What Is the Difference Between a Trench Coat & a Rain Shower Coat?

Trench coats and rain shower coats are popular spring garments. Because spring is synonymous with rain, these jackets are equipped with a few materials to weather the storm. The rain shower coat is equipped with practical elements for wet weather, while the trench coat is more of a fashion statement that can be worn rain or shine.

A distinct difference between a trench coat and a rain shower coat is that rain shower coats are hooded, while the trench coast simply has a winged collar. Because trench coats can be worn on any occasion, they are less equipped for rain and require an umbrella to stay dry. As stated in their name, the rain shower coat is to be worn solely during times of precipitation; an umbrella is not needed due to their built in head covering.

Rain shower coats are made from materials with the sole purpose of repelling water. Gor-Tex, nylon and rubber are excellent water repellents and are typically found listed on the materials tag sewn underneath the label on the inside of the coat. Trench coats are typically made of out lighter materials, such as polyester blend with a thin cotton lining, and are considered water resistant rather than repellent.

The signature of a trench coat is the double button front closure. After buttoning, the trench is then secured with a belt cinched at the waist. A rain shower coat typically has a single zipper closure or a single row of snaps or buttons down the front.

The most popular and recognizable color of the rain shower coat is bright yellow, worn with matching rain boots. Trench coats are most popular in khaki or beige, followed by black and navy blue. A trench coat is a long coat that is worn to the knee or as low as the ground, in order to have enough material to be cinched at the waist. A rain shower coat can range from from waist length to above the knee.