Waterproof jacket/coat for school run-help!

[hellswelshy]

I really need a hooded waterproof jacket/parka/coat for the school run as i walk it with my two girls everyday (well since the beginning of Sept anyway). I definitely need a hood, as i hate umbrellas, but really am trying to avoid the type of jacket that looks sporty or too, umm, manly! I quite like navies, or khakis, but really open to anything as i can wear a scarf to brighten it up. Has anyone seen anything that may be suitable?? Please help if you can:)

A Mumsnet favourite!

thanks, il have a look:)

I don't get why everyone raves about the Merrell - looks like a cross between a dressing gown and a North Face type anorak.

I'm still searching for the holy grail that is the perfect coat - warm enough, detachable hood, not too bulky, smart, rainproof, long enough to cover your bum, not too long that it restricts your ability to walk

Yes to lands end too, lovely well made stuff. They have an everlasting money back guarantee too, so if you wear something a few times and decide to return it, you can and get your money back. And sign up to their emails, they always have offers on too.

I have just bought this and very pleased with it I am too!

how long is your walk? If it's really chucking it down, even on a short walk only proper technical fabrics will keep you dry so it's just depends if you are happy to get a bit damp in the occasional downpour.

there's 'waterproof' and there's properly waterproof, if a coat has to protect you from the elements it needs certain technical features e.g. a funnel hood, standalone collar, a waterproof membrane in the fabric etc. and those are not fashionable. You can't shop in the same way you would shop a 'fashion' coat - discard one because you don't like the sleeve, or the buttons, or the shape of the collar. In long waterproof parkas we are talking about a handful of options.

The Wakefield is a good coat, and ticks many boxes. I can't post links as I'm on my phone but check out Trondheim coat from Bergans, also there's an awesome jacket by an Icelandic brand 66 North it's called Heidmork, lovely cut. Didriksons Thelma is a good coat and inexpensive, packs in a lot of technical stuff for that price and comes in lots of colours.

I have a Merrell Wakefield and love it.

I have a Boden rainy day mac which is fleece lined and properly waterproof.

I've been in proper downpours and have been really warm and dry in it.

Not sure if it's what you're after but I'm really pleased with mine. :)

I bought this today peter storm parka

It is lovely, nicer than the Merrell I think. Website doesn't do it justice at all. The cuffs are fur-lined too and you can turn them back for extra stylishness! It is very fitted as well. Really comes in at the waist. Colour is rather more grey/blue in real life but does look lilac-toned in some lights.