Waterproof and Water ResistantUpdated 2 years ago
When shopping around for durable and functional outerwear, it’s important to consider the environment in which you live, and the essential elements that you desire from your clothing. The difference between waterproof and water-resistant clothing is small, but crucial. We’re here to help you understand the two, as well as when each option is most appropriate and fitted to your personal adventures.
Waterproof
Fundamentally, a waterproof item of clothing will keep water from getting beneath it – for example, when wearing a waterproof jacket, no water should be able to seep through your outer layer, therefore keeping your lower layers dry, and you comfortable and warm.
Water Resistant
Water-resistant, however, offers a slightly less complete barricade from rain and other forms of water. If an item of clothing is labeled as water-resistant, it’s important to understand that this means the product has the ability to ward off water only to a certain extent. Light rain and other similar amounts of water will affect the product’s comfort and mobility quite little, but in heavier rainfall, water sports or similarly wet environments, it is safer to opt for a waterproof alternative.
There are a few key things to consider beyond the label of waterproof vs. water-resistant when shopping around: In order for a product to be waterproof, both the fabric and the engineered pieces of the product must offer this maximum protection. For example, if a jacket is comprised of a tested waterproof material, but the seams and/or zippers are bound, not binded, then the overall jacket is not a guaranteed waterproof product. This is because, when all the elements of a product are not properly sealed during the design and manufacturing process, water is able to seep into the jacket via the seams, even if the majority of the fabric is waterproof.
What’s the difference between bound and binded seams?
Essentially, a binded seam is a sealed seam, meaning the water cannot get through the exterior of your clothing. Bound seams, however, are attached to the fabric in alternate ways that allow for some amount of water access, whether it is through the pores of the seam or through small needle holes that go right through to the inside of your jacket/pants.
So how can you be sure that the product you’re buying is waterproof?
The safest and most reliable way to be sure is to do your research. This is a great starting point – now that you understand the difference between water-resistant and waterproof clothing items and active wear, you’re already at an advantage. We also suggest looking into the details of outerwear products when you shop online to ensure that both the fabric and seams are designed for the results you’re after.
Both waterproof and water-resistant products have their advantages – it simply depends on your lifestyle and active goals. If you’re looking for a comfortable jacket with light to medium protection from rainy weather for your everyday, busy lifestyle, water-resistant jackets can offer varying amounts of protection, perfect for layering and throwing on as you run out the door during a morning drizzle. If you live in an area with temperamental weather, or you participate in more water-based sports, waterproof jackets will offer greater protection from the elements, subsequently ensuring your warmth and endurance throughout the day.