If April showers truly do bring May flowers, you likely don't want to be caught in one of them this month. We all know the struggle of an unexpected downpour as we leave the grocery store, or the drizzle that comes moments before we're finally ready to walk out of the hair salon — but consider the struggle over.
To help combat rainy days and all of the unexpected spring weather, Lexie Sachs, the executive textiles director of the Good Housekeeping Institute, stopped by TODAY with Hoda & Jenna to share her must-haves for both heavy rain and days when you're not too sure.
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From trendy waterproof sneakers to a rain pod perfect for outdoor events and soccer games, read on for the spring essentials that will help you stay dry this season.
Rainy day essentials as seen on TODAY
For light Rain
Columbia Switchback III Jacket
For days when it might rain, Sachs likes this lightweight and functional rain jacket that features a stowaway hood, which neatly tucks into the collar. From white to a variety of pinks, it comes in tons of colors and is under $50.
Old Navy Stretch Tech High-Waist Pants
For rainy days, Sachs says you don't want to wear cotton pants since the fabric tends to hold onto moisture. That's why she loves these stylish high-waisted pants from Old Navy that are made with quick-drying fabric — so if you do get caught in inclement weather, you won't stay wet for long!
Hush Puppies Women's Rain Sneaker Boot
Sachs says rain sneakers are trending big time, and she loves that you can't get away with wearing these all day long. Featuring a Chelsea boot design, the brand says these rain-proof sneakers have a padded footbed for all-day comfort.
Shinchic Waterproof Baseball Hat
This average baseball cap gets a simple upgrade with waterproof fabric. Coming in seven different shades, the brand says the hat is even made with UPF 50 fabric for sun protection.
Vera Bradley Featherweight Crossbody Bag
According to the brand, this cute crossbody bag is made of "squishy" and water-repellent nylon material to keep your important essentials dry. You can choose from solid colors like black or rose, or opt for an iconic Vera Bradley paisley design.
Totes Compact Umbrella
While an umbrella is a no-brainer to tote around on rainy days, Sachs says this one is small enough that you can stow it in your purse — it folds down to six inches! While it may be tiny, she mentions you still get a good amount of coverage and it's surprisingly durable.
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For heavy rain
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket
For days when it's pouring, Sachs says you'll want to have items that are more durable against the elements. She loves this rain jacket because, unlike many raincoats, she says it has great ventilation for breathability. Plus, it has other key features, such as adjustable wrist cuffs, to help keep the rain out. It also has a stiff hood that won't fall down, says Sachs.
Baleaf Fleece Lined Water Resistant Legging
Not only are these leggings extremely comfortable but also, the brand says they're fleece-lined and made of water-resistant fabric to keep you comfortable and dry on chilly rainy days. Sachs especially likes leggings for rainy-day outfits since they fit better with tall boots.
Bogs Women's Rain Boot Glitter
For heavy rainfall days, Sachs says you'll want to have a good pair of tall rain boots. What she likes most about these is that they feature handles, which makes them easy to slide into. The brand claims these rainboots are 100 percent waterproof, and also feature a rubber sole to help prevent slipping.
Samsonite Windguard Auto Open/Close Umbrella
"If you’ve ever had your umbrella flip inside out with a strong wind gust, this is the umbrella for you," says Sachs.
According to the brand, this umbrella is designed with a two-layer ventilation canopy that helps the wind from getting trapped and causing that annoying flip. Sachs says that the Good Housekeeping team even put this design to the test in their lab, and it came out on top against other umbrellas.
Under the Weather MyPod 1-Person Pop-up Tent
Whether you're watching your kids' soccer game or attending an outdoor event, Sachs says these on-the-go rain tents are ideal for keeping you dry and protected against the elements. According to the brand, it's easy to assemble and if fully zipped, can keep the inside temperature up to 35 degrees warmer.
For kids
Hatley Girls' Splash Jackets
This classic and timeless style raincoat features easy-to-snap buttons and fleece lining, says the brand. It even comes in cute colors and designs, from pink to unicorns.
Western Chief Unisex-Child Lighted Rain Boots
If you remember having a pair of light-up shoes as a kid, then you'll love these light-up rain boots for your own child or the child in your life. They feature loop handles making them easy to pull on and come in tons of colors and patterns.
CeLaVi Kids Waterproof Rain Suit
For blustery rainy (or snowy!) days, the brand says this rain suit is extremely durable and windproof but still provides great movement for outdoor activities. Sachs likes that it features reflective strips for safety, too.
Hunter Kids Original Classic Rain Boot
Sachs says this is a popular brand that actually lives up to the hype since it's made of high-quality rubber. Coming in a variety of different colors, the brand says they're completely waterproof and also feature a rubber outsole so you don't have to worry about slipping while splashing around outdoors.
More spring rain essentials
Lori Bergamotto, Good Housekeeping’s style director, previously stopped by Hoda & Jenna to talk all things essential for the rainy season.
OAKI Rain & Trail Suit
It can be hard to get little ones out of the house on rainy days, but this waterproof suit can withstand a lot. It is made with two layers of waterproof fabric with taped seams that not only provide extra reinforcement but also prevent leaks. In addition to the brimmed hood, velcro wrist straps and neoprene ankles, it also features a drawstring waist for a customizable fit. Bergamotto says her daughter tried out the suit in a wet swing and managed to stay completely dry, and reviewers of the fashion statement have dubbed it "worth the money."
Hairbrella Classic
Getting fashion to meet function is not always an easy feat, but Hairbrella founder Tracey Pickett found a way to make it happen. After numerous encounters with the rain after spending hours at the salon, she finally found a way to keep not only her hair but also styles of all lengths and textures protected from rain and humidity. With a waterproof exterior and satin-lined interior, it helps prevent breakage and moisture from intruding on your locks.
Eddie Bauer WindPac Jacket
Consider this jacket a two-in-one! Not only is it a water-repellant piece that is perfect for layering, but it can also turn into a waistpack with just a few tucks. Since it is available in four colors and six different sizes ranging from XS to XXL, there's a style for everyone to keep dry and fashionable in. Bergamotto notes that it is roomy enough to layer up with during chilly rainstorms but can also come in clutch on its own during summer drizzles.
Under the Weather MyPod Mega
While the original Under the Weather Pod got a timely upgrade for 2020, this Mega Pod puts it to shame. It can hold up to four people at once, keeping them completely protected from the wind and rain. Bergamotto added that using body heat, the pod can keep the inside up to 35 degrees warmer than the outside temperature. This next-level tent requires no assembly and can be taken everywhere from sporting events to tailgates.
