We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Culinary

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are Rain Pants?

Malcolm Tatum
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 9,161
Share

Rain pants are one of several basic rain accessories that are employed by people who work out-of-doors. As with a rain coat, rain pants are designed to protect the wearer from getting wet while performing tasks outside. The pants are constructed of material that is waterproof and are widely available at retail outlets that sell rain gear.

Other than a raincoat, rain pants are the single most common rain accessory on the market today. Usually constructed with the same heavy duty vinyl used for many raincoats, the pants normally are equipped with adjustable waistbands that make it possible to slide the garment over jeans or a pair of trousers with ease. Once in place, the waistband is secured in place with the use of clasps or Velcro, creating a snug but comfortable fit.

Rain clothes, including waterproof rain pants, are part of the standard gear issued to many workers who must work outside in all types of weather. Sanitation employees who must collect trash in rainy weather are one example. When paired with rain boots and a sturdy rain coat, the rain pants make it possible to endure rainfall for several hours with relatively little discomfort. By keeping the underlying clothing dry, the rain outerwear minimizes the chances of becoming chilled and developing a cold.

Traffic cops and crosswalk personnel also employ rainwear on days when the rain continues to fall. A combination of a rain coat, rain pants, and rain boots minimizes the discomfort experienced while directing traffic and signaling for pedestrians to cross a busy street.

Rain apparel is also used for recreational purposes as well. Camouflage rain coats and rain pants are very helpful on hunting trips, allowing hunters to remain outside even when the weather is dank and wet. Because the gear is relatively easy to take off, removing the garments when the sun comes out takes only a moment or two.

For the most part, rain pants and similar rain gear weigh no more than a few ounces. Pants are manufactured to fit children and adults with ease and are relatively inexpensive. The construction of vinyl rain pants makes it possible to clean the garment with soap and water.

Purchasing rain pants is relatively simple. Many municipalities purchase the garments in bulk from equipment suppliers. It is also possible to purchase rain pants as many sporting goods stores. While the basic pants are made with yellow vinyl, it is also possible to find rain pants in just about any color.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGeek, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
By anon241859 — On Jan 20, 2012

Why don't people wear rain pants instead of snow pants more often? It sounds like rain pants are lighter and less bulky. Are there any downsides that make them bad as snow pants?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-rain-pants.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.