Certification - EN 343

EN 343: Protective Clothing Against Rain

Understand waterproofness, breathability and how to choose the right foul‑weather gear for your team.

What is EN 343?

EN 343 is the European standard for clothing that protects against rain, snow, fog and ground moisture. It evaluates the entire garment—not just the fabric—so you know the shell, seams and construction work together to keep you dry and comfortable in foul weather.

EN 343 measures two essentials: resistance to water penetration (waterproofness) and water vapour resistance (breathability). The current edition includes an optional rain tower test on the finished garment for extra assurance in real‑rain conditions.

Who is it for?

Typical users include teams working outdoors in:

  • Construction & civil engineering (all seasons, all sites)
  • Logistics & transport (loading bays, roadside work)
  • Utilities & field service (telecoms, power, water, rail)
  • Agriculture, forestry & grounds maintenance
  • Municipal & maintenance crews (street cleaning, parks)

Note: EN 343 focuses on precipitation and ground moisture. It does not cover hazards like waves, pressurised water jets or chemical exposure; choose additional standards if those risks apply.

How to read an EN 343 label

The CE label will show a pictogram with three indicators:
EN 343:2019 X Y (R)

  • X – Water penetration resistance (WP): class 1–4 (4 = highest waterproofness)
  • Y – Water vapour resistance (RET): class 1–4 (4 = highest breathability)
  • R – Rain tower: optional full‑garment rain simulation (if not tested, shown as “X” or omitted)

Example: EN 343 4 4 R = top‑tier waterproofness and breathability, also validated in a rain‑tower test on the finished garment.

Performance classes at a glance

Indicator What it measures Classes Useful notes
WP (X) Waterproofness of fabric & seams via hydrostatic pressure Class 1–4 (4 = most waterproof) Higher classes require tougher tests and pre‑treatments (e.g., laundering, abrasion) and higher hydrostatic head values.
RET (Y) Breathability (ability to let sweat vapour escape) Class 1–4 (4 = most breathable) Lower RET = better moisture transport = better comfort and longer recommended wear time.
R (optional) Full‑garment rain tower simulation R shown if tested Adds a real‑rain check on the ready‑made garment’s design and seam sealing.

Minimum construction & design expectations

  • Seam integrity: Waterproof performance depends on correctly sealed/welded seams—not just the fabric.
  • Functional closures: Storm flaps, covered zips and pocket designs that prevent water ingress.
  • Comfort & mobility: Patterns and venting that balance protection with breathability to manage sweat and avoid overheating.
  • Durability: Fabrics and seams tested before/after pre‑treatments (e.g., washing, abrasion, flexing) to ensure performance lasts.

How to choose the right EN 343 garment

  1. Match conditions: For all‑day rain exposure or kneeling on wet ground, aim for WP class 4. For intermittent showers or vehicle‑based work, class 3 may suffice.
  2. Balance breathability: Select RET class 3–4 for active work to reduce sweat build‑up; for low‑activity or cold, layering may take priority.
  3. Look for R when needed: If your tasks involve persistent or wind‑driven rain, the rain tower (R) validation on the garment adds confidence.
  4. Fit for function: Ensure space for layers without compromising seal at cuffs, hem and hood. Mobility features (gussets, drop hems) help maintain coverage.
  5. Combine standards when required: Many garments pair EN 343 with EN ISO 20471 (high‑vis) or cold‑protection standards for complete foul‑weather PPE.

Care, laundering & lifetime

  • Follow the care label. Wrong wash temperatures or harsh detergents can damage membranes, coatings and seam tapes.
  • Keep it clean. Dirt and oils reduce waterproofness and breathability; gentle, regular cleaning maintains performance.
  • Inspect high‑wear zones. Replace or repair if seam tape lifts, fabric abrades, or leaks appear—especially at shoulders, elbows and knees.
  • Reproofing & repairs: Use manufacturer‑approved re‑proofers and repair methods to preserve certification performance.

Limitations & related notes

  • Scope: EN 343 addresses precipitation and ground moisture. It does not claim protection against wave impact, high‑pressure jets or chemicals.
  • Wearing time: Recommended wear times depend on activity level, ambient temperature and garment breathability—monitor for overheating and adjust layers or breaks.
  • PPE category: Rain protection garments under EN 343 are typically PPE Category I (meteorological conditions); other risks require additional PPE.

Typical selections by industry

  • Road & rail maintenance: EN 343 4 4 R with EN ISO 20471 high‑visibility; generous hood for helmets and drop hem for spray.
  • Utilities field crews: EN 343 4 3 for balance of waterproofness and breathability; articulated sleeves, storm flaps, reinforced knees (trousers).
  • Logistics yards & drivers: EN 343 3 3 lightweight shells for intermittent rain; easy on/off over hi‑vis vests.
  • Grounds & forestry: EN 343 4 4 robust shells; add ventilation and abrasion reinforcement for brush and equipment carry.

FAQ

Is a higher WP class always better?
Higher WP (waterproofness) improves rain protection, but if breathability is too low for the activity/temperature, comfort suffers. Aim for the right mix of WP and RET for your work.
What does the rain tower “R” add?
It verifies the performance of the finished garment under simulated rain—useful for wind‑driven rain or long downpours where design features and seam sealing are critical.
Why do some jackets feel clammy even when they’re “breathable”?
Breathability depends on the test class (RET), your activity level and temperature/humidity. For high output tasks, choose higher breathability and use moisture‑wicking base layers.
Do I need insulated rainwear?
EN 343 addresses wet weather only. For cold conditions, combine EN 343 shells with insulating mid‑layers or choose garments also certified to cold‑protection standards.

Shop EN 343 Rainwear

Browse by application to find the right protection fast:

  • /collections/en-343-44rAll‑day rain: EN 343 4 4 R
  • /collections/en-343-43High activity: EN 343 4 3 / 3 4
  • /collections/en-343-lightweightLightweight shells: EN 343 3 3
  • /collections/en-343-hi-visRain + High‑Vis (multi‑norm)

Compliance reminder: Always verify the exact EN 343 X Y (R) classes on each garment’s label and conduct a task‑specific risk assessment. Combine with the right footwear, gloves and headwear for complete foul‑weather protection.