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The 6 best waterproof raincoats that keep you completely dry even in the harshest thunderstorms

The fall and spring months are usually peak times for thunderstorms and torrential showers. With this in mind, most folks prefer to set aside their umbrellas and, instead, invest in waterproof raincoats that give them full coverage from the elements while also keeping their hands free. Also, unlike umbrellas, raincoats can’t bend or break from harsh winds.

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Back in the day, raincoats had one specific cartoonish look. They were usually bright yellow, had a plasticky, vinyl-like material and didn’t do much more than simply shield your body was the rain.

Today, there’s so much to choose from when looking for the best waterproof raincoats and, best of all, you don’t have to look like the kid from It (unless you choose to). Whether you want a bit more insulation, a multi-layered option (with a hood) for added protection from the elements or simply one that’s under $60, you have lots of options at your disposal.

To make choosing the right one for your needs a lot easier, we’ve rounded up the six best waterproof raincoats for adults below. This list includes unisex, men’s and women’s raincoats, so you’re sure to find one that best fits your needs.

Choose from brands like Rains, Patagonia, Columbia and more below.

When shopping for rain gear — both waterproof fashion and accessories — Rains is the brand my mind automatically thinks of first. It specializes in waterproof pieces for everyday use and they're actually all extremely fashion-forward and chic.

Its best-selling unisex Long Jacket gives you all-around protection and, since it's slightly longer than the brand's classic rain jacket, it keeps your bottom half dry.

What I love most about this jacket is its minimal design which makes it easy to pair with just about anything, and its double-welded slanting flap pockets. It also has adjustable cuffs, a fishtail hem, snap fastenings, underarm eyelets and is extremely lightweight, so when it gets wet, it won't weigh you down.

Best of all, though, this jacket's waterproof, windproof, lightweight and well-ventilated.

$125 at Rains

Columbia is one of those brands that you know always delivers in the quality department and this raincoat is no exception.

This best seller is waterproof, lightweight and packable and features the brand's Omni-Tech technology which provides air-permeable protection that's both waterproof and breathable. With this feature, you don't have to worry about any water or snow getting through the seams. However, at the same time, you body will still be able to breathe and stay dry thanks to its ventilation system.

$56 at Amazon
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$56 at Backcountry$75 at Macy's

This is, hands down, one of the most popular raincoats you'll find anywhere. It's such a best seller that folks wear it when it's not even raining.

Made of 100% recycled waterproof and breathable fabric, this waterproof raincoat has all the makings of a bulletproof jacket that doesn't look like it's made to battle the elements. It has a two-way adjustable hood with a laminated visor that rolls down and tucks away with a cord-and-hook design. This comes in handy when it's pouring as it keeps the rain out of your face.

It also has a microfleece-lined neck that keeps you comfy while keeping you dry.

$179 at Dick's Sporting Goods

Helly Hansen is another outerwear brand that Amazon shoppers love for its affordable prices and element protection.

This best-selling jacket comes in over 10 colors and covers the big three (waterproof, windproof and breathable). This jacket was specifically made to protect against the elements while remaining approachable enough in its design for comfortable everyday wear.

It's also, arguably, the most breathable raincoat of the bunch thanks to its sport-specific design and construction. It's also extremely waterproof and breathable and was made for high aerobic and extremely wet conditions and for long wear.

$118 at Amazon
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$130 at Zappos

The North Face's winter jackets and coats are some of the most resilient you'll find and this raincoat is no exception.

It's built to last thanks to its Durable Water-Repellent (DWR) finish. It's waterproof, windproof and breathable while still remaining cozy and comfortable without being restricting or heat-inducing when you have it on for hours on end.

It has a nylon lining and is constructed from waterproof, breathable and seam-sealed DryVent 2.5L fabric. This material's designed to withstand severe backcountry storms, making this the perfect staple piece.

$110 at Amazon
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$110 at Macy's$110 at Zappos

This women's raincoat is lightweight but still protects from the elements extremely well. It has the coveted "Amazon's Choice" stamp of approval and is waterproof, quick-drying, lightweight, windproof, breathable and comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

It also has a chic plaid cotton lining and comes in 11 colors and five sizes (S to XXL).

$53 at Amazon

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