Best raincoats for spring showers including M&S and Regatta

Now it’s March, spring is officially around the corner, but as we know, British weather can be quite unpredictable, no matter the season. Rain is never off the cards, and while you might be itching to pack away your heavy winter coats, you might still need some protection for those spring showers.

If your usual raincoat is more heavy-duty, it might be worth investing in a lighter style for spring, which could come in handy for everything from nature walks and holidays to summer festivals.

Raincoats are not always the most fashionable, often prioritising function over style, but with so many options on the high street, it’s not that hard to find something for every style and budget.

From classic styles at M&S and Seasalt Cornwall to sportier designs from Mountain Warehouse and Regatta, I’ve had a look at the offerings of popular retailers and picked my four favourites to keep you dry this spring.

This Orla Kiely Mac has been slashed by 70% from £142 to £42, but shoppers can get an extra 10% off with code OUTLET10 at checkout, bringing the price down to £37.80. It’s a great way to stay dry without sacrificing style, as it’s made from Regatta’s Isotex fabric, which the brand claims has been engineered to withstand rain. It also has taped seams, a removable hood and adjustable cuffs to keep water out.

The coat has a pretty roomy fit, which is perfect for layering, and is insulated with a light lining to keep it breathable. The welt pockets and neat collar give it a retro flair, and as a finishing touch, it’s lined with one of Orla Kiely’s signature prints.

This is the perfect raincoat for shoppers who are not big fans of sportier styles, as it’s versatile enough to seamlessly blend into any wardrobe. It comes in two versatile colours – green and cornflower blue – which are easy to style and are suitable for any season. As we move into spring, it can be a great transitional piece, as it’s light enough to wear without extra layers underneath.

Both shades are included in the sale and are available in sizes ranging from eight to 20. Regatta offers a shorter, sportier Orla Kiely raincoat that’s also on sale and available in three colourways.

If you’re after something a little trendier, this short parka from Marks and Spencer might be a better fit. It comes in versatile black and beige, which can easily blend into any look, and has a boxier, shorter design than most raincoats, ending just above the hips. This makes it much easier to incorporate into spring looks, as it would look really nice with a voluminous, long skirt or wide, flowy trousers.

The parka is said to be fully waterproof, with taped seams, a hood and a high neck to keep rain out. It also has two front pockets and a zip-up inside pocket for valuables.

Being shorter, it’s far less material to shove into a tote bag when you’re out and about, or pack away in a small suitcase when leaving for a holiday or a festival, and as it doesn’t have a thick lining, it’s the ideal raincoat to have with you once the weather starts to warm up.

A timeless design for a spring coat is always the classic trench, and Seasalt Cornwall offers a waterproof twist that will never go out of style. At £170, it’s more of an investment, but it’s a wardrobe staple that can last for many years.

The Penweathers trench has a classic design with storm flaps, a back vent and a collared neckline, with the addition of a detachable hood. It also comes with adjustable cuffs and a fabric belt at the waist to ensure a flattering fit. Spring is another season where layering is key, and the coat is roomy enough to accommodate a jumper underneath.

The coat is made from a breathable 100% cotton fabric, and claims to be windproof and waterproof up to 5000mm. It’s available in five shades, from classic beige and black to more vibrant teal, burgundy and orange. Sizes range from eight to 28, and availability varies by shade; the best availability at the moment is in beige.

This is another great option for people looking for a raincoat that looks a little more tailored, which is what many shoppers love about it. One wrote: « I love this raincoat! I was searching for years for a more tailored, elegant raincoat….I bought a beige, size 12, regular-length coat, and it’s perfect! It comes just under my knees. It’s waterproof, lightweight, and spacious (plenty of room for a thick cardigan underneath). It is pricey, but when on offer, it’s not too bad, and it should last for years. »

Another said: « Very pleased with this raincoat- light and waterproof and just right for this summer’s showers. Colour, modern and elegant looking. Feel very comfortable in it – light to carry but also plenty long enough and easy to wear. »

If you love your nature walks, you might be looking for something a little more functional for the months ahead, and this jacket from Mountain Warehouse is an excellent option. It has up to 63% off and comes in five shades.

The Hilltop II jacket claims to be fully waterproof up to 2,000mm, making it a good option for light rain. It’s designed for lighter conditions, and is made from a breathable fabric that claims to keep external moisture out while allowing sweat to evaporate, keeping the wearer cool.

While it’s a bit sportier than others, it’s still stylish enough for day-to-day wear, with functional pockets and a unique crossed-over design on the back. It also has taped seams to keep water out, and features an adjustable hood and cuffs for a perfect fit.

The jacket has 33% off in khaki and black (available in four to 22) and navy (available six to 22), with the price down to £59.99. It also comes in a light blue with the same discount, but that is only available in four to eight. The largest discount is on the lavender shade, which is down 63% at £32.99, and is available in sizes six to 20.

One shopper said it’s « perfect for sightseeing in all kinds of weather », while another said it « looks good in the city and out hiking. »

Another was impressed with its waterproofing, saying: « After walking an hour in heavy downpour, I arrived home dry. »

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