Do waterproof jackets really work?

A waterproof jacket is designed to keep you dry in wet weather. The challenge for waterproof clothing is breathability. Letting no water in can prevent water vapour from getting out. This means that when you perspire, moisture becomes trapped within the coat. 

A hot, sweaty experience is not what anyone wants from a jacket. The right combination of water resistance and breathability will depend on your activity and the type of weather you expect to encounter. 

This guide will look at the history and development of waterproof fabrics and explore the key terminology and latest technology in weather-resistant clothing. The right equipment in wet weather can make or break your activity. We aim to provide all the knowledge you need to make an informed choice about your next jacket.

Are waterproof jackets really waterproof?

A waterproof jacket will keep you dry in the rain. When choosing a waterproof jacket, balance the need for protection from the rain along with breathability so that you stay dry when you start to sweat. 

Early attempts to develop waterproof clothing included the use of dried seal or whale intestines as materials. Experiments continued with coating existing fabric with oils. Eventually, using a rubber lining proved successful for the famous Mackintosh raincoats of the Victorian era. 

The problem encountered when wearing these coats is the same issue that waterproofing research continues to address today. A material that lets absolutely no water in also tends to stop water from getting out. As the wearer starts to perspire, the sweat collects inside the coat – leading to a damp, uncomfortable experience.

Advancements in technology aim to provide a balance between waterproofing and breathability. Resistance to water still centres around two techniques: adding a water-resistant coating or creating a water-resistant fabric.

The terminology around waterproof jackets can be confusing. It is difficult to describe any jacket as completely waterproof, especially as water can enter at the neck, wrists and hem. 

The word waterproof tends to be used for fabrics made to offer the highest levels of protection from rain. The term water-resistant is generally used for garments that offer less water protection. 

Related: What’s the difference between waterproof and water-resistant?

Additional assistance to stay dry in wet conditions can be found with a coating that causes water to bead on the surface. The North Face jackets are coated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish. This encourages water droplets to gather together and roll off the surface rather than sitting on the fabric and being absorbed.

The North Face FUTURELIGHT™ technology was developed to deliver the most advanced breathable, waterproof performance clothing. FUTURELIGHT™ features include an ultra-thin nanomembrane to prevent water from seeping through the pores while allowing airflow for enhanced breathability. The lightweight and flexible waterproof membrane has been tested by elite athletes in the harshest weather conditions, giving you the peace of mind that your gear won’t let you down.

The Women’s Apex Flex FUTURELIGHT™ Jacket from The North Face is a three-layer shell that delivers comfort alongside performance. The nano-spun fabric adds air permeability to the waterproof membrane to keep you dry. Constructed to retain a soft, flexible finish for comfort, the adjustable hood and internal front zip storm flap keep you ready for anything the weather throws at you.

What is the best waterproof rain jacket

The best waterproof rain jacket will depend on your activities and the weather that you expect to encounter. 

When choosing a water-resistant jacket, think through your needs using these categories:

• Water-resistance – Do you need protection from occasional showers, or do you expect prolonged periods of exposure to heavy rain?

• Breathability – For high-output activities, look for breathable jackets that will let sweat escape.

• Weight – Do you require the extra weight of insulation for colder weather? Or are you looking for a lightweight waterproof shell that can be easily stowed away in your bag?

• Combinations – What other clothing will you need? Choose a jacket that works well as part of your layering system.

• Durability – Look for a high-quality jacket that can handle regular use and is built to last.

• Features – Are you looking for adjustable cuffs or a hood? Do you need additional pockets for essential equipment?

Water resistance is measured in millimetres. This value gives the amount of water that can rest on the material before it seeps through. A fabric is judged to be truly waterproof if it can withstand 1,500mm of water in a direct column when pressed against the jacket’s surface.

The North Face Men’s Dryzzle FUTURELIGHT™ Insulated Jacket combines effective waterproof, breathable fabric with efficient synthetic insulation for warmth. A comfortable, windproof construction makes this jacket an ideal all-rounder for variable weather on the street or the trail.

Related: What does waterproof really mean?

Whatever material your jacket is made from, it can be vulnerable to water entering at the seams and zips. A good waterproof jacket will have sealed seams to prevent any moisture penetration. Waterproof zips have a rubber or PVC coating in front of the teeth. As the zip is fastened, this will completely cover the zip.

What is the most breathable waterproof jacket?

A breathable, waterproof jacket aims to stop rain from getting in without preventing water vapour from getting out. Microporous fabrics have holes that are too small for liquid water droplets while still allowing vapour through. An outer coating that causes rain to form droplets will prevent saturation of the surface. 

Breathability is measured by the amount of water vapour that can pass through the fabric. Measured in grams (of water vapour) per square metre, the higher the value, the more breathable the garment. 

The North Face DryVent™ fabrics have been developed to create a breathable atmosphere inside your waterproof clothing. Multi-layered textiles are engineered to allow water vapour to escape. Water-repellent coatings and sealed, taped seams offer maximum protection from the rain. With a range of weights and textures available, DryVent™ clothing can be tailored to the performance needs of your favourite activities. 

The North Face Men’s Quest Hooded Jacket is constructed from 110g/m2 two-layer DryVent™ fabric to deliver reliable, comfortable protection from the elements. The sealed seams and water-repellent finish help you stay dry without getting too hot and sweaty during active use.

What is the warmest waterproof jacket?

A warm, waterproof jacket will combine effective insulation with water-resistant outer materials. The outer shell provides the barrier to rain. The materials used to line the jacket have the biggest impact on warmth. Some types of insulation, such as down, do not perform well when wet, so the right combination is important. 

Whether you are on the slopes or the trail, there are two factors that contribute to feeling cold: thermal energy transfer and wind chill. 

When the air temperature around your body is cold, thermal energy is transferred from your skin to the surrounding air. The colder the air, the greater the temperature difference and the faster the loss of thermal energy. Insulating jackets use materials inside the lining to trap pockets of air, slowing down the rate of heat transfer and keeping you warm. 

Types of Insulation

Insulated jackets tend to use either natural down feathers or synthetic equivalents to keep you warm. Premium, high-loft goose down fill offers an effective warmth to weight ratio. These jackets help to maintain a comfortable temperature in a lightweight coat that compresses easily. 

When considering the waterproof properties of an insulated jacket, remember that down loses its insulating properties when it becomes wet. If you are anticipating heavy rain, synthetic insulation is a helpful alternative. The North Face Thermoball™ technology uses clusters of synthetic fibres to achieve the insulating properties of down. These clusters maintain their shape when wet, making them a great choice for inclement weather.

Related: All you need to know about insulation

Wind Chill

Wind chill is caused by the flow of cold air near the skin. The faster the air moves, the more heat is moved away from your body. This makes you feel cold and forces your body to work harder to stay warm, affecting your performance. Tightly woven fabrics make it harder for wind to penetrate the material. 

The North Face WindWall™ fabrics are constructed to create a windproof barrier that reduces air permeability. Breathable and water-resistant, this helps maintain a comfortable microclimate inside your jacket when you’re working hard.

A warm, waterproof jacket should tackle both wind chill and thermal energy transfer. Look for an appropriate level of insulation and windproof fabric.

From weekend adventures on the trail to longer expeditions on the mountain, a well-chosen waterproof jacket will give you the confidence to handle anything the weather throws at you. 

The North Face is proud to continue to drive innovation and development for outdoor explorers for 50 years. Try our jacket finder to help you identify the right outerwear for your activity. Five clicks will analyse your needs and present a selection of jackets from our tried and trusted range.