Things like fire extinguishing foam are probably some unavoidable evil. But realistically how many of us are buying rainproof stuff when all we needed was something water-resistant?
Recently I was looking for a tweed winter jacket only to realize that those are now also being treated with water resistant coatings!
Most use-cases people are out in the rain for stretches of 20min and run inside for shelter shortly after. Unless you work outdors or are on a day long hike/cycle there is no need to have this much 100% waterproof stuff. Waxed/greased materials or just wool do a good enough job for most mortals and have served us well for thousands of years.
Recently I was looking for a tweed winter jacket only to realize that those are now also being treated with water resistant coatings!
Most use-cases people are out in the rain for stretches of 20min and run inside for shelter shortly after. Unless you work outdors or are on a day long hike/cycle there is no need to have this much 100% waterproof stuff. Waxed/greased materials or just wool do a good enough job for most mortals and have served us well for thousands of years.