Waterproof vs. Water Resistant

There is often confusion about products that have a label of “Waterproof” or “Water Resistant.” Most people think they are one in the same, when they are actually two very different things. Here is our break down in casual terms.

Waterproof – When a company says this they are saying “Water CANNOT penetrate the textile.” It’s Proof, just like something being fireproof. These tend to be items that are cases or something like that, like a waterproof camera. The object inside is completely sealed making that item now waterproof. In clothing, these items, if offered, tend to be the really stiff clothing or kinds that make a lot of noise when you walk. They would have to be of course because you are completely sealing the fabric so no water can get in.

One sentence summary – Water CANNOT penetrate.

Water Resistant – When a company says this they are saying “Water SHOULDN’T get in here.” A good example is when you are on a diet and you are resisting, let’s say…cake. You are trying not to get cake, so it’s best to avoid it. However, if you come near it, you may get a little “in” you. Now, back to clothing or average items with the title of water resistant, you don’t have to avoid water. However, water resistant means that if you drop it in a pool, it WILL get wet and it will probably get ruined if it’s electronic. Why use this? Well, most days you aren’t risking dropping something into a pool. So for every day clothing, this is perfect. It helps against everyday stains and small amounts of water. Since this technology don’t seal your fabric, it tends to be more comfortable and a more breathable fabric.

One sentence summary – Protects against a cup of water, not a pool.

Why do we say our products are Water Repellant? Is that different?
Water repellant is closer to being water resistant. If you jump in a pool, you will get wet. The main difference is that we are serious when we say it repels water and stains. The C-6 technology we use literally protects the fabric and works with it to create a blockade. You can see the water bead up and away from the fabric on contact. This protection keeps the fabric soft as if it wasn’t treated at all, making our clothing very comfortable for all occasions.

One sentence summary – Water repellant is a step up from being water resistant.