Learn about the performance standards of our hardshell jackets, including water repellency, hydrostatic pressure and moisture vapor transmission rate, plus washing & care guidance for outdoor workwear.
The quality of hardshell jackets is assessed in the following aspects:
1. Safety indicators (formaldehyde content, pH value, peculiar odor, decomposable aromatic amine dyes, etc.) comply with GB 18401 National Technical Code for Safety of Textile Products.
2. Basic performance indicators include dimensional change after washing, color fastness, cross-staining color fastness, light fastness, pilling, abrasion resistance, tear strength, and seam strength at the back crotch of trousers.
3. Functional performance indicators cover surface wetting resistance, hydrostatic pressure, and moisture vapor transmission rate.
To meet the functional demands of different outdoor activities, the standard classifies surface wetting resistance, hydrostatic pressure and moisture vapor transmission rate into Class I and Class II. Class I corresponds to professional sports requirements, while Class II is for general outdoor activities. Class I has stricter performance thresholds than Class II.
① Surface wetting resistance, commonly known as water repellency, means water droplets bead up and roll off the fabric surface like dewdrops on lotus leaves without leaving marks. The standard requires a water repellency rating of Grade 4 before washing, which represents excellent anti-wetting performance.
② Hydrostatic pressure refers to the fabric’s ability to withstand sustained high water pressure without water penetration or dampness on the inner side. Seams are vulnerable to leakage, which would compromise garment performance. Therefore, separate hydrostatic pressure requirements are specified for the fabric itself and its seams.
③ During outdoor activities, perspiration from the body needs to escape promptly. The standard defines moisture vapor transmission to ensure good thermal and moisture comfort. The required moisture vapor transmission rate is 5000 for Class I products and 3000 for Class II products. Post-wash moisture vapor transmission testing is also required to guarantee stable functional performance.
In addition, to protect children’s health, the standard sets special safety requirements for children’s styles, including rules for drawcords on children’s tops and prohibition of exposed metal pins. Accidental scratches and abrasion are common during hiking, trekking and other outdoor activities, which may damage the jacket and impair its function and appearance. For this reason, durability indicators are specified: pilling resistance, abrasion resistance, tear strength and back crotch seam strength. All safety requirements of this standard conform to GB 18401.
Tips for Consumers
Most hardshell jackets adopt fabrics mainly made of polyester, nylon and other synthetic fibers. The fabrics are treated with water-repellent finishing on the outer surface, plus coating or laminating on the reverse side to achieve reliable waterproof performance. Proper care and washing are essential to maintain its performance.
Care Instructions
Follow the care label on your garment. Use mild neutral detergent and select the gentle cycle on your washing machine (hand-washing is also acceptable). For stubborn local stains, gently scrub with a small brush before washing. Air-dry after washing to help restore waterproof and moisture-permeable properties.
Avoid chlorine bleach, high-speed spin drying, heavy-duty washing, dry cleaning, and prolonged soaking, as these will degrade the waterproof and breathable functions.
Please note that the waterproof and breathable performance of hardshell jackets will gradually decline after repeated washing. Wash only when necessary to extend service life.
