Waterproof school run coat

[AmandaPandtheTantrumofDoom]

I know it's August, but being caught in a fierce shower the other day got me thinking on this one.

As of September, we'll have a 2.5 mile round trip school run. So 5 miles per day. I want to do it on foot when I can. Realistically that means walking in drizzle or getting caught out in downpours, but absolute pouring rain and the car will probably come out.

I need a waterproof coat, which covers my bum (no wet bottoms to my jumpers, etc when I get home), has a hood that stays up and pockets that I can keep a phone and keys in (not just those patch pockets where everything falls out and/or gets wet). I'm thinking something medium weight - for wearing in autumn, early winter and spring rather than the depths of snowy January.

I'm really not sure where to start, but I figure MNers have probably faced this issue in the past. Budget pretty flexible. I've no desire for designer, but I'd be willing to pay for quality that will last and last.

Any ideas?

[Boreoff]

I have been looking at the north face artic parka, pricy but looks worth it for the weather protection. It covers bum as well so that's a bonus.

[Boreoff]

Oh just realised this is more a depth of winter type of coat.

[AmandaPandtheTantrumofDoom]

I'll be needing one of those too in due course (old high street parka about to bite the dust!) so thank you anyway!

[knickernicker]

Don't get one of those Boden things with the giant patterns all over them...

[CeeceeBloomingdale]

I got one of these a couple of years ago and it's serving me well in very wet weather (ok in summer but equally ok with a jumper under it in the snow). Not the most stylish coat ever but it's totally waterproof and has a cotton lining so not too hot to wear. Shower proof is no good when you're walking two miles in the rain!

[iMe]

I'm a big fan of Esprit for coats. They do free delivery & returns too. Some nice ones by Target Dry too, and i think blogger School Gate Style has a discount code. Hth.

[AmandaPandtheTantrumofDoom]

No, not one of those snazzy boden patterns... Bold colours are fine, but not polka dots or birds Knicker .

Thanks for the recommendations so far. Will check them out.

[QueenCadbury]

For 5 miles I'd say you need a proper technical waterproof such as north face etc. They may not be the most stylish thing but they will keep you dry. From experience anything from the high street will suck up the water and soak through to your clothes whereas a technical coat will make the rain slide off.

[NomDeOrdinateur]

I agree with QueenCadbury - a long North Face coat will keep you warm and dry, and will look new for years as long as you hang it up after use :).

[LaydeeJayne]

www.millets.co.uk/womens/113807-peter-storm-womens-poppy-belted-jacket-navy.html just bought this in navy. Tried it out this week and think it is going to be really useful. Fits your criteria and is a good reduced price too.

[RayofSun]

Have a look at seasalt. They some very waterproof coats!! Tried and tested!! I find they are a bit long for me but I'm a shortie!

[5madthings]

I got a good waterproof coat from fat face a few weeks ago, I also have a winter waterproof/windproof coat I got from a outdoor/camping type place.

[AmandaPandtheTantrumofDoom]

Thanks for all the recommendations so far. Sounds like I really need to check out North Face as that's come up a few times. Will look at the others too. Thank you everyone.

Ray- I'm tall, so long shouldn't be a problem. I like Seasalt stuff. Did you mean their 'tin cloth' or whatever they call it? I've always wondered if it's really weatherproof or quick shower.

[InMyShreddies]

Merrell Wakefield. 100% waterproof, smart shape, light to wear, deep fleecy pockets with zips, a hood that stays up and covers your bum. What's not to love? If anyone fancies buying this and swapping for my navy one in a size S, let me know... it's too big now as bought postpartum. Paid £150ish iirc from Amazon and that link is a bargainous price.

[Poosnu]

I would go to an outdoor shop and get a technical windproof and waterproof jacket. I wear my hiking jacket all through winter, walking around London and it's just perfect - it keeps me completely dry and warm with layers underneath. It did cost around £200 though... I got a black one and it's fairly fitted so looks ok.

[MrsPercyPig]

this navy one?

[HappyHugs]

www.warehouse.co.uk/1/1/11056-faux-fur-hooded-button-parka.html is very nice...seems to fit the bill.