Difference between waterproof and water-resistant. Which can beg the question…what’s the difference between the two? To help shed some light on the issue, we turned to Wikipedia, which describes them as one and the same: “Waterproof or water-resistant describes objects relatively unaffected by water or resisting water passage, or which are covered with a material that resists or does not allow water passage.” In fact, there are differences between the two, and the applications for each vary.
In a nutshell, “waterproof” means no water in, no water out. To be entirely waterproof, the surface must be completely impervious to water, and provide a high level of sustained water protection during the harshest conditions. Where Shining Safety is concerned, if a product is marked waterproof, such as our Hi-viz rain jacket, that means no water can get in through the fabric, seams, or flaps because not only is the fabric waterproof, but the seams are sealed and buckles are covered.
Certain waterproof fabrics contain a breathable membrane woven within the fabric, making them both waterproof and breathable. Waterproof, breathable fabrics help regulate heat and release moisture, and are recommended for high energy activities to dissipate heat and moisture.
Water-resistant (sometimes labeled “water-repellent”) fabric is coated with a finish such as DWR(Durable water repellent) that is resistant but not impervious to penetration by water. Water-resistant fabrics will often bead up rainwater, forming drops on the surface. Water-resistant fabrics will provide protection from limited precipitation, but may not stand up to, say, belly-deep submersion in a mud puddle. Though water can saturate the fabric with harsh exposure, a water-resistant treatment will prevent moisture from seeping through the fabric.
Because workers get wet and dirty, Shining can produce different types of hi-viz rain jackets adds a water-resistant coating; leaving room for a few garments that are both waterproof and waterproof-breathable. The breadth lets you decide exactly how much water you want to keep out.