Understanding Rains: W3, Hardshell, and Softshell Explained
What the abbreviations on every Rains label mean
If you shop at Rains, you'll stumble across abbreviations: Long W3, Suva Hardshell, Banja Liner Bomber T1. These suffixes aren't marketing, but a system – and once you've understood it, you'll find the right jacket in two minutes. At ABOUT.ALEXA in Dortmund, we carry jackets, parkas, bags, and backpacks from the Danish label.
In this guide you will learn:
- What the W-number at Rains means
- How Hardshell and Softshell differ
- What the T-number stands for
- Which model fits which weather
- How to properly care for coated jackets
In a nutshell: The W-number describes weather protection, the T-number describes warmth. All Rains styles we carry feature W3 – protection against normal everyday rain.
What does W3 mean at Rains?
Rains classifies its products on a weather protection scale that begins with a W. According to the manufacturer, W3 stands for protection against moderate daily rain – exactly the weather you reliably get in North Rhine-Westphalia between October and March. This is achieved through coated materials in combination with taped or welded seams: in rainwear, the seam is the actual weak point, not the fabric.
W3 is not mountaineering protection and doesn't aim to be. For the commute to work, the weekly market, or a stroll through the city in light rain, it is the perfect category.
Hardshell or Softshell – what is the difference?
| Hardshell | Softshell | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | firmer, smoother, structured | softer, textile-like, fluid |
| Silhouette | holds its shape, clean lines | closer to the body |
| Typical for | parka, coat, classic rain look | jacket for mild days, layering |
| With us, e.g. | Suva Hardshell, Fishtail Parka | Suva Softshell |
Both are water-repellent. The difference is primarily tactile and visual – Hardshell looks more technical, Softshell is better suited for everyday use.
What does the T-number stand for?
If a T also appears – for instance with the Lohja Insulated or the Banja Liner Bomber T1 – it describes the thermal performance. The higher the number, the greater the insulation. T1 marks the lightest level: lined enough for transitional days, without the bulk of a winter jacket. W- and T-numbers are independent of each other, which is why some models feature both.
Which Rains jacket suits which weather?
- Drizzle, mild temperatures – Suva Softshell or String W3, light and uncomplicated.
- Constant rain in everyday life – Long W3 or Fishtail Parka W3, longer cut, more coverage.
- Cold and wet – Banja Liner Bomber T1 or Lohja Insulated, protection plus lining.
- Only your bag needs to stay dry – Hilo Weekend Bag, Sibu Musette, or Valera Bucket.
How do I care for Rains properly?
Coated surfaces need less care than classic textiles, but a different kind. Surface dirt can be wiped off with a damp cloth – that's enough in most cases. Avoid fabric softener, hot ironing, and the dryer: all three attack the coating and destroy the very properties for which you bought the jacket. To dry, hang it in an airy place, not on the radiator.
Who is Rains ideal for?
For everyone who lives in the Ruhr area and doesn't want to look like they are on a hiking trip. Rains solves a practical problem with a minimalist aesthetic – and can be worn with much more feminine fashion without overpowering the look. Anyone looking for a jacket for true winter cold is better advised with a lined coat; for anyone who wants rain protection with style, it's hard to beat.
The ABOUT.ALEXA styling experts recommend:
- Long parka in black over a dress and boots – the rain look that doesn't look like rainwear.
- Colored Softshell over quiet knits if the rest of the outfit remains neutral.
- Valera Shoulder Bag Mini as an everyday bag – weatherproof, but not sporty.
- Liner Bomber under a wide wool coat as a middle layer for wet transitional days.
Why Rains fits perfectly with ABOUT.ALEXA
Function is not the opposite of good design – that is basically our entire selection in one sentence. Rains solves the weather question in such a way that the jacket fits the rest of your wardrobe. You can find the current selection in our Rains collection or in person at Brauhausstraße 3–5 in Dortmund. Upon request, we can advise you in a personal styling appointment.
