Dickies WP15000 NV XL Size X-Large Padded Overall - Navy Blue

Product Information

The first attempts at waterproof clothing were made by the Aleut Native Americans who needed something that would keep them dry whilst out hunting in their kayaks. They used dried seal or whale intestines to create kamleikas , which were semi-transparent raincoats. Making clothes that can handle a rain shower is relatively easy, but making a fabric truly waterproof is more challenging. As the history of waterproofing shows, it’s difficult to make garments that keep water out but let vapour pass through. The problem with these coats was that, while they let no water in, they also let none out. The coats were prone to collect sweat and were uncomfortable to wear for extended periods. The rubberised fabric was also susceptible to melting in hot weather! Our Advanced Weatherproof Technology (AWT) products are engineered to guard against the elements for optimal weather protection.

Tightly-woven fabrics have minuscule pores that make it hard for water to pass through but remain permeable for breathability. They will maximise comfort and can withstand rain but can start to absorb water in prolonged wet weather. Today, the development of water-resistant materials continues to be an area of innovation and development. Waterproof fabrics work by ensuring the pores in the material are so small that water can not penetrate through, something which can be achieved by adding coatings or through weaving methods.

By the 15th century, sailors began coating sails with linseed oil to create a barrier to rainwater and sea spray. Experimentation continued for four hundred years before G. Fox of London manufactured the first raincoat (called Fox’s Aquatic) in 1821. An alternative option is to use microporous polymers, materials that contain billions of tiny holes that link together in complex pathways. Surface tension will cause water droplets to bead on these surfaces and not soak through. Clothing made using this method will have high levels of water resistance but can start to degrade over time. We sell thermal padded boiler suits that can easily have logos, motifs, name of your company or other information embroidered or printed on them. If you already have advertising material why not have it transferred to boiler suits worn by your staff to not only make them feel part of your team but to advertise your business too? Thermal padding means you are providing your workforce with warm clothing which is more than welcome during the cold winter time. It also gives protection to clothes worn underneath to keep them clean and free from any substances that may spill onto individuals during their working day.

Breathability: What activities will you be doing? The more likely you are to sweat, the higher level of breathability you need.