11 best waterproof trousers for women, approved by the GHI panel (original) (raw)

1

Best waterproof trousers for women

Keela Lightning Trousers

Score: 87/100

These unisex trousers from Keela scored well with our panel, thanks to clever design details such as handy adjustable velcro straps and a zip around the ankles to keep out rain and mud on those countryside jaunts. There’s also a reflective trim for darker mornings.

If you’re on the shorter side, these are a good option, as they’re sold in short, regular, or long lengths. Music to our ears!

Note, while our testers liked being able to access their inside trouser pockets via the pocket openings, the snap closure isn't fully watertight, so the odd drop of rain may creep in.

Key specifications

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Best for light rain and showers

Dare 2b Melodic II Trousers

Score: 86/100

Look elsewhere if you’re heading out in torrential conditions, but for outdoorsy adventures in light rain and showers – whether you’re pottering about in the garden or taking the dog for a walk – this aesthetically pleasing pair from Dare2B ticks all the boxes.

Panellists rated the flattering design, noting that they looked more like everyday trousers instead of waterproofs. “They looked so good, I wore them to the pub after my dog walk,” said one tester, while another commented: “They made my bum look really good!”

They boast adjustable features around the waist and ankles to help you achieve the perfect fit, the fabric is stretchy and comfortable to walk in for hours on end, plus there are plenty of pockets for all your essentials.

Key specifications

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Best for cold weather

Berghaus Women's Deluge 2.0 Overtrousers

Score: 84/100

Whatever the time of year, it's not uncommon for us to get days of non-stop rain. Enter the Berghaus Deluge trousers, which are designed for, well, deluges.

They got a thumbs up from our testers for their waterproofing skills and design features – they have side zips and poppers – particularly among some of our taller testers.

A good investment for colder months, they scored well for durability and washed well, which is key if you're out on muddy hikes.

Key specifications

4

Best for practical features

Keela Women’s Rainlife 5000 Trousers

Score: 84/100

Another Keela offering, this pair from the brand scored highly for their waterproof capabilities (one tester even survived a storm and came back bone dry) as well as breathability. “I remained dry and comfortable, there no was no dampness on my body at all,” said one tester.

There’s an elasticated waist, belt loops and a zip that runs from the bottom of the trousers to the knee, making them a cinch to pull on, even with muddy boots. There’s also a storm flap for extra protection against the elements. There are no pockets, instead the trousers feature sealable openings for easy access to any pockets underneath.

Like the Lightning trousers, they come in short, regular and tall lengths to suit all needs. They might not look the most stylish but if you’re after a pair of functional, high-performing waterproofs, you can’t go wrong.

Key specifications

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Best for versatility

Craghoppers Kiwi Pro II Waterproof Trousers

Score: 84/100

Flattering style? Check. Excellent weatherproofing capabilities? Yep. Lightweight material? You bet. All in all, our testing panel rated this pair from Craghoppers well across the board, making them a go-to for all manner of outdoor pursuits.

Our panel found they performed well in heavy rain and windy conditions, they dried in a flash and remained breathable during more intense activities. “I didn’t overheat or feel sweaty during a brisk hike,” said one satisfied tester.

Thanks to the soft, stretchy fabric and elasticated waist, the trousers proved supremely comfortable, and there were no irritating rustling sounds. Some panel members loved the streamlined fit on the legs, while others would have preferred a wide leg design with openings around the ankles for easy on and off. Still, everyone would recommend them to friends.

Key specifications

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Best waterproof trousers for heavy rain

ARC'TERYX Women's Beta Pant Waterproof trousers

Score: 81/100

The priciest pair of trousers on our list, these are made with trusty waterproof Gore-Tex fabric.

Claiming to be lightweight, windproof, waterproof and breathable, they are designed with all weather conditions in mind, from light drizzle and heavy rain to snow and sleet. And they don’t disappoint.

Our testers rated them highly for their waterproof credentials, which they said protected them from heavy rain showers. What’s more, they dried quickly, so no wandering around in heavy, sodden trousers.

Key specifications

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Best for simplicity

Mountain Warehouse Spray Womens Waterproof Overtrousers

**Score: 80/100

If you find yourself between sizes, it’s worth opting for a pair of waterproof trousers with adjustable features. This simple but effective design from our pals at Mountain Warehouse boasts an elasticated, drawstring waist to suit most bodies, and they’re available in a shorter leg length – handy if you’re on the petite side.

They’re made from heavy duty ripstop fabric for durability and feature IsoDry technology to keep you dry whether you’re cycling, walking or letting your hair down at a festival. Sure enough, testers said they lived up to their waterproof claims. There’s a mesh lining for breathability while half leg zips mean you can slip them on and off over muddy shoes with ease.

Some testers would have liked a more flattering, figure-hugging design while others found them a tad noisy, but these are minor gripes for an otherwise exceptional piece of kit.

Key specifications

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Best for portability

Jack Wolfskin Rainy Day Pants

Score: 80/100

Heading out for a walk in milder conditions, but want to be protected from rain? These unisex trousers from Jack Wolfskin are a smart choice according to our testing panel.

Extremely lightweight (a medium pair weighs just 170g), they’re perfect for the spring an summer months, and dry pretty quickly if you do get caught in a light shower while you’re out.

They also come with their own handy little carry bag for when you want to shed a layer. With no pockets, our panel did miss having somewhere to keep their keys, though.

Key specifications

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Best for comfort

Helly Hansen Women's Aden Rain Pants

Score: 79/100

The Norwegian brand is known for its high-quality, technical sportwear, so it’s hardly surprising its waterproof trousers went down a treat with panel members. They performed brilliantly in the comfort stakes, with one tester saying: “They were so comfy to walk in, I barely noticed them.”

The clever design features the brand’s unique HELLY TECH® protection fabric and fully taped seams to keep the wind and rain at bay, along with a quick-dry lining for ultimate warmth and a zipped pocket for your valuables. They were a cinch to get on and off, with an elasticated waist and poppers around the ankles.

The only downside? Several testers found the sizing hit and missing, with some noting that the trousers were very large, while others finding them too snug. We’d recommend consulting the brand’s sizing guide to ensure you find the perfect fit.

Key specifications

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Best waterproof trousers for walking

Regatta Women's Highton Waterproof Overtrousers

Score: 76/100

These stylish trousers are made from recycled plastic water bottles. Our testers rated their waterproofing capabilities as well as some of the design aspects, such as the zipped pockets and part-elasticated waistband (no one wants that digging in mid-country walk).

Our panel thought they were best suited to walking, as opposed to anything more dynamic, due to the limitations of the fabric. We also suggest they are worn over leggings or thinner fabric trousers as opposed to jeans, due to their slim fit.

Key specifications

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11

Best budget waterproof trousers

Regatta Women's Pack It Waterproof Overtrousers

Score: 75/100

If you’re after a budget-friendly pair of trousers, then look no further. These lightweight waterproofs from Regatta are a sound choice for shorter walks in the drizzle. Think a quick trip to the shops or getting your steps in with the dog.

If you’re someone who goes for lots of runs, no matter the weather, then these are probably not for you. While our testers rated them for affordability, they don’t have some of the design features other pairs do, and if you’re on the go and need to pop them on over boots, you may struggle.

Also note that they come up on the smaller side, so go for a size up to be safe.

The verdict on waterproof trousers

Comfy, reflective and extremely waterproof, Keela's Lightning Trousers are our winning pick for all your outdoorsy adventures.

The Berghaus Women's Deluge 2.0 Overtrousers, are an excellent investment for the chillier months.

And if you don’t want to spend too much, then Regatta's Women's Pack It Waterproof Overtrousers are a savvy buy for under £15.

Why you should trust the Good Housekeeping Institute

In our hunt for the best waterproof trousers, we recruited a panel of adventurers to brave the elements and put a range of popular styles to the test.

Our health and wellness tester Kim Hawley pulled together all the feedback, assessing products against their claims, to give each pair of trousers a final score.

Our senior health and wellness writer Priyankaa Joshi has written hundreds of reviews and is a keen hiker herself, so knows a thing or two about what makes a quality pair of waterproof trousers. Priyankaa is also currently completing her level 2 personal training qualification.

Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.

Kim Hawley is our health and fitness product tester. Her career in fitness has spanned over 30 years. Prior to joining the Good Housekeeping Institute, she worked as a personal trainer, writer and fitness instructor for some of London’s most prestigious health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Passionate about women’s health and fitness, especially in pre/post menopause, she is also a Level 4 PT and holds a professional nutritional qualification. Kim is responsible for rigorously testing everything from cross trainers to smart watches.