Weatherproof Vs Waterproof: What Do They Mean And What Are The 6 Differences?

Weatherproof Vs Waterproof: What Do They Mean?

The words mean exactly as they sound. When something is weatherproof, you can expect it to perform well under different weather conditions. For instance, it may last longer when there’s wind, moisture, sunlight, or even snow. 

Waterproof on the other will repel water to an extreme degree. It’s not similar to water repellent or water resistant. Even if you submerge something waterproof in the water, it shouldn’t get damaged. Not according to the definition anyway. 

Weatherproof Vs Waterproof: 6 Differences

Aspect	Weatherproof	Waterproof
Definition	Offers protection from sunlight, wind, and light rain.	Provides strong protection against water.
Relationship	May not necessarily be waterproof.	Can be both weatherproof and waterproof.
Features	Protects from sunlight, wind, and light rain.	Guards against heavy rain and water exposure.
Durability	Generally less durable; uses layers and coatings.	Typically more durable; waterproof materials.
Cost	Usually less expensive; depends on product type/brand.	Often more expensive due to waterproofing.
Breathability	Not highly breathable; less suitable for clothes/footwear.	Comparatively less breathable than weatherproof.
Examples	Bags, shoes, accessories, fabrics.	Boots, bags, clothing, flooring, etc.

To understand these two terms with more clarity, let’s take a look at some basic differences between something that’s weatherproof and something that’s waterproof. 

1. Relationship Between The Two Terms

One common misconception is the relationship between the terms weatherproof and waterproof. Something that’s waterproof may not necessarily be weatherproof. The same goes for weatherproof products.

It’s important to note that a product can be both weatherproof and waterproof. However, one feature does not guarantee the other. 

2. Features

Waterproof products are excellent when you need strong protection against water. For instance, if we are talking about boots, you must have a pair of waterproof boots when it’s raining heavily. 

Water-resistant boots will not protect your boots in heavy rain. On the other hand, weatherproof products are something that will come in handy when you are seeking protection from sunlight, wind, and light rain. For instance, a weatherproof umbrella will not only be durable in the rain but also in sunlight and wind. 

3. Durability 

In general, waterproof products are usually more durable than weatherproof products. The reason is that waterproof products are waterproof in feature as a whole. Which means the materials used for making waterproof products are waterproof. 

Weatherproof products, on the other hand, use layers and protective coatings. So, once the coating is breached, the product does not stay weatherproof any more. For this reason, waterproof products are more durable. 

4. Cost

As a general rule, waterproof options are always more expensive than weatherproof options. However, it entirely depends on what you are considering. For instance, it may not be similar for boots and fabrics. Besides, the brand plays an important role here too. 

But most of the time, you can expect waterproof products to be more expensive. So, make sure to set your budget accordingly. 

5. Breathability 

Another important aspect to consider when differentiating weatherproof and waterproof is breathability. It may not be important for products like umbrellas. But when you’re considering shoes or clothes, it’s very important. 

Weatherproof options are not that breathable either when you’re judging them individually. But when compared to waterproof options, weatherproof products are comparatively more breathable. 

So, if breathability is something you are looking for in your clothes, boots, or bags, going for waterproof options may not be the best idea. 

6. Examples

Another key difference between these two is not everything can be waterproof or weatherproof. For instance, you may not find a flooring option that’s weatherproof. Flooring options are always either water-resistant or waterproof. 

The term weatherproof is mostly applicable to bags, shoes, accessories, and fabrics. Waterproof products, on the other hand, can include boots, bags, clothing, flooring, etc. 

Weatherproof Vs Waterproof: Which One Is Better?

Aspect	Weatherproof Option	Waterproof Option
Suitability Based on Location	Windy areas	Constant exposure to water/moisture
Example Product	Wind-resistant jacket	Raincoat or diving suit
Breathability	Generally more breathable	Can be less breathable
Indoor vs Outdoor Use	Suitable for indoor use	Suitable for outdoor, wet conditions
Protection Level	Protects from light rain, drizzle	Protects from heavy rain, submersion
Suitable Activities	Everyday use, light activities	Water-based activities, heavy rain
Considerations	May not be fully waterproof	Offers better water protection
Decision Factors	Wind-resistance, breathability	Water protection, activity type

The first thing to consider when determining which one is a better choice is the product you are buying. Depending on several aspects, the suitability can be different. For instance, if you live somewhere windy and you’re considering a jacket, a weatherproof option might be more suitable for you compared to a waterproof option. 

The key to deciding which one is more suitable for you is to evaluate the comparison points and match the option that suits you better. For instance, if you work somewhere indoors and looking for a breathable pair of shoes, a waterproof pair may not be a suitable option for you. 

On the contrary, if you’re exposed to water and moisture constantly throughout the day, waterproof options will have no competitor in this matter. 

As you can see, there is no fixed better option for you. The option changes depending on different aspects. So, make sure you’re taking your time to evaluate your necessities before spending a fair amount of money on anything.

Water-Resistant And Water Repellent 

While we are on the subject of those terms, let’s go through water-resistant and water repellent too. These two terms are nearly similar and almost interchangeable. But they are not similar to waterproof or weatherproof. 

Water-resistant refers to when something can withstand water for a short period of time. These products usually have a coating, much like weatherproof products, to resist water. However, the resistance depends on how long you’re allowing the water to stay on the product. 

If you leave water on water-resistant products for too long, they will get damaged. Once the upper layer is penetrated, the product becomes vulnerable to water and gets damaged. 

Take water-resistant flooring for example. They may withstand splashes and spills. But if you leave the liquid on that surface for too long, it will seep inside and damage the core. As a result, the flooring will warp. 

Accessories can be water-resistant too. But you cannot submerge them in the water like waterproof accessories. However, they will survive water splashes and spills for a short period. 

So, it’s very important to identify the label of the product that you are buying. You can expect to buy something water-resistant and go swimming while wearing it. Learn the terminologies so that you can save your money, as well as the things you bought. 

Comparison of Water-Resistant, Water Repellent, Waterproof, and Weatherproof Properties

Property	Water-Resistant	Water Repellent	Waterproof	Weatherproof
Defination	Can withstand water for a short time	Repels water droplets	Can resist water submersion	Can withstand various weather elements
Coating	Has a coating to resist water	Treated to make water bead up	Often has specialized waterproof layer	Has advanced protection against weather
Duration of Exposure	Short period, not for prolonged exposure	Brief exposure to light rain or moisture	Prolonged exposure and submersion	Suitable for extended exposure
Vulnerability	Damaged if exposed for too long	Effective against light moisture	Resists penetration of water	Offers resistance to weather effects
Examples	Water-resistant flooring, accessories	Water-repellent jackets, treated shoes	Diving suits, waterproof watches	Outdoor jackets, all-weather shoes
Suitable Activities	Withstand splashes and spills briefly	Light rain or drizzle, not full submersion	Water activities, swimming, diving	Outdoor activities in varying weather
Submersion	Cannot be submerged in water	Not suitable for prolonged water exposure	Can be submerged without damage	Withstands exposure to weather elements
Important Note	Liquid left too long can cause damage	Provides resistance to light moisture	Designed for full water immersion	Offers overall protection against weather

Final Words 

The more you familiarize yourself with these terms, the smarter you can buy. Differentiating weatherproof vs waterproof will save you money and time. Next time, when a seller is trying to buy something labeled as weatherproof as waterproof or vice versa, you will know what to do. 

Figure out what you want and what features you expect, then put your money in the right place. It’s not as much about choosing the better option but choosing the better option for you.