What is the difference between water resistant and waterproof rainwear?

The myriad of available rainwear can be overwhelming, making it tricky to choose the right one for your application. While the terms water resistant and waterproof are often used interchangeably, they mean different things and protect users in different ways.

One of the most obvious differences between water resistant and waterproof PPE is the amount of rain (or other liquid) it can withstand. But there are more nuanced distinctions as well, so it’s worth taking a closer look at the two major rainwear categories.

Water Resistant Rainwear

Water resistant rainwear is lightweight and comfortable to wear and work in. This type of gear will handle light rain for a short time and can prevent a small amount of fine spray or liquid splashes from reaching the skin. Windbreakers and featherweight jackets will help you out when you’re stuck in a quick spat of light rain, but they are not sufficient to hold up against lingering or heavy precipitation.

Waterproof Rainwear

Waterproof rainwear is liquid-proof and keeps water-soluble materials out. These garments are often made of plastic or rubber and are sufficient to protect against driving rain, making them ideal for heavy use in windy, wet weather. This category of PPE is a bit more complex, as you’ll find breathable and non-breathable options out there. Which one is best for your application?

Breathable/waterproof PPE keeps rain from reaching your skin but allows sweat to move through. It’s lightweight with stitched and tape-sealed seams to ensure integrity during inclement weather (read more in Weather Matters: Spring Specific Safety Topics). Breathable/waterproof gear is usually ideal for applications:

• Where employees are exposed to unpredictable climate conditions
• Involving movement that increases the heart rate and causes employees to sweat
• Where workers are not at risk for chemical exposure

Non-breathable/waterproof rainwear is made of impermeable material. While it protects against hazards like chemicals, this gear does not breathe. You’ll also find that it offers minimal features to avoid getting caught on equipment or tearing. This might be your best choice if workers are:

• Standing around and need to keep the rain out
• Using or working around chemicals (learn about The Top 4 Pathways for Chemical Exposure)
• Involved in wastewater management, environmental clean-up, petro-chemical, and mining applications

Regardless of which option you end up selecting, I recommend taking time to review your needs. Conduct a thorough assessment of your work site(s) and worker requirements. It’s important to fully understand employee needs and the hazards they face before choosing the right gear to protect them.