Water column is a way of measuring the degree of waterproofness in a garment to understand the garment's ability not to let water through. Water column means that in practice you put a narrow tube on the outside of the garment (outdoor clothing), which you fill with water until water starts to seep through the material. When we say that the garment can withstand a water column of 15,000 mm, it means that the garment can handle a 15,000 mm (15 m) high pipe filled with water against the garment, without the water penetrating the material.
How high a water column a garment can withstand is also affected by how it is used, a harder and more active use requires more of the material. Therefore, we recommend regular reinforcement with impregnation to ensure the full function of the garment.