Weatherproof Ladies' Rain Jackets: Chat with Jools Walker

Jools Walker knows a thing or two about weatherproof ladies’ rain jackets. Having spent years working for a cycling brand, she started her award-winning blog over 20 years ago, championing inclusivity and diversity in the industry. Known as Lady Velo, she is the voice advocating for marginalized communities. Spending much time on two wheels under the British skies, she understands the need for the right clothing.

Jools is also a successful freelance writer, broadcaster, podcaster, and author. So, when she asked the Protected Species team for an interview about our ladies’ waterproof jacket collaboration with Brompton Bikes, we knew it would be interesting.

Where did the inspiration to start Protected Species come from?

Over a casual coffee on a rainy day in Glasgow, Anne and I discussed why waterproof clothing was mostly available in traditional “mountain wear” styles and colors for women. As outdoor lovers and urban dwellers, we both owned technical outdoor coats, but they weren’t suitable for our daily lives.

Anne, on maternity leave, pushed a buggy around rainy Glasgow, feeling tired and wanting to look and feel like herself again. She brought this up, knowing I worked in the industry developing waterproof products for global brands. We saw how underserved women were in this sector and wanted to bring something new to the market. It took two years of development before we launched, and we haven’t looked back.

What is the ethos of Protected Species?

The fusion of timeless style and technical performance drives us at Protected Species. Our customers often tell us, “I never take it off,” which is music to our ears. Our goal is to provide comfortable, stylish waterproofs that women want to wear everywhere, regardless of activity or setting.

We believe in multi-functional usage and longevity, making us the antithesis of fast fashion. Our slow, considered, low-volume manufacturing is quality-driven. Although the wait can be frustrating, we’re happy doing things this way. Our manufacturing partners are part of our team, built on mutual respect. Without them, we couldn’t do what we do.

Protected Species is an all-female-led brand: How did you all come together?

As founders, we met through work and bonded over our love of the outdoors. Abigail heads customer service and operations, while Carrie and Greta expertly manage manufacturing. Carrie owns the boutique factory where we make our collection, and Greta runs the mill where our fabrics are developed.

Carrie and Greta have keen eyes for quality and a flair for feminine cuts, colors, and fabric feel, which sets us apart. Without these women, the brand wouldn’t exist. The support we have for each other through the rollercoaster of clothing production is invaluable.

What are the backgrounds of your co-founders, and what do each of you bring to Protected Species?

My background is in product development and management for global performance brands, including creating clothing collections for PING Golf. The technology behind our collection originated from working with top tour players, ensuring outerwear kept them warm, dry, and unrestricted—benefits reflected in our waterproof collection today.

Anne’s expertise lies in sales and marketing, specifically commercializing new medical science technologies. Our combined experience brings authenticity to our brand. Designing and manufacturing the products we personally needed ensures alignment with our customers’ needs and values.

The designs of PS are by women, for women do you feel feminism is important in performance clothing design?

Absolutely. Understanding our audience deeply without compromise is crucial. Women’s performance needs differ from men’s, and simply resizing men’s styles is becoming outdated. Our all-female team ensures that our designs truly cater to women’s requirements, from design to manufacturing.

What led you to collaborate with Brompton?

Anne and I had envisioned a collaboration with Brompton years before it happened. When Kenny, Brompton’s Product Manager, approached us, we seized the opportunity. Brompton’s engineering seamlessly blends iconic design with functional solutions for urban life, mirroring our mission at Protected Species. It was a perfect match.

What is the key to creating highly technical outdoor clothing that doesn’t compromise on style?

Even minor details, like a slight color shade difference or a 1cm variance in hem width, can significantly impact the silhouette and functionality of a women’s garment. Balancing all attributes perfectly requires extensive trial and refinement. Our dedication to detail ensures our collection stays small but meets our vision, earning customer loyalty.

How has the reaction from your community influenced your design process?

Initially, we designed products we personally needed, but now, our community inspires us. Their support, loyalty, and feedback make our hard work worthwhile. We frequently engage with them, discussing specific features for various activities, from cycling to horse riding and even outdoor yoga.

What key features make Protected Species outerwear ideal for cycling?

Our jackets are defined as women’s all-weather coats. A major feature for cycling is our fabric, with waterproof and breathability ratings exceeding 15,000mm & 15,000gms. The four-way knitted stretch fabric ensures unrestricted movement and comfort while riding.

Working with Brompton’s experts, we developed adaptable cycle-specific features that remain discreet post-commute, allowing the jacket to transform seamlessly into an everyday smart coat—true to the Protected Species ethos.

Do you think fashion plays a role in encouraging more women to engage in outdoor activities like cycling?

Without a doubt. Confidence is often tied to how we feel in what we wear. Many women hesitant to cycle were encouraged when they found stylish yet functional clothing. Advances in fabric technology mean women no longer have to compromise between aesthetics and performance. If clothing makes us look and feel great while being versatile, we wear it more and keep it longer—contributing to a more sustainable wardrobe.