent breathability, which is suitable for most festival activities. Reviews highlight its ability to balance rain protection and sweat management. One tester noted it only felt "clammy when really working hard uphill", while another described it as having "decent breathability". Outdoor journalist Fiona Russell also praised its performance:
"The Berghaus Paclite Dynak also works very well to keep out the rain whilst allowing sweat to escape."
This balance makes it a dependable option for everything from dancing in the rain to trekking between stages or waiting out a sudden shower.
10. Rab Downpour Plus 2.0
The Rab Downpour Plus 2.0 is a lightweight, breathable jacket designed with festival-goers in mind. Built for typical British festival weather, it features a 2.5-layer Pertex Shield waterproof membrane and waterproof YKK Aquaguard zippers, focusing on comfort and breathability rather than extreme storm protection.
Waterproof Rating
With a waterproof rating of 20,000mm, this jacket is well-equipped to handle light to moderate rain - perfect for the unpredictable drizzle and sudden showers that festivals often bring. Testers found it dependable for these conditions, though the face fabric tends to wet out faster compared to some competitors. While it may not be the best choice for torrential downpours, it holds up well under most festival scenarios.
Breathability
One of the standout features of the Downpour Plus 2.0 is its breathability, rated at 20,000g/m²/24hrs. This makes it ideal for navigating crowded festival grounds or dancing between stages without feeling clammy. However, its 40D face fabric focuses more on being lightweight and comfortable rather than exceptionally durable.
Weight
Weighing in at 374g (13.2 oz), the jacket balances portability with performance. While it’s not the lightest option on the market, testers appreciated its comfort and found the weight reasonable given its excellent packability.
Packability
When it comes to packability, the Downpour Plus 2.0 shines. It can be rolled tightly into its hood, compressing down to about the size of a grapefruit. Testers rated it highly for how easily it stows away in a hip pack, although it lacks a dedicated stuff sack or stash pocket. This makes it a practical choice for festival-goers who need to travel light.
Quick Comparison: All 10 Jackets
To make choosing the right jacket easier, here's a quick summary of how each one performs under festival conditions. With ten options to consider, balancing performance, cost, and practicality might feel overwhelming. This side-by-side breakdown simplifies the decision process.
| Jacket | Waterproof Rating | Breathability | Weight | Packability | Price (GBP) | Best Festival Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The North Face Papsura | 15,000mm | 12,000g/m²/24hr | 420g | Good (stuff sack) | £165 | Durable construction |
| Regatta Corinne IV | 10,000mm | 8,000g/m²/24hr | 380g | Excellent (packs small) | £21 (sale) | Unbeatable value |
| Montbell Versalite | 20,000mm | 15,000g/m²/24hr | 87g | Outstanding (ultralight) | £145 | Lightest option |
| Helly Hansen Adore | 12,000mm | 10,000g/m²/24hr | 340g | Very good | £125 | Stylish design |
| Patagonia Torrentshell 3L | 20,000mm | 10,000g/m²/24hr | 352g | Good | £135 | Excellent waterproofing |
| Columbia OutDry Extreme | 25,000mm | 8,000g/m²/24hr | 465g | Fair | £180 | Maximum water protection |
| Rains Long Jacket | 8,000mm | 5,000g/m²/24hr | 520g | Poor | £100 | Fashion-forward style |
| Arc'teryx Beta AR | 28,000mm | 20,000g/m²/24hr | 445g | Good | £500 | Premium performance |
| Berghaus Paclite Dynak Jacket | 15,000mm | 15,000g/m²/24hr | 295g | Excellent | £95 | Best balance overall |
| Rab Downpour Plus 2.0 | 20,000mm | 20,000g/m²/24hr | 374g | Excellent (rolls into hood) | £110 | Superior breathability |
For festivals, jackets with waterproof ratings above 15,000mm and breathability over 15,000g/m²/24hr are ideal for keeping you dry while managing moisture. Options like the Arc'teryx Beta AR and Columbia OutDry Extreme handle heavy rain with ease.
Most festival-goers will find a happy medium around the 15,000mm waterproof rating. Jackets like The North Face Papsura and Berghaus Paclite Dynak offer reliable protection without stretching your budget too far.
When it comes to weight, lighter jackets are a blessing during long days. The Montbell Versalite, at just 87g, is barely noticeable, while bulkier options like the Rains Long Jacket (520g) might feel cumbersome after a while.
Price is another factor to weigh. Affordable picks like the Regatta Corinne IV prove you don’t need to spend a fortune for decent rain protection. On the other hand, high-end options like the Arc'teryx Beta AR cater to those seeking top-tier performance. For most festival needs, mid-range jackets priced between £95 and £145 strike a great balance between cost and quality.
Finally, packability matters when space is tight. Jackets like the Rab Downpour Plus 2.0, which folds neatly into its hood, are perfect for rucksack living, ensuring you have room for all your other essentials.
Festival Accessories: Staying Dry and Fresh
A good waterproof jacket is essential for tackling rain at festivals, but staying comfortable goes beyond just staying dry. Long days filled with dancing, queuing, and darting between stages can leave you sweaty and uncomfortable, making the right accessories a game-changer.
To keep things fresh, it's vital to manage sweat and moisture effectively. Enter Dansu rave towels, the perfect companion to your waterproof jacket. These towels, crafted from quick-dry microfiber, can absorb up to four times their weight in water while weighing just 100g. Whether you're under your rainproof shell or out in the open, having a Dansu towel in your bag means you can freshen up in seconds.
Thanks to their microfiber material, Dansu towels dry 50% faster than traditional cotton towels. This makes them ideal for everything from wiping away sweat after an energetic dance session to dealing with condensation inside your jacket. And because they dry so quickly, they're ready to use again in no time.
Packability matters when you're juggling all your festival essentials. Dansu towels, available in 120x150cm and 150x150cm sizes, fold down to a compact size that’s easy to carry. Plus, the built-in metal grommet lets you hook them onto your rucksack or tent guy-lines for easy access whenever you need them.
But who says practicality can't look good? Dansu's rave-inspired designs – think neon swirls, psychedelic prints, and electric blues – blend functionality with festival flair. At £29.95 for one or £45.95 for a set of two, they’re an affordable way to upgrade both your comfort and your style.
These towels aren’t just for drying off. They double as a clean, dry surface to sit on when the ground gets muddy, adding even more value for festival-goers.
For the ultimate festival kit, pair your jacket with a Dansu towel. A lightweight jacket like the Montbell Versalite works seamlessly with a compact towel, both focusing on minimal weight and easy portability. If you’re rocking a heavier jacket like the Arc'teryx Beta AR, a quick-access towel can help you manage heat and stay comfortable all day long.
Conclusion
After diving into our reviews, here's the takeaway: the best waterproof jacket strikes a balance between performance and style.
Each jacket we've discussed has its own strengths, catering to different festival-goers. Whether you're drawn to the lightweight convenience of the Montbell Versalite, the tough-as-nails durability of the Arc'teryx Beta AR, or the stylish edge of the Rains Long Jacket, you’ll find reliable rain protection in all of them.
For festivals where the weather might turn, aim for a waterproof rating of at least 10,000mm. Equally important is breathability – a Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate of 10,000–20,000g/m²/24h can help you stay comfortable, even when you’re dancing in a packed crowd. Features like taped seams, adjustable hoods, and waterproof zippers ensure your jacket performs when it matters most. And let’s not forget – rain jackets are no longer just functional; they’re becoming a fashion statement too.
Think about what you need. If your festival plans involve sticking close to the main stages with easy access to cover, a lighter option like the Regatta Corinne IV could be just right. But if you’re camping out and facing unpredictable weather, jackets like the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L or the Berghaus Paclite are built to handle more demanding conditions.
As Emily Leikam wisely puts it:
"Choosing the correct rainwear makes all the difference when you're caught out in wet weather...having the right rain jacket will keep you warm, dry, and protected from the elements".
Pair your jacket with a quick-dry Dansu towel to manage sweat and moisture, and you’ll be ready for whatever the weather throws at you. With the right gear, you can focus on what really matters – soaking up the music, the electric atmosphere, and creating memories that will stick with you long after the festival ends.
FAQs
What should I look for in a waterproof jacket for festivals?
When picking a waterproof jacket for festivals, focus on waterproofing, breathability, and seam sealing to keep yourself dry and comfortable, no matter how unpredictable the weather gets. A jacket with a high waterproof rating will shield you from heavy rain, while breathable fabrics help you stay cool during those high-energy festival moments.
Keep an eye out for practical features like adjustable hoods, sealed seams, and lightweight, packable designs that make it easy to carry around. Since festivals can be rough on your gear, durability is a must. Find a jacket that combines functionality with style, so you're ready for anything while still looking your best.
How do waterproof ratings and breathability impact the performance of a festival jacket?
When it comes to jackets, waterproof ratings tell you how well they can keep water out. For example, a jacket with a 20,000mm hydrostatic head offers great protection against heavy rain - ideal for those unpredictable downpours at UK festivals. On the other hand, breathability measures how well the jacket lets sweat and moisture escape, typically expressed in grams per square metre per 24 hours (g/m²/24hr).
The best jackets combine a high waterproof rating with good breathability, keeping you dry from rain while also preventing you from overheating. This balance is key for staying comfortable during long festival days, whether you're braving a downpour or dancing through the night. Look for jackets that get both right for the ultimate performance.
What features or accessories make a waterproof jacket more practical and comfortable for festivals?
To make your waterproof jacket festival-ready, focus on features that enhance practicality and comfort. Look for breathable fabrics (like those rated 10,000–15,000g/m²/24hrs) to help you stay cool and dry, even when the weather turns. Adjustable hoods and cuffs are also key - they provide a snug fit that keeps the rain out while staying comfortable. If you're planning to move around a lot, a lightweight and packable design is a game-changer, making it easy to stash the jacket away when the sun comes out.
For extra convenience, think about pairing your jacket with waterproof bags to keep your essentials safe and dry. Layering with quick-drying clothing can also add warmth without bulk. And don’t forget to reproof your jacket regularly - this simple step keeps its waterproofing in top shape, so you're ready for whatever the festival season throws your way.