London rain gear - Page 2

Hi folks,

Thanks for the comments, all extremely helpful. I must apologise for not checking in sooner, as I've had to prepare two properties for rent and travelled to three countries for various errands in the last two weeks.

About the rain: Average rainfall probably is higher in tropical Malaysian than the United Kingdom; the issue is not the amount of rain, but its distribution. Tropical downpours are torrential but last about 20 minutes. No one in their right mind goes out when a tropical storm is underway. You simply avoid it and stay indoors. London of course is afflicted with something that I've often heard called 'pissing' rain. That rather evocative word suggests a constant drizzle. It's not enough to keep you indoors, but sufficient to soak your clothes without the appropriate rain gear. So that's where my question comes from.

I was keen on Barbours initially, but now I'm not so sure. An International or other motorcycling jacket is still appealling though.

A trenchcoat is useful, and I will look out for good examples of used Burberrys, Aquascutums or other 'classic' ones. A bit dressy for everyday wear, but useful to have in hand.

I've ordered a yellow rain slicker from LL Bean for dog walking and general pottering around. I'm not sure if that will be my daily beater, though. It seems like it might be too much.

Probably something thigh length would be more useful. Any ideas for something like that?

I will also get an umbrella, although I generally prefer raincoats.

Footwear: I'm definitely looking for a dainite or rubber soled boot. I think Herring was probably the cheapest English boot I could find. But there are a couple of interesting options in B&S right now: the Alden Pitt boot with double waterlock sole, and the Allen Edmonds Bayfield with commando sole. The AE is about 100 pounds cheaper than the Alden, of course, but I wonder if the Alden might actually be better value. It all depends on how well the double waterlock sole deals with actual water, I suppose.

I'd like to modify this thread a little and ask what outerwear would knowledgable members recommend for the winter? I am looking for recommendations for a daily beater.

I am thinking that the coat should be insulated and padded, so you can be wearing just one layer underneath for very quick trips outside, like buying a coffee, or taking the dog out for a pee. It should probably also be waterproof or at least water resistant to some extent. I might also be cycling in this coat. (Probably an upright or relaxed sitting position).

I am not looking for a dress overcoat at this point.

So far, I have arrived at a few options. I'd like to know what people think:
Would people recommend a Barbour Border or International at all for the winter? Are they warm enough to wear with only one layer on underneath?