Water-repellent and waterproof products

When working outdoors, your workwear must be able to withstand all kinds of weather, from sunshine to rain and wind.

At MASCOT, we develop waterproof products – including waterproof clothing, shellwear and winter clothing – that combine high water resistance, taped seams and breathable materials. This ensures that you can work comfortably and without interruption, regardless of the weather.

 

What does waterproof mean?

Waterproofing refers to how much water a product can withstand before moisture penetrates. A wide range of our waterproof products are certified according to EN 343/EN ISO 24232 and are also tested according to EN ISO 811, which is an international standard for measuring waterproofing.

EN ISO 811 measures the product's ability to withstand increasing water column pressure – i.e. the pressure exerted by a water column until water penetrates the fabric. A higher number means better protection. The highest value for water resistance according to this standard is >10,000. This basically ensures that you stay dry in persistent rain. However, if you work in all-day rain or extreme weather conditions, we recommend that you wear waterproof clothing designed for these weather conditions.

 

 

A crucial factor: Waterproof seams

Even the most waterproof material loses its effectiveness if water can penetrate through the sewing. That is why MASCOT uses taped or welder seams in products labelled as waterproof.

Maintenance of waterproof workwear

Waterproofing is not a permanent property. Even the best materials can lose their functionality if they are not maintained properly. Here are the most common reasons why a waterproof product loses its waterproofing:

• Washing: Common detergents, fabric softeners or frequent washing can break down the waterproof membrane or surface treatment.
  
  
• Storage: Damp, hot or compressed conditions between seasons can damage the fabric and taped seams.
  
  
• Wear and tear: Friction, abrasion and physical damage (e.g. from tools, backpacks or sharp edges) can impair the waterproofing of a product.
  
  
  

To maintain waterproofing, we recommend:

• Use a special detergent without enzymes and fabric softener.
• Avoid high heat when washing and drying.
• Always follow the washing instructions on the product.
• Store clothing in a dry, well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Proper care extends the life of the clothing and ensures that the membrane, coating and seams continue to protect against water, even after many seasons.