A rain jacket is one of those highly versatile, universal pieces of gear that's essential for staying comfy and dry while exploring the wilderness—or just going about your daily life around town. Everyone needs a trusty rain jacket, regardless of location, size, experience—from first-time outdoorists to seasoned survival experts. Good news is, decent plus-size outdoor apparel is becoming easier to find as more core brands shift gears to become more inclusive, more diverse, and more accessible (as the outdoors should be).
Modern rain jackets, waterproof anorak jacket, and hooded raincoats are made of highly functional materials—we know you've heard of Gore-Tex—so that they can serve such a wide variety of people and activities. But for too long, the best performance-oriented rain jackets haven't done that.
Much like a trusty puffer jacket, hoodie, hiking pants and leggings, the best rain jackets, raincoats, and rain parkas should fit every body type, shape, and size. Top-shelf gear and outerwear shouldn’t just be relegated to those who fit into the narrow size runs typically found on the market. Unfortunately, many outdoor brands only offer XL as their largest size, which ignores a large percentage of outdoorists who want and need technical layers for their adventures.
But plus size raincoats do exist. This list shows the ones that do offer inclusive sizes, but there’s still a lot of room for improvement within the outdoor industry as a whole.
What to Know Before Buying a Rain Jacket
Whatever size you’re wearing, it can be a challenge to pick the right rain jacket in a sea of options. From ultralight to performance, everyday or sport-specific, there’s a lot out there, but fear not. When it comes to deciphering a tag or product description, there are really just a few essential things to look out for when it comes to choosing the right rain jacket for you.
Waterproof vs Water-Resistant
Go waterproof over water-resistant. A waterproof fabric has a waterproof membrane that's impervious to water pressure (and wind). For even more coverage, seek out waterproof rain jackets that have DWR (Durable Water Repellent), a chemical treatment commonly used on rain jackets so water beads up and rolls right off. Ideally, a jacket labeled waterproof/breathable will be most comfortable because it lets air out but not in. If the jacket you're looking at is only water-resistant, it might just be a windbreaker.
2 vs 2.5 vs 3 Layer Constructions
When deciding between a 2, 2.5, or 3-layer construction, think of the number as having a direct correspondence with waterproofing and durability. A 3-layer jacket provides the most protection from wind and rain, but is heavier and potentially less breathable, though many top-notch three-layer raincoats are still very good in this. A 2.5-layer jacket is durable and lightweight with great coverage, but can give you a clammy next-to-skin feeling (the lost half layer is a soft inner lining). And a 2-layer rain jacket is lightweight with a loose-hanging layer like mesh on the inside—it's not as technical or durable, but okay for your everyday use.
Note: Due to supply chain issues, some of these products may not be fully available at the moment, so be sure to check back on your favorites.
The 10 Best Plus Size Rain Jackets for Women & Men
Women's Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket
A combination of 3-layer construction with waterproof/breathable material, the Torrentshell is a simple and versatile go-to if you want a high-performance women’s rain jacket that’s geared towards outdoor use. Made from recycled materials and Fair Trade certified, it has a Durable Water Repellent finish that gives it extra oomph when fighting off sudden downpours or steady wind and rain, so you can get out and stay out without worrying about getting soaked. Features include adjustable cuffs, hand pockets, and a drawstring-adjustable hood. Available up to 2XL for plus size.
Available Sizes: XXS - XXL
Price: $149
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Women's Outdoor Research Aspire II Jacket
This best-seller from Outdoor Research has rightfully earned its accolade for its durable Gore-Tex Paclite material that isn’t only waterproof/breathable but ultra-lightweight as well. Wear it outdoors or around town for uncompromising coverage from the elements, and when you heat up, unzip the jacket from hem to bicep to wear poncho-style for some serious ventilation. As a bonus, it’s bluesign-approved, so it’s been made with a minimal environmental impact. Available up to 3XL.
Available Sizes: XS - 3XL
Price: $225
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Women’s REI Co-op XeroDry GTX Jacket
Take this feather-light layer with you on any adventure in case of wind or rain. Crafted with super lightweight Gore-Tex Paclite technology and a Durable Water Repellent finish to fend off the elements, the fabric is also designed to be quiet, so you don’t have to listen to that annoying “swish, swish” sound as you move. Made in a Fair Trade certified factory. Available in 1X-3X.
Available Sizes: XL - 3XL
Price: $159
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Women’s The North Face Antora Rain Jacket
Fully waterproof, breathable, and coated in a Durable Water Repellent finish free of poly-fluorinated chemicals (PFC) that may harm the environment, the Antora gives you all the technical capabilities with bright color-blocking. Made from 100% recycled materials, it packs a little more punch as a mid-weight outer layer on colder days. Check out the Dryzzle Futurelight Jacket for a solid men’s alternative. Available in 1X-3X.
Available Sizes: XL - 3XL
Price: $89
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Women’s Marmot Minimalist Jacket
Despite its name, Marmot's Minimalist has it all. It's a good-looking, everyday rain jacket that doesn’t skimp on technical details. Inside, its Gore-Tex Paclite fabric is a fully wind and waterproof layer made to go anywhere on rainy days. Breathable and versatile, it’s coated in DWR that’s PFC-free, all made out of 100% recycled polyester. Women's plus sizes available from 1X-3X.
Available Sizes: XL - 3XL
Price: $199
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Women’s L.L.Bean Trail Model Rain Jacket
Maine’s most iconic brand made a durable rain jacket that’s tough enough to handle New England’s rugged, rainy conditions. Its 100% recycled nylon fabric is waterproof inside and out with a lightweight construction that encourages airflow so you stay comfortable and dry when you work up a sweat. Available in 1X-3X. (For more New England style, Lands’ End offers a number of similar plus size rain jacket options, too.)
Available Sizes: XS - XL
Price: $99
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Women’s 66°North Esja Jacket
The Nordics know a thing or two about weather. Icelandic outerwear brand, 66°North nailed it with this sleek and refined rain jacket made to withstand whipping wind and rain on city streets or easily transition to more rugged terrain. This full-length waterproof Gore-Tex layer hits just below the knee for plenty of coverage, almost like a trench coat. Available up to 2X.
Available Sizes: XS - XXL
Price: $400
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Men’s Fjallraven Keb Eco-Shell Jacket
Fjallraven’s adventure-ready 3-layer Keb raincoat is the kind of hardwearing, versatile outerwear you want to have on in the gnarliest weather conditions. Made from recycled stretchy fabric so it moves with you, it’s fully wind and waterproof while providing plenty of ventilation for active comfort. The minimalist design means it looks good, but more importantly works well at shielding you from the elements in trending style. Plus size options are available up to 3XL.
Available Sizes: XS - 3XL
Price: $500
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Men’s Enlightened Equipment Visp Shell Jacket
For those who want to have an light-as-air layer in their quiver, this one’s for you. Weighing in at 5.4 ounces, the ultralight Visp Shell Jacket is doing it for the gram…savers, that is. Toss this three-layer waterproof/breathable jacket in your pack for coverage on stormy days. It’s breathable and durable, made from ripstop nylon to hold up against snags and everyday wear and tear. Available up to 2XL.
Available Sizes: S - 2XL
Price: $210
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Men's Frog Toggs Java Toadz 2.5 Jacket
Frog Togg’s versatile 2.5-layer rain jacket is a cult favorite among ultralight thru-hikers and backpackers alike. It’s a no-frills packable option that’s super lightweight with fully-sealed seams and a full-zip front to keep even the tiniest bit of moisture out whether you’re hiking, biking, running, backpacking, or fishing. We’d be remiss to name drop Frog Toggs without also mentioning it’s beloved $30 ultra-light rain suit for one of the most budget-friendly jackets on the market. Available up to 3XL.
Available Sizes: S - 3XL
Price: $99
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Published 04-27-2022