Waterproof vs Water-Resistant: Key Differences in Outdoor Gear

Never let a little rain shower-or worse-get in the way of a great adventure. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, you want to know the difference between "waterproof" and "water-resistant" when it comes to outdoor gear.

It'll be the distinction between being soaked through and bone dry.

Hike for a few hours, prepare for heavy rain, or be out in extreme conditions and find out how each material will perform.

It explains what makes waterproof and water-resistant gear different and further suggests when to use which.

What is Waterproof Gear?

Waterproof gear is supposed to exclude water completely. The fabric is usually constructed with special membranes like Gore-Tex or even coated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating that doesn't allow even a single drop of water to penetrate. This makes it suitable for gear to withstand extreme weather, like heavy rain, snow, or activities involving exposure to water.

• Material:

Waterproof gear uses multi-layered fabrics that have incorporated a waterproof membrane. Popular ones are the Gore-Tex and eVent, which give full transference of moisture.

• Features: 

Waterproof gear will most of the time have extra features like taped seams and waterproof zippers, which leave no minute gap that may invite water to seep in.

• Best Use: 

Water-resistant gear best performs in heavy rain, snow, and water submersion. This simply means it best performs for long periods spent outdoors in extreme conditions such as mountain climbing or other activities involving water.

What is Water-Resistant Gear?

Water-resistant gear only provides partial protection against the presence of water, repelling moisture to a degree, but not perfectly. They are usually composed of tightly woven fabrics, or have some form of a water repellent coating able to withstand light rain or brief exposure underwater. However, in prolonged wet conditions, the water-resistant material will allow the moisture to seep through.

• Material: 

Waterproof clothes are usually from tightly woven fabrics or with coatings, which are water-repellent initially but will be accepting of moisture over time. These fabrics lack the extra layers of waterproofing that completely block out the water like waterproof materials do.

• Best Use: 

Water-resistant gear is best suited to mild, less intense weather conditions such as light rain or mist. It's good for shorter trips or activities where being dry isn't going to be the first priority; hence, great for that short bike ride or hike in light rain.

Key Difference:

Waterproof and water-resistant gear primarily differ according to the extent of water protection they provide:

• Waterproof Gear: 

Provides an unbreachable barrier that water cannot penetrate, even in extreme weather conditions. Utilise it when there is potential for high rainfall, snowfall, or when potentially fully submerged.

• Water-Resistant Gear: 

Provides the lowest forms of protection and can repel light rain or moisture for short periods of time.It will not survive for any amount of time exposed to water, though.

Performance:

Both waterproof and water-resistant gear act as such under a storm.

• Waterproof: 

It has been especially designed with a view to give complete protection during extreme climatic conditions so that no water may permeate the fabric.

• Water-Resistant: 

Applied for mild conditions as it only provides a limited protection against moisture.

Durability

Waterproof gears are relatively more durable and last longer under stressful conditions. They can withstand constant exposure to moisture as well as harsh conditions like snow or heavy rain. However, this added strength comes with added weight as well as less flexibility due to the stiffness and thickness of waterproof fabrics.

On the other hand, water-resistant gears weigh lighter and are more flexible, thus best for use in activities requiring much movement.

While less robust for extreme wet-weather conditions, it is much more practical for daily use in less intense conditions.

Comfort

Comfort aspects are compromised to a great extent to breathability and mobility. Waterproof equipment, while excellent for excluding moisture, trap heat and sweat more readily during extreme exertion. Multilayer fabrics often severely limit airflow, which makes them less comfortable to exercise with in warm or wet conditions.

The clothes are water-resistant as well because they are better at ventilation. They are lighter, mostly, and more flexible. This makes the water-resistant clothing more comfortable while engaging in activities that need proper ventilation and range of movement. The compromise however is lesser protection in wet conditions.

Waterproof Ratings

Waterproof clothes usually come with a rating to show how much pressure of water the material can take until it leaks.Ratings are shown in millimeters (mm) to indicate the degree of water resistance the item offers.

• 2,000mm Rating 

Suitable for use in light rain or for temporary exposure to moisture.

• 5,000-10,000mm Rating 

Offers protection against moderate rain or snow.

• 15,000mm+ Rating

Suitable for heavy, prolonged rain or snow; extreme wet conditions.

The more rated the gear the better the protection against water. In case you expect intense weather, then you should be up for the more-rated one so as to keep full protection.

Additional Comparison Points

• Seams and Zippers: 

Most waterproof gears contain taped seams and waterproof zippers to block water from entering. Water-resistant products may not come with the features, hence providing partial protection.

• Material and Coating: 

Waterproof equipment contains specific materials like Gore-Tex with waterproof membranes. Water-resistant gear works based on fabrics that are tightly woven or DWR coatings which tend to wear out after some time.

• Weight: 

Waterproof gear is weighed more due to its multi-layered and coated nature.

Water-resistant items are lighter and more agile, so it is more suitable for the more energetic outdoor activities.

Comparison Table

Pros and Cons of Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant Gear

Waterproof Gear

Pros:

• Most protection against water
• Excellent use when severe weather is known to be encountered

• Sometimes features additional components such as waterproofed seams and zippers

Cons:

• Least breathable, may retain sweat
• Heavier and bulkier
• Generally more expensive than water-resistant gear

Water-Resistant Gear

Pros:

• Lightweight and breathable
• Comfortable for active outdoor activities
• Not as pricey as waterproof gear

Cons:

• Partial protection for heavy rains
• Water-repellent paint loses effectiveness with time
• Not suited for extreme conditions of weather

Final Thoughts

Most decisions on waterproof and water-resistant gear would depend on the kind of outdoor activities and weather conditions you are going to face.

Waterproof gears ensure the best protection in heavy rain, snow, and exposure to moisture for extended periods but are less comfortable in high-energy activities due to additional weight and reduced breathability. Water-resistant gears are good for lighter conditions in terms of comfort and flexibility but won't survive wet conditions for long durations or intense wet situations.

Now, knowing the waterproof ratings and materials used will definitely help you make that well-informed decision and ensure you're quite prepared for your adventuring outside