As discussed, not all raincoats are created equal. Some resist water with their materials (water-resistant), others repel water via special coatings (water-repellant), and others are actually waterproof thanks to high-tech materials and strategic construction. These varying degrees of weatherproofing have their time, place, and function. “There’s always a trade-off with durability, weight, water resistance, and breathability,” Coombs says. “It’s not really about keeping you bone dry–it’s about keeping you warm and not having you feel like you are running in a garbage bag.” Depending on your needs, a water-resistant coat may be enough and actually preferable if you require an ultra-breathable jacket. Otherwise, consider a jacket with a water-repellant treatment or even better, one that is made with waterproof materials like GORE-TEX.