Don’t Get Caught in the Rain: Your Guide to Waterproofing

Written by Katelyn Madsen

When it comes to outdoor gear and sports apparel, navigating the world of water resistance, repellency, and waterproofing can be confusing. Though these terms might seem interchangeable, they refer to different levels of protection and performance against moisture. This guide will help break down the differences between the terms, in turn helping you and your customers to be more informed.

Water-Resistant: Basic Protection

Think of water-resistant gear as your basic shield against the rain. At the lowest level of moisture protection, water-resistant fabrics are designed to withstand light exposure to water and aren’t fully protective in heavy rain or prolonged wet conditions. The degree of water resistance usually comes from the way the fabric is constructed, often involving tightly woven synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester. A plain weave in a synthetic fabric may naturally resist water penetration without additional treatments. However, water-resistant fabrics won’t hold up against consistent or heavy rain, and water will eventually seep through.

Water Repellent: Enhanced Protection with Breathability

Water repellent is a step above water resistance. Water-repellent fabrics are treated with a chemical finish that causes water to bead up and roll off the surface rather than being absorbed. While this finish improves the fabric’s natural resistance to moisture, the material remains breathable, allowing air to pass through for comfort. 

Water repellent materials are ideal for light to moderate rain but may eventually “wet out” under heavy or prolonged exposure, meaning that the finish will wear off. It’s important to look for products that guarantee durability through 20 to 30 washes, as water-repellent items are usually washed more frequently than waterproof ones.

A common example of this is a tightly woven polyester jacket with a water-repellent coating. This added layer of protection helps repel water while maintaining superior comfort. The main advantage here is breathability, making water-repellent fabrics comfortable for everyday wear in mild rain.

Waterproof: Ultimate Protection

When you need the highest level of moisture protection, waterproof is the way to go. Waterproof fabrics are constructed to block water completely, making them ideal for harsh conditions like heavy rain or snow. Waterproofing involves both the fabric and the way the garment is put together which includes multiple layers to ensure complete protection.

A waterproof garment may include:

• First Layer: A tightly woven, water-resistant synthetic fabric.
• Second Layer: A waterproof membrane, often laminated to the first layer. This membrane is what prevents water from penetrating, even in heavy rain.
• Third Layer: A soft tricot or knit lining on the inside for comfort against the skin.

The seams in waterproof garments are typically welded (glued) rather than sewn, ensuring there are no needle holes for water to seep through. Additionally, waterproof zippers with welded tapes are used to prevent water from entering through zipper openings.

Quick Tip:

When shopping, one key feature to look for is waterproof breathability. This means the fabric not only blocks water from getting in, but also allows sweat and moisture to get out. This is especially important in active situations where you could end up drenched from sweat if the garment doesn’t breathe properly. A high-quality waterproof jacket will have this balance of protection and breathability, ensuring both comfort and dryness.

Conclusion

By understanding the differences between water-resistant, water-repellent, and waterproof fabrics, you can confidently select the right gear for your outdoor adventures. Whether you’re braving a light drizzle or facing a heavy downpour, knowing the level of protection you need will ensure you stay dry and comfortable.

This article was based on the AGM webinar, “What Makes a Great Apparel Product” featuring Susi Proudman. To watch the full webinar and gain more industry insight, visit the AGM’s YouTube Channel. Only members can view.

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