Key Takeaways
- Trench coats are double-breasted with a belt and deep pockets, while raincoats come in various designs and styles, mostly with a hood.
- Trench coats are typically made from cotton gabardine or leather, whereas raincoats are made from materials like Gore-Tex, Tyvek, and coated nylon.
- Raincoats are more of a practical garment than a fashion statement, while trench coats have a military origin and are considered more fashionable.
Trench coats and raincoats are both types of waterproof outerwear designed to protect the wearer from inclement weather. However, there are distinct differences between the two in terms of design and materials used. A raincoat is a waterproof coat specifically designed to shield the wearer from rain and can come in a variety of designs and styles. In contrast, a trench coat is a long, double-breasted coat featuring a belt and deep pockets.
What is a Raincoat?
A raincoat is a waterproof coat designed to keep the wearer dry during rain. These coats are typically long, extending below the knees, and often include a hood to protect the head from water. Waist-length raincoats are sometimes referred to as rain jackets. Raincoats are considered more of a practical garment than a fashion statement and are made from breathable, waterproof fabrics such as Gore-Tex, Tyvek, and coated nylon. Raincoats usually feature long sleeves and a hood, and may also have front openings with zips or buttons, adjustable hood strings, collars, and pockets.
What is a Trench Coat?
A trench coat is a long, double-breasted coat with a belt and deep pockets, originating from military use during the First World War. The name “trench coat” is derived from its use in the trenches during the war. Trench coats are waterproof and durable while remaining lightweight, and are typically made from materials like cotton gabardine and leather. Most trench coats extend to the wearer’s knees. Trench coats are known for their distinctive construction details, including double-breasted fronts with 10 buttons, wide lapels, a storm flap, and button-close pockets. They also feature wrist straps that can be buckled to prevent water from seeping in through the armholes, and a waist belt. Traditional trench coats are khaki in color, but modern versions are available in various colors.
What is the difference between Trench Coat and Raincoat?
The main differences between trench coats and raincoats are their design and materials. Trench coats are long, double-breasted coats with belts and deep pockets, while raincoats can come in various designs and styles, mostly featuring a hood. Trench coats are typically made from cotton gabardine or leather, whereas raincoats are made from materials like Gore-Tex, Tyvek, and coated nylon. Furthermore, trench coats do not usually have hoods, while most raincoats do.
