A good women's rain jacket needs to do more than simply repel rain. Whether you are walking through the dunes, cycling to work or caught in a sudden shower in town, you also want freedom of movement, protection from the wind and plenty of comfort. That is why the The North Face Quest Jacket women's rain jacket is often considered, but it is wise to look beyond the brand name and product photo.
An outer fabric may keep rain out while water enters through the seams or zips. So check whether the product information states that the jacket has fully taped or sealed seams. The Quest Jacket is described as having a fully seam-sealed design. That matters during prolonged rain, not just a brief shower.
A DWR finish helps water droplets bead off the surface. That is not the same as a jacket being fully waterproof. According to the product description, the Quest Jacket has a DWR finish and its outer fabric is designed to be re-treated when its water-repellent performance starts to diminish.
A lightweight rain jacket can be comfortable in summer, but in the Netherlands you may want to wear a jumper or fleece underneath in autumn. A fit that is too tight can then restrict your freedom of movement. So do not just look at your usual clothing size. Also consider your chest measurement, jacket length and the type of clothing you plan to wear underneath.
According to the product description, The North Face Quest Jacket uses a 2L DryVent shell made from 100% polyester, with a mesh lining. The manufacturer describes this material as waterproof, windproof and breathable. As no specific breathability rating is provided in the product information, you cannot use it to determine a particular performance level.
For everyday use and walking, a breathable outdoor jacket is particularly practical when you are moving actively. Bear in mind, however, that any waterproof material can feel less airy during strenuous activity or in warm weather. Ventilation, clothing layers and your pace therefore remain important.
When choosing a windproof women's jacket, look for details that help reduce draughts:
According to the product description, the Quest Jacket has these adjustable features and two zipped pockets. This makes it suitable as a women's walking jacket and as a practical jacket for everyday use.
The stated fit is standard and the product information says it is true to size. Ideally, use your chest measurement as a starting point:
The jacket length is approximately 79 to 83 cm, depending on the size. If you want to wear a fleece or thick jumper under your The North Face women's jacket, check that the chest measurement allows enough extra room. A black women's rain jacket is easy to style, but the colour does not affect its technical properties.
Why this suits the profile: Size S is suitable if you are looking for a standard fit for city use, commuting and light walks.
The product information mentions fully sealed seams and an adjustable hood, so you do not have to rely solely on a water-repellent outer layer.
2L DryVent shell, mesh lining, two zipped pockets and adjustable cuffs.
Why this suits the profile: Size M offers a practical balance if you wear the jacket both outdoors and day to day, and sometimes need an extra layer underneath.
The combination of sealed seams, an adjustable hem and elasticated cuffs helps limit openings where rain and wind could get in.
DryVent material according to the product description, mesh lining and soft chin protection.
Why this suits the profile: Size L is intended for a roomier chest measurement and may suit longer walks where layers and freedom of movement are important.
The sizing is linked to a chest measurement of 97–104 cm, helping to prevent you from choosing a jacket that feels too tight when moving or wearing layers.
Adjustable hood and hem, two zipped pockets and an outer layer with a DWR finish.
We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Always follow the jacket's care label. Do not use harsh products that could damage the coating, and avoid unnecessarily hot washing or drying. When the outer fabric no longer allows water to bead off as effectively, a suitable reproofing treatment, applied according to the manufacturer's instructions, may help. This will help keep the performance of your DryVent women's jacket in the best possible condition.
Also check the zips, cuffs and seams regularly. Damage to the fabric or construction can affect the jacket's protection from rain. A waterproof jacket is not a warm winter coat, either: in cold weather, you will need suitable base and mid-layers.
According to the product description, the jacket is designed for walking and changeable weather conditions. The hood, adjustable hem, elasticated cuffs and zipped pockets are also practical on a bike. However, check that the jacket length and hood work well with your cycling position.
The product information mentions a waterproof outer layer and fully sealed seams. These are relevant features for protection from rain. No specific hydrostatic-head ratings or guarantee for a particular level of rainfall are provided, so do not treat this information as an exact performance standard.
Measure your chest at its fullest point and compare it with the size chart. Also consider how much room you need for a jumper or fleece. Size M is listed as 90–96 cm and size L as 97–104 cm. If you are unsure, the layers you want to wear and your need for freedom of movement should be the deciding factors.