Understanding Rains: W3, Hardshell, and Softshell Explained
What the abbreviations on every Rains label mean
When you shop at Rains, you'll come across abbreviations: Long W3, Suva Hardshell, Banja Liner Bomber T1. These additions are not marketing, but a system – and once you understand 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 means for Rains
- What the difference is between hardshell and softshell
- What the T-number stands for
- Which model suits which weather
- How to properly care for coated jackets
Brief summary: The W-number describes weather protection, the T-number describes warmth. All Rains styles carried by us have W3 – protection against normal everyday rain.
What does W3 mean for Rains?
Rains classifies its products on a weather protection scale that starts with a W. According to the manufacturer, W3 stands for protection against moderate daily rain – exactly the kind of weather you can reliably expect in North Rhine-Westphalia between October and March. This is achieved through coated materials combined with taped or welded seams: the seam is the real weak point in rainwear, not the fabric.
W3 is not mountaineering protection and does not claim to be. For the commute to work, the weekly market, or a stroll in the city in drizzly weather, it is the appropriate category.
Hardshell or Softshell – what's the difference?
| Hardshell | Softshell | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | firmer, smoother, with texture | softer, more textile-like, flowing |
| Silhouette | stands on its own, clear shape | falls 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 haptic and visual – hardshell looks more technical, softshell more everyday.
What does the T-number stand for?
If a T also appears – for example, with the Lohja Insulated or the Banja Liner Bomber T1 – it describes the thermal performance. The higher the number, the stronger the insulation. T1 marks the lightest level: insulated enough for transitional days, without winter jacket bulk. W- and T-numbers are independent of each other, which is why both appear on some models.
Which Rains jacket suits which weather?
- Drizzle, mild temperatures – Suva Softshell or String W3, light and uncomplicated.
- Continuous 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 insulation.
- Only the bag should stay dry – Hilo Weekend Bag, Sibu Musette or Valera Bucket.
How do I properly care for Rains?
Coated surfaces require less care than classic textiles, but a different kind. Surface dirt can be wiped off with a damp cloth – which is sufficient in most cases. Avoid fabric softener, hot ironing, and tumble drying: all three attack the coating and destroy the very property for which you bought the jacket. To dry, hang it loosely, not on a heater.
Who is Rains ideal for?
For everyone who lives in the Ruhr area and still doesn't want to look like they're on a hiking tour. Rains solves a practical problem with a minimalist look – and can be worn with much more feminine fashion without overpowering the look. If you are looking for a jacket for real winter cold, a lined coat is a better choice; if you want rain protection with style, you'll hardly find anything better.
The ABOUT.ALEXA Styling Experts recommend:
- Long black parka over a dress and boots – the rain look that doesn't look like rain.
- Colored softshell with calm knitwear, 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 an intermediate layer for wet transitional days.
Why Rains is a perfect fit for ABOUT.ALEXA
Function is not in opposition to good design – that's basically our entire selection in one sentence. Rains solves the weather question in such a way that the jacket matches the rest of the 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.
