After we moved to Portland, my goal was to continue on with life despite the rainy climate. And as the saying goes: there is no bad weather, just bad gear. While it definitely rains way less in the PNW that we anticipated, I do find myself reaching for rain gear quite often. Whether it’s for hikes, grocery runs, or date nights I now feel sufficiently prepared to handle the weather here. Below are my go-tos that I find myself reaching for over and over again during the rainy winter months.
Boots
These Everlane rain boots are the real deal. They are truly waterproof and very comfortable. The other boots I’ll grab during the colder months are my Blundstones. These are not waterproof but warm and comfortable. I do not hike in either of these boots, but I will wear them on adventures to the chilly Oregon coast. I’m my usual size in both boots.
Rain Jacket
One rookie mistake I made when I purchased my first rain jacket from Lululemon was purchasing a cropped jacket (no longer in stock, but I found it here). I thought I’d be fine because it had a huge hood. I didn’t realize that the lower half of me would be soaked! This past fall I snagged this jacket and I love it. Unfortunately it is no longer in stock, but their new version is available and linked below. I wear it on rainy days and sunny days. The hood is smaller, but it really does the job in keeping me dry on rainy walks.
First Jacket, Second Jacket, Third Jacket
Socks
While I do wear ankle socks with my boots, I prefer longer ones with my boots — especially on rainy or cold days. I’ve tried a lot of socks in my day between chilly days in Chicago, camping, and hiking, and Stance socks are the ones I keep coming back to. Below are some that I have that keep my feet warm.
Blue Socks, Green Socks, Black Socks
Belt Bag
Last winter I received the Cuyana tote as gift. I love it! But it doesn’t work great on a rainy day. When I need something that can handle water, I will reach for my belt bag. Or, let’s just call it what it is: it’s a fanny pack. It’s so easy to wear when I’m out and about with my kids. Below are other ones I’d snag that would work too.
These are the pieces I wear all winter long in the pacific northwest rain. They have become staples in my closet and all of them do what they were made to do. What would you add to this list?
