Key Takeaways
- Windbreakers and windcheaters provide protection against wind, while rain jackets and raincoats provide protection against rain.
- Rain jackets are waist length and raincoats extend below the knee.
- Windcheaters/windbreakers are lighter and more breathable than rain jackets/raincoats.
Windcheater, Windbreaker, Rain Jacket, and Raincoat are outer coats that offer protection against elements. Windcheater and Windbreaker refer to the same garment, while Rain Jacket and Raincoat refer to similar garments whose primary difference is in their length. Rain jackets extend to the waist, whereas raincoats are longer.
What is a Windcheater/Windbreaker?
Windcheaters or windbreakers are lightweight, close-fitting wind-resistant outer jackets. The term “windcheater” is mainly used in British English, while “windbreaker” is used in American English. Windbreakers/windcheaters are typically made from synthetic material and often include elastic waistbands and armbands. Most have hoods to protect the wearer’s head from the elements, and some have large pockets on the inside or outside for safekeeping belongings.
What is a Raincoat?
A raincoat is a waterproof coat that protects the wearer from rain. They usually extend below the knees and have hoods to protect the wearer’s head. Raincoats are often made with breathable material, allowing perspiration to pass through the garment. Gore-Tex, Tyvek, and coated nylon are some materials used to make raincoats.
What is a Rain Jacket?
The difference between a raincoat and a rain jacket lies in the length. Raincoats typically extend below the knees, while rain jackets are waist-length. Rain jackets and raincoats are made from similar materials and serve similar purposes, primarily functioning as practical garments.
What is the difference between Windcheater Windbreaker Rain Jacket and Raincoat?
Windcheater/Windbreakers are close-fitting wind-resistant outer jackets, while rain jackets are waist-length raincoats. Raincoats are waterproof coats that provide protection from rain. Windcheater/Windbreakers extend to the hip, while rain jackets are waist-length and raincoats extend below the knee. Windcheater/Windbreakers are water-resistant, not waterproof, while rain jackets and raincoats are both water-resistant and waterproof. Windcheater/Windbreakers are lightweight and extremely breathable, whereas rain jackets and raincoats may not be as light or breathable. Windcheaters/windbreakers are resistant to wind, while rain jackets and raincoats are resistant to water.
