The best waterproof clothing for travel is breathable, acts as thermal insulation, is lightweight, and is easy to wash.
Waterproof clothes are one of the essential items for winter trips. These clothes are designed in such a way that they can prevent the penetration of water into the body and keep people safe from the cold. The best waterproof clothing for travel also allows the body to breathe. Among the waterproof clothes available in the market are hats, jackets, ponchos, pants, socks and shoes. In addition to rainy days, some of these clothes are also suitable for snowy and stormy days.
What we need to know about the best waterproof clothing for travel:
Key features of waterproof clothing for travel
Waterproof clothes make tourists experience a pleasant trip in adverse weather conditions and do not have to worry about rain, snow and cold weather.
Colombia waterproof raincoat. Source: website switchbacktravel.com; Photographer: Unknown” loading=”lazy”/>
Photo source: website switchbacktravel.com; Photographer: Unknown
- Water resistance: The most important feature of waterproof clothes is their resistance to water. In fact, these clothes prevent the penetration of water and moisture into the lower layers of clothes and body.
- Breathability: Breathable fabrics prevent excessive body sweating.
- Damage Resistance: Waterproof clothes should be durable and not easily torn or worn.
- Garment Weight: Waterproof clothes should be designed light so that people can carry out their activities freely after wearing them and carry them easily; Of course, in addition to light weight, these clothes should also have some thickness to keep the body warm.
Sealing the seams: The important thing about waterproof clothes is sealing the seams. In fact, sealed seams do not allow water and moisture to enter. Attention should also be paid to the high-quality sewing of the seams and the flexibility of the fabric.
- Washing ability: The ability to wash it allows people to wash it without worrying about reducing the quality of the clothes.
The best materials for waterproof clothing
There are various waterproof fabrics in the market. Some fabrics are naturally waterproof; But some fabrics are reinforced with special materials to make them waterproof.
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- “Nylon” (Nylon): Nylon is placed in the category of light and durable fabrics against wear and tear. These fabrics usually dry very quickly. Manufacturers use nylon to make waterproof jackets and pants.
- Polyester: Polyester fabrics usually do not change color and are breathable. These resistant fabrics are used to produce waterproof jackets.
- Gore-Tex: Clothes with waterproof Goretex fabrics are used for mountain trips. These clothes are breathable and in addition to being waterproof, they are also windproof.
- Neoprene: Neoprene is synthetic rubber. Among the features of this fabric, we can mention the waterproof property and the ability to retain heat. They usually produce clothes for water sports with this type of fabric.
- Microfiber: Microfiber fabric is known as one of the best waterproof fabrics; Because a drop of water cannot pass through this fabric. Many raincoats are produced with this fabric.
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- “Polyurethane Thermoplastic” (Polyurethane Thermoplastic): Thermoplastic polyurethane is a waterproof material that is used to waterproof fabrics. This material has good flexibility and is used to waterproof the soles of shoes.
- “Polyurethane” (Polyurethane): Polyurethane is actually a plastic, flexible and resistant material that waterproofs many fabrics. Polyurethane is usually used to waterproof jackets.
- “Polyvinyl Chloride” (PVC): A substance called polyvinyl chloride is used to waterproof some clothes such as heavy raincoats. Polyvinyl chloride has a high resistance to water and is sold at an affordable price.
Waterproof clothes for different weather conditions
Thanks to the manufacturers, various waterproof clothes have been produced to prevent the penetration of moisture and water into the body.
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- hat: Waterproof hat is suitable for people who travel to nature in winter and rainy days. Usually, these hats are produced in light form. In addition to the head, some models also cover the neck and parts of the face.
- Jacket: Jackets are used as the outermost layer for winter clothes. Waterproof jackets are suitable for rainy, snowy and stormy days and humid places. Usually these clothes are produced in light and portable form and can keep people’s body warm.
- Poncho: Poncho is actually a one-piece, light and portable cover that covers the upper body and a part of the lower body of people and prevents the penetration of water, cold and humidity. It is also called rain cover pancho. Poncho can be used for camping on rainy days.
- gloves: Waterproof gloves are usually also thermal insulation and help to keep hands warm and dry on cold days. Waterproof gloves are usually used for winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding.
Photo source: engagement.com website; Photographer: Unknown
- Pants: Many waterproof pants are also windproof and therefore play a big role in providing leg warmth.
- Socks: Waterproof socks prevent water from entering the feet and are suitable for rainy weather. Some manufacturers offer waterproof socks with anti-bacterial and anti-odor construction.
- Shoes: Some waterproof shoes, in addition to being waterproof, can withstand impact and wear and are therefore very useful for walking on rough mountain terrain on rainy days.
Maintenance and washing of waterproof clothes during travel
Continuous washing of waterproof clothes reduces their quality and waterproof properties; Therefore, if you see a stain on the clothes, clean it with a damp cloth. If the garment needs to be washed thoroughly, this should be done after 20 to 25 wears. Before washing waterproof clothing, read the label of the desired clothing. Usually on these labels there is information about how to wash, which should be done according to the same procedure. The important thing about keeping waterproof clothing is that you should not turn them inside out when washing.
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Waterproof clothes can be washed by hand or by using a washing machine; But hand washing preserves the quality of clothes and increases its life. For hand washing, pour some mild, non-powdery detergent without white and softening substances into the water pan. The water temperature should be according to the clothing label. Close the zippers and buttons of the clothes and empty the pockets. Then put the clothes in the pan and wash it with a sponge or a soft brush. Finally, after rinsing, hang the clothes flat to dry without causing wrinkles.
To wash clothes with a washing machine, you must set the water temperature to the lowest level and the number of washing cycles to the lowest setting. Washing machine detergent should also be non-foaming alkaline liquid. To dry waterproof clothing, it is better to leave it in an open space away from direct sunlight; Otherwise, to dry the clothes in the washing machine, set the dryer to the lowest temperature. After the washing machine has finished drying, put it back on the dryer mode for 20 minutes; This will greatly help the durability of the waterproof suit.
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Usually, waterproof clothes do not need to be ironed, and doing this also reduces their quality; However, if for any reason you see wrinkles in your clothes after washing, use an anti-wrinkle spray; If this method does not work, use an iron as a last resort. Before ironing, read the clothing label and follow the instructions. If the clothes do not have a special method for ironing, set the temperature of the iron to the lowest level and turn off the steam function of the iron. The iron should not be placed directly on the clothes; For this reason, put a cotton cloth or towel on the clothes and pull the iron slowly on the clothes. Note that holding the iron on the clothes and pausing during ironing will damage the clothes.
Top brands of waterproof travel clothes
Many brands in the world produce waterproof clothes suitable for travel and nature tourism; But some brands are more famous in the world. In general, before buying a product from a particular brand, it is better to read the opinions of users about the desired product.
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- “The North Face”: North Face is an American brand that produces outdoor equipment and clothing. Waterproof clothes of this brand, such as waterproof jackets, are very famous in the world.
- “Patagonia” (Patagonia): Patagonia is located in America. This brand sells clothes for sports and nature tourism. One of the most popular products of this brand is the waterproof jackets with the ability to breathe.
- “Columbia” (Columbia): Columbia American brand specializes in the production of clothing, sports equipment and nature tourism equipment. Some of the best products of this brand include waterproof and windproof jackets and pants.
- “Arc’teryx”: Arctrix is an American brand and a well-known name in the field of outdoor clothing and mountaineering equipment. Waterproof sports shoes of this brand have many fans.
- “Marmot” (Marmot): The American brand Marmot is known as one of the best brands in the field of outdoor clothing such as waterproof pants and jackets, camping and mountaineering equipment.
- “Rab” (Rab): Rab company started its activity in UK. This brand is engaged in the production of clothing such as waterproof jackets and outdoor and climbing equipment.
- Helly Hansen: Heli Hansen was founded in Norway. Currently, this brand exports its clothing and sports equipment to many countries in the world. Waterproof clothes of this brand, like waterproof jackets, are very famous in the world.
- “Mountain Hardware”: In the world, the American company Mountain Hardware is known as one of the best brands in the field of sports equipment and clothing. One of the most special products of this brand is the waterproof jackets with “Dry.Q” technology.
Photo source: matt.eu website; Photographer: Unknown
In your opinion, which of the introduced brands are more successful in producing waterproof clothes? We will be happy if you share your thoughts with us and our colleagues.
Cover photo source: website switchbacktravel.com; Photographer: Unknown
Frequently asked questions
What are the best materials for waterproof clothes?
The best materials for waterproof clothing include nylon, polyester, goretex, neoprene, microfiber, and thermoplastic polyurethane.
What are the top brands of waterproof travel clothes?
Top brands of waterproof travel clothing include The North Face, Patagonia, Columbia, Marmot, Rabe, Heli Hansen, and Mountain Hardware.
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