Waterproof Rain Gear

If you've ever been caught in a rainstorm without any "waterproof" attire then you know what it's like being wet and uncomfortable. It can make for a quick end to any fun day you had planned for an outdoor activity. You can always enjoy the outdoors; you just have to be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way. And as any outdoorsman will tell you, she can put out some mean storms and without any warning.

For those of you that are gearing up for an outdoor activity you should be aware that although they seem to have the same meaning there is a difference between "waterproof" and "water resistant":

• Waterproof - this means that the product is designed to withstand submersion in water and will completely prevent water from seeping through the material.


• Water-resistant - key word being resistant meaning the product will repel the effects of rain or snow somewhat preventing water from seeping through the material.

So depending on what your outdoor needs are, keep these two terms in mind. If you're hiking, water resistant boots work just fine in moderately wet weather, but fail miserably when trekking through mud, deep snow or even worse, wet snow. In the later situation you'll want boots that are completely waterproof.

Running, biking and hiking are just a few outdoor sports that can really make you work up a sweat. Nobody really enjoys doing any of these things when it's raining, but sometimes it can't be helped. Of course if you are caught in the rain, your ideal attire would be waterproof rain gear. But remember although waterproof rain gear keeps water completely out it also keeps sweat completely in. So even though you're not rain wet you will quickly become sweat wet (which is just as bad). Today's raingear manufacturers use high tech materials with vents and mesh openings so that this is a problem of the past. Look for words like, dry-wick, moisture wick and breathability on labels.

Heading off to watch your favorite pro football team play or maybe just as important, your son's pee-wee football game but the sky is looking a little dark? Football doesn't stop because of a little rain, but it can make for an uncomfortable time sitting in the stands. This is where the old classic rain poncho comes in handy. They're small enough to fit in your purse or pocket and are always a great standby. If nothing else, a plastic garbage bag with holes cut out for your head and arms always works in a pinch.