Waterproof Smock vs Jacket for Dog Walking: Which Is Better?

If you're looking for a waterproof smock for dog walking, you may be wondering how it compares with a traditional waterproof jacket. I've worn waterproof jackets for years, but for wet countryside walks with my dogs I've increasingly found myself reaching for a smock instead.

That doesn't mean a smock is automatically the better choice. Jackets still have some clear advantages. Having used both, here's how I would choose between them.

Why I Swapped My Waterproof Jacket for a Smock

Walking my dogs means going out regardless of the weather. Here in North Wales, that can mean rain, wind, mud and very changeable conditions.

I'd always relied on a waterproof jacket. It did its job, but I wanted to try an overhead smock and see how I got on with the different design.

What I particularly like is the coverage. With no full-length front zip, a smock gives you a large uninterrupted section of protective fabric across the front of your body. Depending on the design, you may also get a longer cut and a large front pocket, which I find useful when I'm out with the dogs.

There is a trade-off, though. A smock has to go over your head, whereas a jacket can simply be unzipped and taken off.

After using both, I don't think one design is better for every dog walker. It depends on the type of walks you do.

Waterproof Smock vs Jacket: What's the Difference?

The main difference is the construction.

A traditional waterproof jacket normally has a full-length front zip. A smock is an overhead garment, usually with a shorter neck or chest zip and, on some designs, a side zip to make it easier to put on and remove.

That relatively simple difference changes how the garment works in practice.

A waterproof jacket gives you:

• Quick on and off

• A full-length zip for ventilation

• Easy access when you're getting in and out of the car

• A familiar design that works well for everyday use

A waterproof smock can give you:

• Less reliance on a full-length front opening

• Good coverage across your torso

• A large chest or front pocket on many designs

• Longer-length protection on some models

• An outer layer suited to exposed countryside conditions

The actual waterproofing, breathability, weight and warmth depend on the individual garment. A smock isn't automatically more waterproof, breathable or lightweight simply because it's a smock.

Why I Like a Waterproof Smock for Dog Walking

Good Coverage in Wet Weather

Coverage is one of the main reasons I like wearing a smock.

When you're walking through long wet grass, along muddy tracks or across exposed fields, having a decent amount of protective fabric around your body is useful.

Some smocks also have a longer cut, which can give you additional coverage around the upper legs and backside. That's something worth checking when comparing different models.

Useful Storage

Dog walking seems to require a surprising amount of stuff.

I've normally got leads, poo bags, my phone, keys and sometimes dog treats with me.

Many country smocks use large chest or pouch-style pockets, sometimes combined with zipped hand pockets. I find this type of storage particularly useful when walking the dogs because I can keep the things I use regularly close to hand.

Pocket designs vary considerably, though, so check the individual smock rather than assuming they all have the same layout.

Made for Outdoor Use

Many of the waterproof smocks we sell aren't specifically "dog walking coats". They're country garments designed for activities such as shooting, farming, beating and general outdoor work.

Those same characteristics can make them useful for dog walking.

For example, our Rydale Danby Ladies Shooting Smock combines waterproof, windproof and breathable construction with an adjustable hood, cuffs and hem, a large zipped chest pocket and two zipped hand pockets.

It's designed for shooting and other country activities, but those features also make sense when you're heading across muddy fields with a dog.

When I'd Choose a Waterproof Jacket Instead

There are situations where I'd still pick a jacket.

Shorter Walks

For a quick walk, a jacket is extremely convenient. Put it on, zip it up and you're ready to go.

A smock isn't difficult to wear, but pulling an overhead garment on and off can feel unnecessary when you're only heading out for a short walk.

Getting In and Out of the Car

If your dog walks involve driving somewhere, walking and then getting back into the car, a jacket can be easier.

You can unzip it completely or take it off without pulling a wet garment over your head. Some styles also have a two way zip so you can open it from the bottom when getting into the car.

When You Need More Ventilation

A full-length zip also gives a jacket an advantage when your activity level changes.

If you start getting warm, you can open the front zip considerably. A smock may have a neck, chest or side zip for ventilation, but it doesn't normally give you the same amount of adjustment as a fully zipped jacket.

This is something I'd consider particularly for faster walks or milder weather.

What Should You Look for in a Dog Walking Smock?

If you're buying a waterproof smock mainly for walking your dog, I'd concentrate on the features that will actually make a difference when you're outside.

Waterproof protection: Check that the garment is described as waterproof rather than simply water-resistant if you intend to use it in prolonged rain.

Breathability: Walking can generate plenty of heat, particularly on hills or when you're moving quickly. A breathable waterproof fabric can help manage moisture inside the garment.

Adjustable hood: A properly adjustable hood is particularly useful in wind and driving rain.

Practical pockets: Think about where you're going to put your phone, keys, leads, treats and poo bags.

Easy entry: Look at the neck opening and any side zips. These can make a considerable difference when putting an overhead smock on and taking it off.

Length: A longer smock can provide extra coverage, although you may prefer something shorter if freedom of movement is your priority.

Room for layers: Think about when you'll wear it. If it's going to be your winter outer layer, you'll probably want enough room underneath for a fleece or other mid-layer.

So, Is a Smock Better Than a Jacket for Dog Walking?

For me, a waterproof smock has become a very practical option for wet countryside dog walks.

I like the coverage and the useful storage you get from many country smocks, particularly when I'm going out for a longer walk in poor weather.

But I wouldn't say everyone should swap their jacket for one.

If you're doing shorter walks, regularly getting in and out of the car or want to control your temperature using a full-length front zip, a waterproof jacket may suit you better.

If your walks tend to involve muddy tracks, open countryside and plenty of British rain, a waterproof smock is certainly worth considering.

Waterproof Smocks for Dog Walking

If you think a smock would suit the type of dog walking you do, we stock waterproof options for men and women from country clothing brands including Ridgeline and Rydale.

For men, the Ridgeline Men's Monsoon Classic Smock is a good example of a smock designed for prolonged outdoor use. It's waterproof and windproof, with a 10,000mm hydrostatic head rating, adjustable hood, large zipped chest pocket, hand pockets and a dropped rear hem. It's designed for activities including fieldwork, farming and dog walking.

For women, the Ridgeline Women's Monsoon Classic Smock offers similar waterproof and windproof protection in a women's design, with a large chest pocket, zipped hand pockets and adjustable hood. The Rydale Danby Ladies Shooting Smock is another option for dog walking, particularly if you're looking for a country smock designed for shooting, farming and everyday outdoor use.

You can compare the full ranges here:

• Shop Men's Smocks

• Shop Women's Smocks

When comparing them, pay particular attention to the length, pockets, hood, ventilation and waterproof specification. Those differences are likely to matter more on a wet dog walk than the brand name alone.

Waterproof Jackets for Dog Walking

If you prefer the convenience of a full-length zip, a waterproof jacket can be the better choice for dog walking. It's easier to put on and take off than an overhead smock, and opening the front zip gives you more control over ventilation when you start to warm up.

We stock dog walking coats and jackets for men and women, from lightweight waterproof jackets for active walks to longer coats that provide extra coverage in poor weather.

The Ridgeline Men's Monsoon Classic Jacket is a good option for wet countryside walks. It has a 10,000mm waterproof rating, fully taped seams and a two-way front zip, along with an adjustable hood and practical storage. It's specifically designed for outdoor activities including farming, field use and dog walking.

For women, there are shorter waterproof jackets as well as longer coats for walkers who prefer extra coverage. The Arctic Storm Philippa Waterproof Jacket, for example, is a lightweight waterproof and windproof jacket with taped seams and an adjustable hood, designed for everyday outdoor use including dog walking.

Shop Dog Walking Coats & Jackets

If you're deciding between a jacket and a smock, think about how you normally walk. A jacket makes sense if you want quick on-and-off convenience and easy ventilation. A smock may suit you better if you value an overhead design, good torso coverage and the large front storage found on many country smocks.

Caring for Waterproof Smocks and Jackets

Mud is unavoidable when you're walking dogs, but don't automatically put your waterproof clothing through a normal wash with everyday detergent.

Waterproof garments can use different fabrics, membranes and water-repellent treatments, so follow the care instructions supplied by the manufacturer for your particular smock.

If the garment's water repellency starts to deteriorate, check the manufacturer's guidance before using a specialist cleaner or reproofing treatment.

That will give you a better chance of maintaining the garment's waterproof performance without damaging its fabric or finish.