TOG24 Alva review: a stylish trench coat that's actually waterproof

Price on writing: £119 | Buy now from Amazon

How I tested

I wore the TOG24 Alva in light and heavy rain conditions, while walking my dogs and running errands. Taking detailed notes on the style, fit and comfort of the coat, I also tested it in my shower at home to get an objective view of the waterproofing levels.

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My verdict

When it's raining, Mumsnet users are largely resigned to the fact that you have to sacrifice style to stay dry. However, this classic trench from TOG24 manages to combine top notch weatherproofing with a stylish, flattering silhouette.

It's windproof, waterproof up to 10k - which means it can withstand a 10 metre column of water without leaking - and has taped sleeves and a removable hood, making it deceptively practical.

I love the classic shape of it, the storm flaps are especially pleasing - I feel like a chic French detective. I wore the coat in driving autumn rain, and can vouch for the waterproofness, it kept me bone dry underneath.

The fit is roomy and comfortable enough to layer a cosy jumper underneath. The coat itself isn't padded so doesn't offer any warmth beyond keeping out the elements. The hood is very generous - a little too large for my short, straight hair and hatless head, and it's well structured to stay put, with poppers and a drawstring to secure it more tightly in high winds.

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Does the TOG24 Alva keep you dry?

Definitely. It's waterproof up to 10k, which is plenty to keep you dry on a rainy day in the UK. I wore the coat in heavy and light rain, and it kept me dry with no leaking on the seams. I also tested the coat in my shower at home, and as you can see from the below photo, water beads on the surface of the coat - it doesn't sink in at all.

The design of the coat helps water droplets run off - from the storm flaps to the flared skirt and taped seams, no water gets through. The full skirt of the coat does flap around in windy conditions, though. The hood is on the large side, which can get in the way of my vision but it does provide ample shelter.

The Alva is long - I'm 5'8" and am wearing a size 12, the coat reaches to mid-calf, giving me really good coverage, something I find pretty rare in a standard size coat. However, there aren't different length and body fit options, so it may prove too long for more petite women.

It's also windproof, which helps enormously with keeping warm underneath the coat, which is roomy enough to layer a chunky jumper underneath for insulation.

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Does the TOG24 Alva offer good value for money?

With an RRP of £170, the Alva is more expensive than most highstreet-brand trenches, like the M&S Cotton Rich Belted Longline Trench Coat at £80. However, it's the level of waterproofing that makes the Alva stand out.

Most trench coats are 'shower resistant' - i.e. they can withstand a light shower but not a downpour. Even premium brands like Hobbs aren't designed for heavy rain. The Alva is designed to keep out heavy rain, and it looks stylish at the same time - not a mean feat.

If you're looking for a trench coat that won't let you down when the weather turns, this is a good bet.

About the author

Poppy O'Neill is a Content Editor at Mumsnet and a mother of two. She researches and reviews the products Mumsnetters swear by, with a particular focus on home essentials, laundry and fans. From a highly-recommended retractable washing line to the best quiet fans money can buy, and Mumsnet's favourite dehumidifier to the steam generator iron that'll cut your ironing time in half, she loves to deep-dive into research and find the very best products on the market.