Waterproof Fabrics 101 for Custom Jacket: EVA, PU, PVC, Nylon & Polyester Compared

At Ginwen, we’ve specialized in manufacturing Custom Waterproof Jackets for over 20 years. As an ISO 9001 & BSCI certified factory, we combine high-volume capability with low MOQ flexibility, allowing our partners to start from just 1 piece for sampling or capsule collections. Our monthly production capacity exceeds 500,000 units, supported by advanced CAD prototyping, automated sewing lines, and real-time quality control. Whether you are a start-up brand or an established retailer, we ensure that your waterproof jackets meet both performance expectations and your creative vision.

👉 Explore our Custom Waterproof Jackets Collection or learn more about our OEM & ODM Service.

Eco-friendly: EVA is chlorine-free and considered safer for both wearers and the environment compared to PVC.

Lightweight & flexible: Perfect for jackets that need to be packable or ultra-light.

Cost-effective: A good solution for budget-conscious brands or mass giveaways.

Limited durability: EVA is prone to tearing and has lower abrasion resistance compared to PU or Nylon.

Basic look: EVA often lacks the premium aesthetic that fashion brands require.

Breathability issues: While water-resistant, it can feel clammy during extended wear.

For brands that want to create low-cost promotional waterproof jackets, EVA is a practical material. But for premium outdoor jackets where durability and style matter, we often recommend higher-grade fabrics.

Durability with flexibility: PU coatings make jackets waterproof while maintaining fabric softness.

Versatile finish: Brands can choose from matte, glossy, or leather-like finishes, making PU ideal for fashion-forward waterproof jackets.

Breathability: PU-coated fabrics allow better airflow than PVC, making them more comfortable for extended wear.

Custom branding potential: Easy to integrate with private label services, logos, and trims.

Moderate lifespan: PU coatings can degrade with time, especially in high humidity.

Higher cost vs EVA: More durable but requires a slightly higher investment.

Care needs: Jackets need proper storage to prevent peeling or cracking of the coating.

At Ginwen, we often recommend PU-coated fabrics for brands that want to strike a balance between style, waterproofing, and comfort. Our in-house CAD and cutting teams can prototype PU-based Custom Waterproof Jackets within 7–14 days for samples, ensuring your design ideas are tested before scaling to bulk production.

Absolute waterproofing: PVC creates a strong impermeable layer, making it perfect for jackets used in heavy rain or industrial workwear.

Durability: Resistant to tearing, abrasion, and harsh environments.

Cost-effective for bulk orders: Affordable in large-scale manufacturing.

Easy to clean: Jackets made from PVC can be wiped clean, making them ideal for outdoor workers.

Heavyweight: PVC jackets can feel bulky and restrict movement.

Poor breathability: Traps heat and moisture inside, making them uncomfortable for long wear.

Environmental concerns: Contains chlorine and is less eco-friendly compared to EVA or PU.

At Ginwen, we manufacture Custom Waterproof Jackets for industrial and workwear clients who require rugged PVC protection. However, for fashion and lifestyle brands, we often recommend nylon or polyester blends to balance comfort and style.

Durability: Outperforms polyester in strength and abrasion resistance.

Lightweight yet strong: Perfect for jackets that must be both portable and tough.

Versatility: Works well with advanced coatings like PU, TPU, or DWR (durable water repellent).

Fashion appeal: Smooth surface allows brands to achieve a polished, high-end look.

Higher cost: Nylon is more expensive than polyester.

Water absorption: Without coatings, nylon tends to absorb water and dry slowly.

UV sensitivity: Prolonged sun exposure can cause fading or degradation.

For brands seeking performance-driven waterproof jackets, nylon is often the best material. At Ginwen, our CAD development team helps fashion labels and outdoor brands design nylon-based waterproof jackets with additional features like seam sealing, breathable linings, and down filling for thermal insulation.

Cost-effective: A budget-friendly option for brands producing large collections.

Quick-drying: Unlike nylon, polyester does not absorb much water, making it more suitable for rainy environments.

Color retention: Resistant to fading, ideal for fashion-forward collections.

Versatile: Works with multiple coatings and laminations for waterproofing.

Lower strength: Weaker than nylon in terms of abrasion resistance.

Less premium: Lacks the high-end aesthetic of nylon-based jackets.

Breathability limits: Requires additional design elements to enhance comfort.

Polyester is often the go-to for brands that want a balance between affordability and waterproofing. At Ginwen, we’ve supported wholesalers and retailers in developing polyester-based Custom Waterproof Jackets that integrate sustainable coatings, recycled polyester blends, and private label branding options.

What sets us apart is our ability to support both startups and large-scale brands. Whether you need a single prototype to test a new design idea, or a bulk production run of 50,000+ pieces, we can meet your needs efficiently. Our MOQ starts from just 1 piece, making us one of the most flexible factories in the waterproof outerwear industry.

In-house CAD development & prototyping – from fabric inspection to digital design, we bring your concepts to life.

Large-scale manufacturing capacity – up to 500,000 pieces per month, powered by automated production lines.

Full-scope services – including cutting, sewing, washing, printing, packaging, and private label branding.

Real-time quality control – we monitor bottlenecks and production progress to ensure timely delivery.

Fast turnaround – samples ready in 7–14 days, bulk production completed in about 30 days.

By combining technical precision with creative flexibility, we help brands launch waterproof outerwear collections that stand out in a competitive market.

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing): Send us your tech packs or design drafts, and our in-house team will translate them into professional patterns and final products.

ODM (Original Design Manufacturing): Choose from our catalog of Custom Waterproof Jackets, and we can adapt styles with your brand’s trims, logos, and packaging.

Start-up fashion brands that need low MOQ flexibility.

Outdoor retailers requiring high-performance jackets with down filling or thermal insulation.

Private label wholesalers seeking fast, large-scale production capacity.

👉 Learn more about our OEM & ODM Service.

Outdoor & Adventure Brands – Nylon-based waterproof jackets with breathable membranes and seam-sealed construction.

Urban Lifestyle Collections – PU-coated polyester jackets with sleek designs for city wear.

Workwear & Industrial Use – Heavy-duty PVC jackets offering maximum protection.

Sustainable Fashion Labels – Recycled polyester or eco-friendly EVA for green collections.

At Ginwen, we don  just produce jackets — we provide solutions aligned with your brand positioning and market goals.

Our clients include both emerging fashion labels and well-known international retailers. Each collaboration starts with a simple conversation and a clear plan.

👉 Reach out today via our Contact Us page and let discuss your next Custom Waterproof Jacket project.

But the true success of a Custom Waterproof Jacket lies in choosing not just the right fabric, but also the right manufacturing partner. At Ginwen, we combine technical expertise with flexible production models to help brands launch waterproof jackets that meet their performance, sustainability, and fashion goals.

Whether you need a single prototype within 14 days or a bulk order of 30,000 jackets delivered in one month, we’re ready to deliver. With ISO-certified systems, strong in-house R&D, and large-scale automated production, Ginwen stands as your reliable partner in Custom Waterproof Jackets.