11 best waterproof trousers for women, tested by a panel of hikers

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.

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

Score: 86/100

Key specifications

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

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

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

Score: 84/100

Key specifications

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

Score: 79/100

Key specifications

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

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

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

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.

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.