As an essential equipment for outdoor sports enthusiasts, the waterproof performance of the assault suit is one of the important indicators to measure its quality. The strength of waterproof performance directly affects the 

comfort and safety of the wearer in adverse weather conditions. This article will explore in detail how strong the waterproof performance of the fabric of the submachine jacket is from the aspects of waterproof principle, 

waterproof grade, testing method, and actual performance in use.

1、 The waterproof principle of the fabric of the assault suit

The waterproof performance of a submachine jacket mainly depends on the structure and coating of its fabric. Common waterproof fabrics are divided into two categories: waterproof coating fabrics and waterproof breathable membrane fabrics.

1. Waterproof coating fabric

This type of fabric achieves waterproof function by coating a layer of waterproof coating (such as polyurethane PU coating) on the surface of the fabric. The coating can prevent moisture infiltration, but its breathability is relatively poor, making it suitable for use in environments with low rainfall.

2. Waterproof and breathable membrane fabric

This type of fabric usually adopts a multi-layer structure, with the most core part being a waterproof and breathable membrane (such as GORE-TEX, eVent, etc.). The waterproof breathable membrane is composed of microporous structures, with diameters much smaller than water droplets but larger than water vapor molecules. Therefore, it can effectively block rainwater infiltration while allowing sweat evaporation, achieving the dual function of waterproof and breathable.

2、 Classification of Waterproof Levels

The waterproof performance of assault suits is usually measured by the waterproof index (unit: millimeter water column, mmH ₂ O). The waterproof index represents the height of a water column that a fabric can withstand under a certain pressure, and the higher the value, the stronger the waterproof performance. According to international standards, the waterproof index can be divided into the following levels:

1. 0-1000 mm H ₂ O: Basic waterproof, suitable for light rain or short-term exposure to rain.   

2. 1000-5000 mm H ₂ O: Medium waterproof, suitable for moderate rain or long-term outdoor activities.   

3. 5000-10000 mm H ₂ O: Highly waterproof, suitable for heavy rain or extreme weather conditions.   

4. Above 10000 mmH ₂ O: super waterproof, suitable for rainstorm or professional outdoor adventure.

For example, the waterproof index of GORE-TEX fabric is usually above 20000 mmH ₂ O, which can withstand extreme weather conditions.

3、 Testing method for waterproof performance

In order to evaluate the waterproof performance of submachine jacket fabrics, the following testing methods are usually used:

1. Hydrostatic pressure test

This is the most commonly used testing method, which measures the maximum water column height that the fabric can withstand by applying water pressure. The test results are expressed in terms of waterproof index, with higher values indicating stronger waterproof performance.

2. Spray test

Simulate a rainy environment, place the fabric under a spray device, and observe whether it seeps water for a certain period of time. This method is more closely related to practical usage scenarios.

3. Wear test

After a certain number of frictions on the fabric, a waterproof test is conducted again to evaluate the durability of its waterproof performance.

4、 Performance in actual use

The waterproof performance of submachine jacket fabrics is influenced by various factors in practical use, including fabric material, design process, usage environment, and maintenance methods

1. Material and craftsmanship

High quality waterproof fabrics such as GORE-TEX, eVent, etc. typically have a longer lifespan and more stable waterproof performance. In addition, the seams of the submachine jacket need to be treated with pressure glue to prevent moisture from seeping in from the seams.

2. Operating environment

In extreme weather conditions (such as rainstorm and snowstorm), the waterproof performance of the jacket may be challenged. Long term exposure to rainwater may cause the waterproof coating of the fabric to gradually fail, leading to water seepage.

3. Maintenance method

The waterproof performance of the assault suit will decrease with increasing use time. Regular cleaning and re spraying of waterproofing agents (such as DWR coatings) can effectively restore their waterproof performance.

5、 Limitations of Waterproof Performance

Although the waterproof performance of the assault suit is very strong, there are also certain limitations:

1. Balance between breathability and waterproofness

The stronger the waterproof performance, the more affected the breathability is usually. In high-intensity exercise, if the breathability of the submachine jacket is insufficient, it may lead to the accumulation of sweat inside, affecting comfort.

2. Decay caused by long-term use

Waterproof coatings and membranes will gradually wear out over time, leading to a decrease in waterproof performance.

3. The Challenge of Extreme Weather

In extremely severe weather conditions (such as continuous rainstorm or snowstorm), even high-performance submachine jackets may not completely block moisture penetration.