Best packable rain jackets and anoraks for lightweight and portable protection

Don’t rain on my parade

hat is the one thing that can be relied on for its sheer unreliability? That’s right, the British weather.

Reinforced since our childhood, any Brit worth their salt knows they’ll need an anorak to protect against the inevitable deluge of rain.

The sheer innovation and practicality of packable rain jackets from the likes of Mac in a Sac makes the previously ‘lame’ accessory an admirable and covetable essential. Rather than relying on £1 plastic monstrosities from local tourist shops that’ll likely, somehow, end up in the sea – why not invest in a long-lasting outer shell that’ll accompany you on walks, hikes and holidays for years to come?

The hi-tech waterproof raincoat known to many as simply a ‘Mac’ actually stands for ‘Mackintosh’ – which will certainly sound familiar to some. We’re not talking about the inimitable range of computers manufactured by Apple, which were actually named after employee Jef Raskin’s favourite apple – the McIntosh. Rather, we’re referring to the invention of the modern waterproof jacket by Scotsman Charles Macintosh in 1823.

Before his invention of his patented fabric, which was initially made out of two layers of cotton bonded together by a dyed rubber, the early 19th century had people wearing oiled cottons to repel water. These garments were not only extremely heavy when wet but ended up producing an unpleasant smell.

Nowadays, the majority of waterproof fabrics are crafted from natural or synthetic fabrics which are coated with a waterproofing material, which can be anything from wax, rubber, PVC, PU, silicone, elastomer or fluoropolymers. All of these compounds create that characteristic repellent effect, with water droplets forming small beads before rolling off the surface of the fabric.

For a round-up of the best lightweight and packable rain jackets, keep scrolling.

Available in a rainbow’s worth of colours, the Origin Packable Waterproof Jacket from Mac in a Sac is the gold standard when it comes to portable anoraks. Designed to protect against all types of rain, from drizzle to torrential downpour, this stylish piece is also highly breathable and incredibly windproof.

Regular hikers and adventurers should invest in this year-round, packable saviour from none other than Patagonia. With three layers of waterproof coating and a PFC-free DWR finish, this breathable yet insulating piece of kit adapts to your environment.

What’s more, after a fair few years of hard-worn use, you can send your jacket back to Patagonia and they’ll re-apply their patented waterproof coating to prevent you from unnecessarily purchasing a new one.

Seasalt Cornwall’s stylish mid-length waterproof jacket packs up into an impressively small square pouch which has a handle for easy attachment to luggage and rucksacks. Crafted from 100 per cent recycled polyester, this handy creation is also 100 per cent machine washable.

This waterproof, pullover windbreaker from Columbia not only functions as a practical piece of kit, but as an essential addition to your street style collection. It packs up into the cosy front-facing hand pocket and also features a hardwearing drawstring hood for extra protection.

Though technically marketed as a men’s running jacket, this hi-tech Nike Windrunner can certainly be considered a unisex piece. Waterproof specifications aside – what’s most impressive about this sustainably crafted piece is how it packs up into a handy bum-back for the ultimate wearable portability.

Known for their expertly crafted, yachting-ready waterproofs – it’s no surprise that this Regatta Women’s packable jacket is the number one bestseller on Amazon in its category. Priced at well under £20, you simply can’t go wrong with this budget-friendly packable piece.

Style and substance come together in one brightly coloured shell thanks to Free People’s Way Home Packable Jacket. Though impeccably water-resistant, this piece is uninsulated – which means that it won’t keep you warm during winter downpours but will certainly keep you cool during muggy thunderstorms and drizzly outdoor workouts. We’re also big fans of the unique ruched detailing on the bell-shaped sleeves.

Adidas’ signature Terrex rain jacket is as breathable as it gets, making it the perfect packable piece for runners of all levels. This is especially due to the material’s in-built natural stretch for a full, flexible range of motion. Lovers of evening runs may further rejoice, for this rain jacket is also equipped with 360-degree reflectivity for low-light conditions.

Though, at first glance, this knee-length waterproof poncho might not appear packable - you’ll be delighted to know that it folds into a small and sturdy zip-up pouch with a practical carabiner attachment.