Fjord Raincoat WD Review: The Ultimate Dog Rain Jacket for Outdoor Adventures?

When the skies open up on a mountain trail, the last thing you want is a soggy, shivering dog. A quality rain jacket isn't just a luxury—it's essential gear for year-round adventurers. Enter the Fjord Raincoat WD, a jacket that promises serious weather protection for dogs who refuse to let a little rain ruin their fun. But does it deliver? We put it through puddles, downpours, and muddy singletracks to find out.

In this comprehensive review, we'll break down the Fjord Raincoat WD's design, waterproofing, comfort, and real-world performance. Whether you're a trail runner, a hiker, or a weekend camper, this review will help you decide if this is the ultimate dog rain jacket for your outdoor adventures.

First Impressions: Design and Build Quality

The Fjord Raincoat WD arrives with the premium feel you'd expect from Nonstopdogwear. The outer shell is a robust, three-layer fabric that feels both tough and flexible—no stiff, crinkly plastic here. The jacket covers the dog's torso from neck to tail, with a generous cut that allows for natural movement. The seams are fully taped, a hallmark of serious waterproof gear, and the YKK zipper glides smoothly, a small detail that makes a big difference when you're wrestling a wriggly dog into their gear.

One standout feature is the adjustable neck and hem drawcords, which let you fine-tune the fit to keep rain out while allowing ventilation. The jacket also includes a reflective piping along the back and legs, a thoughtful touch for low-light visibility during evening walks or runs. Weighing in at just over 300 grams, it's light enough for active dogs but substantial enough to feel durable.

• Fully taped seams for 100% waterproof protection
• Adjustable neck and hem for a custom fit
• Reflective details for safety in low light

Waterproofing and Breathability: The Core Test

The Fjord Raincoat WD is rated with a 10,000mm water column, which is impressive for a dog jacket—it can handle heavy, sustained rain without soaking through. In our tests, we subjected it to a simulated downpour using a garden hose and then took it out on a real rainy trail. The result? Bone-dry underneath, even after 45 minutes of steady rain. The jacket's fabric also has a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish that causes water to bead up and roll off, so it doesn't get waterlogged.

Breathability is often the Achilles' heel of waterproof gear, but the Fjord Raincoat WD manages it well. The inner lining is a soft mesh that promotes airflow, preventing your dog from overheating during moderate activity. We tested it on a brisk 5K run in light rain, and our test dog, a Border Collie mix, showed no signs of excessive panting or discomfort. It's not as breathable as a softshell, but for a fully waterproof jacket, it's a solid performance.

• 10,000mm water column rating for heavy rain
• DWR finish for effective water beading
• Breathable mesh lining to reduce overheating

Comfort and Fit: Will Your Dog Want to Wear It?

A rain jacket is only useful if your dog will actually wear it. The Fjord Raincoat WD is designed with a dog's anatomy in mind. The articulated legs and a high-cut chest allow for a full range of motion—our test dog had no trouble trotting, jumping over logs, or even doing a bit of zoomies in the backyard. The jacket doesn't ride up or bunch, thanks to the adjustable drawcords and a well-placed chest strap that keeps everything in place.

We tested the jacket on two different dog shapes: a lean, deep-chested hound and a stockier Australian Shepherd. Both fit well within the size range, though we recommend measuring your dog carefully and using the size chart, as the jacket runs slightly slim. The inner mesh lining is gentle on the skin, and our dogs didn't show any signs of chafing or irritation, even after a 10-mile hike. The only minor gripe is that the jacket doesn't have a built-in harness opening, so if you plan to attach a leash to a harness, you'll need to put the harness over the jacket or use a jacket with a harness hole—but that's a common trade-off for full waterproof coverage.

• Articulated legs for natural movement
• Adjustable straps for a secure, no-bunch fit
• Soft mesh lining prevents chafing

Durability and Care: Built for the Long Haul

Outdoor gear takes a beating, and the Fjord Raincoat WD is built to handle it. The outer fabric is abrasion-resistant, and after several runs through brush and rocky terrain, we saw no snags or tears. The zipper and drawcords have held up well, and the DWR finish is still beading water effectively after multiple uses. We did notice that the jacket picks up some dirt and mud, but a quick rinse with a hose and a hang-dry brings it back to like-new condition.

For care, Nonstopdogwear recommends machine washing on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent, then air drying. We'd add a tip: reapply a DWR treatment every few months to maintain the water-repellent finish. Avoid fabric softeners, as they can clog the membrane and reduce breathability. With proper care, this jacket should last for several seasons of serious outdoor use.

• Abrasion-resistant outer fabric for rough terrain
• Easy to clean: machine washable and quick-drying
• Reapply DWR treatment periodically for best performance

Fjord Raincoat WD vs. Other Dog Rain Jackets

How does the Fjord Raincoat WD stack up against competitors? We compared it to the Trekking Dog Raincoat, another popular option from Nonstopdogwear. While both offer excellent waterproofing, the Fjord Raincoat WD has a higher water column rating (10,000mm vs. 5,000mm) and a more breathable lining, making it better suited for active dogs in heavy rain. The Trekking Dog Raincoat, on the other hand, is slightly more affordable and includes a built-in harness opening, which might be a deciding factor for some owners.

For those who prioritize maximum weather protection and don't mind a bit of extra layering, the Fjord Raincoat WD is the superior choice. It's also worth noting that the Fjord Raincoat WD pairs well with other Nonstopdogwear gear, like the Ventile Bib Shell Pant for humans, ensuring you both stay dry on those epic rainy-day hikes.

• Higher water column rating than the Trekking Dog Raincoat
• Better breathability for active dogs
• Consider the Trekking Dog Raincoat if you need a harness opening

Final Verdict: Is It the Ultimate Dog Rain Jacket?

After weeks of testing in real-world conditions, we can confidently say the Fjord Raincoat WD is one of the best dog rain jackets on the market. It combines top-tier waterproofing with thoughtful design and durability, making it a worthy investment for any dog owner who refuses to let weather dictate their adventures. While it's not the cheapest option, the quality justifies the price, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors with your furry friend.

If you're looking for a reliable rain jacket that will keep your dog dry and comfortable on everything from short walks to multi-day expeditions, the Fjord Raincoat WD is an excellent choice. Pair it with a sturdy leash like the Solid Leash Wd or a harness like the Rock Harness for a complete rainy-day setup.

• Pros: Excellent waterproofing, breathable, durable, adjustable fit
• Cons: No harness opening, runs slim, premium price
• Best for: Active dogs in wet climates, trail runners, hikers

The Fjord Raincoat WD is a top-tier dog rain jacket that delivers on its promises. With superior waterproofing, breathability, and durability, it's an investment that will keep your dog dry and comfortable for years. If you're ready to upgrade your dog's rainy-day gear, check out the Fjord Raincoat WD and see the difference for yourself.