Waterproof or water-repellent workwear: which suits your job?
The difference between waterproof and water-repellent workwear is in the composition of the garment and its degree of protection. Which of the two you need depends on your duties and working conditions. In this blog, we clearly explain the difference between the two terms and help you choose the right work jacket, work pants and work shoes.
Why good workwear is essential in rainy weather
When you work outside, you are guaranteed to encounter rain and cold. As the saying goes, “Bad weather doesn’t exist, bad clothing does. Having the right clothing not only keeps you dry, but also makes you work more safely and productively.
Waterproof vs. water repellent: what’s the difference?
| Feature | Water repellent | Waterproof |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | Light rain, drizzle, moderate snow | Heavy rain, prolonged rainfall, sleet |
| DWR treatment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Waterproof membrane | Sometimes* | ✓ |
| Fully taped seams | ✖ | ✓ |
| Water-resistant zippers | ✖ | ✓ |
* Water-repellent clothing may contain a membrane, but without taped seams and water-resistant zippers, it is not fully waterproof.
Measure waterproofness with the water column
The waterproofness of your clothing is expressed in a “water column. It indicates how much pressure (in millimeters) a fabric can withstand before water penetrates it.
- 0 millimeter: not waterproof
- 0 – 1,000 millimeters: water repellent
- 1,000 – 5,000 millimeters: protects against light rain, but may leak under pressure (such as sitting)
- 5,000 – 15,000 millimeters: highly waterproof, resistant to heavy rainfall
- 15,000 – 30,000 millimeters: extremely waterproof, resistant to downpours or snow
What does “waterproof” mean?
Waterproof clothing does not let water pass through thanks to a combination of a water-repellent DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating and a waterproof, breathable membrane, such as Gore-Tex, Sympatex or Dermizax. The membrane acts as a barrier: it keeps rain out while allowing perspiration to escape from inside.
Truly waterproof clothing also has fully taped seams and water-resistant zippers. These prevent water from seeping in through vulnerable areas.
View a selection of our waterproof workwear
Waterdichte outdoorjas Pinnacles James Harvest
Kensington winterjas Helly Hansen
Waterdichte werkschoen Gore-Tex Atlas
Waterdichte werkbroek Projob
View a selection of our water-repellent workwear
Waterafstotende werkbroek Advanced Mascot
Waterafstotende softshell jas Printer Prime
Waterafstotende S3-werkschoen Pulse Redbrick
What does “water repellent” mean?
Water-repellent workwear is treated with a DWR coating. This treatment causes water droplets to roll off the fabric. This type of clothing is suitable for light rain or brief wet conditions, but water eventually penetrates with prolonged exposure.
A DWR coating wears off over time, so it is important to reapply it regularly. You can test whether the coating is still working by seeing if water forms in droplets and rolls off the fabric.
Advance to environmentally friendly coating
Traditional C6 or C8 coatings contain PFAS, a chemical that makes clothing water- and oil-repellent, but is also harmful to the environment. More and more outdoor clothing is getting the eco-friendly water-repellent C0 coating, a sustainable alternative without harmful chemicals. PFAS-free clothing is also easier to recycle and reuse. However, challenges remain: C0 currently offers less protection against oil and has a shorter lifespan. Different treatments will be tested in the near future to address these challenges, with a view to possibly making workwear completely PFAS-free by 2026.
Water-repellent and waterproof work shoes
The water resistance of work shoes is referred to as WR (Water Resistant) or WPA (Water Penetration and Absorption). WR shoes protect against light rain or water splashes, while WPA shoes are more robust and better able to withstand prolonged exposure to water and wet environments. Features such as waterproof membranes, reinforced seams and breathable materials keep feet dry and comfortable.
Within the EN ISO 20345 standard, waterproofing and other safety features are specified in S standards:
- S1: Suitable for dry working environments only, does not provide water resistance.
- S2: Protects against light moisture, but is not completely waterproof.
- S3: Water-repellent and waterproof for up to 60 minutes on light contact with water. This is the most popular safety shoe.
- S4 & S5 (work boots): Fully waterproof. S5 offers extra protection against heavy loads, impacts and punctures and is ideal for tough working conditions.
- S6: Similar to S2, but with the WR standard, which means at least 80 minutes of water resistance.
- S7: Similar to S3, but with the WR standard (at least 80 minutes waterproof). Excellent for harsh weather conditions.
Always choose the S rating that matches your work environment for optimal protection.
Waterproof or water repellent: how to make the right choice?
The choice between waterproof and water-repellent workwear depends on your working conditions.
- Water-repellent workwear: ideal for light rain or short-term outdoor work. In addition, it is often made of lighter material and the clothing is more economical.
- Waterproof workwear: suitable for intense rain, prolonged outdoor work or wet snow. Always choose a work jacket and work pants with a high water column, taped seams and waterproof zippers for complete waterproofing.