February 13, 2026
When choosing the right workwear for your team or business, understanding how different fabrics perform in wet conditions is essential. Rain and moisture are everyday realities for many industries, and the right gear can help keep your workforce comfortable, safe, and productive, whatever the weather throws at them.
So, what’s the difference between waterproof, water-resistant, and water-repellent workwear, and how do you choose the right option?
Let’s break it down.
What “Water-Resistant” Clothing Really Means
Water-resistant garments provide only a basic level of protection. These fabrics are tightly woven or treated in a way that slows the entry of water. They can handle light rain, mist, and splashes, but not heavy or sustained downpours. After prolonged exposure, water may begin to seep through, especially at seams, zips, or openings; not the most ideal solution if you expect your team to be working in wet environments regularly.
Water Resistant Garments are Ideal for:
- Light outdoor work
- Urban environments where heavy rain is rare
- Everyday wear where minimal moisture protection is sufficient
What “Water-Repellent” Clothing Really Means
Water-repellent garments are a step above water-resistant. These fabrics are treated with a surface treatment that causes water droplets to bead and roll off. This is typically achieved through a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating applied during the manufacturing process. Unlike water-resistant textiles which rely largely on a tight weave, water-repellent fabrics actively shed moisture, giving them an edge in moderate rain.
However, this protection isn’t impermeable. Heavy or long-lasting rainfall will eventually penetrate through, or the DWR finish can wear off over time and with washing, meaning periodic re-treatment or repurchasing may be needed to maintain performance.
Water Repellent Garments are Ideal for:
- Jobs with intermittent wet conditions
- Workers moving in and out of light rain
- Everyday workwear where breathability is still important
What “Waterproof” Clothing Really Means
At the top of weather protection is waterproof workwear. Waterproof fabrics are engineered to completely block water from passing through, no matter how hard it’s raining. Unlike water-resistant or repellent options, waterproof gear often features:
- Waterproof membranes or laminates that stop moisture at a microscopic level
- Sealed or taped seams to block entry at joins and stitches
- Waterproof zips and closures to prevent leakage
True waterproof garments are tested to withstand significant water pressure before they start to leak, meaning heavy rain, storms, or long hours outdoors won’t soak through the fabric. They’re ideal for the toughest jobs and harshest conditions.
Waterproof Garments are Ideal for:
- Outdoor work in heavy rain
- Construction, landscaping, and utilities
- Jobs where prolonged exposure to moisture is common
Waterproof vs Water-Resistant vs Water-Repellent Comparison Table
Still unsure which option is the best for your employees? The table below provides a quick side-by-side comparison to help you identify which option best suits your environment, level of exposure, and day-to-day work demands.
| Feature | Water-Resistant | Water-Repellent | Waterproof |
| Protection level | Low | Medium | High |
| Best in | Light showers | Moderate rain | Heavy rain, storms |
| Breathability | High | Medium-high | Medium-low |
| Seam protection | No | No | Yes |
| Maintenance | Low | Medium | Low |
Choosing the Right Waterproof Workwear for Your Team
When choosing between waterproof, water-resistant, and water-repellent gear you should be guided by how and where your team works. If your workforce spends most of its time indoors with only occasional outdoor tasks, a water-resistant jacket might suffice. If they’re regularly exposed to unpredictable showers, water-repellent options offer comfort and protection without bulk. For those facing consistent heavy rain or exposure to water, such as outdoor construction crews, waterproof gear is the clear winner.
Custom Branding: Make Your Workwear Yours
At First Avenue, we understand that workwear isn’t just about function; it’s part of your brand identity too. That’s why many of the waterproof, water-resistant, and water-repellent garments we supply can be customised with your company logo and branding.
Why customise your workwear?
- Professional appearance: Branded gear reinforces your company’s image on every job site.
- Team unity: Matching branded uniforms help boost morale and present a cohesive team identity.
- Visibility & safety: High-visibility options with your logo help teams stand out in busy environments.
Whether you’re equipping a team for a rainy season or enhancing your brand presence across every shift, our customisation options let you tailor your workwear exactly how you need it. Contact us for more information or to discuss your requirements.