Both fabrics are of excellent quality that allows them to be resistant over time, but if you had to choose, the breathable sail has a slightly higher percentage of resistance than the waterproof one. Here's why:
The breathable fabric is very durable and can withstand exposure to bad weather without problems. Our patio sails have an anti-mold treatment and dry quickly after summer showers.
If you are looking for a wind-resistant sail, breathable fabric is more recommended, because it allows the wind to pass through the mesh of the HDPE fabric. In this way, the force of the wind is transmitted neither to the fabric nor to the anchors. On the contrary, the waterproof fabric has a lower percentage of wind resistance, because it traps the wind and tends to transmit its force to the anchors.
When it comes to storms and hail, the breathable fabric is more resistant because it is slightly elastic, especially when tensioned, and hailstones can bounce off it without damage. Waterproof fabric, on the other hand, takes all the force of the hailstones and transmits it to the anchors, and risks tearing.
The only exception is Purishade fabric: it is literally the best available fabric