TESTING
Alpinestars waterproofing products undergo rigorous testing to ensure comfort, performance and durability.
Alpinestars waterproofing products undergo rigorous testing to ensure comfort, performance and durability.
01
Rain, spray, and constant water pressure are part of the ride. Waterproof fabrics create a barrier that keeps moisture out—so your gear stays dry, light, and comfortable when conditions turn wet.
02
Even in a waterproof jacket, your body generates heat and moisture while riding.
Breathable membranes allow that moisture to escape, instead of trapping it inside the garment. This is what keeps you dry from the inside, while the waterproof layer protects you from the rain outside.
03
Imagine placing a column of water on top of a fabric and slowly increasing the pressure. The higher the water column, the more pressure the fabric can resist without letting any water through: this is how waterproof performance is defined.
Alpinestars is testing not only the fabric, but also ALL SEAMS to guarantee the maximum reliability, without compromise.
THE HIGHER THE NUMBER, THE STRONGER THE PROTECTION
5,000 mm: Protects against light to moderate rain.
10,000 mm: Handles continuous rain and wet riding conditions.
15,000 mm: and above: Designed for heavy rain, long rides, and extreme weather. If the fabric holds the water out, it passes. If water gets through, it fails.
04
Not all fabrics react to rain in the same way:
Some let water spread and soak into the surface. Garment will feel heavier, breathability is reduced, rider will feel cold and less comfortable.
Others make water bead up and roll off immediately. Fabric stays lighter, breathability is preserved, comfort lasts longer, even in heavy rain.
This test shows how well the outer fabric resists getting wet on the surface. Scale: 1 to 5
Higher rating: Water stays on the surface and rolls off easily.
Lower rating: Water spreads and soaks into the fabric.