Water Resistant VS Water Proof
What Do Water-Resistant Materials Do?
Water-resistant materials normally are very tightly woven fabrics that make it extremely hard for water to get to your skin or penetrate through fully. For example, Merino wool has special crimps at the end of the fibers that lock them tightly together and push out the moisture that impacts the surface. While water-resistant materials do a good job of keeping most of the moisture out, it still retains it and your clothing will feel wet for a short period of time.
Water-resistant materials often have quick-drying properties within them that make the drying period very fast compared to more absorbent materials such as pure cotton or wool. Another important aspect of shopping for clothes that resist outside moisture is water repellent. This causes water to bead on the surface and roll-off.
What Materials Are Water-Resistant
Water-resistant fabrics are derived from synthetically made materials such as man-made fabrics like polyester and nylon. Water repellent fabrics are hydrophobic, meaning they withstand bouts of water more efficiently. Many times, you will see that finishes to fabrics are what provide water repellent qualities.
Water repellent fabrics are usually synthetically made, so they are scientifically structured and created for the sole purpose of pushing water off the surface. Many items such as your luggage, tents, and outdoor coverings or umbrellas are water-resistant. Water resistance can protect your clothing over time from damage and from odors that may come with it.
Nylon and polyester are two of the more popular water-resistant fabrics used in your clothing. This is thanks to the tight weave that creates a wall to block out the moisture.
What Does Waterproof Material Mean?
When you are looking for waterproof materials, then they most likely are laminated or coated with a product that makes them fully waterproof. These are fabrics or waterproofing materials such as rubber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), silicone elastomer, fluoropolymers, and wax. These help block the water from rain or snow while allowing sweat to evaporate off your skin and through the surface in the process.
These finishes allow for your body to direct water accordingly because they are not trying to absorb the water. This way, perspiration is directed away from the body effectively because sweat is being evaporated and moisture is being redirected. Waterproof materials are often sturdy and thick but can be extremely breathable and lightweight.
One great way to achieve a waterproof material that is also comfortable is to layer materials in the clothing that have different purposes like activewear or travel clothing. A waterproof exterior does not mean the interior has to be uncomfortable and lack stretch.
Waterproofing is measured by how much pressure a fabric can take before letting moisture in. Fabrics that are waterproof are impenetrable by water while water-resistant materials are able to absorb some moisture before feeling wet. Waterproof materials often have sealed seams in order to block out any risk of absorbing moisture.
What Materials Are Waterproof
One of the more popular waterproof materials is laminated cotton, which is an environmentally friendly option.. You may find laminated fabrics in ski clothing, hats, and jackets and works well in extreme conditions. Other artificial materials like vinyl and plastic can also be great because they are synthetically made.
Most fabrics can be made waterproof if they are finished off with waterproof coatings and laminates. In many cases, it should be advertised alongside the clothing so you will know. If you aren’t sure, research what materials and fabrics were used in your clothes so you can be confident in your decisions.
Water-Resistant Diversion Pant
Western Rise created the Diversion Pant that is versatile and water-resistant travel pants. The fabric has two layers, combining nylon canvas that is normally seen in a work pant and the interior dobby weave of a pair of sweatpants. This makes them durable on the outside and extremely soft and comfortable on the inside.
These pants are built for movement and rugged activities but are refined and slim-fitting so they also can be worn out on date night or on errands throughout the day. The fabric is topped off with a finish that is self-cleaning so it sheds dirt and dust and fights stains so it can handle any situation. It is perfect for the man who works outdoors and their traditional work pants are torn up.
The Diversion Pant will last a long time and will feel comfortable in any type of weather. Buying these pants saves you a ton of money in the long run because they will remain looking like they are in their original state.
