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11 best waterproof trousers for women, tested by a panel of hikers
These expert-approved pairs will keep you dry on hikes, trail runs or walks with the dog
Tested by Kim HawleySenior Health & Fitness Tester
The best waterproof trousers can transform a hike, dog walk or cycle from damp and depressing to comfy and dry.
But with different features, fits and waterproofing capabilities, there’s a lot to consider when searching for the best pair for you. Prices vary too, with our top picks ranging from around the £15 mark up to £160.
Not sure where to begin? Panic not, our Good Housekeeping Institute experts enlisted a panel of keen testers to put a range of designs from popular brands to the test in the wild.
The best waterproof trousers for women in 2026
Whether you’re after some budget-friendly trousers to pop on for your next rainy day walk, or you want to splash out on an all-weather pair for hiking or trail running, these are our winners at a glance with full reviews below:
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These are the pairs that will keep you dry, comfy and on top of your game.
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How we test waterproof trousers
Our Good Housekeeping Institute panel put a range of waterproof trousers through their paces to find the ones guaranteed to help you stay dry on your next outing. Each pair was tested in a variety of conditions, from light rain to downpours, and assessed for comfort, breathability, design and the range of movement they allowed.
Here’s how they were scored.
Ease of use: Our testers were asked to put the trousers on over their shoes or boots, as well as wearing them for a range of different exercises, to get a good sense of their comfort and wearability.
Design: Each pair was rated for design and style. Our testers gave bonus points for extra features such as zipped pockets, reflective panels, toggles to adjust the fit, and carry bags to pack the trousers away when you’re on the go.
Performance: From sweat-wicking to water resistance, our panel rated each pair on its performance when it came to staying dry, paying attention to pockets or seams. They also washed them to see how they fared.
Back in the lab, our experts used a hydrostatic head tester to measure the water resistance of the fabric and seams, to see if the trousers lived up to their waterproofing claims.
Craghoppers Natales Waterproof Lightweight Cargo Trousers
Craghoppers Natales Waterproof Lightweight Cargo Trousers
Score: 93/100
Drumroll for our best rated pair of ladies waterproof trousers, please. If you’re after a pair that combines style, comfort and performance, these are for you. “I wish I’d come across these trousers sooner!” said one satisfied tester, while another told us: “I have already recommended them to others.”
Our panel rated these highly for their waterproof capabilities, saying they kept them protected in wet, windy weather. They also appreciated the practical cargo design, with multiple roomy pockets and flexible material that doesn’t feel restrictive on the move. Plus, they come in three different leg lengths to suit all sizes. Right now, you can nab them for just £30.
Key specifications
| Sizes | 8 – 20 |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Recycled polyester, elastane, water repellent finish |
Dare 2b Melodic II Trousers
Dare 2b Melodic II Trousers
Score: 86/100
Look elsewhere if you’re heading out in torrential conditions, but for outdoorsy adventures in light to moderate rain – whether you’re pottering about in the garden or taking the dog for a walk – this aesthetically pleasing pair from Dare2B ticks all the boxes.
Panellists rated the flattering design, noting that they looked more like everyday trousers instead of waterproofs. “They looked so good, I wore them to the pub after my dog walk,” said one tester, while another commented: “They made my bum look really good!”
They boast adjustable features around the waist and ankles to help you achieve the perfect fit, the fabric is stretchy and comfortable to walk in for hours on end, plus there are plenty of pockets for all your essentials.
Key specifications
| Sizes | 8 – 20 |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Polyamide, elastane |
Rab Women’s Firewall Waterproof Pants
Rab Women’s Firewall Waterproof Pants
Score: 85/100
A technical entry from leading outdoorsy brand Rab, these classic black trousers are designed to keep you protected on your most challenging treks, without weighing you down.
They’re constructed from a durable three-layer Pertex® Shield fabric for ultimate waterproofing and breathability. This proved popular with panellists, with one saying: “They’re totally waterproof with no issues with getting wet.” Another told us: “They’re breathable yet highly protective, with no sweating or discomfort.” They scored top marks for waterproofing in our lab tests, too.
The trousers boast side zips for extra ventilation and easy on-off, articulated knees and a long crotch for total freedom of movement. Other handy features include adjustable hems (so you can tailor the fit depending on your footwear), and an elasticated waistband with a drawcord to find a snug but comfy fit.
They’re lightweight enough to stash in your backpack for unpredictable forecast days, and they’re available in short, regular and long, so you can find a length that’s just right. We would have appreciated pockets or zip-through slits to access jeans underneath, but that’s our only real bugbear.
Key specifications
| Sizes | 6-16 |
|---|---|
| Fabric | 40D Pertex Shield waterproof fabric |
Berghaus Women's Deluge 2.0 Overtrousers
Berghaus Women's Deluge 2.0 Overtrousers
Score: 84/100
Whatever the time of year, it's not uncommon for us to get days of non-stop rain. Enter the Berghaus Deluge trousers, which are designed for, well, deluges.
They got a thumbs up from our testers for their waterproofing skills and design features – they have side zips and poppers – particularly among some of our taller testers.
A good investment for colder months, they scored well for their cosy fabric and durability. They also washed well, which is key if you're out on muddy hikes.
Key specifications
| Sizes | 8 - 20 |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Polyamide,polyurethane coating, polyester |
Keela Women’s Rainlife 5000 Trousers
Score: 84/100
These scored highly for their waterproof capabilities (one tester even got caught in a storm and came back bone dry) as well as breathability. “I remained dry and comfortable, there no was no dampness on my body at all,” said one impressed panellist.
There’s an elasticated waist, belt loops and a zip that runs from the bottom of the trousers to the knee, making them easy to pull on, even with muddy boots. There’s also a storm flap for extra protection against the elements. There are no pockets; instead, the trousers feature sealable openings for easy access to any pockets underneath.
They come in short, regular and tall lengths to suit all needs, too. If you’re after a pair of functional, high-performing waterproofs, you can’t go wrong.
Key specifications
| Sizes | 8 – 20 |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Polyester, waterproof hydrophilic coating |
Craghoppers Kiwi Pro II Waterproof Trousers
Score: 84/100
Flattering style? Check. Excellent weatherproofing capabilities? Yep. Lightweight material? You bet. All in all, our testing panel rated this pair from Craghoppers highly across the board, making them a go-to for all types of outdoor pursuit.
Our panel found they performed well in heavy rain and windy conditions, they dried in a flash and remained breathable during more intense activities. “I didn’t overheat or feel sweaty during a brisk hike,” said one satisfied tester.
Thanks to the soft, stretchy fabric and elasticated waist, the trousers proved extremely comfortable, and there were no irritating rustling sounds. Some panel members loved the streamlined fit on the legs, while others would have preferred a wide leg design with openings around the ankles for easy on and off. Still, everyone would recommend them to friends.
Key specifications
| Sizes | 8 – 20 |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Polyamide, elastane, polyester |
Mountain Warehouse Spray Womens Waterproof Overtrousers
Mountain Warehouse Spray Womens Waterproof Overtrousers
Score: 80/100
If you find yourself between sizes, it’s worth opting for a pair of waterproof trousers with adjustable features. This simple but effective design from Mountain Warehouse has an elasticated, drawstring waist to suit most bodies, and they’re available in a shorter leg length – handy if you’re on the petite side.
They’re made from heavy duty ripstop fabric for durability and feature IsoDry technology to keep you dry whether you’re cycling, walking or letting your hair down at a festival. Sure enough, testers said they lived up to their waterproof claims. There’s a mesh lining for breathability while half leg zips mean you can slip them on and off over muddy shoes with ease.
Some testers would have liked a more flattering, figure-hugging design while others found them a tad noisy, but these are minor gripes for an otherwise impressive piece of kit.
Key specifications
| Sizes | 6 – 20 |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Polyester |
Helly Hansen Women's Aden Rain Pants
Helly Hansen Women's Aden Rain Pants
Score: 79/100
The Norwegian brand is known for its high-quality, technical sportswear, so it’s hardly surprising its waterproof trousers went down a treat with panel members. They performed brilliantly in the comfort stakes, with one tester saying: “They were so comfy to walk in, I barely noticed them.”
The clever design features the brand’s unique HELLY TECH® protection fabric and fully taped seams to keep the wind and rain at bay, along with a quick-dry lining for ultimate warmth and a zipped pocket for your valuables. They were a cinch to get on and off, with an elasticated waist and poppers around the ankles.
The only downside? Several testers found the sizing hit and missing, with some noting that the trousers were very large, while others finding them too snug. We’d recommend consulting the brand’s sizing guide to ensure you find the perfect fit.
Key specifications
| Sizes | XS – 4XL |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Polyester |
Quechua Waterproof Mountain Walking Over-Trousers MH500
Quechua Waterproof Mountain Walking Over-Trousers MH500
Score: 79/100
These reasonably priced trousers from Quechua scored well with our panel, thanks to clever details such as side zips for ease of wear and taped seams to prevent water entering. They can also be packed away into a little pouch if the weather brightens up. “The design is top notch and great quality,” commented one tester, telling us that they'd happily buy them again.
Most testers found them comfortable, and they kept everyone dry in rainy conditions. Some thought the bottoms were too wide, though, and those on the shorter side found them a bit long. The lack of pockets was also a little disappointing, but for under £40, it’s hard to complain.
Key specifications
| Sizes | 6 - 18 |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Polyester, polyurethane |
Regatta Women's Highton Waterproof Overtrousers
Score: 76/100
These stylish trousers are made from recycled plastic water bottles. Our testers rated their waterproofing capabilities as well as some of the design aspects, such as the zipped pockets and part-elasticated waistband (no one wants that digging in mid-country walk).
Our panel thought they were best suited to walking, as opposed to anything more dynamic, due to the limitations of the fabric. We also suggest they are worn over leggings or thinner fabric trousers as opposed to jeans, due to their slim fit.
Key specifications
| Sizes | S - XL |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Polyester |
The North Face Summit Superior FUTURELIGHT™ Trousers
The North Face Summit Superior FUTURELIGHT™ Trousers
Score: 74/100
Granted, they don’t come cheap, but these technical trousers are worth considering if you’re a serious adventurer. The design is lightweight and packable, the fabric is waterproof and there’s reflective detailing to keep you safe in low light. They also boast an adjustable waist and wrap-around cuffs at the ankles to ensure a secure fit and minimise water ingress.
Testers loved the soft, lightweight feel of the fabric, noting that there was no uncomfortable rubbing or digging in during activities. They also offer excellent freedom of movement, and they remained breathable when things got sweaty. Crucially, they lived up to their waterproof claims, keeping everyone dry even in extreme conditions. Note, they lack pockets, which may or may not be a dealbreaker.
Key specifications
| Sizes | XXS - XXL |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Recycled nylon, FUTURELIGHT™ fabric |
Why you should trust the Good Housekeeping Institute
In our hunt for the best waterproof trousers, we recruited a panel of adventurers to brave the elements and put a range of popular styles to the test.
As well as creating the rigorous protocols we test every pair against, our senior sleep and wellness tester Kim Hawley pulled together all the panel feedback, assessing products against their claims, to give each pair of trousers a final score.
Our sleep and wellness editor Priyankaa Joshi has written hundreds of reviews and is a keen hiker herself, so knows a thing or two about what makes a quality pair of waterproof trousers. Priyankaa is also currently completing her level 2 personal training qualification.
What to consider before buying
Waterproofing: What are you going to be wearing your new trousers for? If it’s for the odd walk around the park in light showers, then you'll likely have a lot more options to choose from than if you’re an avid hiker who needs serious protection from the elements. You may also want to consider sweat-wicking capabilities if you tend to get a bit hot when you're out and about.
Packability: We do love the British weather, particularly the fact you can have blue skies minutes after a heavy burst of rain. With that in mind, some trousers come with little bags to pack them away – handy if you’re out for a long country walk.
Additional features: While waterproof claims are important, additional design features can take a pair of trousers from good to great. Our advice? Look for pockets and an adjustable waistband. Reflective trimmings are useful if you tend to be out early in the morning or in the evening with the dog, for example.
Should you size up in waterproof trousers?
Waterproof trousers are generally designed to be oversized, with a more generous fit to allow you to layer over leggings or jeans. You should have enough room to move, bend and stretch comfortably, without feeling restricted.
As sizing can vary from brand to brand, we recommend consulting the brand’s sizing guide before purchasing to ensure the best fit.
What are the different types of waterproof fabrics?
Waterproof trousers are typically made from technical materials that are designed to keep moisture out. These include:
- Coated fabrics like polyurethane (PU)-coated polyester or nylon, which provide reliable waterproofing at an accessible price point.
- Laminated fabrics like GORE-TEX and Pertex Shield, which use a waterproof membrane that's bonded to the material, offering higher performance and breathability. They tend to be pricier, though.
- Some waterproof trousers are also made with softshell fabric, which combines water resistance with stretch and comfort. These are best for use in light rain and showers.
Are waterproof trousers worth it?
Whether you're a dog walker, cyclist or hiking enthusiast, a good-quality pair of waterproof trousers is a worthwhile investment – especially if you live in the UK, where the weather can be seriously unpredictable.
The best ladies' waterproof trousers offer reliable protection from the rain and wind, keeping you dry and comfortable during all your outdoorsy activities. There are plenty of budget-friendly options to choose from on our list, including the Berghaus Women's Deluge Waterproof Breathable Overtrousers, which are currently available for under £30.
More expert-approved buys for your next adventure
The verdict on waterproof trousers
Our top scorer, the Craighoppers Natales Waterproof Lightweight Cargo Trousers, tick all the boxes. They're comfortable, warm and waterproof. Plus, you can get them for £30 right now.
Alternatively, Dare2b's Women's Waterproof Trousers are a reliable, everyday pick for if you don't plan on heading out in heavy rain.
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.
Kim Hawley is the Senior Health & Fitness Tester at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she leads the independent testing of health, fitness, wellness and sleep products using evidence-led protocols and her extensive industry expertise.
With more than 30 years' experience in the health and fitness industry, Kim has worked as a lead personal trainer, fitness instructor and health writer, teaching at some of London's leading health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Kim has a particular interest in women's health, especially pre-, peri- and post-menopause, and combines hands-on industry experience with rigorous product evaluation. From fitness trackers and smartwatches to home gym equipment, recovery devices, wellness tech, supplements and sleep solutions, she oversees comprehensive testing to help consumers make confident, informed purchasing decisions they can trust.
