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Want to battle the elements on your next run? We’ve got you…

They may not be the sexiest piece of kit you’re going to invest in this year, but a decent pair of waterproof trousers can transform a run or walk in the drizzle from meh to marvellous.

With different features, fits and waterproofing capabilities, there’s a lot to consider when searching for the best pair for you. Prices vary too, with our top picks ranging from around the £40 mark up to £270.

So, if you don’t want to let a bit of rain get in the way of your next hike, jog or coffee run, then take a look at the WH Lab’s top pairs of women's waterproof trousers, to keep you dry and on top of your game…

Like any piece of must-have kit, there are a few things to consider before you buy:

Waterproofing - Even if you’re not planning to wade through muddy waters, keeping dry is paramount if you’re planning on training outdoors during the wetter months. Look for trousers that not only keep you protected from the elements, but that wick away any sweat as you train, to keep you comfortable. Think about how you’re likely to be using your trousers too; if it’s for the odd park run, then your needs will be different than if you’re heading to the hills for trail running and 30km hikes.

Packability – Even if you head out in blue skies, a cinematic downpour can come out of nowhere. Lots of waterproof trousers are designed with this in mind, meaning they’re lightweight and easy to pack away, and crucially, fit easily over other layers. Some even come with their own bag.

Additional features – Again, your needs will depend on how you plan on using your trousers, but look for extras such as pockets, reflective trims for evening jaunts, or adjustable straps to tailor the fit.

To save you trawling for your next pair of waterproofs, we’ve enlisted the help of the WH Lab. Our testing panel put a range waterproof trousers through their paces in a variety of different conditions, from drizzle to downpours.

Each pair was scored on comfort, breathability, design and how much range of movement they allowed during use. The panel also considered how easy they were to put on over shoes or boots, and whether additional design features such as zips and pockets were useful.

Most importantly, waterproofing was assessed by both our testing panel and in the WH Lab. In the Lab, we used a hydrostatic head tester to measure how waterproof the fabric and seams of each pair of trousers were, to see if it matched each brand’s claims.

Below are the best waterproof trousers from our extensive testing, so you can feel confident you’ll stay dry and comfortable when the weather turns.

These fiercely named ‘Lighting’ trousers from Keela received high praise from our panel. If you struggle to find the perfect fit, Keela gets bonus points for being available in small, medium and long, so you can find a length that’s just right.

Design-wise, there’s adjustable velcro straps and a leg zip to help keep ankles snug. Our panel also appreciated the side pockets, reflective trim and articulated knees, meaning you can lunge, squat or burpee with no loss of movement.

The only slight downside is that while they killed it overall on the waterproofing front, some of our testers reported that the odd drop can sneak into the pockets due to their popper fastening design.

Key specifications Materials: Rainlife 2000 (PU Coated Ripstop Nylon) Weight: 250g Packable pouch: No

The aptly named Berghaus 'Deluge' are made with a two-layered Hydroshell fabric for complete waterproof protection and insulation, even in the heaviest of downpours.

Our testers found the trousers to be comfy during colder weather and excellent quality, making them a good mid-price point investment.

Key specifications Materials: Layered Hydroshell® fabric Weight: 350g Packable pouch: No

When you want to pound the pavement and smash a PB, nothing can stand in your way. We get it. Considering they’re one of the cheapest pairs on the list, our panel rated the trousers for their decent range of motion (hello, hill sprints), fit and waterproofing capabilities in a range of different conditions.

And if you’re all about the finer details, there’s also a cute little pocket for tucking them away when they’ve done their job. See you at the finish line.

Key specifications Materials: Polyester membrane, polyurethane yoke, elastane Weight: 184g Packable pouch: Pocket to store trousers

The North Face has a knack of making functional pieces look classic in an understated way, and we’re here for it. Not only did these get the style-seekers votes, but their lightweight material proved to be both breathable and waterproof.

If you’re conscious of your impact on the environment, know that these are the brand’s most sustainable product to date, made from recycled fabric.

The WH Lab reported that they stayed dry in light and heavy weather, and the fit was so impressive that they could move about freely when they were facing path-side debris, or a climb.

Key specifications Materials: 2.5-layer DryVent™, 62% Nylon, 38% Polyester Weight: 213g Packable pouch: Stowable in pockets

Another chic entry, this teal-coloured number from Arc’teryx uses a Gore-Tex and Gore C-Knit fabric combination for optimum comfort and breathability. Which is perfect if you’re going to be battling the elements – think rain, snow and sleet.

Our testers rated their waterproof creds, which withstood even heavy rain, and dried in a flash; because no-one wants to be lugging a pair of wet kecks around after a sweat sesh, right?

Key specifications Materials: N70p 3L GORE-TEX fabric with GORE C-KNIT™ backer technology Weight: 310g Packable pouch: No

Light drizzle has a special way of getting you absolutely drenched. What even is that? But we aren’t afraid of a little passing shower, provided we’re kitted out. Enter the unisex Jack Wolfskin Rainy Day Pants.

The WH Lab testers loved the lightweight feel to these bad boys – a medium pair weighs in at just 170g, about the same as a large banana – adding to their comfort and wearability.

While there’s added details such as the velcro fastenings around the ankles (our testers would have preferred a zip, FYI), and a handy little carry bag for when you need to shed a layer, there’s no all-important pockets for valuables, so you might want to wear your running belt.

Key specifications Materials: TEXAPORE RIPSTOP 2.5 Weight: 170g Packable pouch: Yes

The OGs at Adidas never seem to disappoint when it comes to style. Our WH Lab panel were fans of the adjustable poppers, an elasticated waist and side zips for ease of wear and maximum comfort.

What’s more, when the sun does make an appearance, they pack-up pretty easily so you’re not left carrying a pair of bulky trousers. Note, a few of our testers suggested sizing down if you’re in between sizes.

Key specifications Materials: 100% recycled polyester plain weave Weight: Not given Packable pouch: No

Just looking for some waterproof trousers to take on a weekend camping trip or gentle spring ramble? If you don’t want to spend much but want to stay protected, try this pair from Regatta.

Coming in at just £15, the lightweight waterproofs are ideal for fair-weather hikers. They pack down for on-the-go changing and come with taped seams and an elasticated waistband for a snug fit. That said, they do come up on the smaller size, so go for a size up if unsure.

Key specifications Materials: 100% polyester Weight: 173g Packable pouch: Yes