Listen to the full episode here:
Water meets its match: fabric technologies demystified!
When it rains, it pours – but it doesn’t have to bore! In this episode, Ben is presented with another opportunity to geek out, and this time our gear gurus unfold the complex world of waterproof fabrics. From the fundamental differences between waterproof, water-resistant, and water-repellent, to hydrostatic head ratings and coatings – Ben and Lauren decode every last drop.
The conversation flows through PE versus PU treatments, siliconised fabrics, laminated materials, and the beading beauty of DWR coatings. Tune in for a masterclass in fabric technology that proves keeping dry is equal parts chemistry, engineering, and outdoor know-how!

From the differences between waterproof, water-resistant, and water-repellent, to hydrostatic head ratings – Ben and Lauren decode every last drop.
Shortcuts:
00:00 – Intro
00:45 – Another Excuse for Ben to Geek Out…
02:06 – Waterproof, Water-Resistant, and Water-Repellant
03:55 – Maintaining Realistic Expectations
06:23 – Waterhead and Hydrostatic Head
08:49 – Coatings and Laminations
11:37 – Hydrophilic Coatings and Preventing Hydrolysis
13:01 – PE Vs PU Coatings
13:53 – Siliconised Fabrics
15:21 – Laminated Fabrics
16:23 – Durable Water Repellant (DWR)
18:20 – Canvas Vs Polyester
27:14 – Re-Waterproofing
31:01 – Another Geek-Out Done!
Mentioned in this Episode:
Products:
Podcasts and Blogs:
Ep16 – Tent Waterhead Ratings with Zempire
Tent Waterhead Ratings: Explained
Thanks for listening, tune in again for next week’s episode!
Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of the Snowys Camping Show Podcast. Don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube, Spotify, iTunes, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Pocket Casts, Podcast Addict, or Stitcher so you never miss an upload.
If you have any questions for Ben and Lauren, make sure you head over to our Facebook group and let us know as we’d love to hear from you.
Catch you out there!

From tent pegs and air tents, to setups for summer and one-pot wonders – our gear gurus Ben and Lauren unpack the topics on every camper’s tongue, taking each minute to the limit with how-to’s, destinations, and expert interviews. Be it a swag, tent, or ‘swent’ – set up camp with us!