A cagoule (French: [kaɡul], also spelled cagoul, kagoule or kagool), is the British English term for a lightweight weatherproof raincoat or anorak with a hood (usually without lining), which often comes in knee-length form.[1] The Canadian English equivalent is windbreaker. The word cagoule is borrowed from the French for balaclava or hood.
In some versions, when rolled up, the hood or cross-chest front pocket doubles as a bag into which the shell can be packed.
A cagoule which could be rolled up into a very compact package and carried in a bag or pocket was patented[2] by former Royal Marine Noel Bibby and launched in the UK under the brand name Peter Storm in the early 1960s.[3]
In 1965, the French cagoule brand K-Way was introduced.[2]
Original versions were lightweight and packable with generally an integral hood, elastic or drawstring cuffs, and a fastening at the neck. Usually, the cagoule could not open fully at the front and was pulled on over the head.
As a functional outdoor rain-garment, the original styling and proportions allowed the protection of the wearers' small personal items, such rucksack, waist bag and/or camera bag.
Later copied and marketed as a close-fitting cheap fashion accessory, the style became very popular in the United Kingdom during the 1970s.
