Rain jackets as a product line
Rain jackets are often the entry point to a brand’s outerwear range: they must be light, easy to pack and priced to sell, while still keeping the wearer dry. That makes the fabric tier and the seam strategy the two most important choices. We help you set both so the jacket meets its target price without overpromising on performance.
Three practical tiers
| Tier | Fabric | Seams | Typical positioning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | PU-coated nylon or polyester, light fabric weight | Critical seams taped (shoulders, hood, yoke), others stitched and treated | Promotional, lifestyle and basic hiking rainwear; waterproofness often in the thousands of mm |
| Mid | 2-layer or 2.5-layer membrane laminate | Fully or mostly taped | Everyday and trail rain jackets; commonly around 10,000 mm or higher |
| Premium | 2.5-layer or 3-layer laminate with a higher-grade membrane | Fully taped, water-resistant zippers | Technical rainwear competing with established outdoor brands |
Tier descriptions are typical market positions. Specific fabrics and values are agreed in the tech pack.
Design choices that change the result
- Packability: lighter fabric, fewer pockets and a stuff-in-pocket design reduce pack size
- Hood and storm protection: brim, adjustment and chin guard define real-world dryness more than fabric alone
- Vents and breathability: mesh-lined vents or back vents help with comfort on trail
- Zippers: water-resistant coil zips cost more but protect the front opening. See waterproof zippers and trims
- Seams: taped, welded or stitched-and-treated, chosen to the price tier. See seam-sealed construction
When to move up to a hard shell
If your customers will use the jacket in sustained rain, wind or snow, a hard shell with a 3-layer fabric is the better fit. For hikers who want a lightweight option, see custom hiking jackets.
What to send for a quote
- Tech pack, sketch or a reference garment (photos and measurements are fine to start)
- Size range, sizing market and quantity per style and colour
- Fabric direction: hard shell, softshell or a named Polartec® platform, plus target price
- Required features: hood type, pockets, vents, zippers, insulation, reflective details
- Testing needs (for example hydrostatic head, breathability, seam strength, wash tests)
- Sample timeline and bulk delivery window
Trademark note: Third-party branded membrane and fabric names belong to their respective owners and are used here only as buyer search terminology. Material access, authorization, labeling rules and public performance claims are confirmed for every program.
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