The best friend on a rainy day, an umbrella, has a cousin that a lot of people tend to overlook: the raincoat. But even if ignored, it can completely change the game in rain, only if used correctly. There are a lot of different types of raincoat, and each one of them has a different use.
Now before you go and buy a raincoat, read this article carefully, as it will prevent you from making the wrong purchase.
Importance of Raincoats
You know, raincoats don’t usually get the respect they deserve. But for businesses, they are an important part of keeping teams safe, dry, and productive.
Imagine this: employees are on-site or travelling for work when the clouds burst. Umbrellas? Useless in heavy, sideways rain. Regular jackets? Soaked through in no time. That’s when a raincoat feels like armour. The fabric doesn’t just repel water, it blocks it completely. Many even come with sealed seams, so not a single drop finds its way inside. The result? Workers stay dry, safe, and comfortable, ensuring business goes on without disruption.
Types of Raincoats Based on Material
Now, let’s understand the types of raincoats there are. Yes, there isn’t one but many types of raincoats, and each has a practical use of its own. Based on the material, there are 3 types.
PVC Raincoats
PVC raincoats are the classics; the shiny, practical option most of us remember from childhood. They’re practically waterproof fortresses, and if you’ve ever been caught in a heavy downpour with one, you’ll know they don’t let a single drop through. The flip side? They’re not very breathable. Still, for quick errands, fishing trips, or just tossing in the car for emergencies, PVC raincoats are tough, reliable, and very affordable.
Nylon Raincoats
Nylon raincoats feel a bit more modern, and they’ve got a loyal following for a reason. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and perfect for travel. They shed water well, though not quite as stubbornly as PVC, but where they win is comfort. Nylon lets you move, bend, and breathe without that stiffness and plastic feel. For commuters, nylon is a smart middle ground.
Polyester Raincoats
Polyester raincoats are the multitaskers of the bunch. They’re often treated with a water-resistant coating, which makes them feel less like “just rain gear” and more like everyday outerwear. Most of them have added features like mesh linings, adjustable hoods, and even stylish cuts that make them look good while doing the job. Polyester strikes that balance between performance and appearance, which is why you’ll see it in everything from sporty jackets to sleek city-ready types of rainwear.
Types of Raincoats Based on Design and Style
Now, raincoats are also classified by design and style. Let’s understand the different kinds of raincoats based on design and style.
Poncho Raincoats
The way ponchos are made is different. They go over your head and don’t have any arms. They can be big enough to cover your whole body, even your toes, or they can be small enough to fit up to your knees. They provide wide coverage, and can easily fit over uniforms or safety gear. Their broader diameter also allows workers to carry a bag or small tools underneath while staying protected. Plus, the hood keeps the head dry, which is vital for employees working outdoors in unpredictable weather.
Trench Coat Style Raincoats
There are buttons in the front and a belt at the waist of a trench coat. The cloth is made of cotton, but it has been treated with chemicals to keep water out. The coat normally covers you up to your knees or ankles, but there is no hood to protect your head. Trench coats are better for formal events like going to work.
Full-Length Raincoats
Long raincoats that go below the knee are a big part of keeping you safe and dry in severe weather. A long coat usually goes below the knee, so it covers all of the body. When it’s raining and you have to be outside for a long time, the full-length raincoat is the ideal one to wear, according to customers. Some of them also have adjustable hoods and many pockets, which make them even more useful.
Two-Piece Raincoats
Two-piece raincoats have a waterproof jacket and matching pants, so they keep you completely dry if you spend a lot of time outside. This style is quite popular with bikers and people who work in places where the weather might change quickly. It keeps water from getting on lower clothes, which is a regular problem with shorter coats.
How to Choose the Right Raincoat
There are a lot of nuances when it comes to choosing the type of rain coat, the table below explains it in detail.
| Type | Best For | Key Advantages | Things to Keep in Mind |
| PVC Raincoat | Short outdoor tasks, contract workers, backup/emergency use | 100% waterproof, very affordable, strong against heavy downpours | Not breathable, can feel hot and sticky if worn for long |
| Nylon Raincoat | Field staff, delivery teams, light outdoor travel | Lightweight, easy to pack, flexible and comfortable | Not as durable as PVC or polyester |
| Polyester Raincoat | Everyday staff use, site supervisors, urban fieldwork | Balanced design, stylish options, water-resistant with breathable linings | May need re-coating over time for water resistance |
| Poncho Raincoat | Workers carrying bags/tools, site staff in sudden downpours | Easy to slip on, covers backpacks, compact for travel | Loose fit can flap in strong winds, less formal |
| Trench Coat Raincoat | Office staff, managerial employees, formal site visits | Elegant design, knee-length coverage, stylish and professional | Usually no hood, so pair with umbrella or hat |
| Full-Length Raincoat | Construction crews, security staff, long outdoor shifts | Maximum coverage, protects lower body, often includes hoods and pockets | Can feel bulky for casual wear |
| Two-Piece Raincoat | Bikers, technicians, industrial workers in heavy-duty tasks | Complete protection with jacket + pants, secure fit | Less fashionable, designed mainly for utility |
Conclusion
Raincoats can be true best friend when it comes to rain. But the belief they’re not fashionable is pointless. The key is to pick the right type of raincoat based on types of raincoat material or style, the above guide will help you with that.
For MSMEs, this means equipping employees with gear that keeps them safe, dry, and productive. A well-chosen raincoat is an investment in uninterrupted work and employee well-being.
Explore a wide range of raincoats and safety gear for your workforce on L&T SuFin, and ensure your teams are always ready—rain or shine.
FAQs
What are the different types of raincoats available?
There are various kinds of raincoats available based on material or style. For example, Ponchos or PVC.
Which raincoat material is best for heavy rains?
PVC is the best for heavy rains, as it’s thick, but might not be as breathable.
How do I choose the right size raincoat?
You can try on different raincoat sizes to see which one fits you the best, then choose accordingly.
What is the difference between a raincoat and rain jacket?
Nothing much, essentially, a rain jacket is a shorter, waist-length version of a raincoat.
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