The Difference between Water Resistant and Water Proof
When it comes to purchasing products that are designed to resist water, it is essential to understand the difference between water-resistant and waterproof. Knowing the distinctions between the two can help you make informed decisions and save you from future problems. Keep on reading, and we’ll explore the difference between water-resistant and waterproof.
Water Resistant
Water-resistant means that a product can resist water to a certain degree. For example, if a watch is water-resistant, it means that it can handle water splashes but cannot be submerged in water. Similarly, a water-resistant jacket can keep you dry in light rain, but will not withstand torrential downpours.
Water-resistant products have materials that are treated to repel water. They can withstand splashes or light rain, but they are not entirely impervious to water. They can still absorb water over time, and their water resistance level can wear down or deteriorate over time, exposing your item to some level of moisture.
Waterproof
Waterproof products, on the other hand, means that they can block water from getting inside the product. A waterproof product can be submerged in water without any water getting inside. For instance, waterproof watches can be worn when swimming, diving or even hiking.
Waterproof products usually have special materials, such as Gore-Tex, that prevent water from penetrating the item. The materials will not wear down over time and will always protect the product from water damage.
Conclusion
Overall, the difference between water-resistant and waterproof is significant. Water-resistant products have some resistance to water, but they cannot keep water out entirely, while waterproof items can block water from getting in.
When choosing products for an outdoor activity where you are likely to encounter water, it is essential to understand their water resistance or waterproof rating. Always ensure that you read the product’s specifications before you purchase it, to make sure it can handle the water conditions you expect it to face. By doing so, you will have items that will serve you for longer and prevent any water damage from occurring.
Table difference between water resistant and water proof
| Water resistant | Water proof |
|---|---|
| Water resistant means that a product can withstand water to a certain degree, but will eventually give in if exposed to water for an extended period of time or if it is completely submerged. For example, a water resistant watch may be able to handle splashes of water, but it cannot be worn for swimming or diving. | Water proof means that a product is completely impervious to water, and can be submerged or exposed to water for an extended period of time without being damaged. For example, a water proof phone can be used while swimming or even taken under water for photography or videos. |
| Water resistant products often have an IP rating (Ingress Protection rating) which indicates how much protection a product has against dust and water. The rating is usually followed by two numbers, with the first number indicating dust protection and the second indicating water protection. A typical water resistant rating is IP67 which means the product is fully protected against dust and can withstand being submerged in water up to a meter deep for 30 minutes. | Water proof products also have an IP rating, with the highest rating being IP68 which means it can be submerged in water deeper than one meter and for a longer period of time. It is important to note that although a product may be water proof, it may not be fully protected against other types of liquids or substances. |