Coats and jackets have always been a passion of mine, and there’s nothing I like more than when the weather turns and it’s time to wrap up warm. I can be quite picky though, and I’ve got coats in my wardrobe that date back a very long time, because I just can’t bear to part with them. So when I do commit to a new coat, it’s got to be special, especially these days when fast fashion and poor quality just doesn’t cut it with me.
I jumped at the chance to try out a Squall Raincoat from Lands’ End, as it’s a brand with nearly 60 years of experience making clothes to suit weather conditions from rain and wind to sun and snow.
I don’t say this often but the coat really exceeded my expectations, here’s why:
Practicality
It’s a raincoat, job done. But it’s more than that, as the inside label tells me, it’s waterproof, windproof and anti-static! The top half of the lining is soft fleecy material so you get an extra burst of warmth but without being bulky. It’s perfect for the changeable weather we see so often in Autumn now. You can chuck it on when there’s a bit of sun and you won’t get hot, but once the temperature drops and the rain starts, you’re covered for that too.
Manufacture
This is a coat that has been made well. As you would expect from a company like Lands End, the finish is excellent and the attention to detail really stands out. Things like the double zip, hidden pockets and adjusters on the cuffs and hood help elevate this coat above your standard pac-a-mac.
Style
I have to admit I’ve bought my fair share of old lady raincoats in the past, with substance definitely trumping style at times. However, the Squall Raincoat strikes just the right balance. It’s not going to make the cover of Vogue, but my kids approve and are not embarassed to be seen with me on the school run!
What else could I buy?
There’s a great range of coats and jackets to choose from at Lands’ End – from ultra light packable jackets filled with down, to fleeces and gilets in every colour you could ever wish for. There are even smart blazers and parkas worthy of an Arctic expedition.
Sizes range from Petite 8 to 28-30 / 3XL. Prices start from as little as £8 for certain styles and colour ways, and there are plenty of special offers to pick from. Delivery is a flat fee of £3.95 via Evri. Exchanges are free and returns are charged through Royal Mail or Evri.
*We were gifted a jacket by Lands’ End in exchange for an unbiased review.