Whether we're choosing a raincoat for ourselves, or a dog raincoat for our canine companion, the water-resistance rating of a jacket is one of the most important factors to consider.
This rating determines the performance of the raincoat, when subjected to rainy conditions. It should be checked on each product, to ensure you're purchasing the correct coat for your intended use.
But you may be wondering - what does each rating mean? Read on!
The Ratings
Each of the raincoats we stock has been awarded a water-resistance rating. The higher the rating, the more rain the coat can withstand before the rain permeates the coat.
Recommended use for each rating is as below.
>>>>>>>>>>>> 5,000mm
This rating is recommended for light showers and drizzle, especially in the spring and autumn months. These coats are recommended for casual activities, such as everyday walks, where you aren't likely to be caught out in very heavy rain.
Examples:
>>>>>>>>>> 10,000mm
This rating is recommended for moderate rainfall. Great for everyday, and for sporting activities.
Examples:
15,000mm
This rating is recommended for moderate to heavier rainfall. These raincoats are great for long trips and sporting activities, as well as everyday use.
Examples:
- Fjord Jacket by Non-stop dogwear - 15,000mm
- Hayton ECO Raincoat - 15,000mm
How are these ratings awarded?
You may be wondering - how do these manufacturers come to this conclusion?
The ratings are given to each coat, as determined by the water-column test. Manufacturers send their fabric in to a laboratory, who then test the water-resistance of the fabric.
They do this by pulling the fabric tight across different test tubes, which are filled with different measurements of water, ie. 5,000mm, 10,000mm, etc. Then, they turn the test tubes upside down, so that the water can only escape through the fabric.
After 24 hours of soaking, the fabrics are assessed to see how much the water has penetrated through the fabric. They are then awarded a water-resistance rating based on their findings - for example, if no water has penetrated through the 10,000mm test tube, then it will be awarded at least a 10,000mm rating.
The higher the number, the more resistant to rain the jacket is.
Remember, jackets are just the first line of protection - no dog jacket is fully waterproof, but they can extend your adventures in inclement weather - choose what is suitable for your adventures.