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Embarking on thrilling outdoor expeditions demands reliable gear that can brave the elements. In order to enjoy your adventure to the maximum, we understand the critical role of waterproof ratings and hydrostatic head in ensuring you remain dry and comfortable throughout your journeys.
We’re going to break down what are hydrostatic heads and the waterproof ratings around them so you can discover your world in comfort.
A hydrostatic head test assesses a fabric’s waterproofing abilities by subjecting it to increasing water pressure. The fabric is set up in a sealed tube, and water is applied gradually until leakage occurs. The pressure at which water penetrates the material determines its hydrostatic head rating, indicating its waterproof capacity. Fabrics with higher ratings are better suited for harsh weather conditions, while those with lower ratings are suitable for milder climates.
A hydrostatic head test assesses a fabric’s waterproofing abilities by subjecting it to increasing water pressure. The fabric is set up in a sealed tube, and water is applied gradually until leakage occurs. The pressure at which water penetrates the material determines its hydrostatic head rating, indicating its waterproof capacity. Fabrics with higher ratings are better suited for harsh weather conditions, while those with lower ratings are suitable for milder climates.
To meet the correct UK standard the fabric must pass a result of 1500mm or more.
On our website, you may have seen next to our waterproof products some numbers, such as 8,000mm through to 30,000mm, and thought, ‘What on earth does this mean?’ These numbers are our hydrostatic head/waterproof ratings in practice! The higher the number, the more water pressure that specific product can endure, providing you with more waterproof protection.
You may now be thinking, ‘What waterproof rating do I need?’ it can be confusing to try and understand what level of protection you need, and it all depends on your activity, location, and, of course, the climate! We have the following recommendations below:
Up To 5,000mm: Light Rain
5,000mm – 10,000mm: Average to Heavy Rain
10,000mm & Above: Very Heavy Rain
Breathability is the amount of water vapour that can be let out through a fabric. Testing the breathability of our clothing involves checking how well the fabric allows sweat to escape. They use a method called moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) testing. This measures how quickly moisture passes through the fabric over a specific time. Higher MVTR values mean the fabric is more breathable, making it more comfortable during outdoor activities. Conducting these tests ensures clothing efficiently manages sweat, keeping adventurers cool and dry during their journeys.
Breathability has a similar scale to our waterproof rating, the higher the number, the more breathable the garment is going to be. Breathability is measured in g/m2/24hrs.
To maximize the lifespan and performance of your Craghoppers gear, follow our maintenance guidelines diligently. From routine reapplication of waterproof coatings to avoiding unnecessary wear and tear, nurturing your gear as per our recommendations guarantees that it continues to safeguard you during every exhilarating expedition.
