Trendy rain gear for Seattle?

Question

I'm moving next month to Seattle, and have so far avoided buying big "REI-looking" jackets, they're just not cute enough! I have several pea coats etc, but nothing really rain-proof. Does everyone in Seattle wear gortex jacket-type gear? Or are their cooler alternatives?
...I'm also having the same trouble with water-proof shoes...any and all advice is welcome! Thanks!

Answer 1

The big REI-style jackets aren't all the rage here... There are all sorts of better-looking alternatives. There's a lot of cool snowboarding shells that are waterproof/resistant plus have style. Some are meant to just be the outermost layer, so not overwhelmingly thick or hot. I like biking jackets as the ones I have are incredibly light and weatherproof, but the cuts of biking jackets have long tails (to avoid splash-up from the rear wheel) and shorter fronts. I also use them to ride, so it's just easier (i.e. cheaper) for me to just use. You'll be fine with pretty much any jacket that you're warm enough in, as we may get constant rain at times, but it's usually pretty light and you'll not be too wet either way. Your peacoats will work just fine and look cool at the same time, unless you're planning on being out in the rain for multiple hours at a time.

Answer 2

Trendy Rain Jackets

Answer 3

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
Trendy rain gear for Seattle?
I'm moving next month to Seattle, and have so far avoided buying big "REI-looking" jackets, they're just not cute enough! I have several pea coats etc, but nothing really rain-proof. Does everyone in Seattle wear gortex jacket-type gear? Or are their cooler alternatives?...

Answer 4

I have lived in seattle (Sammamish actually, 25 min or so away) for about 3-4 years, and I am guessing you have heard about all the rain. However, it is definately over exaggerated. It does rain a lot, but in small quantities, as in it will come and go usually. There is rainy days though of course, I'll admit. I don't think you will need so many rain coats though, I have never worn one, a normal jacket or sweatshirt will be fine I bet. and dont even worry about the shoes, if you have sneakers it's fine.

Answer 5

You can usually tell someone's not from around here if they're walking around with a huge parka, an umbrella, and galoshes, during a Seattle rain. Most of us natives don't bother with nonsense like that. It rarely rains hard enough to even warrant needing an umbrella; and only out-of-staters from places like California think it's cold enough to need to dress like an Eskimo. Dress just enough to be warm; a simple light or maybe medium jacket's more than enough. One of those thick jackets are only necessary during the occasional cold snap in the middle of winter, which is pretty rare. A simple, basic jacket is more than enough for rain here. To drive the point home... I have several umbrellas. I don't really know where they are and I can't remember the last time I've used them, if ever.

Answer 6

Most people in Seattle wear gore-tex shells, not big, heavy jackets with fleece lining. It's not too cold, but it's the rain you need to watch out for. Some popular brands here are The North Face, and Helly Hansen, which you can find at REI, big sports stores, or they even have their own stores located downtown, or at Bellevue Square.

Raincoats CAN be cute, if you know where to look. I have about 3 waterproof jackets from The North Face, in really cute colors.

Answer 7

For trendy, try Nordstrom they will usually have some fancy rain jackets. As far as waterproof shoes, take a look at a few of the styles, especially shoes with rubber around most of the shoe up around the toe. You can also try those old fashioned rubber boots if you're worried about gettting your feet wet. We don't all wear goretex, just those who aren't from here.

Answer 8

I live in seattle, and if you want to seem "trendy" or "hip", stay away from slickers and stuff. most people just wear hoodies or wool coats. people here are so used to getting rained on that they don't care anymore. if you wear water resistant clothing, you look like a tourist. :o)

Answer 9

lived here my whole life, nobody ever wears rain coats or rain boots in seattle, we can definately tell who the out of towners are. It doesn't even rain that hard it's more of a drizzle most of the time.

Answer 10

Get Umbrellas: One for the office, one in the house, and one in the car, one in the backpack.

Save your money. Wear usual clothes and don't buy anything new until AFTER you've really moved in and started work -- what you wear depends upon what people at your job or social circle normally wear..