If your team works outdoors in the UK, wet-weather kit isn't optional. But "waterproof" gets used loosely, and two jackets that both claim it can perform very differently. Understanding a few simple terms takes the guesswork out of choosing.
Water-resistant vs waterproof: not the same thing
This is the distinction that trips people up most:
- Water-resistant (or water-repellent) — sheds light rain and showers for a while, then eventually wets through. Think softshells and many everyday jackets.
- Waterproof — built to keep water out in sustained, heavy rain, usually with a coated or membrane fabric and sealed seams.
If people are out in real weather for hours, water-resistant won't cut it — you need a genuine waterproof.
The hydrostatic head (that "mm" number)
Waterproofing is often measured as a hydrostatic head, given in millimetres (mm). In simple terms, it's how tall a column of water the fabric can hold back before it leaks. A higher number means more waterproof. As a rough guide:
| Rating | Roughly means |
|---|---|
| 1,500–5,000mm | Handles light-to-moderate rain; fine for short exposure |
| 5,000–10,000mm | Stands up to steady rain and general outdoor work |
| 10,000mm+ | Copes with heavy, prolonged rain and pressure points like shoulders and seat |
These are general guides, not hard rules — always check the specific garment's stated rating.
Breathability: staying dry from the inside too
A jacket that keeps rain out but traps sweat leaves you damp anyway. Breathability is how well a fabric lets moisture vapour escape, often given as a g/m²/24hr figure (higher = more breathable). For active outdoor work, breathability matters almost as much as the waterproof rating — it's the difference between comfortable and clammy.
The details that make a jacket actually waterproof
The fabric rating is only half the story. Look for:
- Taped or welded seams — stitching makes holes; sealing the seams stops water sneaking through them.
- Storm flaps over zips — zips are a common leak point without a covering flap.
- A DWR finish — a durable water-repellent coating that makes rain bead and roll off the surface.
- Adjustable cuffs and hem — to seal out driving rain at the openings.
Matching the kit to the work
- Occasional light showers, mostly sheltered — a water-resistant softshell is usually enough.
- Regular outdoor work in changeable weather — a breathable waterproof with taped seams.
- All-day exposure in heavy rain — a higher-rated waterproof, ideally with a hood and sealed openings.
Not sure where a softshell fits into all this? Our softshell vs fleece guide covers how those layers compare.
Brand it and it still performs
A quality embroidered logo sits on the chest without compromising a waterproof's performance, giving your team a smart, recognisable look whatever the weather. Weighing your options? See our embroidery vs print guide.
Ready to sort your team's wet-weather kit? Browse workwear for business or tell us the conditions your team faces and we'll recommend the right level.
