Rain can be a real nuisance, but having the right rainwear can make all the difference. A good raincoat or waterproof jacket can keep you dry and comfortable, even in the heaviest downpours. But with so many options available, how do you choose the one that's right for you? Here are some factors to consider when choosing a raincoat or waterproof jacket:
The difference between a water-resistant and waterproof jacket
The main difference between a water-resistant and waterproof jacket is the level of protection against water. A water-resistant jacket is designed to protect against light rain or a drizzle, but it's not designed to withstand prolonged exposure to rain or very humid conditions.
On the other hand, a waterproof jacket is designed to protect against more extreme weather conditions, such as prolonged downpours, heavy rain, or even sleet.
If you're looking for a jacket for occasional use and light rains, a water-resistant jacket may be sufficient. However, if you plan to spend a lot of time in very humid environments or under prolonged rain, a waterproof jacket is a more suitable choice for optimal protection.
Waterproofness
The most important feature of a raincoat or waterproof jacket is its ability to protect you against water. It's important to look for a coat made from waterproof material or equivalent fabric. Some raincoats or waterproof jackets also come with a DWR (durable water repellent) coating that helps to repel water and prevent it from accumulating on the surface of the outer fabric.
2 or 3-layer, how to choose?
The terms "3-layer," "2.5-layer," and "2-layer" refer to the construction of the waterproof membrane that's inside the raincoat. Here's an explanation of the difference between these three types of waterproof protection :
- 3-layer waterproof : This is a fabric made up of three layers: an outer layer for protection against water and abrasion, a waterproof membrane in the middle to block water while allowing body moisture to escape, and an inner lining for comfort and protection of the waterproof membrane. 3-layer raincoats are typically thicker, more durable, and more resistant to wear and tear than other types of raincoats. These jackets are ideal for hiking, mountaineering, or winter sports activities.
- 2.5-layer waterproof : This is a fabric made up of two and a half layers: an outer layer for protection against water and abrasion, a waterproof and breathable membrane in the middle, and a half inner layer for protection of the membrane. 2.5-layer raincoats are lighter and more compressible than 3-layer raincoats. These jackets are perfect for intense activities such as walking, running, or cycling, thanks to their lightness and breathability.
- 2-layer waterproof : This is a fabric made up of two layers: an outer layer for protection against water and abrasion and a waterproof and breathable membrane in the middle. A lightweight lining is added for comfort. These lightweight jackets are suitable for hiking as well as more urban use.
Breathability
While it's important to stay dry, you don't want to feel like you're wearing a sauna suit. Choose a raincoat or jacket that offers good breathability, meaning it allows moisture (like sweat) to escape from the inside of the coat. This will help you stay comfortable and prevent you from feeling clammy.
Additionally, pit zips are important for waterproof jackets because they allow for additional ventilation and help to remove excess heat and moisture that can build up inside the jacket. This can be particularly important when it's raining or there is humidity in the air, as it can lead to a build-up of sweat and moisture inside the jacket.
The accumulation of sweat and moisture can make the jacket uncomfortable to wear and can even lead to a feeling of coldness if the outside temperature is cool. Pit zips also allow for greater freedom of movement and can make it easier to engage in physical activities while wearing a waterproof jacket.
Understanding waterproof and breathable ratings.
Waterproof and breathable ratings are measures used to evaluate a garment's performance in terms of protection against water and sweat. The ratings are typically expressed as two numbers separated by a forward slash, such as 10k/10k, 15k/15k, or 20k/20k.
The first number represents the waterproof rating, which measures the amount of water a fabric can resist before water begins to penetrate through. The higher the rating, the more waterproof the fabric is. A waterproof rating of 10,000 mm means the fabric can resist a column of water 10 meters high before water seeps through.
The second number represents the breathability rating, which measures a fabric's ability to allow water vapor to escape. The higher the rating, the more breathable the fabric is. A breathability rating of 10,000 g/m²/24 h means the fabric can evacuate up to 10,000 grams of water vapor per square meter of fabric in 24 hours.
Generally, sports or outdoor clothing requires protection against water and sweat to maintain the user's comfort and performance. Waterproof and breathable ratings allow consumers to compare the performance of different garments and choose the one that best suits their needs for protection against the elements and comfort.
Fit
An overly loose or tight raincoat or jacket can be uncomfortable and less effective at keeping you dry. Look for a coat that fits you well, with enough room to add layers of clothing underneath if necessary. Make sure the sleeves are long enough to cover your wrists and that you have an adjustable hood that is large enough to cover your head and stay in place in windy weather.
Seams and zippers sealed
When looking to buy a raincoat or waterproof jacket, it is important to consider the seams. Sealed seams are a crucial element in maintaining the waterproofness of your garment. Sealed seams are stitching points that have been treated with a special tape to prevent water from penetrating through the stitch holes. This means that even under heavy rain, water will not be able to seep through the seams of your rain jacket.
Zippers are also important as they can be a source of water infiltration if they are not waterproof. High-quality zippers will either have protective flaps to prevent water from entering through the zippers or the zippers will be fully sealed.
Weight and compressibility
Think about how heavy your raincoat or jacket will be to carry and how much space you have to store it in. If you're going on a hike or trip, it's best to choose a lightweight jacket that packs down to a small space. If you wear it every day, the weight and bulk are less important.
Cleaning and maintenance
One of the most important aspects of caring for your raincoat is to clean it regularly. It may seem tedious, but it can make all the difference in the performance and durability of your garment.
Every year, your raincoat accumulates dirt, body oils, perspiration and other contaminants that can clog the pores of the fabric and reduce your garment's ability to repel water. In addition, dirt can also damage the raincoat fabric over time, making it more vulnerable to tears and wear.
By cleaning your raincoat every year, you can remove these contaminants, restore your garment's breathability and functionality, and extend its life. Regular cleaning can also help prevent odors and maintain the appearance of your garment. It is very important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning the garment.
See our care section.
When your raincoat starts to show signs of wear and tear and isn't as water-repellant as it used to be, it's time to give it new life with Granger products. Granger products are high-quality cleaning and waterproofing solutions that help protect and extend the life of your waterproof clothing.
The first Granger product you can use is Performance Wash, which thoroughly cleans your coat without damaging the waterproof membrane. This cleaner is designed to remove dirt and stains while maintaining the breathability and waterproofing of your garment.
After cleaning your coat with Performance Wash, you can apply Performance Repel Waterproofing Spray. This product restores the waterproofing ability of your garment by protecting it from water and stains. It's easy to use and leaves no residue.
By considering these factors, you will be able to choose a raincoat or jacket that will keep you dry and comfortable, no matter what the weather conditions. It is essential to consider the waterproofing, breathability and construction of the coat to find the one that best suits your needs. 3-ply waterproof coats are stronger and more durable, while 2.5-ply and 2-ply are lighter and more compressible. Finally, make sure your waterproof coat has adequate ventilation to wick away moisture and sweat and stay comfortable, even in the most intense storms. With these things in mind, you should be able to choose a coat that will allow you to enjoy the outdoors in any weather.
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