I walk in a rainy climate, so a waterproof breathable jacket is essential. As the weather turns colder, I wear an insulating layer underneath rather than change jackets. I want a waterproof jacket that will layer over my fanny pack and move well enough so I can walk fast. The hood must adjust so I can see out from under it. Pockets should store things securely.

Courtesy of PricegrabberThis waterproof and windproof jacket comes in men's and women's versions. Both come in sizes from XS through XXL. The reflective elements on this jacket are outstanding. It has a two-way zipper, which you don't often find on running jackets. I prefer a two-way zipper as I like a longer length of waterproof jacket to keep my seat dry, but still want freedom of motion for my legs. I like the number of pockets - an inside media pocket to keep your electronics dry, and an outer zip chest pocket for stuff you need to get to more often. It also has zip side pockets. You can detach the hood. The price is excellent for a jacket of this quality.

Photo courtesy of PricegrabberI really love this waterproof jacket both for when it's wet and when it's dry. The soft fabric is comfortable to wear rather than slick or stiff, yet it is waterproof. It comes in black and asphalt, two unobtrusive colors. But it has subtle reflective logos on the back, front and arms for night safety. The hood is removable. The side zippered pocket are excellent, but I especially love the chest pocket that has a cord port for your MP3 player. It comes in men's and women's versions.

Wendy Bumgardner ©My husband is the go-to guy for getting the best outdoors gear. He chose the Marmot Oracle jacket as a lightweight waterproof jacket, suitable for wearing by itself or layering over a vest when the temperatures drop. I love the two-way zipper so I can loosen the fit around the hips for better walking. I prefer the men's version since I wear it over a Camelbak or fanny pack when walking.

Photo courtesy of PricegrabberDesigned to fit a woman. Two layer dry touch waterproof/breathable design. Handwarmer pockets and pit zips. 2003 Editors' Choice Award from Backpacker Magazine for best 3-season lightweight rainwear on the market.

Wendy Bumgardner ©A yellow rain suit is a walking essential for dreary, rainy days. I was truly pleased with how supple, scentless, and breathable the O2 Rainwear rain suit was. I wore it through several cloudbursts and it kept me dry, with the water beading up and rolling off without soaking into the fabric, while allowing any sweat to escape from inside as well. I wore it temperatures from 50-60F.

Photo courtesy of PricegrabberThis lightweight waterproof breathable rain jacket packs up small enough to fit into a water bottle. The long front pockets can be used for warming hands or ventilation, and it has pit zips for further ventilation.

Photo courtesy of PricegrabberThe men's version of the PreCip jacket. Warning: the electric blue color offered in previous years (which you may find on close-out) is a most lovely deep purple. And so I inherited it from my husband as he chose a color more suited to his masculine sensibilities. The men's version works great for me.

Photo courtesy of PricegrabberWaterproof, windproof and breathable, with two long front pockets to use to warm hands or stow gear or vent. The shirttail hem provides rear coverage while letting you get full hip motion.

Photo courtesy of PricegrabberWaterproof, breathable, lightweight rain jacket that has a relaxed fit for layering. Has pit zips and two zippered exterior pockets and one interior zippered pocket and a roll-down hood.

Photo courtesy of PricegrabberThis packable waterproof jacket is meant for active sports like walking and hiking. It's made of recycled polyester. It has removable hood, vertical stash pocket, single internal security pocket, two generous handwarmer pockets.