Water Resistance Terms for Protective Covers

Understand the claim before choosing a cover

Water-resistant, water-repellent and waterproof are different descriptions. Compare the information for the exact fabric and finished cover you intend to buy, rather than treating these terms as interchangeable.

Water-repellent: surface behaviour

A water-repellent finish is intended to encourage water to bead on a fabric surface. Surface beading is useful information, but it does not provide a test result for the whole finished cover. Follow the fabric manufacturer's care instructions when cleaning or restoring a finish.

Water-resistant: look for stated conditions

Ask what resistance has been measured, which method was used and what the result applies to. A fabric specification should identify the material being tested. For example, ISO 811 describes a hydrostatic-pressure method for assessing water penetration through fabrics.

Waterproof: check the product-specific evidence

Where a listing describes a product as waterproof, review the supporting specification and intended use. Ask separately about the fabric, seams, closures, openings and the complete cover. Do not transfer a rating from another fabric, product or brand to the item you are selecting.

What to check before ordering

• The exact fabric, coating or backing used in the selected product.
• Any available water-penetration test method and result.
• How seams, fastenings and openings are constructed.
• The intended exposure, fitting arrangement and care instructions.
• The correct dimensions and clearance for your boat or equipment.

For product-specific information, email bg4epx@gmail.com with the product link and selected model. This guide explains terminology and does not assign an unverified test rating to any FlickerMarine product.

Reference information

• ISO 811: fabric resistance to water penetration
• A fabric manufacturer's explanation of water beading and finish care