7 minutes
Armoire is headquartered in Seattle, so naturally the team knows a thing or two about raincoats. They get measurable amounts of rain 150 days per year; the rest of the time, it drizzles. With all of this rain, why rent a raincoat rather than buy? Well, it’s simple: no one wants to wear the same thing every day.
I work from my home in Las Vegas, where we happen to be getting some rare desert rain today. How appropos. Those of us outside of Seattle are on the “ASBMF” schedule: April showers bring May flowers. This proverb reflects hope and optimism, meaning unpleasant times lead to positive outcomes. I love that. I propose we slip into something optimistic this month. Let’s all rent a raincoat and look forward to blue skies ahead, in style.
Why Rent a Raincoat
Cost-effectiveness: If you don’t need a raincoat frequently or if you’re traveling and won’t need it after the trip, renting can be more cost-effective than purchasing a raincoat outright.
Space-saving: Raincoats can take up a fair amount of space, especially if you have limited storage. Renting allows you to avoid cluttering your closet with an item you only use occasionally.
Variety: Renting gives you the flexibility to choose from a variety of styles, colors, and sizes, ensuring you find one—or twelve—without committing to a single option.
Environmental impact: Renting promotes sustainability by reducing the demand for new products. Instead of purchasing a raincoat that may only be used occasionally, you can rent one when needed, reducing overall consumption and waste.
Convenience: Renting a raincoat can be convenient, especially when traveling. You don’t have to worry about packing or carrying around a bulky raincoat when you can simply have one delivered to your destination.
Quality: Renting allows you to access high-quality raincoats without the upfront cost of purchasing them. This can be particularly beneficial if you need a raincoat for a special occasion or outdoor event where you want to ensure you have reliable protection from the elements.
Top Styles to Keep You Dry
Trench Coat
Trench coats are classic, stylish options that are often water-resistant or waterproof. They typically feature a belted waist, double-breasted front closure, and a wide collar. Trench coats can be worn casually or dressed up for more formal occasions.
When to choose a trench: If you have both casual events and more formal occasions on your calendar, a trenchcoat is ideal for you. They can be dressed up or down, and are your best bet over a business suit.
My Top Pick: Water Resistant Belted Hooded Trench Coat by Andrew Marc
- 4.3-star rating among Armoire members who say it’s warm and great with professional clothes.
- Available for rent in M, L, XL
- Fit: runs large
- $325 MSRP
- Become an Armoire member & rent it!
Anorak
Anoraks have drawstrings at the waist and sometimes at the hem to keep out rain and wind. They can be a pullover-style or a half-zip or full-zip front closure. They most often have a hood, making them very practical for the rainy season.
When to choose an anorak: If you spend your rainy Saturdays on the sidelines of your kids’ soccer games, this one’s for you. Anoraks look best with a casual, sporty vibe.
My Top Pick: Drawstring Waist Hooded Anorak by Cole Haan
- 4-star rating among Armoire members who say it’s lightweight and great for travel
- Available for rent in XS to XL
- Fit: runs small
- $375 MSRP
- Become an Armoire member & rent it!
Moto
A moto jacket, short for motorcycle jacket, typically features a close-fitting design with a diagonal front zipper closure, and may include additional zippers, studs, or other hardware for decorative purposes. Moto jackets often have a biker-inspired aesthetic with details such as quilted panels on the shoulders and sleeves, zippered pockets, and a notched collar with snap buttons.
When to choose a moto: While originally designed for the practical purpose of protecting bikers, moto jackets are now worn for their edgy and stylish look. They can be paired with anything from casual jeans and t-shirts to more formal dresses.
My Top Pick: Belted Hooded Moto Rain Jacket by Avec Les Filles
- 4.3-star rating among Armoire members who say it’s well made with deep pockets, a detachable hood and a flattering fit.
- Available for rent in M & L
- Fit: True to size
- $220 MSRP
- Become an Armoire member & rent it!
Packable
Yep, that’s a whole category or rain gear. Packable raincoats are lightweight and compact jackets that can be easily folded or rolled up for storage in a bag or suitcase.
When to choose a packable raincoat: The name speaks for itself; they’re ideal for travel or activities where space is limited. If you’re considering adding a raincoat to your forever closet, a space-saving packable is the way to go. (Pro tip: Armoire members can buy their favorite styles at a discount.)
My Top Pick: Hooded Packable Raincoat by Cole Haan
- 4.1-star rating among Armoire members who say they liked the overall look and ease of packing.
- Available for rent in L & XL
- Fit: runs small
- $375 MSRP
- Become an Armoire member & rent it!
Parka
Parkas are longer, insulated jackets designed to provide warmth and protection from the elements. While not all parkas are waterproof, many are treated with water-resistant coatings or made with waterproof materials to repel rain and snow.
When to choose a parka: If the line between winter and spring is blurred where you live (I’m looking at you, friends in Minnesota), choose a parka. It will give you the warmth you need during “sprinter.”
My Top Pick: Detachable lining Waterproof Faux Fur Parka by Boden
- 4.3-star rating among Armoire members who like the unzippable fur lining that can be worn on it own.
- Available for rent in 4, 12, 14, & 16/18
- Fit: runs large
- $240 MSRP
- Become an Armoire member & rent it!
Short Jacket
Can we still call it a raincoat if it’s more of a jacket? Sure, if it gets the job done, why not? Short rain jackets are lightweight and waterproof and specific for wet weather conditions. They often feature a hood, adjustable cuffs, and zippered pockets.
When to choose a short jacket: A little rain jacket is great for kicking around town in a casual look. A cropped version is the right proportion for a maxi dress or skirt, without distracting from the flowy shape of your outfit.
My Top Pick: Check Waterproof Hooded Zip Jacket by OOF
- 4.4-star rating among Armoire members who say it’s lightweight and ideal for running around town
- Available for rent in M & L
- Fit: runs large
- $398 MSRP
- Become an Armoire member & rent it!
Statement Piece
A stylish and eye-catching outerwear piece designed to make a bold fashion statement, a statement coat may have a unique design, vibrant colors, or interesting pattern. Unlike basic or neutral coats that blend into an outfit, a statement coat is intended to stand out and become the focal point of your ensemble.
When to choose a statement piece: Go with a statement coat when you’ll spend most of your time outdoors, like at a parade, a walking tour, or a sporting event. I’m also a big fan of statement pieces anytime you want to elevate a simple outfit or express your personal style.
My top pick: Boden’s Morris Waterproof Mac
- 4.5-star rating among Armoire members who say it is warm with a fleece lining.
- Available for rent in two patterns covering sizes 4 to 14
- Fit: runs large
- $258 MSRP
- Become an Armoire member & rent it!
May flowers are coming, folks, and so is an article on the gorgeous floral prints that are so in this season. Until then, rent a raincoat, stay dry, and be optimistic. And to my colleagues at Armoire headquarters….
