Skip to content
Treated to repel water, waterproof rain pants are a boon to outdoor enthusiasts and workers during inclement weather conditions. These pants are worn over regular clothing and are guaranteed to keep the lower body dry and comfy against the rain and wind.
A good pair of waterproof rain pants are essential gear to pack to keep you ready for unexpected downpours. Now that the rainy days are upon us, shop for reliable waterproof pants at All Security Equipment.
Our rain pants selection are not only waterproof but also incorporated with other features like high visibility, knee pad reinforcement and ergonomic designs for heightened safety and comfort.
Waterproofing Technologies Used to Manufacture Waterproof Rain Pants
Everyone talks about different brands of waterproof rain pants, but not many care how they are made. Knowing the different waterproofing technologies can be a huge deal, especially if you notice your waterproof rain pants starting to wear. That’s because you may be able to re-waterproof them with some of these technologies, too.
Some of the waterproofing methods in garments are:
Fluorocarbon Finish
Fluorocarbon-based textiles used to be the industry standard in waterproofing. Fabric treated with C6, C8, and C10 does not only repel water but also grease, heat, and stains. Presently, the textile industry is using only C6 or switching to fluorocarbon alternatives due to environmental and health implications.
Polyurethane Coating
Polyurethane is popular in the outdoor industry. It is valued for its excellence in water resistance and durability. It can be applied to fabrics like nylon, polyester, cotton blends, and softshell fabrics.
PU coating is also lightweight, making it ideal for waterproof jackets, hiking pants, windbreakers, backpacks and softshell jackets. Some camping tents and sleeping bags can also be coated with PU to make them more durable and water-resistant.
Wax-Based Waterproofing
Paraffin, wax bars, liquid wax, and other wax products can be used to waterproof rain pants. They can be woven into or applied directly as coating to clothes to enable them to repel water. Wax is the ideal waterproofing technology used in canvas and heavy fabrics. The process may require the application of heat, such as ironing, for it to melt and penetrate the fabric.
Silicone Spray
Concentrated silicone sealants create a protective barrier when sprayed on clothing. They are convenient and cost-effective, making them an option for DIY waterproofing projects. Silicone sprays are used in various outdoor gear and clothing, such as rain suits, jackets, and boots. They may also be applied to camping tents, rain gear and multi-layer apparel.
Wash-In Waterproofing
Wash-in waterproofing is the technology that uses waterproofing solutions in single-layer fabrics like lightweight rain pants, windbreakers, and tents. Clothes are submerged and soaked in the solution, then rinsed and air-dried for the coating to adhere.
DWR Coating
DWR, or durable water repellent, is a fluoropolymer-based coating applied as a topcoat to waterproof clothing. It produces water-resistant garments without compromising their breathability. There are also fluoropolymer-free DWR for a more environment-friendly waterproofing product option.
Factory-applied DWR may wash out over time, but they can be re-applied using DWR spray or wash-in products. It is suitable for waterproof, breathable rain pants, rain gear and clothing made of synthetic fiber.
Many of the USPS MVS pants, USPS MVS shirts and other USPS MVS outerwear worn by letter carriers are coated with DWR for comfortable and protective outdoor wear.
How to Choose the Best Waterproof Rain Pants
The main reason for getting waterproof rain pants is to keep yourself warm and dry for hours while battling the inclement weather. Aside from its waterproofing capability, here are a few more considerations for getting the best one for your outdoor needs:
Material
Nylon, polyester, or polyurethane coated with DWR are the best options for waterproof rain pants. They are lightweight, waterproof, and breathable, making them very efficient for all outdoor needs.
Right Fit
Get the perfect pants with the right fit so as not to limit your mobility and compromise your comfort. It is important to refer to the product size guide before buying to avoid the inconvenience of a product return. View all customer reviews you can find if you are unsure of the fit.
Layers
Waterproof rain pants and rain gear are divided into 2-, 2.5- and 3-layers depending on how rugged you need the pants to be. The 2-layer pants are less technical and are best for light outdoor activities. With 2.5 layers, you will get light and flexible waterproof rain pants. The 3-layer rain pants are tough and are the lightest because they don’t have inner linings and coatings, just a waterproof membrane, fabric, and a shield-like lining.
Ease of Use
Waterproof rain pants are not like your casual zip-off pants. They have an elastic waistband and often come with the benefit of a drawstring for easy use and a secure fit.
Extra Features
Pockets, reflective trims, snap ankles, and fly closures are some of the more beneficial features to consider in a rain pant. Waterproof pants like Portwest have the added convenience of zipped pockets, external kneepad pockets, rule pockets, and side leg zips for added benefits and comfort.
How to Tell if the Waterproofing Is Fading
Waterproof garments do not last forever and may fade at some point. You can tell if the fabric starts “wetting out” or has dark spots, which indicates that it is soaked. Dry the pants, spritz some water, and if the spots appear, it means that the waterproofing is wearing out.
You can salvage your pants by applying DWR, silicone spray, or wash-in waterproofing products to retain their waterproofing capabilities. For long-lasting factory-applied waterproofing technology, get your waterproof rain pants at All Security Equipment. We have rain pants from trusted brands made with excellent PU waterproofing technology.
We also offer a selection of rain gear, casual pants, men’s rain pants, insulated jackets, fleece jackets, waterproof boots, and other rain gear. Call our customer service for the fit guide, product details and other information that you need about our products.
