Despite living in Britain all my life, I'm one of those people who's always taken by surprise when it rains. I never have an umbrella about my person and I don't own a proper raincoat (don't feel too sorry for me, I own so many coats, but they're more fashion than function – let's just say, a faux fur is not much use in a downpour).
But autumn 2026 is very much the practical coat's moment. From funnel-neck windbreakers to nylon shell jackets, norm-core has taken over. Maybe it's the El Niño effect, maybe we're all just looking for something more trustworthy in a world of fake news and AI (too deep?), but the functional jacket is a must-have this season.
And after hearing someone wax lyrical about Regatta's rainwear, I decided to try one of its jackets on for size. Here's why I haven't really taken it off since, plus 5 more styles from the brand to get you through stormy weather.
Everything you need to know about the Regatta Asmara Trench Coat
It looks like a trench but includes top-tier wet-weather protection, thanks to the waterproof and extremely breathable ISOTEX 15000 fabric, taped seams (so no water seeps in) and detachable hood.
It also has generous pockets, a very lovely navy checked lining and is really lightweight so you can fold it up and putting in your shopper when it's suddenly 25 degrees (because we're currently stuck in an endless, clammy second summer).
What I like about it
It was the combination of functionality and looks that drew me to Regatta's range of jackets. The brand has been selling affordable outerwear since the late 1970s with a focus on its core customer – the 'dog walker from Oldham' – and continues to prioritise all the elements that matter when you're battling the, well, elements. That's reliable waterproofing, adaptable outerwear (i.e. a button-on hood that won't pull off easily but is simple to remove if you want more trench than raincoat), generous pockets and lightweight, breathable fabrics that won't weigh you down or leave you sweaty.
But the reason I've been wearing my new Asmara Trench Coat every day on the commute since I got it (despite only occasional short showers) is because it looks good, too. I can wear it with my work tailoring and more casual outfits, making it super versatile, and I know I'm covered if it does rain. Regatta has form here too, prioritising style as much as functionality, most recently collaborating with Orla Kiely for a gorgeous range of quilted jackets, fleeces and changing robes.
I also love how lightweight and breathable this jacket is – I don't like a coat that weighs me down (yes, I'm looking at you again, faux furs) as it can be exhausting when you're commuting and trying to speed walk through busy streets.
I can also confirm that it does a great job in a sudden downpour. The hood is really generous and the rain just runs off it. I wore it in heavy rain on a morning commute this week and when I got the office, it looked like I hadn't been outside.
Plus, it's also relatively affordable at £85, especially when you think that some raincoats with this level of technical weatherproofing can be up to £250.
I went for a really classic colourway, although it also comes in a deep blue shade, but if you want more choice, I've found five alternatives to shop, from my favourite leopard print option to quilted Orla Kiely designs. Order it, stash it in your shopper and you'll be ready for all weathers. Even if you're not a dog walker from Oldham.
