Your guide to waterproofing your stuff

Waterproof items seems to be one of those things that people never seem to value or even consider when it comes to their EDC or even just part of their overall outfit. It's only when the forces of nature affect their lives do we think that waterproofing is important.

Now I'm not advocating for everyone to dress head to toe in gore-tex and prep as if we are Constantly walking into rain. Rather, it is an aspect that people should consider more often when it comes down to storing delicate and important items. It's really weird that in singapore, a country that rains and shine like the mood swings of a hangry GF, people aren't into weather protection.

A few things to understand is that there is a difference between water resistant vs waterproof. Water resistant will eventually let water in, it is only a matter of how long. Waterproof will never let water in at all, so you can stand as long as you want in the rain and don't get soaked, you won't be not wet, but you'll be a lot more comfortable.

What should you consider when waterproofing your edc? The first thing decide what needs to be waterproof, the more things you want to waterproof, the more expensive (though it doesn't have to be) it will get. For example, buying a bag that is waterproof is a lot more expensive than just buying small containers to keep stuff waterproof, especially since things spare clothes can be dried. Rain is not permanent, waterproofing is simply to protect yourself from a periodical situation.

Another thing to consider is to make sure you have only a single layer of waterproofing, having multiple layers does not make sense. For example having waterproof boots is great, having waterproof socks is amazing but wearing both makes no sense. It doesn't double my waterproofing, and it will cause even worse breathability issues. What is better is to waterproof important items and protect the rest with water resistance. This is because water resistance is actually pretty good under certain circumstances and will keep your stuff dry.

Waterproofing doesn't have to be expensive either, not everyone can afford or even want to buy a $600 arc'teryx soft shell jacket. Simple things like keeping your documents like passports and train tickets in zip lock bags will save your from the heartache of it disintegrating in the rain. Or buying waterproofing casing to keep your cameras, charging cable, powerbank and cables like the pelican micro cases which will keep your electronics nice and dry. There is so many solution online, you just need to search for your use case. Generally speaking I would at the very least minimally find a bag that is water resistant especially when travelling.

When it comes to clothing, waterproof shoes is something worth investing in. In general I find that most waterproofing clothing and shoes tend to have better stitch and last a lot longer, the deisgns tend to incorporate more single piece to reduce stitching and this can result in a stronger clothing or shoe. Beyond that, a waterproof jacket is as much as I would bother to invest for clothing. This is because having a waterproof jacket with shoes an a umbrella or shelter allows you to stay dry enough even in the heaviest of downpours. Ever stood at a bus stop during heavy rain and still get wet even with a roof? That's what waterproof jackets are for.

If you do decide to edc boots and jackets, one major down side is breathability of the waterproof clothing, if it can keep water out, it can keep water in too. If you think you'll be wearing waterproof jackets for a long period, I.e travelling to cold countries, find jackets that are designed to be breathable or have ventilation systems built in.

Waterproof items might not seem useful but it is an essential to have especially if you travel a lot. Having at at least one layer of waterproofing somewhere would mean that the rain is less dangerous for surviving your daily life, especially if you are overseas.

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