Waterproof outdoor apparel is a key part of any outdoor gear collection, regardless of weather conditions. From heavy rain, sideways sleet or blowing snowfall – waterproof outdoor apparel ensures your skin and body remain dry in all types of weather conditions.

Waterproof fabrics typically use perfluorinated chemicals (PFASs) to repel water and remain tough, but more companies are choosing alternatives.

Waterproof

This outerwear fabric for sale features a soft and quiet camouflage fleece with microporous membrane backing that is waterproof – providing warmth and comfort with breathability and mechanical stretch capabilities. Ideal for those seeking alternatives to traditional fleece/shell systems.

Created using a specialized membrane, waterproof fabric features gaps featuring tiny pores 20,000 times smaller than water drops to allow moisture vapor escape while still blocking liquid water under pressure. The results is an effective level of waterproofing.

Contrary to traditional waterproof fabrics that utilize loose inner linings, the ePTFE membrane in this fabric is laminated directly to its face fabric, thus significantly reducing weight and bulk while offering greater durability over time. Furthermore, DWR treatment helps resist saturation which could impair breathability.

Breathable

Breathable fabrics draw moisture away from the skin to keep you more comfortable during high-intensity activities, which makes outerwear that will be worn close to your body even more essential for keeping dry and cool.

Waterproof breathable fabrics consist of an outer face fabric covered by a laminated membrane or coating typically composed of expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene or Polyurethane; this membrane features microscopic holes sized precisely so as not to permit liquid water through while permitting vapour through.

Membranes are coated with an oleophobic layer to repel body oils from blocking breathability holes, making technical rainwear essential. This process, often referred to as seam sealing, ensures maximum breathability holes for breathability holes – an essential feature in technical rainwear. When purchasing outerwear that will be worn closely against your skin, look out for this label to get maximum value from your investment.

Lightweight

Mountaineers, hikers and backpackers in rainy conditions require lightweight waterproof apparel such as the KUHL Jetstream jacket to stay protected from the elements. Breathable waterproof fabrics like this KUHL Jetstream jacket offer excellent protection while helping prevent sweat vapor build-up in their gear.

Most high-performance gear features a laminated membrane such as Gore-tex’s eVent or DryVent fabrics, the latter of which often has 3-layer construction that combines fabric, membrane and moisture wicking fabric to prevent condensation forming between your skin and the membrane.

This Arc’teryx jacket utilizes Gore-tex ePadded Phase Nano fabric, which does not contain perfluorinated aromatic solvents (PFAS). Additionally, its helmet-compatible hood can easily tuck inside its collar for easy access; plus-sized women can enjoy wearing this garment!

Durable

Outdoor clothing must provide protection from the elements and withstand prolonged exposure to rain or snow, including waterproof and water-repellant fabrics that feature DWR treatments which protect from absorption or shed droplets to keep you dry and comfortable in all climates.

The best waterproof fabrics are laminated or bonded to a face fabric and treated with DWR coatings, such as GORE-TEX membranes. However, new technologies from brands like Alpkit and Paramo have advanced our understanding of waterproofness with polyester and polyurethane membranes that are lightweight yet highly durable.

These membranes can be reinforced with raised patterns that keep your skin away from the laminate or loose hanging mesh liners that prevent any tears from compromising waterproof protection. When looking for jackets and pants that offer full or critical taping – where all seams have tape applied but only high exposure areas have tape applied – look for garments with these features as these waterproof yet breathable materials also offer wind resistance, warmth, and wind protection to keep you comfortable while on the move.