What's the difference between waterproof & water-resistant sportswear?
Choosing sportswear for wet weather shouldn’t feel like deciphering a secret code, but terms like “waterproof,” “water-resistant,” and “water-repellent” can make it seem that way. One promises to shield you from a drizzle, another claims to laugh in the face of a downpour, yet they’re often used as if they mean the same thing. Let’s talk about what these terms really mean—and how to choose the right protection for your conditions.
Water-Resistant vs Waterproof vs Water-repellent
These three terms describe different levels of protection from moisture. They are not the same, and knowing the distinction will ensure you are prepared for whatever the weather brings.
Waterproof
A garment labelled as waterproof is designed to provide a complete barrier against moisture, keeping you dry even in sustained, heavy rain. This is achieved through a membrane or coating that prevents water from penetrating the fabric. To be considered truly waterproof, these garments must also have sealed or taped seams to stop water from leaking through the stitching.
However, a high waterproof rating often means a trade-off with breathability. That is why premium waterproof gear is engineered to not only block rain but also allow sweat vapour to escape, so you don’t get that clammy feeling during intense activity.
Measured in millimetres (mm), typically from 5,000 mm for light to moderate rain up to 20,000 mm+ for torrential downpours and extreme conditions.
Provides the highest level of protection from rain and snow. Keeps you fully dry for long periods. Sealed seams prevent leaks, making it dependable in harsh weather.
Heavy or prolonged rain, snowy conditions, and situations where staying dry is essential for safety and comfort. A waterproof jacket is ideal for long runs in rainy weather.
Water-resistant
Water-resistant sportswear offers a lower level of protection than waterproof gear. The fabric is woven tightly to make it difficult for water to penetrate, or it may have a light coating that causes water to bead up and roll off. This provides a good defence against light showers and brief exposure to rain.
Water-resistant materials may give way in heavy or persistent rain, but they offer better breathability.
They’re ideal for high-intensity workouts where you need airflow and only light moisture protection.
Not usually assigned a numerical value. Effectiveness depends on the fabric’s construction and any water-repellent coating.
Offers good breathability and stays comfortable during active use. Provides enough protection for light drizzle and brief showers.
Cool days with a chance of light rain, high-intensity workouts like running or training, and conditions where breathability matters more than full waterproofing.
Idrorepellente
Water-repellent is not a type of fabric but a finish applied to the exterior of a material. This treatment, often a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, causes water to form droplets and bead off the surface instead of soaking in. It is the first line of defence against precipitation.
Many water-resistant and even waterproof jackets have a DWR finish. Over time, with wear, dirt, and washing, this coating can wear off and will need to be reapplied. A fabric that is only water-repellent will keep you dry in a light mist but will quickly become saturated in anything more.
No formal rating system. Effectiveness depends on the quality and durability of the chemical finish.
Makes water bead and roll off the surface, preventing saturation in light moisture. The finish can be reapplied to extend a garment’s performance.
Works as a first line of defence on both water-resistant and waterproof garments. On its own, it’s suitable for very light, misty conditions.
Waterproof ratings explained
When you see a number like 10,000 mm on a garment's tag, you are looking at its waterproof rating. This figure tells you how much water pressure the fabric can withstand before it starts to leak. It’s a standardised measurement that helps you compare the performance of different jackets and trousers.
A higher number indicates a higher level of waterproofness. A rating of 5,000 mm is a good starting point for everyday rain protection, while a rating of 20,000 mm or more is what you would want for serious mountain expeditions or torrential weather. Understanding these numbers helps you match your gear to the conditions you expect to face.
Rating (mm):
- 0 - 5,000mm : Very light rain, dry snow, or everyday use with no pressure (e.g., walking short distances).
- 6,000 - 10,000mm : Moderate rain, average snow, suitable for hiking, skiing, or continuous exposure to light rain.
- 11,000 - 15,000mm : Heavy rain, wet snow, and good for extended periods outdoors with moderate pressure.
- 16,000 - 20,000mm+ : Torrential rain, extreme wet snow, high-pressure environments, and sustained strenuous activity (e.g., mountaineering or backcountry).
How are the ratings measured?
The waterproof rating is determined through a "hydrostatic head test." In this test, a tall tube is placed over a piece of the fabric and slowly filled with water. The test measures how many millimetres of water can be added to the column (tube) before the liquid starts to seep through the material.
If a jacket has a rating of 10,000 mm, it means it withstood a 10,000 mm (or 10-metre) column of water before leaking. This simulates the pressure of driving rain or sitting on a wet surface and provides a reliable indicator of its real-world performance.
How can you balance breathability and waterproofing?
The ultimate challenge in performance outerwear is creating a garment that keeps rain out while letting sweat escape. Without breathability, moisture gets trapped inside, leaving you just as wet as if you had worn no jacket at all. The key to achieving this balance lies in smart fabric technology and a strategic layering approach.
This is where the three-layer system becomes essential. By combining a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a protective outer layer, you can create a microclimate that adapts to your effort level and the weather. Our training sweatshirts, for instance, are designed to offer an effective balance of protection and breathability, making them ideal as part of a layering system on days with unpredictable weather.
When you need a reliable outer shell, Macron’s waterproof jackets are engineered to perform.
Choose Your Protection
Navigating the world of technical sportswear is simpler when you understand the language. Whether you need the light protection of a water-resistant layer for a quick training session or the complete security of a fully waterproof jacket for a run in heavy rain, the right choice depends on your activity and the conditions.
For days with heavy rain, Macron's Winter Essentials collection will keep you dry, comfortable, and warm, so you can focus on your performance, not the weather. Explore the collection to find the pieces that best suit your needs and get ready to face the elements with confidence.