Waterproof rather than water resistant

Most waterproof clothing is reliable in keeping the wearer dry, depending on quality of materials used and quality of product. Not only is this the worst summer on record, with soaring rain-falls daily and flooding in some parts of the country, many workers rely on waterproof clothing, depending on the industry they work in. Off-shore fishermen are dependent on layers of weatherproof garments. Bib & brace trousers, PVC smocks, trousers, jackets, waders and don’t forget the sou’wester! Forestry workers, Agricultural workers and those who work in cleaning and processing rely on a waterproof outer layer of clothing in order that they can effectively do their jobs.

There has been continuing research throughout the years and new materials have been developed which guarantee quality waterproof products. Materials such as GoreTex, a fully breathable, waterproof fabric (made up of three separate layers) have been developed which are 100% guaranteed to keep you dry for the lifetime of the product.

Another guaranteed material is Taslan coated with PVC. There is a British standard code for weatherproof materials and before choosing a waterproof item of clothing, it is best to check whether the fabric conforms to British Standard BS3424.

Manufacturers such as Berghaus and Lowe Alpine specialise in the production of stylish, guaranteed waterproof clothing. Lowe Alpine’s Men’s Deluge jacket, retailing at £90, is made up of Triplepoint waterproof technology, featuring draw cords at waist and hem, folded hood, and storm flap. Berghaus Jackets are of similar construction but made from Goretex. Worn together with waterproof trousers made of similar materials, and wellington boots, the wearer will definitely remain completely dry!

In my opinion it is better to choose a premium waterproof brand in preference to cheaper options. Top brand manufacturers use specialist design and skills guaranteed to keep the wearer dry and warm. They can be washed and laundered many times, keeping their waterproof credentials. Also there are products such as Nik Wax which increase the waterproof element of clothing. Cheaper waterproofs may look similar but the materials used are of a much inferior quality and after several washes, there is very little waterproofing quality left.

Of course, there is some hassle in donning all these layers of extra clothing. The off-shore fisherman has to put on jacket, waders and boots (each with lots of difficult zippers, ties and studs) before setting off. It must take ages. Before launching and setting off to sea though it is an essential part of his job.

However, for most of us who are just heading to the shops, a short walk, or to work, it takes next to no time putting on a guaranteed weatherproof jacket. Craghopper Madigan III is a stylish longer length shell jacket, made of Aquadry. Retailing at £75, it has a draw cord at the waist and would effectively keep out the worst British weather. Essentially this type of waterproof just needs zipping up, and would save the wearer from possibly being drenched in a sudden shower and sitting in the office, cold and shivering all day. Along with a pair of boots and umbrella, warmth and comfort is guaranteed.