Just give me the basics - is it waterproof?

[GrumpyGregry]

tent fabric uses something called mm hydrostatic head; the higher the better.

why don't they use that standard?

Seams. Pockets. Zippedfronts. Neck holes.

Good explanation about the fabric measures http://www.lovecamping.co.uk/guides/how-is-waterproofness-measured

 

[talisman50082]

What did Cromwell write to the synod of the Church of Scotland?

Its possible.

 

[Berk on a Bike]

This article explains waterproof and breathability ratings http://www.evo.com/waterproof-ratings-and-breathability-guide.aspx

 

[byegad]

The better quality waterproofs refer to the hydrostatic pressure inward and outward, just like the tent manufacturers do. But you do pay for quality.

 

[Berties]

Once you find a garment waterproof material that passes All the test of having water pushed into it for long periods,once made into a garment the seams are weaker and so are areas that surround the zips or poppers,..is any garment trulely waterproof ?
I have had a Barbour drovers jacket for years ,gets waxed all the time ,can be out in it all days in the worst rain and water gets in behind the poppers,

 

[nickyboy]

If you really want waterproof, this is your only option

 

[Fnaar]

tent fabric uses something called mm hydrostatic head; the higher the better.

why don't they use that standard?

Why not use tent fabric! (that's my eureka moment, nobody steal it, I can retire on this)

 

[Fnaar]

But where does Miss Goodbody recommend that you keep the pole?

She's too busy sorting the flaps out.

 

[Cubist]

Gore Active Shell, NikWax Analogy. Go and google them and come back with your findings about waterproofness. As a clue, Active Shell with taped seams claims to keep water out and breathes easily. It breaks down over time and the seams fail, but it is very light, packable and the reviews of stuff like Gore Bike Wear are pretty good.

NikWax Analogy and Analogy Light claims to pump all water away from the body. It's usually treated with a proofing solution on the outside and even when the outer fabric (which is totally breathable) wets out, the liner makes sure any moisture only goes one way. There's a reason why Paramo Analogy is the waterproof of choice for Mountain Rescue teams. I have a couple of Paramo jackets, one which is designed as a commuting jacket. It is indeed very waterproof, but a bit warm so is best as a winter jacket. (Have a look at Paramo Quito as a bike specific jacket)

 

[Cubist]

She's too busy sorting the flaps out.

To say nothing of the bell end.

 

[GrumpyGregry]

Once you find a garment waterproof material that passes All the test of having water pushed into it for long periods,once made into a garment the seams are weaker and so are areas that surround the zips or poppers,..is any garment trulely waterproof ?
I have had a Barbour drovers jacket for years ,gets waxed all the time ,can be out in it all days in the worst rain and water gets in behind the poppers,

May I have a TMN please?

 

[GrumpyGregry]

That was kind of my point about the nylon Montane H2O jacket (which wasn't cheap, serves as a good windproof layer, and packs up as small as an apple). Really waterproof material is always going to be somewhat uncomfortable if you want to charge about and work up a sweat. It's always a trade-off, and it depends how bothered people are about keeping out every single drop of rain.

If one thinks cyclists are hydrophobic one should hang out with runners, many of whom seem to think their flesh is made of dispirin.

 

[Wooliferkins]

Possibly vain attempt at understanding/clarifying what's written on clothing & luggage labels re waterproofing HERE

 

[Profpointy]

a plastic bag, or more pertinently, a PVC or similar jacket proper waterproof. The snag is, if you wear it whilst doing any exercise, you'll get soaking wet from sweat, so waterproofness is hardly relevant. For hillwalking, I wear Paramo stuff, which is kind-of waterproof, but very breathable and you don't get wet inside. Sadly they don't make a cycling jacket, and it would probably be a bit warm. For cycling I wear a windproof fleece, very slightly water-resistant thing, which keeps me warm, and doesn't get wet inside so long as I'm active.

So the simple "is it waterproof" question, is really the wrong question, silly though that may sound

 

[SpokeyDokey]

a plastic bag, or more pertinently, a PVC or similar jacket proper waterproof. The snag is, if you wear it whilst doing any exercise, you'll get soaking wet from sweat, so waterproofness is hardly relevant. For hillwalking, I wear Paramo stuff, which is kind-of waterproof, but very breathable and you don't get wet inside. Sadly they don't make a cycling jacket, and it would probably be a bit warm. For cycling I wear a windproof fleece, very slightly water-resistant thing, which keeps me warm, and doesn't get wet inside so long as I'm active.

So the simple "is it waterproof" question, is really the wrong question, silly though that may sound

Paramo Cycling Jacket:

http://www.paramo.co.uk/en-gb/garments/detail/index.php?pgc=NIKWAXANALOGYJACKETCICLOMENS

Not sure how new it is - maybe just come out?