Water-Resistant or Waterproof: What’s the Difference?

Woman wears rain jacket on wet hike

You’re on the hunt for a new rain jacket, but you keep seeing the words “waterproof” or “DWR” or “water-resistant.” There are so many terms to learn, and you’re just trying to stay dry. Luckily, the confusing language is easy to break down. Once you know the lingo, you’ll know immediately if a product is water-resistant or waterproof.

 

Droplets on Water-Resistant FabricWhat makes clothing water-resistant or waterproof?

Simply put, DWR, or “durable water repellent,” is a chemical that repels water. When applied to the surface of a fabric, DWR allows the fabric to repel water better. This repellent may seem like the cure-all, but there’s a lot more when it comes to keeping you dry.

 

 

Little boy wears rain jacket in stormHow do you rate whether fabric is water-resistant or waterproof?

HH ratings, or Hydrostatic Head ratings, are the level to which a fabric is resistant to water. A garment’s HH rating shows what kind of conditions it’s meant for. The scale can range from 1,500mm to 40,000mm+. Ranges within the scale provide the weather conditions meant for each range. The larger the number, the drier you’ll stay.

 

Man wearing waterproof jacket reaches into springWhat is water-resistant?

Water-resistant jackets are designed for those days when you expect a light shower or two. These jackets are scaled at 1,500mm-5,000mm. Water-resistant jackets are treated with DWR for a light contact of rain. Also, they don’t have taped or sealed seams. This means that you might get a little wet if that small shower turns into a heavy rain. However, they’re perfect for light rain and cool temps!

 

Happy couple wearing waterproof jackets in rainWhat is waterproof?

Waterproof jackets are the way to go if you’re expecting a heavy rain and want to stay dry. With a rating of 5,000mm+, these jackets typically come treated with DWR along with a built-in membrane lining. This membrane lining helps to ensure you stay dry. The seams of a waterproof jacket often come fully sealed or taped as well.
Who knew that there was so much in the making of rain jackets? Finding just the right jacket can get confusing, but now you’re ready to conquer the next rainy day.

 

By Jonathan Mendoza