What Is Rainsuit Pants?
Rainsuit pants are a piece of lower body waterproof clothing that combine waterproof pants and boots up to the chest with a waterproof material.
They are also called waders in the fishing field.
They are used as waterproof boots that can be used in water depths from the knees to the chest.
Uses of Rainsuit Pants
Uses of rainsuit pants vary widely, but they are used in environments where they are easily contaminated by water or oil. They are suitable for cleaning and washing operations.
In the agricultural industry, they are used for working in muddy water such as rice paddies, lotus root stalks, and parsnips, and for adjusting shipments that require cleaning.
In the fisheries industry, they are used for sorting and cleaning fishing boats and ports, and for fishing in shallow waters.
They are also used for work in rivers, canals, and ditches, rescue operations, and leisure activities such as fishing and camping.
Features of Rainsuit Pants
Advantages
Unlike normal boots with rain gear, these boots prevent water from seeping through the border between the shoes and clothing, allowing work in deeper water or mud.
Disadvantages
Once water gets inside rainsuit pants due to a fall in the water, the weight of the water will make it impossible for the wearer to move. Therefore, in the worst case, there is a risk of drowning, so care must be taken.
Types of Rainsuit Pants
There are different types of boots and materials for the torso from above the knees, and they are classified according to the combination of the two.
1. Classification by Material From Above the Knee to the Torso
PVC
PVC is the most common material used for rainsuit pants and is relatively easy to care for. It is available in a wide variety of types and at a very wide range of prices. However, it has the disadvantage of being easily damaged, and if a hole is made, it will peel off even if a repair is applied, unless a special adhesive is used.
For this reason, rainsuit pants with repair parts are also available. In addition, when working underwater, it is safe to wear a life jacket to prevent flooding in the event of damage. Waterproofing can be one-sided or double-sided.
Double-sided waterproofing tends to stick to the skin due to perspiration, making it somewhat difficult to move, but it is highly waterproof and easy to clean off.
With one-sided waterproofing, the lining absorbs sweat, and if left dirty, mildew will grow on it, which cannot be washed out.
Nylon
Nylon is inexpensive and available in a wide variety, but has the disadvantage of being easily steamed.
Rubber
Rubber is strong, long-lasting, relatively easy to care for, and repairable. However, it has the disadvantages of low distribution volume, heavy weight, and high cost. It is also susceptible to cracking and other deterioration when exposed to direct sunlight.
Waterproof and breathable materials
These are materials with product names such as Gore-Tex, etc. Many are composite materials of PVC and nylon, lightweight, and available in a wide variety. However, they are not waterproof or oil-resistant, and are not suitable for environments where they will be contaminated with oil.
They are also difficult to care for and repair, so they are more suitable for leisure activities than for frequent use in work.
Chloroprene rubber
The trade name is neoprene, and it is often used in rainsuit pants for fishing, called waders. It is used as wetsuit fabric and floats on water.
It also resists the passage of cold air, making it suitable for work in cold water and for outdoor work in winter. However, its disadvantage is that it is expensive, difficult to repair, and it’s hard to find damaged parts.
2. Classification by Sole
Oil-resistant boots
These boots are generally made of PVC, and are resistant to oil, non-slip, inexpensive, durable, and versatile.
Rubber boots
Rubber boots are soft and stretchable, so they fit easily on the feet and are easy to wear. However, they are prone to cracking over time, and there is a clear difference in quality depending on the price range.
Safety boots
There are also a type of rainsuit pants that have the function of safety shoes to protect your feet. They have high oil resistance, a toe core, and a high step-through strength function that protects the sole from sharp objects such as nails.
Soles of Waders
Waders, or boots with a body for fishing, are available with radial soles for non-slip grip, felt soles to prevent slipping on rocks, and felt spike soles with metal spikes to prevent slipping even on moss.
There are also rainsuit pants with a variety of other features, such as fleece lining for warmth, durable products with knee and butt pads, and boots with a steel shank, a thin metal plate inside the sole that prevents the sole from losing its shape, to reduce fatigue.
How to Choose Rainsuit Pants
PVC is used in all fields. It is easy to clean, and comes in a wide variety of types and prices. Nylon is cheaper, though it tends to get steamy easily, so choose it when you want to keep your budget low. Products made of rubber for both the body and shoes are less widely distributed and more expensive, but are preferred especially in the fishing industry, such as shellfishing.
Chloroprene is suitable for work in cold climates, and depending on whether or not there is oil on the feet, you can choose oil-resistant boots or rubber boots.
For agricultural work, where standing/crouching is repeated, products with a slightly loose-fitting torso are recommended.
On the other hand, for fishing and leisure activities, chloroprene, which floats in water and are highly resistant to cold, and waterproof and breathable materials are superior in terms of comfort.
When choosing rainsuit pants, it is important to select those that fit your size. In addition to foot size, refer to chest, inseam, waist, and torso circumference.
How to Use Rainsuit Pants
When using rainsuit pants, it is important to make sure that there are no holes before putting them on. If there is a possibility that the water level may change, always check the water level while working to ensure safety.
Once water gets inside the rainsuit pants, you may get stuck, putting your life in danger. To prevent water from getting into the shoes, the waist belt should be securely fastened, and as stated in the product’s instructions, it is recommended that a life jacket be worn when using rainsuit pants in the water.
After use, remove any mud or oil from the surface and wash by hand using laundry detergent or soap. Special detergents are available on the market to maintain waterproofness, but it is important to wash gently by pressing or kneading, rather than scrubbing.
In cases of heavy perspiration, turning the garment over and washing it inside out will help prevent mildew. To dry, hang them in the shade, but be careful to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as rubber products in particular are prone to deterioration. Proper care will prolong the life of rainsuit pants.