What Waterproof Rating Do I Need For Outdoor Clothing?

If you're passionate about venturing into the great outdoors, then you'll know how quickly perfect sunshine and brilliant blue skies can turn into lashing rain and fierce winds. Whether you're an avid adventurer, dog walker or country rambler, waterproof clothing is absolutely crucial in keeping you dry and protected when the weather turns.

However, what many tend to overlook is the importance of waterproof ratings, and how these ratings are not only tailored to water exposure, but to specific environments, activities and weather conditions. For example, at Waterman's Country Supplies you may have seen waterproof jackets with a 25,000mm waterproof rating or trousers with an 8,000mm rating to indicate the amount of water a fabric can withstand when exposed to a column of water before a leak occurs. Simply put, the higher the waterproof rating is in millimeters(mm) the more waterproof the fabric is proven to be. Usually, waterproof fabrics are tested and rated using the hydrostatic head test.

Having the correct waterproof rating information to hand is vital. It'll give you the precise waterproof protection guidance needed to shield you from the specific severity of weather you'll be facing - from light drizzle and normal rain conditions to heavier rain, snow and extreme weather.

Also, if you get yourself familiar with waterproof ratings, you can make more informed budgetary, technical and style-based decisions about the waterproof clothing you're purchasing. For example, if you're only likely to be stepping out into light rain, it makes sense to shop according to the waterproof rating you actually need instead of overstretching yourself with an unreasonably high rating and a more expensive garment.

Waterproof Ratings - Explained

• Up to 2000mm: Water resistant (very light rain) - town and city travel, commuting, short leisurely walks and shopping trips.
• 2000mm - 5000mm: Waterproof (light to normal rain) - everyday use, longer commutes, casual outdoor activities like quick dog walks and short walks into town.
• 5000mm - 10,000mm: Highly waterproof (medium to heavy rain and moderate snow) - suitable for longer outdoor walks, hiking, rambling, trekking, walking uphill and extended time in the countryside. 
• 10,000mm - 20,000mm: Extremely waterproof (heavy rain exposure and wet snow) - suitable for long walks, hiking in the mountains, coastal walks and extended exposure in very rainy weather conditions. 
• 20,000mm & Up: All-day waterproof protection (high water pressure, heavy rain and snow) - can be used all day in all weather conditions, even if you're carrying a heavy backpack.

How Does It Work In The Waterman's Clothing Range?

In our Coats and Jackets clothing ranges, you'll come across a selection of high quality garments that have been handpicked from the very best brands in the outdoor adventure sphere. We strive to list the waterproof ratings of our waterproof garments so you can make an informed decision before you click 'buy'. However, if you have any queries or questions around any of our waterproof clothing, please don't hesitate to Contact Us today.

Want To Know More?

With a multitude of waterproof jackets, coats and trousers available, it can be difficult to work out all the different fabric variations and confusing terminology to find the right waterproof clothing to suit your outdoor activity of choice. Find out more in our previous blog: What Is The Difference Between GORE-TEX & Waterproof Fabric?

Important: Our waterproof ratings information is intended solely for guidance and information may differ from brand to brand. We recommend that you always defer to the exact waterproof ratings provided by the brand or supplier of the waterproof clothing you're looking to purchase.