Waterproof materials don’t always have to be a shield that covers you! The diameter of water particles when in the form of liquid (think rain, puddles, etc.) are a lot bigger than that of water particles in gas form (the type that you let off and would want to allow escape). Waterproof and breathable fabrics often have very small holes, which allows for your perspiration to escape whilst preventing larger water particles from entering. Think of it kind of like a strainer or net
Yes, it’s definitely a very difficult thing for a manufacturer to achieve, and to pull of well is insanely difficult. A waterproof and breathable garment is designed to keep water from getting in, while still allowing it to get out. Often times this effect is enhanced by the addition of pit zips and such but it really is an all around difficult thing to pull off and getting the products to last is a whole other battle
There are hydrophobic coatings that exist that prevents some liquids from getting absorbed by materials.
It doesn’t prevent oxygen from entering and exiting.
Edit: it’s one method this is achievable I’m no expert. For an example of a hydrophobic substance you could try drop some lemon juice (never tried with water) on a layer of ground cinnamon. I think it works differently to more advanced coatings though. Basically some liquids wants to stick together (at a molecular level) some things let this happen easier so the liquid won’t be absorbed because it can stick together and roll off like a ball.
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