A windbreaker blocks wind and may shed a light shower; a rain jacket has a waterproof shell, usually with taped seams, and keeps you dry in a real downpour. Snow Country Outerwear makes big and tall rain jackets that do both, waterproof and wind resistant, in sizes 2XL to 7XL. Here's how to tell them apart and which one to buy at 3XL to 7XL.
Rain jacket or windbreaker: the difference
| Windbreaker | Rain jacket | |
|---|---|---|
| Wind | Blocks it | Blocks it |
| Rain | Water resistant at best; soaks through in steady rain | Waterproof shell, often with taped seams so water can't get in at the stitching |
| Breathability | Usually very breathable | Good ones are waterproof and breathable |
| Best for | Dry, windy days, biking, the golf course | Rain, wet snow, commuting, travel |
If you only buy one, buy a waterproof rain jacket with a hood. It does everything a windbreaker does and keeps you dry when the forecast is wrong.
Our big and tall rain jackets
| Jacket | What it's best for | Sizes |
|---|---|---|
| The Mystique | Everyday rain. Waterproof and breathable 2.5 layer shell in a mechanic stretch polyester, DWR finish, adjustable hood, zippered chest pocket and two zippered hand pockets. 35 inches long on a 3XL. | 2XL to 7XL |
| The packable rain jacket | Travel, hiking and biking. Waterproof, breathable and windproof with fully taped seams, and it packs into its own pocket. 32 inches long. | 3XL to 7XL |
What to look for at 3XL to 7XL
- Length. A rain jacket should cover your belt line when you reach up. Check the length on the product page: ours are measured from the back of the neck to the hem.
- Shoulder and sleeve room. Big and tall cuts give you room to reach without the hem riding up or the sleeves pulling back from your wrists.
- A real hood. Look for one that adjusts, so it stays up in wind.
- Taped seams if you'll be out in steady rain.
Big and tall rain jacket questions
Is a windbreaker waterproof?
Usually not. Most windbreakers are wind resistant and water resistant, which handles a sprinkle but not a downpour.
Do you make rain jackets in 6XL and 7XL?
Yes. The Mystique runs 2XL to 7XL and the packable rain jacket 3XL to 7XL.
Do you make big and tall rain pants?
Yes. See all our big and tall rain jackets and rain pants.
What about winter?
For cold weather, see our big and tall winter coats. The Cascade 3 in 1 has a waterproof shell you can wear on its own in the rain.
Shop every big and tall jacket in 2XL to 7XL. Shopping for her too? We make plus size rain jackets in 1X to 6X.