Waterproof jackets are rated by how much water pressure they can withstand before leaking.
The higher the rating, the more waterproof the jacket is. A 5000 mm waterproof jacket means that it can resist a water column of 5000 mm (or 5 meters) before letting water in.
This is a decent level of waterproofness, suitable for light to moderate rain and snow.
However, it may not be enough for heavy downpours or prolonged exposure to wet conditions.
In this blog post, we will compare a 5000 mm waterproof jacket with other ratings, and give you some tips on how to find the best waterproof jacket for your needs.
Whether you buy new or used north face jackets, you will learn how to check their waterproof rating and quality.
What Does 5000 mm Waterproof Mean?
A 5,000mm jacket is a jacket that can withstand 5000mm (or 5 meters) of water in testing before allowing water to penetrate the material.
This means that if you were to place a tube over the fabric and fill it with water, it would take 5 meters of water pressure to make the fabric leak.
This is a common way of measuring the waterproof rating of a jacket, which describes how dry the jacket will keep you in different weather conditions.
However, this does not mean that you can stand under a waterfall or swim in a lake with a 5000 mm waterproof jacket and expect to stay dry.
There are other factors that affect the waterproofness of a jacket, such as:
- The quality and durability of the fabric and the seams
- The type and amount of coating or membrane applied to the fabric
- The design and fit of the jacket, such as the hood, cuffs, zippers, and vents
- The level of activity and perspiration of the wearer
- The age and wear and tear of the jacket
How Good is a 5000 mm Waterproof Jacket for Different Activities?
A 5000 mm waterproof jacket is considered to be a good level of protection for most outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, cycling, or skiing in light to moderate rain or snow.
It can also handle some wind and cold temperatures, depending on the insulation and breathability of the jacket.
However, a 5000 mm waterproof jacket may not be enough for more extreme or prolonged exposure to wet weather, such as heavy rain or snow, strong winds, or high altitudes.
In these cases, you may need a higher waterproof rating, such as 10,000 mm or more, which can handle more water pressure and offer better resistance to abrasion and tearing.
Additionally, a 5000 mm waterproof jacket may not be very comfortable or breathable for high-intensity activities, such as running, climbing, or biking.
This is because the fabric may not allow enough moisture and heat to escape from your body, making you feel sweaty and clammy inside.
For these activities, you may want a more breathable jacket, which usually has a lower waterproof rating but higher breathability rating.
How to Choose the Best Waterproof Jacket for Your Needs?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as different jackets suit different people and situations. However, here are some general tips to help you choose the best waterproof jacket for your needs:
- Consider your budget and how often you will use the jacket. A higher-quality jacket may cost more but last longer and perform better than a cheaper one.
- Consider your activity level and weather conditions. A higher-waterproof rating may be necessary for wetter or harsher environments, while a lower-waterproof rating may be sufficient for drier or milder ones.
- Consider your personal preference and comfort. A lighter-weight jacket may be more packable and versatile than a heavier one. A longer-length jacket may offer more coverage than a shorter one. A hooded jacket may provide more protection than a non-hooded one.
- Consider the features and details of the jacket. Look for things like taped seams, adjustable cuffs, storm flaps, pit zips, pockets, etc. that can enhance the performance and functionality of the jacket.
- Try on different jackets and see how they fit and feel. Make sure they are not too tight or too loose, allow enough mobility and ventilation, and have no gaps or leaks.
