The best wet weather gear – waterproof clothes and boots

Don't let the April showers deter you from a great day outdoors – we've rounded up the best waterproofs to protect you from the elements, with Boundless member discounts too.

If you want to stay dry on a walk or hide, try the latest waterproof clothing and boots. Technologies such as Gore-tex and Pertex combine waterproof fabrics with breathability – essential to avoid sweating inside your jacket when it’s wet. Even wearing a plastic bag over your clothes would keep you dry in a downpour, but wouldn’t allow any of the moisture you generate inside your waterproof layer to escape.

We’ve got jackets, trousers and boots with the top waterproof protection that still looks good and is comfortable on a walk. And don’t forget, as a Boundless member you save 15% on products from Cotswold Outdoor and 15% off at Snow + Rock.

The best waterproof men’s jacket

Rab Men’s Downpour Plus Jacket, £130, Snow + Rock

Using Pertex 2.5 layer fabric and Aquaguard zips on the front fastening and pockets, this is guaranteed to keep you dry in the worst wet weather. There’s also adjustable cuffs and hem to seal out the cold and damp, and the hood has a wired peak to direct rain away from your face – and it’s also helmet-compatible if you want to wear it while cycling. It comes in a choice of six colours, and a women’s version of the Downpour Plus jacket is available too.

The best waterproof women’s jacket

The North Face Women’s Venture 2 Jacket, £110, Snow + Rock

This lightweight jacket is fully waterproof yet breathable, thanks to the DryVent 2.5L fabric, with sealed seams, a storm flap over the zip, covered zips on the pockets and adjustable cuffs and hem. When you’re not wearing it the jacket packs down into its own pocket, and it’s available in red, white or blue. There’s two colour options for the equivalent men’s Venture 2 jacket.

The best waterproof kids’ jacket

Jack Wolfskin Oak Creek Jacket, £50, Snow + Rock

Combining a soft and comfy fabric with waterproof protection, this jacket also has reflective details for safety and a storm flap to cover the zip. The hood is elasticated for a snug fit. It’s available in sizes one-two years up to 11-12 years, in a choice of six colours.

The best waterproof boots

Merrell Vego Mid Leather Waterproof Boots, £85, Cotswold Outdoor

Great value for leather waterproof boots, the Vego style has M-Select Dry technology and a rugged sole to give good grip. They’re available in tan for both women and men; the women’s boots have subtle blue accents in sizes 4 to 8, and the men’s come in sizes 7 to 12. They’re well-rated by their wearers for having good ankle and arch support while still being soft and comfortable to wear.

The best waterproof fleece jacket

Keela Neptune Waterproof Fleece Jacket, £84.95, Keela

If you want something a little softer and cosier than a waterproof jacket but still with protection from the elements, a waterproof fleece is a great compromise for days when you’re not expecting to get drenched but there’s a chance of rain. This version from Keela has a fully tape-sealed waterproof lining, and the fleece outer is naturally fast-wicking if you get caught in a shower. It’s also windproof and breathable, with a hood that rolls up into the collar when not in use.

The best waterproof trousers

Rohan Dry Requisite Trousers, £99, Rohan

If you want to keep your legs dry, you have to choose between waterproof trousers that can be worn all day or over trousers to take on and off as needed. This pair from Rohan are the former category, with the styling of regular trousers but with a waterproof, windproof and breathable lining. The outer fabric is also fast-wicking and fast-drying, and even the pockets have a waterproof lining so any rain that gets into the pockets won’t reach your legs. There’s a similar pair for women, the £99 Rohan Dry Roamers in either black or blue.

The best waterproof treatment for clothes and shoes

Nikwax range, from £3.75, Cotswold Outdoor

The Nikwax range of washing, cleaning and waterproofing products are non-toxic and free from fluorocarbons. Add the Tech Wash to your washing machine followed by the TX.Direct Wash In to re-waterproof your garments, or use the Footwear Cleaning Gel. Once your items are clean, sponge on the Fabric & Leather Proof or use TX.Direct Spray-On.