Waterresistant

Water resistance refers to the ability of a material or device to resist water ingress to a certain degree under specified conditions. It is not the same as waterproof; water-resistant items can handle light exposure or splashes but may not protect against prolonged immersion or pressure. The claimed level depends on testing standards and conditions such as temperature, pressure, and duration.

The most widely used standard is the Ingress Protection (IP) rating, defined in IEC 60529. The code has two digits; the first indicates protection against solids, the second against liquids. For liquids, digits range from 0 to 8, with higher values meaning greater resistance: 4 means splashing water from any direction, 5 corresponds to water jets, 6 powerful jets, 7 immersion up to about 1 meter, and 8 immersion beyond 1 meter (specifics vary by manufacturer and standard).

Water resistance can be affected by age, wear, and damage to seals, gaskets, or membranes. Even devices rated as water resistant may fail after impact, exposure to temperature cycles, or saltwater. The label “water resistant” is therefore a conservative indicator rather than a guarantee of protection in all conditions.

In practice, water resistance is applied in electronics (such as smartphones and watches), outdoor clothing (coats with water-repellent finishes or breathable membranes), and certain building materials (water-repellent coatings and sealants). Care involves following manufacturer guidance, avoiding high-pressure jets unless rated, and reapplying protective coatings or seals when needed.