Jargon Buster - Technical Outerwear and Activewear
Outerwear Terminology:
Activewear Terminology:
UPF - Ultraviolet Protection Factor
Additional Information:
Waterproof Ratings
How waterproof a jacket is will depend on its waterproof rating. The higher a jacket’s waterproof rating, the longer the fabric will remain waterproof for.
| Rating | Resistance | Weather |
| 0 – 1,500mm | Barely water resistant | Very light rain |
| 1,500mm – 4,999mm | Water resistant | Light rain, short showers |
| 5,000mm - 9,999mm | Waterproof | Moderate rain, medium showers |
| 10,000mm - 19,999mm | Very Waterproof | Heavy rain, long downpours |
| 20,000mm+ | Extremely Waterproof | Very Heavy rain, all day |
Hydrostatic Testing
Waterproofness is tested to ensure the product meets the British Standard (which must be more than 1,500mm). Waterproof ratings are measured in millimetres using a Hydrostatic Head test.
In a Hydrostatic Head test, the fabric is pulled tight under a 1 inch diameter sealed tube of water. This is then observed over 24 hours to ascertain how many millimetres of water the fabric can withstand before it soaks through.
The level at which water starts to come through the fabric is the hydrostatic head, which is measured in mm.
DWR - Durable Water Repellency
The fabric used for water resistant jackets will be treated with a Durable Water Repellency coating (DWR), or a similar water repellent coating.
You can tell a jacket has been treated with a water repellent coating as water will bead up on the surface of the fabric and run off.
The biggest advantage of water resistant jackets is price, they tend to be more affordable than fully waterproof styles. However, they will usually be less durable and may need reproofing more regularly than other waterproof jackets.
If you need to reproof your waterproof jacket, check out our How to Reproof a Waterproof Jacket Guide.
Taped Seams
A jacket can be treated with a waterproof coating and have a waterproof membrane but not be fully waterproof. For a jacket to be 100% waterproof it will also need to have taped seams.
Taped seams are heat sealed seams that stop water coming through the stitching. It is particularly important to choose a jacket with taped seams if you will be in heavy, prolonged rain.
Types of Waterproof Jacket
Two Layer Waterproof Jackets
Two Layer Waterproof Jackets are the most common type of Waterproof Jacket. A two layer jacket combines an outer shell that is fully waterproof with an inner lining layer (membrane) of mesh, polyester taffeta or both. The inner lining layer prevents the deterioration of the waterproof lining by acting as a barrier to corrosion by the wearer’s movements and sweat.
Three Layer Waterproof Jackets
Three Layer Waterproof jackets are suitable for for just about all weather conditions, including torrential rain. Three layer Waterproof jackets contain an external waterproof fabric layer, an internal waterproof and breathable membrane and an additional bonded protective lining. These 3 layers are bonded together to make a technically efficient 1 layer lightweight jacket.
3 in 1 Waterproof Jackets
Not to be confused with a three layer jacket, a 3 in 1 waterproof jacket consists of a waterproof outer-shell with a detachable inner fleece, softshell or padded jacket. A 3 in 1 jacket is a versatile option for all year round and ideal for changeable weather conditions.
Breathable Waterproof Jackets
The ability of a jacket to allow perspiration to escape is as important as not letting water in, especially if you will be doing anything energetic.
If a waterproof jacket is not breathable, sweat will be unable to escape, making the wearer feel damp. It’s common for people to feel as though their waterproof has ‘leaked’ when in fact it’s perspiration from inside they are feeling.
In addition to a breathable membrane, other features such as pit zips and mesh lined pockets can contribute to a jackets breathability.
Fitting Waterproof Jackets
Most waterproof jackets will be cut differently for men and women, often you will find that women's jackets have shorter arms and a more tailored fit.
As a women, if you prefer a looser fitting jacket you may opt for a mens jacket. However, it is worth remembering it has not been cut for a female shape so may have wider shoulders and narrower hips.
When trying on waterproof jackets always take into account the layers you will need to fit underneath. You need to be able to move your arms and shoulders especially if you are likely to be wearing a backpack or doing an activity, such as hiking, where freedom of movement will be important.
Make sure the cuffs of the jacket are long enough to cover the top of your hand to help stop rain entering and soaking your arms.
The length of the jacket is also an important consideration. Always make sure the jacket is long enough to cover your lower back even when you lift your arms up. Shorter length waterproof jackets will often have a longer back so there won’t be a gap between your trousers and the jacket should it ride up. This is especially important for cyclists who will be bending forward a lot!