Waterproof Fabrics Buying Guide

Introduction

Buying waterproof clothing can be deceptively complex. The main function of waterproof clothing is to keep you dry. But it should also be breathable allowing moisture to escape so you stay dry from the inside and helping regulate your temperature.

A lot of terminology and jargon comes along with waterproofs like hydrostatic heads, DWR and MVTR. This guide will break down what all this means and help you find the best waterproof for your needs.

GORE-TEX is the world’s leading waterproof fabric technology. Alternative waterproof fabrics include FUTURELIGHT™ from The North Face and Patagonia’s H2No.

How do do they work?

How do waterproof fabrics work?

Membranes

GORE-TEX with ePE membrane

ePTFE membranes with a PU coating

ePTFE membranes without a PU coating

GORE-TEX's sustainability initiatives culminated in the launch of an ePE (expanded polyethylene) membrane that eliminates the need for PFCs (perfluorinated chemicals). The membranes is treated with a PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) that allows water vapour to pass through from the inside while keeping water from the outside. The DWR wears off faster than DWR containing PFCs, so it needs to be reapplied more often.

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Construction

How a waterproof garment is constructed is key to comfort, longevity, and is an indicator of overall quality. Waterproof membranes or PU films are sandwiched between an outer layer (or 'face fabric') and an inner layer ('scrim') sitting next to the skin. The face fabric adds durability and carries the DWR. The scrim wicks moisture outwards and helps protect the film and membrane from contaminants. The nature of the inner layer determines whether a fabric is 3, 2.5 or 2-layer. With 3 Layer (e.g. GORE-TEX Pro) the outer, membrane & inner are bonded together into one flexible material With 2.5 Layer (e.g. GORE-TEX Paclite) the outer & membrane are bonded together with a very thin internal carbon or textured 'half layer' on the inside With 2-Layer (e.g. GORE-TEX Performance) the outer & membrane are bonded together, but the internal lining is a loose-hanging fabric or mesh

Seam Sealing

You can make a jacket from waterproof material, but unless you seal the seams, it will leak very quickly. Look inside a waterproof jacket, and you will see strips of tape covering the seams. This taping will not let moisture through in either direction so the more taping, the less breathable the jacket. It also stiffens the seam area. That's why Arc'teryx and others strive to reduce the number of seams and the width of the tape used. Tape is usually essential, but reducing the amount results in a lighter, more supple and more breathable jacket.

Waterproof fabric technology definitions

Hydrostatic head

DWR

PFCs

Measuring performance of waterproof fabrics

Hydrostatic head is a way of measuring how waterproof a fabric is. The measurement in millimetres is how high a column of water standing on the fabric would need to be before the water would penetrate the fabric. A higher rating signifies greater waterproof capability. Although rain rarely exceeds pressure of 500mm many fabrics have hydrostatic head ratings of 10,000m plus. This is because higher pressures than rain can occur when sitting or kneeling on wet ground. Over time a fabric's hydrostatic head can diminish.

Waterproof fabric types

GORE-TEX

GORE-TEX is the leading waterproof fabric technology. There are a number of different versions with different weaves and deniers.

GORE-TEX Pro

GORE-TEX Pro is designed for mountaineers and those out regularly in bad conditions. The emphasis is still on durability for extended use.

GORE-TEX Performance

Available in either a 2-layer construction or as a 3-layer laminate. Both versions are well suited for cooler autumn or winter weather.

GORE-TEX Paclite

Paclite packs down small and light. A carbon backer protects the membrane so a full-scale lining isn't needed - this results in a smaller pack size than most other waterproof garments. It's an excellent choice for occasional use such as trekking or travel where it may sit in a pack until the rain starts falling.

GORE-TEX Paclite Plus

GORE-TEX Paclite Plus garments utilise a 2-layer unlined construction to make them thin, lightweight and extremely packable.

The North Face FUTURELIGHT

FUTURELIGHT utilises a production method called nanospinning, where nano-sized fibres are created. The nano-sized spaces between these fibres result in superior air permeability while maintaining excellent durability and waterproof performance. This allows for variable thickness within a single piece of fabric to ensure comfortable movement and softness to the touch. A lamination process attaches the nanosized fibres to face fabrics without sacrificing breathability, waterproof performance, or durability.

FUTURELIGHT Summit Series

These garments are designed to be strong, lightweight and functional enough to keep you comfortable in the most extreme mountaineering conditions.

Patagonia H2No

Patagonia’s H2No fabrics are waterproof, breathable, and durable. Once a fabric has passed Patagonia’s rigorous tests, it achieves their H2No Performance Standard status.

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