As funny as it is for us to drag members of staff out to the yard so we can soak them "for quality control purposes" there's much more that goes into making sure every garment we produce here at EQUIDRY really is as waterproof as we say.
Measuring Water Resistance
Hydrostatic Head is a unit of measurement given to fabrics after a laboratory tests them to indicate how waterproof they are. The measurement is provided in millimetres (mm) and is calculated by carrying out a test that involves using a tube that’s open at each end. The fabric is tightly secured over one end of the tube and at the other, the tube is gradually filled with pressurised water. The point at which water begins to seep through is the Hydrostatic Head rating of the fabric. For example, if water starts to come through the fabric at 3,000mm, the Hydrostatic Head rating is 3000mm. Thanks to modern testing equipment, we now use compact machines that simulate water pressure with great precision. No more towering water tubes needed in a lab!
How Waterproof Is An EQUIDRY?
All EQUIDRY coats & jackets are crafted using high-performance materials tested to achieve Hydrostatic Head ratings of 15,000 - 20,000mm. That’s an elite level of waterproofing, suitable for heavy rain, wet snow, and extreme outdoor conditions, exactly what equestrians face year-round.
We also go beyond fabric testing. Each coat includes:
-
Fully taped seams to block water at stress points
-
Durable waterproof coatings that cause rain to bead and roll off
-
Reinforced construction to support longevity and protection
So, when we say an EQUIDRY is waterproof, we mean it.
Waterproof Vs Water-Resistant: What’s The Difference?
Like us, many manufacturers will provide their Hydrostatic Head waterproof ratings so this guide should help you to determine whether a coat is only water resistant or actually waterproof.
EQUIDRY’s waterproof equestrian coats & jackets provide long-lasting protection against heavy rain, whereas water-resistant coats offer only limited resistance to moisture and may not hold up in wetter conditions. If you're a fair-weather rider, a water-resistant coat may suffice. But if you're outside in all conditions, you'll want an EQUIDRY coat with 20,000mm waterproof protection.
|
Tested, Trusted, and Truly Waterproof
At EQUIDRY, we don’t leave protection to chance. Every coat is backed by advanced Hydrostatic Head testing, taped seams, and high-performance waterproof materials.
