Waterproof vs Water-Resistant Jackets | Mountain Warehouse

Shopping for a waterproof jacket can be a little confusing. You may have seen that jackets have different labels which state their level of water proofing – these come in the form of water-resistant (sometimes called showerproof) and waterproof.

Different jackets offer different protection from the elements. To make sure you know what you’re getting into and what will offer you the best protection, we’ll discuss the different levels of waterproofness.

Water Resistant Jacket

Water-resistant jackets will have a waterproofing repellent coating (called DWR) applied to the outer fabric to prevent absorption of water, this means that water droplets will bead and roll off the fabric. However, water-resistant jackets will not be fully taped seamed and will only protect you in limited exposure to rain. A lot of soft-shell jackets, like the Exodus Showerproof softshell tend to be water-resistant, wind-proof and the cost of is mid range. But you can also find warm winter coats, such as the Isla II Womens Down Jacket that are water-resistant.

Exodus Showerproof Softshell

 

Waterproof Jacket

This means the jacket has a waterproof coating on the outer fabric with fully taped seams and it may have a built in membrane lining. A membrane lining is a sheet of material with lots of tiny holes in it to help with breathability, because these holes are so small no water can penetrate it.

A waterproof jacket will have a waterproof rating to let you know the best weather conditions for that item. This can range from items such as our Pakka Waterproof Jackets, which have a rating of 1,500, which will protect you from light to moderate rain, all the way up to our ULTRA range, which has a rating of 20,000. This includes jackets such as the Himalaya Extreme Waterproof Jacket, that will keep you dry in extremely heavy downpours.

Pakka Waterproof Jacket

 

Water-resistant Waterproof Suitable for light showers Suitable for heavier rain Fabric has been treated with DWR (durable water repellent) Fabric has been treated with DWR (durable water repellent) or will have a waterproof fabric membrane No taped seams Taped seams

 

Shop Mountain Warehouse Jackets

Shop Waterproof Jackets

It can become confusing when shopping for a new waterproof jacket for the correct purpose. Waterproof, water-resistant, water repellent, showerproof – what do these terminologies mean, and where and when do we wear them? That’s where we come in.

Waterproof and water resistant are terms often used interchangeably, we’re here to tell you that they should not be used as synonyms. To put it simply, the difference arises from the construction of the fabric. The easiest way to distinguish between them is to know each of their definitions.

What Does Waterproof Mean?

Waterproof is a product that is sheltered from moisture. The item or product in question must be impervious to water or resistant to water’s corroding forces, regardless of the time in the water. However, there are currently none of the standards for waterproof products. Ingress protection rating scales can also measure a product’s effectiveness against water. In addition, these scales are applied to products between 0 and 8. When people talk about waterproofing, the term is usually associated with modern gadgets. There is, however, another need to use water-resistant material.

In short, a waterproof product provides a complete water barrier. It’s finished with a rubber coating that fully protects. The proofing duration can last for a more extended period depending on the level of waterproofing.

Recommended article:
Embracing Adventure with Skiing Safely
The Ultimate Guide to Metal Security Fences

You may have seen on fabric care labels that jackets will state their level of waterproofing – 2000 generally being the lowest and 10,000 generally being the highest.

What Does Water Resistant Mean?

Water-resistant means a product can resist water penetration at least partially. It is possible when certain products, like phones or jackets, are labelled waterproof so they are not easily penetrated, and water can enter them without being exposed. Many manufacturers coat products with light substances for improved water interaction and battery life. However, these substances repel water at an isolated level only. After exposure to water, it soaks in. Water repels water, whereas waterproof indicates water resistance and water resistance.

In short, a water-resistant product can resist water droplets to some degree but not entirely. The repellence duration can only last for a short period.

Waterproof vs Water Resistant: Which Performs Better?

Generally speaking, waterproof jackets perform better than water resistant jackets due to the fact that they provide the highest level of protection from the rain, wind and snow whereas a water resistant jacket offers a lower level of protection. Though, it can be argued that water resistant jackets are lightweight, comfortable and breathable for performance productivity and maximum movement.

Waterproof materials are stiffer due to the fact that the fabric is coated with a rubber-like substance. The fabric is worked in layers and is known as a process called lamination. A waterproof product does not let any water in and will withstand the weather whereas water-resistant jackets are perfect for drier conditions. Water-resistant materials are usually made from a tightly woven fabric that’s harder for water to get through and penetrate. If the fabric holds too much water, it leads to a build-up which struggles to dry off quickly, leaving it to seep through onto the wearer’s skin.

In most senses, this waterproof garment offers maximum protection from rain and ice. Waterproof jackets provide better but lower protection levels.

A Comparison Table – Waterproof vs Water Resistant

Waterproof Water Resistant Suitable for heavier rainfall Suitable for light showers/drizzle Indicates high water protection Indicates low water protection Taped seams No taped seams The fabric has been treated with DWR (durable water repellent) The fabric has been treated with DWR (durable water repellent) Features a waterproof fabric membrane Does not feature a waterproof fabric membrane A Comparison Table – Waterproof vs Water Resistant

Frequently Asked Questions

Does water-resistant mean it’s waterproof?

No, water resistant does not mean that it’s waterproof as these are two different terminologies.

Water resistant would mean that it’s water repellent or showerproof and waterproof.

What is an excellent waterproof rating?

Our waterproof ratings start from a minimum of 2000mm to a maximum of 10,000mm. Finding the right ratings to meet your needs is crucial if you want to stay warm and dry in any weather condition. The rating is measured in millimetres (mm) which indicates the amount of water pressure a fabric can withstand before it starts to leak or break down.

So, what do the numbers really mean?

Trespass Waterproof Ratings (mm)

Waterproof Rating (mm) Waterproof Rating (mm) Explained Trespass Ratings (TP) 0-2000mm This is the lowest rating which normally sits at a Trespass rating of 50. Our lower rating jackets won’t stand up to continuous rainfall and are much more able in a light shower rather than a torrential downpour. TP50 5000-8000mm This is a medium-range rating which normally sits at a Trespass rating of 75. Our medium-rating jackets will withstand most heavy snow and downpours but will soak through over time, causing the wearer to become wet and damp. TP75 10,000-20,000mm This is the highest range rating which normally sits at a Trespass rating of 100. Our highest rating jackets will withstand pretty much everything you through at them – this is the rating you should look for if you plan to be out in all weather conditions carrying a heavy load. TP100 Trespass Waterproof Ratings (mm)

Is water resistant good enough for rain?

The short answer; yes. Water resistant jackets are designed for wet-weather conditions but only drizzle to light showers. They are designed to be completely impervious but over time, the water resistant qualities start to wear and let water in causing water damage. The durable water repellent finish on the outer jacket withstands to an extent but waterproof jackets can protect you for much longer. The key differences can be explained above.

How do I know if my jacket is waterproof?

There are a few ways that you can identify if your jacket is waterproof. For example, waterproof jackets often have multiple layers to ensure that you’re warm but fully protected. Waterproof jackets will also have taped seams and waterproof zips. You can also identify if a jacket is waterproof due to the fabric composition on the fabric care label. The fabric care label can be found on the inside seam of the jacket and will state whether or not it’s a waterproof material.

Shop Waterproof Jackets