When it comes to protecting yourself from the wet and wild, understanding the difference between waterproof, water-repellent, and water-resistant can save the day. Whether you're gearing up for a rainy hike or simply trying to stay dry on a drizzly day, knowing which type of gear to choose can make all the difference. So, let's dive in and unravel the mystery!
Water Resistant
Water-resistant gear is designed to withstand limited exposure to water. It can handle splashes, light rain, and moisture to a certain extent, but it's not fully waterproof. It provides a good level of protection in mild conditions but may eventually succumb to heavy rain or prolonged exposure to moisture.
Water Repellent
While not entirely waterproof, water-repellent fabrics are treated with a special coating (called DWR which stands for Durable Water Repellency), that causes water to bead up and roll off instead of soaking in. This means they can withstand a light shower without letting the moisture ruin your day. Water-repellent gear keeps you comfortable when the weather is being a bit fickle.
Waterproof
Imagine stepping into a downpour and emerging without a single drop on your skin. That's the magic of waterproof gear. Waterproof materials create an impenetrable barrier that keeps water from seeping through. A true ‘waterproof’ jacket will feature a high hydrostatic head rating, multi-layered fabric with fully taped seams, keeping you protected from heavy rain. Hydrostatic head refers to the measurement of water pressure a fabric can withstand before it starts to allow water to penetrate through. Basically, a small piece of fabric is put under a column of water. The water height in the column increases until the point that water begins to soak through the fabric. From that point, a measurement in millimetres is taken which ends up being the rating you see on a clothing’s swing tag. The higher the hydrostatic head rating, the more water pressure the fabric can withstand, making it more waterproof.
A jacket with 5,000mm (5k) hydrostatic head is considered the minimum threshold for a garment to be labelled as "waterproof,". However, it may not keep you completely dry during heavy showers or prolonged exposure to rain. Whereas a 10,000mm (10k) hydrostatic head rating is an excellent choice for longer outdoor adventures. It offers effective protection in high-impact activities and heavy downpours. This rating makes it a versatile and reliable waterproof jacket suitable for various weather conditions.
Choosing the right gear
However, it's important to note that the hydrostatic head rating is just one factor to consider when choosing a waterproof jacket. Other features such as seam sealing, zipper quality, and design also play a role in the overall waterproofness of a jacket. Additionally, keep in mind that a high hydrostatic head rating doesn't necessarily mean the jacket is more breathable. Breathability is a separate characteristic that allows moisture vapour to escape from the inside of the jacket.
Consider the weather conditions you'll be facing and the intensity of your activity. If you're expecting heavy rain opt for waterproof gear to stay dry from head to toe. For lighter rain or drizzles, water-repellent gear is a reliable choice to keep you comfortable. And when it's mostly dry but there's a chance of splashes or light rain, water-resistant gear offers a good balance of protection and breathability. Remember, gear labelled as waterproof, water repellent, or water-resistant has undergone specific testing and meets industry standards. However, keep in mind that over time, wear and tear or improper care can compromise the performance of these properties. So, make sure to follow the manufacturer's care instructions to maintain the effectiveness of your gear.
The good news is, if you feel that your waterproof jacket isn't performing as well as it used to, there is a quick fix! Read our article on how to make your rain jacket waterproof again.