History of waterproof coat
The progenitor of the first raincoat was a chemist from Scotland, Charles McIntosh. In 1823, while conducting another experiment, he inadvertently smeared his jacket with a solution of rubber, and later, when his clothes were completely wet, the sleeve, smeared during the experiments, remained completely dry. At first, the impregnated waterproof material was rather sticky, since the rubber has a strong adhesiveness. But McIntosh managed to improve his discovery: he took two layers of fabric, and used a solution of rubber in kerosene as a moisture-proof layer.
A year later, the chemist opened a factory for the production of waterproof raincoats for the military. Over time, Macs became thinner, lighter and no longer smell like rubber, then they became popular with the civilian population.
What is the name of the raincoat of waterproof rubberized fabric?
The traditional name of a raincoat made of waterproof rubberized fabric is mac. It was the inventor of the waterproof fabric that patented his discovery and created a company for the production of waterproof products - Macin 'Charles Macintosh and Co. ”.
Features of waterproof fabric
Modern manufacturers offer a considerable assortment of waterproof material under various names. The following features combine them:
- High density (from 200 g / m2). For this reason, the fabric does not stretch and does not shrink;
- Twill weave (the so-called diagonal "hem"). It creates conditions for the manifestation of water-repellent properties even without special treatment and impregnation;
- Practicality. By production of waterproof material use a combination of natural and synthetic fiber. It is perfectly soaked with all types of paint, almost does not sit down and does not wear out for a long time.
Models
A Mac is a raincoat made from special rubberized fabric, and the model itself has a different length, cut and style. The classic style of the cloak practically did not change: the same turn-down collar, raglan sleeve and loose fit. In capricious weather it will not be superfluous to take along a light waterproof raincoat when leaving the house. Well, having a waterproof raincoat with a hood, it is not necessary to take an umbrella with you. The moisture protective raincoat poncho will be irreplaceable in campaigns as it is completed with a bag for convenient transportation.
For people who lead an active lifestyle, do not interfere with the purchase of a raincoat in a sporty style or a shortened varnished model of bright color. And the young ladies who, even in bad weather, do not want to part with the dresses, will like the transparent raincoat. It should pick up style, completely covering a dress or skirt.
Slender ladies can advise models of raincoats, flared at the bottom. And for girls and women with curvaceous forms, a traditional classic fitted mac will go, which will visually slim them, and not focus the attention of others on the figure's flaws.
Today, waterproof raincoats are produced not only in discreet neutral colors, but also in fairly bright colors — yellow, orange, red, blue, green, lemon. For lovers of the classics fit plain and pastel colors. True, for everyday wear, it is better to choose dark shades for practical reasons.
Manufacturers
The firm of Charles McIntosh from the first quarter of the 19th century to this day is working on the manufacture of waterproof raincoats. Over the past almost two centuries, little has changed: almost all production processes are carried out only manually, and for sewing only rubberized cotton is used, produced according to “old-fashioned” technologies. All brand products are still manufactured in a factory located in Scotland.
To date, their modifications of macs are produced by such branded companies as APC, Canali, Aquascutum, GANT, Dunhill, Private White, etc. But, as a rule, only the look of a classic raincoat is reproduced, and the material and cut are in reality quite different .
Of the available models for working in the fresh air, we can recommend a long waterproof coat “Poseidon”, it is sewn without lining, fastens with four buttons, has a straight silhouette, a detachable hood and taped seams. The product is made of raincoat synthetic material with a special polymer coating. Available in black, blue, green, yellow, orange and fluorescent colors.
As a workwear, the Extra Vision WPL PVC waterproof raincoat is also quite popular. This piece of clothing is quite comfortable cut has a zipper, hood, two pockets and, of course, taped seams. It is sewn in bright colors, fluorescent orange is especially relevant at construction sites. The attached retroreflective wide tape provides additional security.
Length
The original mac model was pretty long. Now, modern models of raincoats can be found of any length, but, in general, waterproof raincoats are limited to a length slightly above the knee. Short models are used only in combination with trousers from the same moisture-proof material.
Materials
Traditional Macs, as already mentioned, are sewn from rubberized waterproof cotton. But today, chemical and textile production has gone far ahead, and waterproof raincoats made of various materials can be found on the market.
There is even a fabric that mimics patent leather. This raincoat fabric is called “lacquer” and is obtained by coating the upper base with a special latex film. Such material is characterized by high water-repellent and windproof properties.
Here is a list of other most popular waterproof materials made from polyester:
- "Oxford" - rigid canvas with a pronounced diagonal texture;
- "Taslan" - fabric of special weaving with a combination of thick and thin fibers;
- "Duspo" - silky fabric with a matte surface;
- Jordan - soft enough waterproof textiles, characterized by a special shine.
But, unfortunately, most waterproof raincoats have one major drawback - after a while, a person in a raincoat made of ordinary waterproof 100% polyester will sweat excessively. Such products are suitable only in order not to get wet through the heavy rain, but wearing them during the day is rather uncomfortable.
Come to the aid of modern materials, which have not only water-repellent, but also "breathing" properties. We are talking about membrane tissue. It consists of two layers - matter and membrane film.
The pores of the film are so tiny that they are not capable of letting in water drops, but at the same time they release steam and fumes from the body to the outside. At the same time from the outside the cloak of the membrane does not allow the wind to pass.
What to wear?
The main purpose of the Mac is to protect its owner in rainy weather from heavy rain, on a fine day this item of clothing will not be particularly appropriate. Raincoat can be combined with almost any clothing.
Thanks to the free cut under it you can even wear a jacket. Macs are suitable for casual, and at the same time elegant city looks, perfectly matching jeans, sweaters and cardigans.Under the raincoat fit any type of pants. A business lady, nothing prevents to combine it with a classic office suit.
Since the Mac usually has some simplicity and conciseness, when choosing a decent ensemble for it, you should pay special attention to shoes - shoes with high white soles and a pair of not-too-bright sneakers or sneakers will be a good accent.
