We often test brands larger sizes as a few of our testers are, for lack of a better word, fat. Regardless if they look like a typical athletic outdoor person, they are still active and require a kit for their many adventures. We have found there is a lack of inclusive sizing for practical outdoor gear for the larger individual, and even for those that have one standard deviation from the athletic build of the typical outdoor enthusiasts.
The wild is not a size. It is not measured in cm, inches or pounds, but in the boundless expanse of human experience. Yet, for too long, the outdoor industry has presented a narrow, exclusionary vision of who belongs in nature. Gear designed for set athletic frame, narratives that celebrate a singular body type, and a silence that speaks volumes: the message is clear. If you don’t fit the mould, you don’t fit the mountain. This is not just a matter of comfort; it’s a matter of access, of belonging, of claiming our rightful place in the landscapes that sustain us. It’s time to dismantle the barriers, to expand the horizons, and to demand that outdoor brands finally recognise the simple truth: the adventure is for everyone, and the gear must reflect that reality.
The call of the outdoors is for everyone, regardless of size. Thankfully, more and more UK brands are stepping up to ensure that everyone can find comfortable and practical gear to enjoy nature’s playground. If you’re on the hunt for waterproof jackets and trousers in size XXL or above, or specifically designed for larger bodies, you’re in the right place. We’ve done the legwork to bring you a list of UK outdoor brands that are making inclusivity a priority.
Top Picks For Plus Size Waterproof Gear
Based on our initial findings, these brands stand out for their commitment to offering a good range of plus-size options in waterproof outerwear for both men and women:
1. Mountain Warehouse: This popular UK retailer is a great starting point for accessible plus-size outdoor clothing. They have dedicated “plus size” sections for women and “big and tall” sections for men on their website.
- Women: You can find waterproof jackets and trousers in their plus-size range, with sizes going from UK 22 up to 28. Keep in mind that style availability might vary.
- Men: Their “big and tall” collection includes waterproof jackets and trousers extending up to size 4XL.
Why we like them: Mountain Warehouse offers readily available options and clearly labels their inclusive sizing with fast UK shipping. https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/mens/big-tall/
2. Maier Sports: If you’re looking for a specialist in plus-size outdoor clothing, this German brand is worth checking out. Their primary focus is on providing gear for all sizes.
- Women: They offer plus-size waterproof jackets and trousers.
- Men: Their size range for waterproof jackets and trousers is impressively inclusive, going from 3XL all the way to 9XL.
Why we like them: Maier Sports inclusive ideas means they truly understand the needs of plus-size adventurers, offering a fantastic size range. https://www.maier-sports.com/gb-en
3. RevolutionRace: This Swedish brand offers a wide range of outdoor clothing with sizes extending up to 4XL for both men and women with fast UK shipping.
- Women: Their size guide indicates availability up to 4XL (UK size 22) . They offer various waterproof jackets.
- Men: Their size guide also shows sizes up to 4XL . They have a selection of waterproof jackets and trousers.
Why we like them: RevolutionRace offers stylish and functional outdoor wear with a significant commitment to extended sizing. https://www.revolutionrace.co.uk/
Other Brands With Potential
While the brands above have a strong initial showing, these brands and retailers also offer potential options and are worth a closer look: Most do XXL but on occasion offer larger sizes.
- SprayWay: A range of key jackets, mid-layers, fleeces and trousers in sizing up to XXXL.
- Sherpa: Generously sized products. Jackets, fleeces and more.
- Columbia: This brand is noted for offering “D-sizing” and larger fits in their clothing, including waterproof jackets and trousers, which may be available through UK retailers like Cotswold Outdoor and Nordic Outdoor.
- Regatta: While not explicitly advertising dedicated plus-size ranges, larger sizes (up to 3XL) in men’s waterproof over-trousers have been spotted, and some women’s jackets in 2XL and 3XL have appeared on other platforms. It’s worth checking their website to see their current offerings.
- Craghoppers: You might find some larger sizes (like 2XL and 3XL for women) on resale sites, and some retailers list larger women’s trousers. However, their official website doesn’t prominently feature dedicated plus-size waterproof ranges for both genders.
- Nordic Outdoor: Specialising in Scandinavian brands, they might stock brands like Columbia, Sasta, and Marmot that offer “D-sizing” or larger fits. Check their UK website for specific plus-size availability in waterproof jackets and trousers for men and women.
- Halti: This Finnish brand has a dedicated plus-size collection for women, including waterproof jackets and trousers in XXL+ sizes. Their men’s plus-size waterproof options are less clear.
- Cotswold Outdoor: As a retailer with an “Extended Sizing” section, they stock various brands that offer larger sizes. You can find waterproof jackets and trousers for both men (up to 3XL) and women from brands like The North Face, Patagonia, Rab, and Montane. Check their website for specific XXL+ availability.
- Decathlon: They have a “Men’s Plus Size Clothing” section that likely includes waterproof jackets up to 3XL. However, the availability of plus-size waterproof trousers for men and the plus-size offerings for women need further exploration on their website.
- Holland’s Country Clothing: They offer “Men’s Plus Size Country Clothing” and stock brands like Champion and Deerhunter . Their women’s plus-size section includes Helly Hansen. While they sell waterproof jackets and trousers , it’s best to check if these are available in XXL+ within their plus-size ranges.
- Rydale Country Clothing: They offer “Women’s Plus Size Outdoor Clothing UK” up to size 22 . Check their website to see if they have waterproof jackets and trousers in XXL+ (UK size 22 and above) . Information on men’s plus sizes wasn’t readily available.
- Astrid Wild: This brand focuses on “Outdoor Wear for Female Shapes” and boasts a wide range of pants sizes . They claim to be very size-inclusive for women, suggesting a good chance of finding XXL+ waterproof options. However, they might primarily cater to the Nordic market, and their focus seems to be on women’s wear.
Tips For Finding Your Perfect Fit In Plus Size Outdoors Gear
- Know Your Sizes: Before searching for new kit, measure self and note down all of your key sizes.
- Check Size Charts: Always refer to the brand’s specific size chart, as sizing can vary between manufacturers.
- Read Reviews: See if other plus-size customers have shared their experiences with the fit and quality of the gear.
- Consider Retailers: Don’t forget that retailers can be great places to find plus-size options from various brands in one place.
Outdoors For Every Body Shape And Size.
Getting outdoors should be a joy for everyone. With more brands recognising the need for inclusive sizing, finding the right waterproof gear in the UK is becoming easier. We hope this guide helps you on your way to your next adventure!
