We all must have seen backpacks that claim to be water-resistant or waterproof. Ever thought about why backpacks use these two different terms? The answer is no because most of us consider being water-resistant and being waterproof to be the same thing. Well, the terms are actually different from each other. Let us understand first what they actually imply:
A water-resistant backpack means that the backpack has the ability to resist the penetration of water to some degree but not entirely. In a way, it also means that the more time the backpack spends in water or any other liquid the more chances are there that the water (or liquid) will get into it.
On the other hand, a waterproof backpack means that the backpack can stay in the water (even fully submerged) and not have a single drop of water inside it. Sounds good ☺. No matter how long you keep the backpack inside water, the completely impervious material of waterproof backpacks will never allow any water to get to the interiors.
Wait that’s not all!
There is more to it. Keep reading to know more:
Waterproofing costs more
From the definitions explained above, it is quite natural that waterproofing will cost more. The techniques and processes used for making a backpack waterproof are very expensive. Not just that, the material that is used to make a waterproof backpack is absolutely different from the other material used for normal backpacks. The cost is well justified provided there are no compromises on the quality.
Waterproof backpacks have a breathable membrane
Certain waterproof fabrics contain a breathable membrane woven within the fabric, making them both waterproof and breathable. Waterproof, breathable fabrics help regulate heat and release moisture, and are recommended for high energy activities to dissipate heat and moisture.
Read : Waterproof Backpacks review
Water-resistant backpacks will prevent moisture from seeping in
Water-resistant (sometimes labeled “water-repellent”) fabric is coated with a finish such as DWR that is resistant but not impervious to penetration by water. Water-resistant fabrics will often bead up rainwater, forming drops on the surface. Water-resistant fabrics will provide protection from limited precipitation, but may not stand up to, say, belly-deep submersion in a mud puddle. Though water can saturate the fabric with harsh exposure, a water-resistant treatment will prevent moisture from seeping through the fabric.
Waterproof backpacks are better for adventure trips
Going by the above-listed properties, one can safely conclude that waterproof backpacks are best suited for adventure trips. When you are walking on a dirt road or walking in the rain. These were just a few feel-good experiences. Now, coming to reality. What if you slip and fall in a puddle or your river rafting experience didn’t exactly turn out as expected or you dreamt about. We guess this much is enough for you to grasp why and how waterproof backpacks are better for adventure.
Waterproof backpacks can survive the harshest of conditions
Be it a storm or a flood or dampening cold, waterproof backpacks make sure that none of your clothes, documents, food, or gifts for your family and especially the chocolates that you took for your kids get spoiled in any manner because of water. Waterproof backpacks have stood the test of surviving in the toughest climatic conditions.
As it is said, in Survival of the Fittest; it can be left to the readers to decide what is what and which one is better but neither of them can be done away with owing to the advantages they give travelers.
Hi I am Travel lover, I travel extensively and write about my experiences. Also, I use various products and write reviews about it. That’s my hobby
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