Two materials, two uses. Here's an honest breakdown, with no marketing promises.
Mackintosh: sturdy, waterproof, affordable
A coated cotton fabric, fully waterproof, usually with a belly strap to stop it slipping. A bit stiffer than softshell, but cheaper. Good for the short daily walk in the rain, when your dog gets back into the dry afterwards anyway. It's best to measure for the right size beforehand: here's the two-minute guide.
Softshell/Ultra-soft: quieter, softer, pricier
A softer, often multi-layered material that doesn't rustle and feels more like fabric than a rain jacket. In our range it is represented by the Lulu Ultraweicher Regenmantel. Makes sense for sensitive skin, for dogs that don't like the rustle of mackintosh fabric, or when the walk takes longer.
| Mackintosh | Softshell / Ultra-soft | |
|---|---|---|
| Material | coated cotton fabric | softer, often multi-layered material |
| Water protection | fully waterproof | waterproof outer layer |
| Feel when worn | a bit stiffer, rustles | soft, doesn't rustle |
| Suited to | short walks in the rain | longer walks, sensitive skin, dogs that don't like rustling |
In short
A quick trip out for a toilet break in drizzle: mackintosh is perfectly enough. A longer walk, sensitive skin or simply the wish for more comfort: softshell.
You'll find more on fit and other buying criteria in our raincoat guide, and the current selection in the Jackets & Coats collection.