The Difference Between Waterproof and Water Resistant

Depending on where you live and work, you’re going to experience some Northwest rain and snow. You might also encounter some wind to go with that precipitation. When it comes to staying dry, the right jacket and pants are essential. But what is the difference between waterproof and water resistant, and which one do you need for your outdoor activities?

The Difference

Water-resistant clothing can keep the wearer dry for some time, but not forever. Eventually, the water will seep through the tightly-woven fabric. Waterproof is impervious to water and designed to keep the wearer dry, no matter what kind of weather they encounter.

Carhartt Knows the Difference

For well over 100 years, Carhartt and other work and outdoor clothing makers have helped keep people dry, even in the wettest conditions. In recent years, Carhartt has developed some amazing fabrics that they’ve field tested on real people in the real world.

The Carhartt Storm Defender^® is a breathable, waterproof technology that stops rain but wicks sweat away through a breathable membrane. It’s amazing, and available on several of Carhartt’s latest coats and pants. Carhartt has also developed Force Extremes^® for added comfort , odor-stopping, and longer-lasting dryness in any conditions, as well as Rain Defender^® to keep you warm, comfortable, and dry on those days with the rain isn’t pouring but it won’t let up.

Carhartt Shoreline Jacket (Women)

Waterproof, Breathable, and Warm. This stylish jacket will keep you dry in the most torrential rains. Includes plenty of pockets, thumbhole cuffs, Storm Defender^® technology, and weighs only 4.8 ounces.

Carhartt Shoreline Jacket (Men)

Waterproof and Breathable. This jacket will stand up to any amount of rain Mother Nature can throw your way with Storm Defender^® technology. Plus, it’s midweight to stand up to the toughest jobs. Weighs only 7.3 ounces.

Carhartt Storm Defender^® Angler Bib

Waterproof and Breathable. Made for the serious angler, this bib is built to move and keep you dry with a 10k waterproof breathable protection rating, FastDry^® technology mesh, and Storm Defender^® technology throughout. Plus, every pair comes with a reinforced seat, double-layer knees with openings for added knee pads, and two pleated lower-front pockets.

Carhartt Storm Defender^® Angler Jacket

Waterproof, Breathable, and Warm. The perfect match for the Storm Defender^® Angler Bib, this jacket is ideal for hours on a boat or anywhere else you might get caught in a downpour. Includes Storm Defender^® and FastDry^® technology, as well as areas that flex and crease for movability, and triple-stitched main seams for strength and durability.

Carhartt Midweight Waterproof Rain Storm Coat

Waterproof and Breathable. This midweight, waterproof coat is equipped for heavy rain and working conditions. Includes two, lower-front bellowed pockets with snap closure, and reinforced major seams.

Carhartt Lightweight Waterproof Rain Storm Bib

Waterproof and Breathable. Get heavy-duty coverage from the rain with this lightweight pair of bibs. Comes with electronically welded seams, adjustable shoulder straps, and snap-adjustable waist and leg openings.

Granyte Sportswear PVD Jacket and Pants

Waterproof and Breathable. Granite Sportswear knows how to keep people dry and comfortable all day long. Their new, ultra-light raingear is designed to be soft and wearable with a .45mm thick fabric that’s noiseless. It’s the perfect gear for hunting, fishing, or hiking. Available in black and forest green.

Coastal Keeps You Dry

Stop by your Northwest owned and operated Coastal where you’ll find a huge selection of workwear and outdoor gear designed to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. While you’re there, try on a new pair of waterproof boots and find the perfect pair of water-resistant socks.