Waterproof Jacket Ratings Explained

18 April 2024

In the quest for protective, wet-weather gear, finding the right waterproof jacket is imperative, and understanding which level of water resistance you need can make all the difference. To help you choose the right jacket, we've broken down the waterproof testing methods and ratings of waterproof jackets so that you can make a more informed decision.

Waterproof ratings for waterproof jackets


What Does This Guide Cover?


How Are Waterproof Jackets Tested?

To classify a jacket as waterproof, water and liquid has to be able to run off its surface without being absorbed. To determine a jacket's waterproof capabilities, samples of the jacket's material are placed under a sealed tube of water and observed over a 24-hour period. The results of the tests refer to how many millimetres of water the fabric can withstand before it begins seeping through.

The higher the number, the heavier the rain needed to soak through your jacket, meaning 5,000mm jackets and 10,000mm jackets are better suited to light and moderate rain showers, while 15,000mm and 20,000mm jackets can keep you shielded in heavier downpours.


Choose the Right Jacket for You

Are you wondering which rated jacket is right for you? Well, here are some tips to help you decide:

  • If you predominantly work indoors but may transition to outdoor spaces from time to time, or aren't expected to work outdoors in wet weather over long periods, then a 5,000mm jacket or 10,000mm jacket might be better suited for you.
  • For those working outdoors all-year round and on days where heavy downpours are expected, a 15,000mm jacket or 20,000mm jacket is fit to protect in tougher conditions.

At Workwear.co.uk, we have a large range of waterproof jackets, with many of them conforming to different waterproof ratings. Read on to explore each rating and view our selection of jackets to choose the perfect one for you.


5,000mm Waterproof Jackets

Our 5,000mm Waterproof Jackets are ideal for protection in light to moderate showers, keeping you dry during outdoor activities. While perfect for unpredictable weather changes and quick transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, these jackets may not provide the coverage you'll need for use in wet conditions over longer periods. For light protection, view the range of jackets below.

Orn Workwear Silverswift Two-Tone Waterproof Softshell Jacket (Black/Red)

Orn Workwear Silverswift Two-Tone Waterproof Softshell Jacket (Black/Red)

£31.63 (Ex. VAT)
Usually dispatched in 1 - 5 work days  Usually dispatched in 1 - 5 work days


10,000mm Waterproof Jackets

In a similar fashion to the 5,000mm jackets, our 10,000mm Waterproof Jackets are great for use in milder rain showers. While they still aren't as resistant as our 15,000mm and 20,000mm jackets, they're still able to withstand double the amount of liquid the 5,000mm jackets can, making them a great option for longer periods outdoors. For moderate protection, view the range of jackets below.

Blaklader Workwear Men's Wind- and Waterproof Softshell Work Jacket (Black)

Blaklader Workwear Men's Wind- and Waterproof Softshell Work Jacket (Black)

£94.53 (Ex. VAT)
Usually Dispatched in 5 - 10 Working Days  Usually Dispatched in 5 - 10 Working Days
Mascot Workwear Waterproof and Windproof Work Jacket (Green)

Mascot Workwear Waterproof and Windproof Work Jacket (Green)

£88.85 (Ex. VAT)
Dispatched in 3 - 5 working days  Dispatched in 3 - 5 working days
Blaklader Workwear Women's Wind- and Waterproof Softshell Work Jacket (Black)

Blaklader Workwear Women's Wind- and Waterproof Softshell Work Jacket (Black)

£94.53 (Ex. VAT)
Usually Dispatched in 5 - 10 Working Days  Usually Dispatched in 5 - 10 Working Days


15,000mm Waterproof Jackets

Next in line are our 15,000mm Waterproof Jackets, which are able to withstand larger quantities of water without getting your skin wet. Though not as resistant as the 20,000mm jackets, these jackets are considerably resilient, and can keep you shielded in tough weather conditions. Available in a range of styles and colours, you can view the range of jackets below to select the jacket for you.

Portwest EC60 Eco Hi-Vis Orange Winter Jacket

Portwest EC60 Eco Hi-Vis Orange Winter Jacket

  (1)
£31.66 (Ex. VAT)
Currently unavailable. Please check back soon  Currently unavailable. Please check back soon
Portwest PW265 PW2 Hi-Vis Waterproof Rain Jacket (Yellow/Black)

Portwest PW265 PW2 Hi-Vis Waterproof Rain Jacket (Yellow/Black)

£28.01 (Ex. VAT)
Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days  Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days
Portwest S467 Hi-Vis Waterproof Contrast Winter Traffic Jacket (Orange/Grey)

Portwest S467 Hi-Vis Waterproof Contrast Winter Traffic Jacket (Orange/Grey)

  (1)
£22.08 (Ex. VAT)
Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days  Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days
Portwest T400 PW3 Hi-Vis Winter Jacket (Red/Black)

Portwest T400 PW3 Hi-Vis Winter Jacket (Red/Black)

  (1)
£48.11 (Ex. VAT)
Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days  Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days


20,000mm Waterproof Jackets

Designed for the toughest weather, our 20,000mm Waterproof Jackets are a formidable defence against the heaviest downpours. It'll take a lot of rain to seep through these rated jackets, making them an excellent outwear option for those with no choice but to work in extreme conditions. For heavy-duty, reliable protective gear, view the range of jackets below.

Portwest DX463 Black Extreme Waterproof Rain Jacket

Portwest DX463 Black Extreme Waterproof Rain Jacket

  (1)
£58.58 (Ex. VAT)
Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days  Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days
Portwest DX463 Metro Blue Extreme Waterproof Rain Jacket

Portwest DX463 Metro Blue Extreme Waterproof Rain Jacket

£52.88 (Ex. VAT)
Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days  Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days

 


Final Thoughts

If you managed to make it this far, we hope this article has been helpful in explaining the way waterproof jackets are tested, and what each resistance rating is capable of protecting you from. Working outdoors in tough conditions can be challenging enough, making the need for protective and functional clothing that much greater. We hope you leave here today with a better understanding - and some confidence when choosing your new waterproof jacket!

Click here to view our full range of Waterproof Jackets.

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