There are essentially two types of Waterproof garment:  Breathable and Non-Breathable. The function of each of these is very similar in that they are both designed to keep out the elements.

However, due to the properties inherent in both types of garment, they are designed to give very different levels of performance.

A basic Non-Breathable Waterproof will give protection from the rain etc, but due to the fact that the garment does not “Breathe” it can only be recommended for very light day to day use, where activity levels are at a minimum.

The function of a Breathable Waterproof garment is to provide protection from external elements such as rain; sleet; snow and wind. This is the Outer layer or Shell.