Cagoule

A cagoule, cagoul, kagoule or kagool (from the French cagoule meaning balaklava) is the British English term for a lightweight (usually without lining), weatherproof raincoat or anorak with a hood, which often comes in knee-length. The American English equivalent is windbreaker; the Canadian English equivalent is windbreaker or K-Way.

In some versions, when rolled up, the hood or front pocket doubles as a bag into which the rest of the coat may be stowed.

History and styles

A cagoule which can be rolled up into a very compact package and carried in a bag or pocket was invented by Noel Bibby and launched in the UK under the brand name Peter Storm in the early 1960s. Bibby was a former marine and patented his design, which is thought to be the original. In 1965, the French cagoule brand K-Way was introduced. Original versions of the lightweight and packable mac generally had an integral hood, elasticated or drawstring cuffs, and a few poppers (snap fasteners) or a short zip at the neck. Usually, the cagoule could not open fully at the front and was pulled on over the head.