Top 5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Old Raincoat

Don't Get Caught in the Rain

A good raincoat can last for several seasons, but it won't last forever. The waterproof coatings eventually degrade. Here is how to tell it's time for an upgrade.

The 5 Warning Signs

1. Water Absorption: If water stops beading up and rolling off the fabric, and instead starts soaking into it (wetting out), the waterproof DWR layer is dead.
2. Peeling Flakes: If you see white flakes peeling off the inside of the jacket, the polyurethane (PU) coating is delaminating. It is no longer waterproof.
3. Leaking Seams: The fabric might be fine, but if the heat-seal tape on the inner seams is lifting or peeling, water will leak in through the joints.
4. Broken Zippers: A raincoat with a faulty zipper is useless, as wind will drive rain straight through the front gap.
5. Hardening/Cracking: Old PVC raincoats can become stiff, brittle, and crack when folded. This means the plasticizers have dried out.

If you notice any of these signs, browse Relax Rainwear's new collection for a reliable replacement.