What's the difference between waterproof and water-resistant PPE?

Need PPE to keep your team dry on the job? Understanding the difference between water-resistant and waterproof workwear is essential.

They sound similar, but waterproof and water-resistant clothing offer different levels of protection.

Waterproof, showerproof, or water-resistant? Let’s look at the differences so you can protect your team with PPE best suited to their working environment.

WHAT DOES WATER-RESISTANT MEAN?

Does water-resistant mean waterproof? No, it doesn’t.

Clothing labelled as water-resistant has a water repellent outer layer and offers some level of wet weather protection. This does not mean it’s waterproof.

Water-resistant fabrics repel moisture, causing it to bead on the surface rather than soak in.

This will keep your workforce dry in light showers, but water can still seep through zips, pockets, and seams in wetter conditions.

WHAT IS WATERPROOF PPE?

Want to keep your team as dry as possible? Waterproof PPE is designed to do just that.

Waterproof workwear provides the highest level of protection in wet weather and high humidity.

Even the heaviest rainfall can’t pass through waterproof materials.

Unlike water-resistant clothing, waterproof PPE also includes:

• Adjustable cuffs
• Fully taped seams
• Waterproof zip covers
• Breathable inner layer
• Waterproof outer coating

Waterproof PPE is best suited for construction workers, utility engineers, and agricultural workers.

Explore the SMI waterproof range to find jackets, trousers, and more weather-resistant PPE for your team.

WHAT ARE THE METHODS OF WATERPROOF TESTING?

PPE must be tested for both water penetration resistance and breathability to meet the European EN 343:2019 standard for wet weather protection.

Your workforce will stay comfortable during their shift with PPE designed to keep both rain and sweat off their skin.

HOW IS WATERPROOF PPE TESTED?

A hydrostatic pressure test is used to rate how waterproof a garment’s fabric and seams are.

Testing involves:

• Applying pressurised water to the fabric and seams.
• Repeating the fabric test after washing and flexing for Class 2 and 3 ratings.
• Confirming the level of water pressure the garment can withstand before it leaks.

HOW IS BREATHABILITY TESTED?

To meet the EN 343:2019 standard, the breathability of waterproof fabrics is tested using a heated skin model. This test shows how well body heat and sweat can escape through the material.

Testing includes:

• Placing the workwear over a heated skin model.
• Simulating sweat with a layer of water between the model and fabric.
• Measuring how well the material resists the water vapour trying to pass through.

UNDERSTANDING WATERPROOFING LEVELS

Need more help understanding the different waterproofing levels? We’ve got you covered.

Breathability and water penetration resistance are each rated from 1 to 4. Workwear with a class 4 rating offers the highest level of protection in both areas.

Here’s the lowdown on water penetration resistance and breathability ratings:

CLASS 1

• Fabric and seams must withstand at least 8,000 Pascals (Pa) before any wear or washing.
• Not tested after washing or movement. Performance may reduce over time.
• Best for light, wet conditions or short exposure.
• Breathability: Allows sweat to evaporate for up to 60 minutes in environments up to 25°C.

CLASS 2

• Fabric must withstand at least 8,000 Pascals (Pa) after washing and flexing.
• Seams must resist the same water pressure level, but are only tested before treatment.
• Better wet weather protection than Class 1, ideal for moderate rain or longer exposure.
• Breathability: Keeps sweat away for up to 105 minutes in environments up to 25°C.

CLASS 3

• Fabric and seams must withstand 13,000 Pascals (Pa) before treatment. Fabric must also withstand this pressure after treatment.
• Best for working long hours in wet conditions.
• Breathability: Keeps sweat away for over 3 hours in environments up to 25°C.

CLASS 4

• Fabric and seams must withstand at least 20,000 Pascals (Pa) both before and after washing, flexing, and abrasion.
• Offers the highest level of protection under EN 343:2019.
• Ideal for demanding, long-duration work in persistent heavy rain.
• Breathability: Maintains comfort for extended periods in wet conditions, typically over 4 hours at 25°C.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WATERPROOF AND WATER-RESISTANT WORKWEAR?

From testing to design features, there are many differences between waterproof and water-resistant workwear.

Let’s take a closer look so you can work out the best PPE choice for your team.

Water-resistant PPE:

• Keeps you dry in light rain or brief exposure.
• Not suitable for prolonged or heavy downpours.
• Typically has a moisture-repellent outer coating.
• May include features like adjustable cuffs or water-repellent zips.
• Some garments include breathable membranes, but without sealed seams, they can’t be classed as waterproof.

Waterproof PPE:

• Fully sealed or taped seams to stop water ingress.
• Often tested to EN 343:2019 for water resistance and breathability.
• Includes a waterproof coating and breathable inner membrane.
• Designed to stay dry during long shifts in wet, high-pressure conditions.
• May feature storm flaps, zip covers, and adjustable cuffs for added protection.

WATER-RESISTANT VS WATERPROOF PPE: WHICH IS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOUR WORKFORCE?

Keep your outdoor workers comfortable in all weather conditions by providing PPE that withstands the elements.

Here’s what to think about when choosing your team’s workwear:

• Are they at risk of overheating?
• How much time do they spend working outdoors?
• Will water-resistant workwear provide enough protection?

Water-resistant PPE is best suited for workers spending short periods outside in light rainfall. This workwear is showerproof and is often the cheaper option.

Choose waterproof clothing for your team members who spend more time in wet weather conditions.

The waterproof rating scale will help you find the right weather protection for your workforce.

Employees spending their whole working day braving the elements need class 3 waterproofs. If their work is strenuous, their PPE should also be rated 3 for maximum breathability.

Find a large range of waterproof PPE in the SMI shop.

NOT SURE IF YOUR TEAM NEEDS WATERPROOF OR WATER-RESISTANT CLOTHING?

Still unsure what’s right for your workforce? We’re here to help.

From waterproof coveralls to water-resistant footwear, providing your team with high-quality PPE is easy when you work with a single source supplier.

Get in touch with our team to find the best solution for your business.