As the monsoon season approaches earlier than usual this year, South Korea’s leading online fashion retailer Musinsa has reported a dramatic surge in demand for rainwear products. According to an analysis of store data from May 2025, search volumes for rain-related items have soared compared to the same period last year, reflecting consumers’ urgent need to prepare for the sudden onset of heavy rains and unpredictable weather patterns.
Musinsa announced on June 9, 2025, that searches for rain boots increased by an astonishing 140%, while rain jackets saw a 116% rise, and umbrella searches grew by 99% year-over-year. This spike is attributed to meteorological forecasts predicting an earlier and more intense monsoon season, coupled with recent bouts of heavy downpours that caught many off guard.
The popularity of rain boots, in particular, was highlighted through Musinsa’s Monthly Ranking, where the Moonstar ‘810s Marche Modi’ in charcoal and white secured spots within the top 10 footwear items. Similarly, Hunter’s ‘Original Play Short Rain Boots’ also ranked highly, confirming that functional yet stylish rain boots have become a seasonal must-have for many consumers.
In response to this swelling demand, a variety of brands ranging from designer labels to well-known sportswear companies have launched new collections tailored to the rainy season. Notably, Rockfish Weatherwear unveiled a fresh collaboration with the emerging designer brand 999Humanity on June 7, 2025. Their joint release, the ‘Shiny Ebby Rain Boots,’ features a minimalist design accented with 999Humanity’s signature logo patch and has been met with positive reviews from consumers seeking both fashion and practicality.
Adding to the trend, sportswear giant Fila introduced ‘Faito Boots’ on June 6, 2025, embracing the gorpcore aesthetic—a style inspired by outdoor gear and functionality. These boots stand out with their ankle and instep string details combined with water-repellent fabric, striking a balance between utility and unique style that appeals to urban consumers looking for versatile rainwear options.
Beyond footwear, interest in functional outerwear designed to enhance mobility and comfort during wet weather is also rising. Windbreakers, colloquially known as ‘baram-mak-i’ in Korean, have surged in popularity, ranking second in Musinsa’s store search volumes. These jackets are prized for their lightweight, water-resistant properties, making them ideal for sudden weather shifts and the large temperature fluctuations typical of the monsoon season.
Among the top windbreaker picks are the Arc’teryx ‘Squamish Hoodie’ and Musinsa Standard Sports’ ‘Super Light Baram-mak-i,’ which secured first and second place respectively in the sports outerwear category. These products exemplify the blend of performance and style that consumers demand, offering protection without sacrificing comfort or aesthetic appeal.
The current surge in rainwear demand is a clear indicator of changing consumer behavior influenced by climate patterns. The earlier monsoon forecast and unexpected heavy rainfall have pushed shoppers to invest more in reliable rain gear, reflecting a broader trend of adapting wardrobes to increasingly volatile weather conditions.
Musinsa’s data-driven insights provide a window into how fashion retailers are responding to these shifts. By monitoring search trends and sales, they can swiftly adjust inventory and collaborate with designers to meet evolving needs. The success of collaborations like Rockfish and 999Humanity’s collection illustrates how innovation and style can go hand in hand with functionality in the competitive rainwear market.
Moreover, the rise of gorpcore-inspired items like Fila’s ‘Faito Boots’ signals a growing appetite for outdoor-inspired fashion that transcends traditional seasonal boundaries. This trend reflects a consumer desire for gear that performs well in adverse weather yet remains trendy enough for everyday city wear.
As the monsoon season continues, the market for rainwear is poised to expand further, with consumers seeking gear that protects against the elements while offering comfort and style. Retailers and brands that can blend these qualities effectively will likely lead the pack in capturing this burgeoning demand.
Ultimately, the rapid increase in rainwear searches and purchases underscores a larger narrative: weather patterns are influencing fashion choices more than ever, prompting both consumers and brands to rethink how they prepare for the rainy season. For shoppers, this means a wealth of new options that combine practicality with cutting-edge design, ensuring they stay dry and fashionable no matter what the skies bring.
