Why Do I Get Wet While Wearing a Rain Jacket?

It can be a frustrating experience to buy a work rain jacket, only to find out you’re still getting wet underneath. But it’s also an opportunity to improve both your everyday gear kit and your knowledge of workwear! There are two main reasons why you might still get wet while wearing your work rain jacket. Let’s look at both of them, examine why each one happens and learn about ways to stay dry more effectively — including five awesome work rain jackets from HiVis Supply you should know about.

Cause 1: Water Resistant (But Not Waterproof) Jackets

Waterproof and water-resistant jackets might sound like they’re the same thing. However, when it comes to performance in tough conditions, there are some pretty important differences to know about. The biggest difference in waterproof vs. water-resistant jackets is the presence of an outer membrane coated with a durable water repellent (DWR). Usually, a water-resistant jacket will only have a DWR-treated membrane on its inner layer. A waterproof jacket will also have a high-denier DWR-treated membrane on the outer layer to give the wearer better protection. 

Water-resistant jackets will give you solid protection in light precipitation or when you’re only exposed to precipitation for a short time. If you’ll be out for hours at a time in the rain or snow, and especially if it’s coming down hard, you’ll need a truly waterproof jacket. Some water-resistant jackets also aren’t fully waterproofed in areas such as the seams and the zippers. Workers who need the most dependable protection against rain and snow should look for a waterproof jacket with taped seams and sealed zippers. This will help make sure that water won’t find its way through the cracks. 

Cause 2: Sweating Inside Your Rain Jacket

Remember the horror movies where it turned out that the creepy phone calls were coming from inside the house? Often, when you find yourself getting wet underneath your rain jacket, the water is coming from inside the jacket. (Cue scream.) That’s right — sweat is another likely culprit for why you’re getting wet under your jacket. Your skin still sweats when you’re working in the rain or snow. When that sweat starts to run and itch and do the annoying things that sweat does, it can be easy to mistake it for water that’s gotten in from outside.

What’s the best way to manage sweat while you’re working in the rain? First, make sure to choose a rain jacket that’s appropriate for the work environment. A winter parka might be waterproof, but it will also make you sweat a lot if you’re working in warm Florida rain. It’s also better to choose rain gear that includes breathability features for improved air circulation. The second tip is to get to know (and love) moisture-wicking work shirts. These soft, comfy undershirts are made from a special fabric that pulls sweat away from your skin. Once the sweat is out of the moisture-rich environment of your skin, it dries quickly and evaporates. 

High-Quality Rain Jackets to Keep You Dry

1. Work King SJ28 Class 3 Hi Vis Safety 300D Ripstop Shell

Do you want true waterproof performance? You’ve got it with this ANSI Class 3 hi vis jacket, thanks to features like tape seams, a storm flap and a waterproof welded chest. With dual microphone tabs, it’s equipped to be your mobile command center in any weather. 

2. Radians RW11 Class 3 Lightweight Ripstop Rain Jacket

This lightweight rain jacket is a great choice because it works on so many different levels. It’s easy to throw on in a hurry but also truly waterproof. The ripstop polyester fabric is light but incredibly durable. And it’s ANSI Class 3 compliant for even the most challenging conditions. 

3. GSS Safety 6005 Contrast Series Class 3 HiVis Black Bottom Safety Rain Coat

You’ll be impressed with how well this sturdy and economical light rain coat protects against precipitation. Its water resistant design provides an ideal level of comfort and cooling that makes it a pleasure to work in. 

4. Onyx Series Class 3 Rain Coat

Tough conditions are no match for this heavy-duty waterproof rain coat with ANSI Class 3 visibility to keep you on display in all weather. Plus, it’s not just waterproof — a Teflon shield coating also allows it to shrug off oil and other stains. 

5. Kishigo B300 Class 1 Hi Vis Premium Contrasting Rain Jacket

Stunningly stylish but ready to perform, this ANSI Class 1 rain jacket takes waterproof excellence to a new level. Hi vis green is set against a black fabric for a sharp and effective high contrast look, and the whole jacket is set up for maximum air flow and comfort. 

HiVis Supply is proud to bring our customers the best selection of hi vis rain jackets anywhere! See everything we have to offer in our hi vis rain gear section, and check out our tips for finding the best rain workwear to make sure your rainwear solutions will meet your needs.