Waterproof Ratings

Since every manufacturer seems to have their own definition of what constitutes "waterproof", we wanted to present you with a simple way to compare the level of water-tightness across products and manufacturers.  You will see these rating icons together with each product image inside The Waterproof Store.  These ratings in no way constitute a guarantee from us at ROC Gear, but rather they take the various manufacturer claims, and present them all together on one common sliding scale...  class 1 being the least waterproof, and class 5 being the greatest.  Our waterproof class rating definitions are as follows:

Class 1 – Water resistant for light rain or light splash applications.  The product could be permeated by water in any of the following situations:  prolonged water exposure, heavy top-down watering, forceful water pressure applications, or submersion.

Class 2 – Waterproof in top-down watering applications.  The product could be permeated by water in any of the following applications: forceful water pressure, water injected from odd angles, or submersion.

Class 3 – Waterproof so tight it floats or can handle quick submersions.  The product could be permeated by water in any of the following applications: prolonged submersion, submersions greater than 3 feet in depth, high water pressure applications.

Class 4 – Waterproof and submersible to at least 3 feet, but no more than 12 feet (maximum depth varies by manufacturer). This is the first class we refer to as truly submersible. Suitable for underwater sports such as swimming and snorkeling, where great depths are not common.  The product could be permeated by water in any of the following applications: submersion greater than manufacturers recommended depth rating, constant submersion longer than 24 hours, extremely high water pressure applications where seals could be damaged.

Class 5 – Waterproof and submersible to depths greater than 12 feet (often as much as 100 feet – varies by manufacturer). Suitable for any underwater sport of less depth than the manufacturer’s maximum depth rating.  Common applications include scuba diving, snorkeling, search & rescue, and white water rafting.  The product could be permeated by water in any of the following applications: depths greater than the manufacturer’s maximum depth rating or any physical force that could jeopardize the water-tight seal.