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What's the Difference Between Waterproof & Water-Resistant?

  • Cristina Stavro
  • •

The terms "waterproof" and "water-resistant" appear often in the world of outdoor gear – for both dogs and humans.

We design gear in both those categories because protection from the elements can be beneficial for dogs and humans looking to extend their outdoor pursuits into inclement conditions. And, as we all know, dogs are really good at getting wet, muddy, and dirty.

But, what's the difference between the "waterproof" and "water-resistant"? We put together a quick rundown of the performance you can expect from each and in which of our dog gear you'll find them.

Waterproof

For the most part, waterproof means no water in, no water out. To be entirely waterproof, the surface must be completely impervious to water and provide a high level of sustained water protection during harsh conditions and extended exposure.

Krissy trail runs with dog PD in rain jacket through damp forest.

The water column test is a standard test used across many industries to measure how waterproof a piece of fabric is. You'll notice it in the outdoor industry as a measurement of weather performance for things like outerwear and tents.

The fabric being tested is placed at one end of a tall tube that's 1 inch in diameter. The tube is filled with water, and the height of the water in the tube when the fabric begins to leak becomes the rating, expressed in millimeters of water.

The taller the column of water before the fabric leaks, the more waterproof the material (e.g. 10,000 mm fabric is more waterproof than 3,000 mm fabric).

For a point of reference: Wind-driven rain comes down with a force equal to the pressure of about 1,400 mm. A 1,000 mm - 5,000 mm rating performs well in moderate rain, and 5,000 mm - 10,000 mm is generally considered waterproof unless subjected to considerable pressure (great for serious downpours or constant rain exposure).

Man sits besides dog in Vert jacket on snowy trail.

Our Sun Shower™ Jacket (2,000 mm) and Vert Jacket (10,000 mm) are both waterproof options to keep your dog dry in wet conditions. No water can get in through the fabric, seams, or flaps because not only is the fabric waterproof, but the seams are sealed and buckles are covered.

Diagram showing how DWR waterproof membrane works.

Certain waterproof fabrics are sometimes described as breathable. They help regulate heat and release moisture, performing particularly well with high-energy activities. Our Cloud Chaser™ Jacket features a breathable, waterproof (rated at 10,000 mm) softshell upper panel. A similar material can be found in our Polar Trex™ Dog Boots.

Dog in cloud chaser jacket jumps up to catch snow in the air.

Water-Resistant

Water-resistant fabric is coated with a finish such as DWR (Durable Water Repellent). It's resistant but not impervious to penetration by water. Sometimes stated as "weather-resistant," these fabrics will often bead up rainwater or snow as it melts, forming drops on the surface. You get protection from limited precipitation, but water will eventually saturate the fabric with extended exposure.

We often use DWR finishes on our insulated apparel because it helps keep insulation dry – which in turn helps keep dogs warm. Jackets like the Powder Hound™, Quinzee™, Stumptown™, and Overcoat™ are all water-resistant and can shed light amounts of snow, water, or mud.

Bailey in Powder Hound jacket jumps for snow that Elise is throwing in the air.

Our Apparel Comparison Page shows a high-level, side-by-side comparison of how each of our jackets stack up in the waterproof category. It's a great resource for helping you head down the right path as you look for a jacket for your furry trail companion.

Shop for waterproof and weather-resistant gear at ruffwear.com, and share your stories with us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. If you have any questions, feedback or ideas, please don’t hesitate to bark.

Further Reading