Water Resistant & Waterproof Jackets
Dont be
fooled, water resistant and water proof are NOT the same thing! We are here to
help you understand the difference so you can get exactly what you are looking
for out of a jacket. Ever wondered what those MM water proof ratings mean? Is
the bigger the number the better? I am here to help answer all your questions
and help you understand! The
terms water proof and water resistant refer to the extent to which water is stopped
from entering or leaving an object. The correct definition of the term water
proof is that the product completely resists the entry of water into it. On the
other hand, water resistance means that the product has a capability of
resisting water from entering into it to a certain extent.
It is important to
note that if an items is not seam sealed and does not have a water proof
zipper, the item is NOT FULLY WATERPROOF. Seam Sealing is a method used to make
materials more waterproof by putting a waterproof tape or liquid sealant along
the seams (usually on the inside so it can't be seen.) If a garment is not seam
sealed the water will go through the stitching where the fabric is sewn
together such as on the shoulder or near the zipper. Many jackets these days
also have a zipper flap that covers the zipper and closes with Velcro over it.
This also helps protect you from getting water inside the jacket around that
area.
maybe you
think, But that makes no senseisnt waterproof an
absolute term? Something is either waterproof or it isnt, right?
Or, maybe you think, 10,000mm? WTF does that mean?
Yeah, we understand where youre coming from. In static-column tests, a 1-inch
diameter tube stands vertically over a piece of waterproof material; the tube
is filled with water, and the measurement is the height of the water column in
millimeters when leakage begins. This is how you get the millimeter rating.
So remember,
a low MM rating will not keep you dry in heavy rain but should suffice in a
light sprinkle. A high MM rating and you wont get a drop of water on you!
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