The Rab Guide to Waterproof Jackets

Creating a waterproof fabric is one thing, but making sure it can stand up to the frankly ridiculous things our athletes and customers get up to is another challenge entirely.

In addition to the exhaustive durability tests carried out by our fabric partners, we comprehensively test all of our designs both in the confines of Rab HQ and by sending them to some of the most extreme environments in the world.

Martindale

An industry standard, the Martindale machine’s beauty is in its simplicity, subjecting a sample of a fabric to a repeated rubbing motion to simulate long term wear. At Rab we use our own modified, and arguably more extreme versions, of the standard tests for durability, abrasion resistance and snagging.

Real-Life Testing

Testing fabrics here at Rab helps to ensure that we’re selecting the right materials. The true test however, is to take the garments to the places for which they are designed.  Central to the relationship we have with all of our athletes is the regular testing of our products.  Our prototype garments are taken to the most extreme places on the planet by people whose job it is to push outdoor equipment to it’s limits.

Our athletes understanding of what constitutes an industry-leading product and the insight they provide is vital to the design and testing process.

How much durability do you need?

When buying a jacket it’s important to consider the trade-off between durability and weight, as more durable fabrics tend to be heavier and warmer. If you’re travelling fast and light or only using your waterproof for occasional bursts of rain in warm weather, it can be worth investing in a lighter garment. However, if you’re in the habit of really abusing your gear then it’s definitely worth investing in a jacket that can take repeated punishment.

FABRIC GUIDE

285GSM | 320GSM - FIRE RETARDENT

Cotton is the go-to fabric for four-season camping due to it's abilty to adjust to climates. The 100% natural fibres encourage maximum breathability, durability and warmth when adventuring. 285gsm is not fire retardent.

NEW, IMPROVED & FIRE APPROVED, the ultimate heavyweight contender! Our 320gsm Cotton has been treated with a fire retardent agent (BS 7837:1996) & even has the option to come with an integrated stove hole/flap.

Both 100% Cotton variants have been treated with a water, UV & rot repelling agent.

Waterproof Jacket Guide

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Choosing the best waterproof jacket for you is essential. This Waterproof Jacket guide outlines waterproof ratings, important features such as breathability and technical terms to help you find the right jacket for your next adventure.

1. Waterproof Ratings

How waterproof a jacket is will depend on its waterproof rating. The higher a jacket’s waterproof rating, the longer the fabric will remain waterproof for.

Rating Resistance Weather  0 – 1,500mm Water resistant / Snowproof Very light  rain  1,500mm – 5,000mm Waterproof Light to average rain  5,000mm Very Waterproof Moderate to heavy rain  10,000mm – 20,000mm Highly Waterproof Heavy rain

1,500mm to 2,000mm

Jackets with a rating of 1,500mm to 2,000mm are suitable for everyday use, whether it be around town or walking the dog. These jackets may also be suitable for walkers or hikers who aren’t likely to get caught out in heavy, sustained rain.

5,000mm to 10,000mm

A rating of 5,000mm to 10,000mm is suitable for just about all weather conditions but equally at home in lesser ones, great for walking the dog or a serious trek in bad conditions. These higher rated jackets will also be breathable.

20,000mm

Jackets with a rating of 20,000mm are suitable for extremely heavy rain. Whilst still breathable, these jackets may come with an underarm ventilation system and multiple layers of fabric for more protection.

2. Hydrostatic Head Test

Waterproofness is tested to ensure the product meets the British Standard (which must be more than 1,500mm). Waterproof ratings are measured in millimetres using a Hydrostatic Head test. In a Hydrostatic Head test, the fabric is pulled tight under a 1 inch diameter sealed tube of water. This is then observed over 24 hours to ascertain how many millimetres of water the fabric can withstand before it soaks through. The level at which water starts to come through the fabric is the hydrostatic head, which is measured in mm. See the below video for more information.

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