Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on November 1, 2023
Waterproof means impervious to water, ensuring no water ingress, while water-resistant implies a product can repel water but not entirely prevent its entry.
Difference Between Waterproof and Water-Resistant
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Waterproof and water-resistant are terms often used interchangeably, but they describe different levels of protection against water.
Waterproof items are designed to be entirely impervious to water. This means that water cannot penetrate or damage the product, irrespective of the duration or pressure. Conversely, water-resistant items can repel water to a degree but might not keep it out entirely, especially under certain conditions.
The distinction between these terms is crucial, especially when purchasing items meant to provide protection against moisture.
For instance, a waterproof watch can be submerged in water without any risk of damage, ensuring its inner mechanics remain unaffected. A water-resistant watch, on the other hand, may handle splashes or short immersion but could be damaged if exposed longer.
Materials and construction techniques largely determine whether a product is waterproof or water-resistant.
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Waterproof materials typically have a special layer or membrane that stops water molecules, while water-resistant materials repel water, often because of a special coating or the nature of the material, but lack the full barrier found in waterproof items.
Choosing between waterproof and water-resistant products generally depends on the intended use.
For light rain or accidental spills, water-resistant items might suffice. However, for activities where prolonged exposure to water is anticipated, like scuba diving or heavy rain, waterproof items are the go-to choice.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Completely impervious to water
Can repel water but not entirely prevent its entry
Duration of protection
Long-term and constant
Temporary and condition-dependent
Intended use
Submersion, constant exposure
Light rain, splashes, brief exposure
Level of protection
Full protection
Limited protection
Material or feature
Special layer or membrane
Coating or inherent repellency
Compare with Definitions
Waterproof
Impervious to water, offering complete protection.
The waterproof jacket kept me dry during the downpour.
Water-Resistant
Resistant to water penetration, but not entirely.
The water-resistant shoes were okay for dewy grass but not for puddles.
Waterproof
Unable to be penetrated by water.
The waterproof seal ensures that the electronics are safe from water damage.
Water-Resistant
Capable of repelling water to some extent.
The water-resistant fabric shed off light rain, keeping me relatively dry.
Waterproof
Offering full protection against water.
Her waterproof phone was unharmed even after being dropped in a pool.
Water-Resistant
Providing a degree of protection against water.
His water-resistant watch was fine in light showers but not for swimming.
Waterproof
Made to prevent water ingress entirely.
The waterproof boots were perfect for wading through shallow streams.
Water-Resistant
Offering limited defense against moisture.
The water-resistant coat was good for a drizzle but not a downpour.
Waterproof
Impervious to or unaffected by water.
Water-Resistant
Designed to handle splashes or brief immersion.
Her water-resistant makeup stayed on despite the humidity.
Waterproof
Made of or coated or treated with rubber, plastic, or a sealing agent to prevent penetration by water.
Water-Resistant
Resistant to damage by water
A water-resistant watch.
Water-resistant wallboard.
Waterproof
A material or fabric that is impervious to water.
Water-Resistant
That slows the penetration of water (but is not waterproof)
Waterproof
Chiefly British A raincoat or other such outer garment.
Water-Resistant
Hindering the penetration of water;
A water-repellent coat
Waterproof
To make impervious to water.
Waterproof
Resistant to the effects of water.
Waterproof
Made of or covered with material that doesn't allow water in.
Waterproof
(figurative) Incapable of failing; unassailable.
Waterproof
To make waterproof or water-resistant.
Waterproof
A substance or preparation for rendering cloth, leather, etc., impervious to water.
Waterproof
Cloth made waterproof, or any article made of such cloth, or of other waterproof material, as rubber; especially, an outer garment made of such material.
Waterproof
Proof against penetration or permeation by water; impervious to water; as, a waterproof garment; a waterproof roof.
Waterproof
A substance or preparation for rendering cloth, leather, etc., impervious to water.
Waterproof
Cloth made waterproof, or any article made of such cloth, or of other waterproof material, as rubber; esp., an outer garment made of such material.
Waterproof
To render impervious to water, as cloth, leather, etc.
Waterproof
Any fabric impervious to water
Waterproof
A water-resistant coat
Waterproof
Make watertight;
Waterproof the coat
Waterproof
Not permitting the passage of water
Waterproof
Designed to be submerged without damage.
The flashlight was waterproof, so it worked well for night dives.
Common Curiosities
Are all watches that can handle water labeled as waterproof?
No, some might be water-resistant, so always check before submerging.
Is water-resistant good enough for hiking?
It depends on conditions; for light rain or fog, yes, but for heavy rain, waterproof is better.
Does waterproof mean it can handle other liquids?
Not necessarily. Waterproof typically pertains to water only, so always check before exposing to other liquids.
Can I submerge a waterproof item indefinitely?
Generally, yes, but always refer to the product's specifications for depth and duration limits.
Can a waterproof phone be used while swimming?
Many can, but always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines regarding depth and duration.
Do waterproof items breathe well?
Some modern waterproof materials do allow for breathability, but it varies by product.
How is waterproofing tested?
Often through submersion tests or pressurized water tests.
Will water-resistant clothing keep me dry in heavy rain?
Typically, no. Water-resistant is meant for light rain or splashes, not prolonged exposure.
Is water-resistant sufficient for water sports?
Generally, no. Water sports usually require waterproof protection.
Can I make a water-resistant item waterproof?
There are sprays and treatments available, but they may not offer the same protection as inherently waterproof items.
Can water-resistant materials become saturated?
Yes, with prolonged exposure or under certain conditions, they can become saturated.
How do I care for waterproof items?
Always follow manufacturer guidelines, but typically, avoid abrasive cleaners or brushes.
How long do waterproof treatments last?
It varies, but many treatments require reapplication over time or after wear.
Are there different levels of water resistance?
Yes, some products may specify conditions they can handle, like splashes vs. brief immersion.
Can I make my shoes water-resistant?
There are sprays available that can provide a degree of water resistance to footwear.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
