RESOURCES | The Ins & Outs of Waterproof Finishings …

Waterproof fabrics resist liquid water passing through, but allow water vapour to pass through. Their ability to block out rain and snow while allowing vapour from sweat to evaporate makes them perfect for rainwear, outdoors sports clothing, tents, and other applications.

But HOW are waterproof fabrics made?

Waterproof fabrics are treated with special material such as, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), rubber, silicone elastomeric, wax or fluropolymers, which are either natural or synthetic. The chosen substance then placed on either the top layer on a piece of clothing through lamination or by coating them.

Some more eco-friendly alternatives include using bees wax (although the results are usually water resistant, rather than waterproof).

We get our ethical alternatives, by reclaiming end of roll waterproofs, so they don’t end up in landfill. Check these out: