Ultimate Guide to Waterproof Breathable Clothing (in 2023)

The purpose of this article is to discuss the main types of waterproof clothing, the various constructions, and the expected performance of various waterproof garments. Read this article to learn what to look for when choosing and buying a rain jacket, poncho, waterproof pants, gloves or socks. Here, we discuss all the important factors to consider together with our favorite waterproof clothes of 2023, their best features, and recommended use.

This article is a logical continuation of our post about waterproof breathable fabrics (WBFs), where we emphasized the importance of waterproof breathable textiles for sportswear and discussed their main functions, properties, and applications as well as the current trends on the WBFs market and future projections of their use. There, we also mentioned various clothes made of waterproof materials such as rain jackets and the reason why they’re so important for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals. In this article, we discuss the most important types of waterproof clothes, for outdoor use, at length.

An increasing number of people are embracing and enjoying outdoor sports and activities. There are various reasons behind the growing popularity of these pursuits, such as the excitement, the challenges and difficulties under various environmental conditions, along with the chance to spend time outdoors and reconnect with nature. Since both the environment and the heat generated during activities are beyond the control of those participating in outdoor sports, the provision of dependable sportswear capable of meeting the demands of rugged terrain and adverse weather becomes crucial. To ensure maximal enjoyment, this clothing must provide both protection from the environment and comfort. Typically, it comprises a layered clothing system suitable for a range of activities to be undertaken in varying environmental conditions.

Layering is among the most important concepts in outdoor apparel. A layered clothing system typically comprises three layers of clothing, each serving specific functions:

• Wicking and quick-drying base layer.
• Breathable mid-layer to trap still air next to the skin for better thermal insulation.
• Wind- and water-resistant outer layer for optimal protection against the elements.

For complete protection from rain or water, wearing a fully waterproof jacket is an option. However, relying solely on a basic waterproof outer layer proves ineffective, as it guards against rain and snow but fails to allow internal water vapor to escape. This results in condensation forming within the clothing system, significantly compromising its ability to provide insulation and weather protection. Moreover, this can dampen your insulating layers, which leads to the feeling of clamminess and what’s worse – excessive cooling. Hence, to offer both protection and comfort to the wearer, the outer layer must be both waterproof and breathable.

Waterproof breathable clothes: constructions

Consumers have high expectations of sportswear, particularly of waterproof and breathable clothes. They expect functionality, aesthetics, fit, comfort, ease of movement, reliability, and protection from environmental conditions like rain, snow, and cold. Certainly, both functionality and aesthetics are not always equally necessary. Functionality is more important for professional sportswear. Aesthetics is more important for those who prefer to wear sport clothes in the city. Thus, the level of activity must be taken into account in the design stage. There are also important components of a waterproof garment that must be specially designed. Among them: cuffs, hems, zippers, hoods, pockets, and seams.

Waterproof breathable fabrics are laminates, consisting of up to three distinct bonded layers. 3-layer constructions are the most waterproof and most durable, but also heaviest and least breathable. Such constructions often look the following way:

• Face fabric treated with a durable water repellent (DWR). It’s usually made of nylon or polyester and is expected to be durable. In general, the thicker the fabric, the more durable the garment.
• Waterproof breathable membrane.
• Lining protects the membrane from abrasion and pore-clogging contaminants such as body oils.

There are three main types of constructions.

Arrangement of individual layers in WBFs and application in outdoor jackets

Source: Waterproof and Water Repellent Textiles**, p.62

2-layer laminates

These are the original waterproof breathable constructions. Each 2-layer construction is a laminated product with a DWR-treated face fabric and a waterproof breathable layer. The linings are often warp-knitted mesh constructions (to promote airflow) attached by a separate fabric or mesh liner that hangs inside of the garment. PU coating at the hem and cuff prevents rain wicking into the interior of the garment.

Pros:

• Comfort
• Flexibility
• Lowest price in comparison with the other types of laminates

Cons:

• Extra weight due to the added layer
• Reduced breathability because of the liner

This type of construction is prevalent in light-to-medium-weight garments for skiing, hiking as well as casual and fashion jackets, and some rain pants.

2.5-layer laminates

Their construction is very similar to the construction of the 2-layer laminates, as the main difference is that the protective fabric or scrim gets eliminated in exchange for a printed or sprayed-on partial protective layer. It provides a barrier between the laminate and the skin or other clothing layers.

Pros:

• Lightest type
• Flexibility
• Compactness
• Relatively low cost

Cons:

• Fragile
• Reduced breathability because of the protective layers

2.5-layer laminates are used mainly for lightweight and ultralight rain clothing. They’re suitable for intensive outdoor activities such as fell running and mountain biking.

3-layer laminates

They comprise three layers as described above. A waterproof breathable membrane is glued between the face fabric and a soft lining to produce a material that is hardwearing but slightly stiff. This is the most durable of all three types of laminates described here because the membrane is protected by fabric on both sides. It is developed for the needs of alpinists and other outdoor enthusiasts who are in a need of hard-wearing waterproof garments.

Pros:

• Durability
• Waterproofness

Cons:

• Most expensive type
• Lower breathability than the 2-layer construction
• Least flexibility

3-layer laminates are widely used in the top range of outdoor sportswear. Garments incor­porating these fabrics are promoted as exclusive high-performance shells.

Performance

The main principle of how waterproof and breathable fabrics function is relatively simple and it is also quite logical. In short, their functionality depends on the relative humidity levels: moisture wants to establish an equilibrium that’s why if it’s more humid inside the garment, moisture will move outward and the opposite.

Ratings of sportswear waterproofness and breathability explained

The first two tables below show fabric waterproofness and breathability ratings together with a brief explanation of the practical meaning of these ratings. Table 3 shows the heat energy produced by various activities and the corresponding perspiration rates related to these pursuits.

Table 1: Fabric waterproof ratings

Source: evo.com

 

Table 2: Fabric breathability ratings

 

Table 3: Heat energy produced by various activities and corresponding perspiration rates

Source: Waterproof and Water Repellent Textiles, p.32

Several studies have shown that waterproof breathable fabrics can be ranked according to their capacity to transfer water vapor to the ambient environ­ment. These agree that ePTFE laminated membranes are most permeable, fol­lowed by hydrophilic and PU microporous laminates and then PU coatings. However, even the capacity for moisture vapor transfer through ePTFE membranes is limited as Table 3 shows.

Actually, Table 3 confirms that water vapor cannot be completely diffused despite the manufacturers’ claims about the breathability of their products. Moreover, rain and snow reduce breathability further because the vapor pressure above the fabric is increased. Additionally, in prolonged precipitation as well as in cold weather (because of condensation), pores on the fabric can get clogged. Therefore, you should expect the breathability of a waterproof garment to be compromised in the field, mostly by moisture, but also by dirt, and body oils.

Ratings of sportswear waterproofness and breathability; problems

What are the waterproofness and breathability ratings of today’s sportswear? First, let’s begin with the fact that manufacturers use different numbers to label their products “waterproof”. This makes it really hard to compare two “waterproof” garments from different producers especially if their ratings are not publicly announced as often happens. However, any garment with a rating of 20 000mm or more is acknowledged to be fully waterproof. The situation with breathability ratings is worse because different manufacturers often use different methods to measure breathability. Moreover, various test methods use different temperatures or humidity conditions and can give vastly differing values. By the way, nowadays, you will rarely see any breathability ratings on the labels of the garments.

What most people don’t know is that despite the fact that there are various names, brands, and garments on the market, the number of WBFs manufacturers is far smaller. Nowadays, the waterproofness of most products falls within 8000-28 000mm water column per 24 hours. The range of breathability is between 5000g/m2 and 30 000g/m2 per 24 hours. Just for a reference, 20 years ago, the breathability of the then modern WBFs was no more than 10 000g/m2.

Main features of waterproof clothing

The intense effort during sports leads to increased sweating. That’s why the waterproof breathable clothing intended for sportswear needs to be functional enough to ensure a higher moisture transfer rate from the body towards the exterior. In addition, it needs an appropriate design and the use of special manufacturing methods. They should guarantee that the sportswear will retain its waterproofness and durability during wear.

Seams are one of the weakest spots of waterproof clothing as a failure of the seams can threaten the performance of their waterproofness. Main reasons for this are wear and tear as they can quickly degrade the seams. This can be avoided by paying special attention to their construction and location including and changing the type of the seams and/or the method of sealing the seams. Unfortunately, many manufacturers do not seal all seams but restrict sealing to the most vulnerable seams such as shoulder seams and side seams. They do that by using specific tapes (welding heat-seal tape is among the most popular types of sealing) for sealing the seams to avoid their failure. The use of adhesives for taping the inside is another common method for sealing seams. Proper stitching is also extremely important.

Linings and interlinings have an important influence on the ability of a waterproof and breathable garment to manage moisture. That’s why – and mainly to prevent wetting – they are treated with a DWR. Without a water-repellent finish, linings and interlinings can quickly become saturated with moisture, which can accelerate the penetration of water. As a result, the functionality of the garment can be adversely affected.

Pockets are an essential part of waterproof clothes and are no less important than seams and linings. Their design, as well as their location, can be of crucial importance. Waterproof and breathable clothes are expected to have zippered pockets (with proofed linings) engineered to keep out wind and water. Driving rain and water that runs off the surface of the garment can easily penetrate patch pockets with a horizontal edge. So, such pockets aren’t typical for waterproof constructions. If a waterproof garment has such pockets, they are usually watertight and/or have a Velcro flap so that they are not fully exposed to the rain.

Cuffs can be problematic because they need to fit snugly to avoid water penetration. This restricts ventilation and air circulation. The solution is fairly simple: use elasticated cuffs with adjustable openings to facilitate ventilation.

Types of waterproof clothes

The most popular choices for rain gear are jackets, pants, gloves, and socks made of waterproof and breathable fabric. Other types of waterproof clothes such as backpacking and military ponchos are also a somewhat popular alternative to rain jackets (you can find more information about them in our article on the best ponchos).

Rain pants

Rain pants are generally made of nylon (or nylon blends) and waterproof breathable fabric. When buying a pair of rain pants, there are two important things to check: their functionality and the fit. They need to be wind-resistant and stretchy or loose-fitting for freedom of movement since they will probably be worn over other pants. There are two basic designs: simple pants and bib pants.

Bibs are bulky and heavy and have a high back and chest and suspenders. They are not suitable for summer trips – their best use is for cold weather expeditions. They cover much of the torso for two main reasons – this way they keep you warm and minimize the chance that snow will get into your clothes.

Simple pants are cheaper, lighter, less bulky, and easier to get on and off than bib pants. They’re more versatile and are suitable for milder conditions (some types are actually ultralight, however, they are not suitable for continuous use because they are too fragile). For summer hiking, neither of these is better than a pair of shorts or synthetic pants as they’re light, relatively warm, and dry quickly when damp.

Some of the most desirable features of rain pants include:

• Adjustable drawcords and cord locks for individual fit and to seal warmth in.
• Full-length zippers for getting the pants on over boots, crampons, skis, snowshoes, and for ventilation.
• Reinforced knees for added durability.
• Pockets for storing small personal items. Big pockets can hold a map, while zippered pockets are suitable for storing documents and money.
• Length – rain pants need to fully cover your base layer pants underneath. In very cold weather, you may prefer wearing fleece pants for better insulation, while in warmer weather it makes sense to choose thinner and lighter pants.
• Weight depends on design and fabric. Generally, heavier garments are more durable and will outlast lighter ones.

It takes time and practice to adjust clothing, so experiment donning and doffing it when necessary to keep from overheating, or from getting too cold.

Top rain pants recommendations

• Outdoor Research Helium Pants are ultralight (weighing 190 g or 6.7 oz) waterproof breathable pants designed to help you stay dry and comfortable during a variety of activities in bad weather. From backpacking to rain-soaked walks, these pants are functional and versatile. The pants are ultra-packable and extremely comfortable as they allow a full range of motion in various environments. The breathable design makes them suitable for most outdoor activities and will provide excellent breathability even during some tough backpacking in the rain. The OR Helium are also fast to dry when wet so that you could jump off the traveled path. The functionality of these rain pants is beyond question and we recommend them for everyone who needs waterproof pants that are lightweight, comfortable, and versatile.

See the Men’s OR Helium See the Women’s OR Helium

• Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Pants are built to conquer elements with robust protection in wet and windy conditions. Light and breathable fully waterproof trousers – made from the 2.5L Dry.Q Active Stretch fabric – these will keep you dry and comfortable in less than ideal weather conditions. They have 3/4 length side zippers, storm flaps, and snap tabs at the ankle so that you could use them as a shell layer over other pants. This allows you to adjust ventilation for unparalleled breathability that suits high-intensity activities. The elasticated waistband with drawcord adjustment of the Mountain Hardwear  Stretch Ozonic allows for individual fit. The flexible fabric ensures mobility, adapting seamlessly from mountains to city. These comfortable waterproof pants ensure protection from rain during backpacking and biking but also an uncompromising performance for diverse sports and environments.

See the Men’s Stretch Ozonic Pants See the Women’s Stretch Ozonic Pants

Rain jackets

The outer layer should provide protection from wind and precipitation. So you need to choose your rain jacket wisely keeping in mind that you must find one with the right balance between weight and functionality.

The ideal shell is lightweight, windproof, fully waterproof, and completely breathable, and… it doesn’t exist. There’s just no garment that can achieve all these objectives. Many passionate outdoorsmen carry two different shell layers – a lightweight windproof shell and a lightweight waterproof jacket. The reason is simple – it’s barely impossible to find one piece of garment that’s fully waterproof, completely breathable, and wind-resistant at the same time. You can be more flexible by carrying such a system with two different outer layers. Rain shell is usually worn only in heavier rain or for periods of low-intensity walking, while breathable wind gear is worn in cool and windy conditions, and for periods of heavy exertion.

Typical Waterproof Breathable Jacket Design

Source: High-Performance Apparel*, p.446

Rain jackets come in different styles and designs. Good jackets feature bonded watertight full front zippers and are easier to ventilate; they are large enough to handle most of your inner layers without restricting mobility; armpit zippers are typical as they allow for ample ventilation – aim for such models where you will be able to zip or unzip the underarm vents during movement with one hand only; seams must be properly sealed; bonded zippers and zipper garages keep the zippers dry; adjustable hems and sleeve cuffs add more functionality because they keep the cold out and offer more precise fit; a drawstring hood with adjustable pull wards off rain and provides protection from wind. In addition, large zippered side-entry pockets are easily accessible and useful for maps, hats, gloves, and other small personal items.

Keep in mind that in driving rain, you cannot stay completely dry on the trail no matter what you do –  you will get some moisture, for sure, either from sweat (if you zip the rain jacket) or from precipitation (if you unzip to ventilate). However, you should do whatever is possible to minimize moisture.

The best way to maintain the functionality of a rain shell is to use it only when it is really needed. Rain jackets depend on waterproof breathable membranes or coatings that are too delicate. For example, breathability is reduced when fabric pores get clogged up with dirt and sweat. Thus, you need to: keep the shell clean (always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper maintenance of the garment), and maintain the quality of the water-repellent finish applied on the shell surface.

When you notice that the DWR on your rain jacket is falling, restore it with a wash-in or spray-on treatment (Nikwax offers some really good repellants for waterproof garments and gear). The outer layer of your rain jacket must be water-resistant in order to maintain the garment’s breathability. The reason is that the DWR finish causes water to bead on a fabric surface without impairing breathability. As the finish degrades, the fabric becomes no different than regular non-treated fabric. It gets saturated with moisture which seriously reduces the breathability of the rain shell. That’s why you need to reproof the garment regularly.

Top rain jackets/hardshells recommendations

• KUHL The One Shell Jacket is a versatile shell jacket with attractive features. Designed to provide a dry and comfortable outdoor experience, it is a great all-around waterproof breathable option that offers premium water and wind protection on and off the trail. It’s stylish and looks great but more importantly – it’s well-made, lightweight, easy to pack, and suitable for wearing with layers underneath in colder temperatures during hiking excursions, fishing trips, and other outdoor pursuits. The One Shell jacket functions best for all your alpine activities but the 4-way stretch fabric and thoughtful articulation provide an unusual level of mobility and flexibility for a hardshell jacket. Enjoy comfort from the soft and supple fabric, along with ample space for layering. You can battle the elements with confidence thanks to the 20K/20K AERO membrane, taped seams, and water-resistant finish. The One Shell by KUHL is the go-to for alpine adventures, offering a combination of lightweight design, compactness, and versatility. Perfectly suited for hiking, skiing, mountaineering, and more.

See the Men’s KUHL The One Shell See the Women’s KUHL The One Shell

• Outdoor Research Foray II GORE-TEX Jacket is an amazing rain jacket with a great design that offers excellent water and wind protection in less-than-perfect conditions. The 2L GORE-TEX with Paclite Technology has a WP rating of 28 000 mm. Thanks to this and the internal front stormflap and YKK AquaGuard zippers, this jacket is a reliable weather-ready layer. Comes with TorsoFlo Venting (hem-to-bicep side zippers) for regulating temperature and air inflow. All in all, the Foray II GORE-TEX jacket offers very good breathability for this price. Keep in mind that in spite of its lightweight design, the jacket has both lining and three secure zippered pockets (a minor complaint: no inner pockets here, and if you’re like us, this might not please you). Highly functional, comfortable, and good-looking, this lightweight rain jacket is suitable for wet sports-related activities, hiking, traveling or casual wear in the city.

See the Men’s OR Foray II Jacket See the Women’s OR Aspire II Jacket

Waterproof gloves and mittens

Waterproof gloves and mittens are usually used in cold and wet conditions. If used properly, they will protect your fingers and will keep your hands dry and warm on and off the trail. Wearing waterproof gloves and/or mittens is extremely important during hikes in mountainous terrain since rapid weather changes are typical for high-elevation areas. In very cold conditions, even thermal waterproof gloves may not be enough to keep your hands warm. That’s why layering is very popular among experienced outdoorsmen. When layering two or more pairs of gloves, the outer layer (waterproof and breathable) should provide protection against water coming from the outside. It should also ensure vapor permeability to provide moisture transfer from the skin to the outer layers. Keep in mind that in prolonged wet conditions, sooner or later, your gloves will become wet inside and out.

The main construction is usually made from one or more of the following man-made materials: polyester, nylon, neoprene, polyurethane, and acrylic. Leather is also used; rubber is used in small amounts. Polyester is often combined with spandex to make the fabric stretchier to allow for better articulation. Lining’s main materials include synthetic materials like polyester (mainly in the form of fleece fabric or tricot). Insulated waterproof gloves and waterproof mittens offer extra warmth but also less dexterity. Gloves and mitts may have removable fleece-lined (or merino wool) liners. You can wear the liners when you need more dexterity or to avoid overheating during snow sports or some other high-intensity outdoor activities. Additional insulation is provided by hi-tech materials like Primaloft, Thinsulate, and Thermolite. Two and three-layer waterproof and breathable membranes will keep your hands dry and comfortable.

Good fit is critical as it directly influences the effectiveness of your waterproof gloves. Avoid wearing too tight or too loose gloves and mittens. In general, tight-fitting gloves and mitts for mountain are hard to get on and off with cold hands. Moreover, tighter gloves are less flexible and can restrict blood circulation. Loose gloves aren’t suitable when performance is required as they may not give you the necessary dexterity.

Some of the most desirable features of waterproof gloves and mitts are:

• Bonded palms and fingers help provide a secure grip, dexterity, better control, and durability.
• Gauntlett cuffs with easy-to-adjust wrist straps and elasticated wrists to seal out cold air.
• Elastic drawstring with cord lock help keep warmth in and snow out.
• Waterproof zippered stash pockets on the backs of the hands for hand warmers.
• Pull tabs for fast and easy on and off.
• Touch-screen compatible index finger.
• Retention cords that loop over the wrist make it easier and safer to remove the outer layer (in case you use a layered system) to accomplish a task.

Waterproof breathable gloves and mittens are perfect for hiking, mountaineering, fishing, cycling, and work. Additionally, they are ideal for winter sports and activities such as snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, etc.

Top waterproof gloves and mittens recommendations

• Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Gloves are warm and comfortable gloves with waterproof and breathable 3-layer polyamide fabric, offering protection from snow and water. Designed to provide reliability and warmth during long days in snow and cold, these gloves are excellent for mountain activities. Crafted from durable goat leather, they provide an exceptional grip and feel. They boast top-notch craftsmanship, featuring polyester G-loft insulation for unparalleled warmth in extremely low temperatures. The replaceable fleece liner (it’s worth mentioning that the Army Leather Ski gloves can also be paired with different liners) effectively manages moisture and accommodates varying activity levels. The long gauntlet cuffs are equipped with a drawstring-adjustable snow lock and adjustable Velcro wrist straps to ensure a perfect fit and retain warmth. The fit is snug and secure. These high-quality leather gloves from Hestra are suitable for both men and women, and they also come in mitten and 3-finger variations.

See the Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Gloves

• Outdoor Research Alti II GORE-TEX Mitts are fully seam-taped mitts with wind and waterproof breathable Gore-Tex inserts and removable liner mittens. High-quality PrimaLoft insulation makes them extremely warm but also bulky. As a result, we recommend these mitts for exceptionally cold days but not for activities that require precise dexterity. This is likely their main drawback, as the mittens otherwise offer a secure grip on ice tools and ski poles while keeping your hands comfortably warm even in subzero conditions. The heavy-duty construction will keep your hands safe and protected, which makes the mitts an excellent choice for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling or mountaineering. However, if you are seeking outstanding wind and water protection without sacrificing dexterity and fit, check out the OR Mt. Baker II GORE-TEX Mitts.

See the Men’s OR Alti II Mitts See the Women’s OR Alti II Mitts

Waterproof socks

Waterproof breathable socks are designed to keep your feet comfortable and dry even in warm weather when waterproof boots and shoes can be hot and sweaty. They can also keep your feet warm when hiking in the mud and snow or through wet grass or brush. Many hikers freak out when thinking about waterproof socks but the truth is that such socks give more protection than waterproof boots when crossing streams and puddles. Models with high-cut profile are much higher than boots and ensure that wind and weather can’t harm your feet.

Typical waterproof sock differs from the usual hiking sock. For example, a typical 3-layer construction consists of a knit exterior, waterproof and breathable membrane, and moisture-wicking and antibacterial inner. The exterior is often made from a blend of two or more materials. The most popular materials are the following: merino wool, polyester, nylon, acrylic, spandex, TPU (thermoplastic urethane), and viscose. The inner made from COOLMAX (modified polyester) is moisture-wicking, antibacterial, and keeps feet fresh. Synthetics such as polyester, nylon, viscose, and spandex as well as merino wool and bamboo are other popular options primarily because of their moisture-wicking and antimicrobial abilities.

Some of the most desirable features and properties of waterproof socks are:

• Close-fitting socks keep feet warm and comfortable and promote blood circulation (too tight socks can actually restrict circulation).
• Seamless constructions reduce friction, which is the main cause of common skin problems such as chafing.
• Cushioning pads protect sensitive zones (ankle, heel, toes, and instep) against pressure for better blister protection.
• Ability to maintain their shape.
• Antibacterial linings.

What are the biggest downsides of wearing waterproof breathable socks?

• Once they get wet, they are slow to dry especially in colder or wetter weather.
• They aren’t very durable with the exception of some models.
• Hiking in a downpour can considerably impair their breathability.
• The tightly woven construction can make them too hot and sweaty.

Waterproof socks are suitable for a variety of outdoor sports and activities in wet environments – hiking, mountaineering, cycling, riding, running, kayaking, etc.

Top waterproof socks recommendations

• Randy Sun Waterproof Breathable Crew Socks are specially designed unisex waterproof socks suitable for all kinds of outdoor activities or work in wet weather. The three-layer knitting construction of these socks is expertly crafted to maintain your feet’s dryness and warmth, whether you’re crossing streams or walking through snow, mud, or puddles. The construction includes a durable waterproof outer layer (nylon blend), a waterproof and breathable membrane, and a warm lining (Coolmax, polyester, and elastane). The socks feel normal and comfortable so you don’t have to worry about blisters or other foot-related problems. For added comfort and durability, the reinforced heel and seamless toe design ensures lasting comfort and prevents yarn chafing and irritation. Highly recommended for everyone who needs to perform well in the rain, mud, and all sorts of weather but doesn’t like wearing waterproof boots.

See the Randy Sun Unisex Waterproof Breathable Crew Socks

• Sealskinz Waterproof Cold Weather Knee Socks are waterproof breathable socks with merino wool lining for added insulation and better moisture control. Suitable for both men and women, these socks will keep moisture out while you enjoy your favorite outdoor sports and activities in all weather conditions. Crafted for colder temperatures and wet conditions, these heavy-duty socks feature a 100% hydrophilic membrane that blocks out liquids, ensuring your feet stay dry and comfortable even in the wettest environments. These knee-length socks provide extra protection in cool-to-cold temperatures. Each pair is meticulously hand-crafted and rigorously tested to ensure they perform flawlessly, offering leak-free assurance and superior performance. The Sealskinz Waterproof Cold Weather Knee socks come with shock-absorbing padding to protect the sensitive zones of your feet, while the seamless construction reduces friction and prevents chafing and blisters.

See the Sealskinz Unisex Waterproof Cold Weather Knee Socks

Conclusion

While we haven’t covered all types of waterproof breathable clothing in this article, it’s important to note that there are various other kinds of waterproof garments apart from waterproof jackets, rain pants, waterproof gloves, and socks.

There are various constructions of waterproof breathable fabrics available on the market. Some of the most widely spread constructions are 2-layer, 2.5-layer, and 3-layer laminates. Each one has its own pros and cons related to its durability, breathability, weight, compactness, and price. Waterproof breathable constructions are used extensively in sports products designed to provide protection from the elements for hikers, mountaineers, cyclists, sailors, and other outdoor professionals and enthusiasts. Recent years have seen significantly increased participation in outdoor sports and activities. As a result, the manufacturers offer different grades of fabrics suited to different performance requirements.

The technology behind designing WBFs and clothes has continued to evolve for achieving improved functionality. However, there is still significant potential for further developments.

 

*  In J. McLoughlin, & T. Sabir (Eds.), High-Performance Apparel: Materials, Development, and Applications, 2018, Elsevier Ltd.

** In J. Williams (Ed.), Waterproof and Water Repellent Textiles and Clothing, 2018, Elsevier Ltd.