Ever wondered about the difference between waterproof and water resistant fabrics in outerwear? With high tech fabric everywhere these days, it’s hard to know what to choose. The easiest way to decide is to consider what you’ll need your new jacket for; Hiking? Commuting? Playground visits in the rain? Here’s everything you need to know about waterproof vs. water resistant fabric, and how to choose the perfect jacket for you and your family. 

How is waterproofing measured?

Waterproofing is measured in millimetres (mm), and called hydrostatic head. It measures how much water can be applied to a fabric before it starts to leak through. 

Rating

3,000mm:	Water resistant. Softshells are a great example of water resistant jackets
7,000mm:	Very waterproof and rainproof. Ideal for raincoats and jackets intended for outdoor use in all weather, like a shell raincoat.
8,000mm:	Extremely waterproof and ideal for heavy weather. This rating is often found in heavier winter jackets designed for extreme weather.

When choosing the best outerwear for wet weather, it's vital to understand the difference between water-resistant and waterproof jackets. 

What is a water resistant jacket?

Water-resistant jackets are treated with a special coating that helps repel light rain or drizzle, but they are not fully impermeable. Jackets like softshells are water resistant, and will keep you dry during short trips from the car to the office in an inner-city shower. 

What is a waterproof jacket?

Waterproof jackets are designed to keep you dry in heavy weather. These jackets are fully seam sealed, use high tech fabrics and have a durable water repellent (DWR) coating. All these elements combine to keep you ultra dry, even during heavy downpours. 

Choosing your next waterproof jacket or a weather resistant jacket depends on your fave activities

Choosing between a waterproof jacket and a water resistant jacket depends on what you think you’ll be doing when you’re wearing your new outwear. 

The best lightweight breathable hiking jacket

If you’re a keen hiker, you’ll need a jacket that:

• Keeps you ultra dry with a high waterproof rating so you don’t get caught out in bad weather.
• Is very breathable to help your sweat escape
• Isn’t too bulky or heavy to keep you from carrying extra weight
• Has an adjustable hood and sleeves to help seal off your face and hands to keep you extra dry in a downpour.

Forget old-fashioned raincoats in traditional colours, new designs blend form and function. Look for modern lightweight waterproof jackets in deep green, red or light brown tones like Beetle, Earth Red, Saddle and Forest. 

Long line jackets and softshells keep you dry for inner city living

If you’re after a chic layer to shield you from gentle showers between the office and your transport, water resistant softshells or long-line jackets are ideal. 

Long line jackets help you stay dry throughout the day

Commuting in a jacket with a longer, tapered hemline helps shield your legs from rain, and keep you dry when sitting waiting for public transport. The Rainbird waterproof jacket, Malin, is a fresh take on the classic raincoat. Not only does it keep you ultra dry, it’s available in black or a fresh rose blush, adding a pop of colour to every rainy day. 

Softshell jackets keep you dry in gentle rain

Softshell jackets are the ultimate weather resistant jackets. Thanks to their unique outer fabric, they look less like outerwear and more like a high street jacket. High quality options even offer 3-layer laminated fabrics that stretch and move to keep you comfortable. Plus, their breathable materials prevent overheating, with some styles including a high pile fleece for extra warmth. If you need a jacket that works in cool and warmer weather, some softshells offer zip-off sleeves to convert the jacket into a vest. 

The best winter waterproof jacket for outdoor adventures

Winter adventures call for ultra warm, waterproof and durable jackets. Getting caught in a blizzard without the right outwear is dangerous, so look for a waterproof rating of 8,000mm or more, as well as warm lining and fill. To prevent allergies in you and others around you, look for ultra warm jackets that are insulated with a warm hypoallergenic synthetic fill. 

The best lightweight waterproof running jacket australia

Finding the best lightweight waterproof running jacket is difficult, as running jackets need extra features to make them practical and wearable. Look for:

• Quiet fabric that won’t make a loud ‘swish’ sound as you move your arms with each step
• Lightweight fabric that also promises a high waterproof rating that won’t weigh you down
• An adjustable hood that can be tightened around your face to keep you ultra dry
• Adjustable sleeves to prevent drips penetrating your sleeves and making your top wet
• Fully sealed pockets to place your valuables in while you’re jogging in the rain
• A breathability rating of at least 5000mvp to let your skin breathe as you work out

Choosing Between a Lightweight Waterproof Jacket or a Winter Waterproof Jacket

If you know you need a waterproof jacket, consider if you’ll need your jacket to provide insulation and warmth as well as waterproofing. For example, if you’re heading into the mountains for a winter getaway, you’ll want an ultra warm waterproof jacket. For harsh winter conditions, look for one that can handle snow, wind, and rain: The fleece-lined Hestia jacket is an excellent example of an ultra-warm, waterproof option built to withstand any weather.

For warmer conditions, there are plenty of lightweight waterproof jackets that serve as waterproof shells. A minimal shell jacket like Rainbird’s Halley Shell jacket in Black or Red Earth is perfect for wet weather and can be worn over countless layers. 

When choosing between a waterproof and water resistant jacket, consider what activity you’ll need your jacket for. If you’re commuting in the city, water resistance is often all you’ll need to stay dry and comfortable. If you’re heading away for an outdoor adventure in winter though, you’ll need a fully insulated waterproof winter jacket. These two options cater to the extremes of weather conditions, but there are many jackets available that provide coverage for everything in between. Browse Rainbird’s catalogue using their dropdown menu and select your desired waterproof level to help you find the perfect jacket for you.