Don’t get caught in the rain

Wirecutter-approved gear for April showers [It’s raining, it’s pouring …]( [Several umbrellas and a pair of rainboots.]( Michael Hession It may be trite, but it’s true: Spring brings rain—[lots of it](. Before you find yourself caught in a storm and ducking into the nearest drugstore to grab the flimsiest poncho within arm’s reach, allow us to help you. Read on for the three things we think are essential for braving a downpour. Our experts have tested and approved all of these items, which can withstand blustery winds and heavy rain. Future you (who’s dry and comfortable) says thanks. We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. [Learn more ›]( [An umbrella that won’t flip inside out]( [The Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella.]( Michael Hession We’ve taken umbrellas on errands, run them under the shower, attacked them with a leaf blower, and tortured them to the point of failure in gusty winds and even blizzard-like conditions. One umbrella has risen to the top in [our tests]( the [Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella](. With its nine-rib construction, automatic open-and-close mechanism, and comfortable-to-hold handle, it’s the kind of umbrella you buy once and always carry with you, so you never have to worry about being drenched in public again. [An effective pair of rain boots (that you can still walk and drive in)]( [A pair of Z]( Michael Hession The [Xtratuf Ankle Deck Boots]( are great for people who want one pair of highly versatile outdoor shoes that are easy to slip on and off. [In our tests]( we found that these comfy rain boots are perfect for drizzly walks, can grip slippery metal (like grates and train tracks), and are easy to drive in. [A classic raincoat that’ll never go out of style]( [A person wearing the LL Bean Rain Jacket.]( Sarah Kobos The [L.L.Bean Rain Jacket]( has a simple aesthetic that works equally well for commuting to the city and running errands. It comes in the most style and size variations of any of the jackets [we tested](. And, most importantly, water rolls right off of it. [Rainy day fun]( [A person playing a board game.]( [Immerse yourself in a board game]( Whether you’re seeking a game that offers high-level strategy or something that looks and feels beautiful, [these are the ones]( in heavy rotation on our game nights. [Two projectors and some movie DVDs.]( [Host a movie night]( Enjoy your comfort movie with [our favorite home projector](. (A blanket fort is optional but highly recommended.) [An illustration of a vieo game.]( [Download a free (!) video game]( We’ve compiled a list of [all the titles]( you can get your hands on right now—something to play while it pitter-patters. [View email in browser]( You are receiving this email because you signed up for Wirecutter’s Newsletter. Getting too many emails from us? To stop receiving Top Picks, [unsubscribe](. 
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