When wet weather rolls in, grabbing the right footwear and fitness clothing can make a big difference to your comfort outdoors.

But waterproof and water-resistant aren't the same thing.

While both offer some protection from wet conditions, the level of protection can vary quite a lot. Understanding the difference between shatterproof and water-resistant can help you choose the right gear for running, training, hiking, work or just casual wear.

Water-resistant clothing and footwear are made to stand up against light moisture, such as drizzle, splashes or brief exposure to rain. They can help keep you comfortable when the weather changes but aren't generally designed to keep water out during heavy rain.

Water-resistant gear can be a good option when you want some weather protection without necessarily needing a fully waterproof construction.

Waterproof clothing provides a higher level of protection against water. Depending on the product, this can include waterproof fabrics, membranes and materials designed to stop water from getting through entirely.

This makes waterproof footwear and clothing particularly useful when you're expecting heavier rain, tackling wet trails or spending longer periods outdoors. Keep in mind that the exact level of waterproof protection can vary between products, so always check the individual product details.

For light rain and drizzly conditions, the Sondico Water-Resistant Rain Jacket provides lightweight coverage without adding too much bulk.

Its water-resistant materials help protect against the elements, while a breathable back vent adds airflow when you're active. A full hood provides extra coverage, with elasticated cuffs and an adjustable hem helping create a more secure fit. This men’s training jacket also has pockets to give you somewhere to store your essentials while training or heading outdoors.

Water resistance isn't limited to clothing. The Bondi SR Wide HOKA running shoe features a water-resistant leather upper, making it a great option for people who spend long hours on their feet and may come across spills and wet conditions.

A slip-resistant rubber outsole provides traction, while a full-length EVA midsole, padded memory foam collar and Early Stage Meta-Rocker have the plush cushioning and smooth transitions the Bondi range is known for.

It's important to remember that the Bondi SR is water-resistant rather than waterproof, so it's made to resist moisture rather than prevent water entry.

When you need extra protection from the wet, the Sondico Waterproof Training Rain Pants are designed to keep you covered through outdoor workouts and activities.

Their waterproof materials provide protection against rain, while the lightweight design helps you move easily during training. Breathable materials help manage comfort, while an elastic waistband and adjustable ankle cuffs provide a snug fit.

These pants from Sondico are also easy to pack, making them a useful layer to keep nearby when the forecast looks dodgy.

The Karrimor Sierra Waterproof Hooded Jacket steps up the weather protection with WeatherTite technology and waterproof, windproof materials.

Made for outdoor activities, this is a women’s workout jacket for travel and everyday use, it combines wet-weather coverage with breathable comfort. An adjustable hood, storm flap and cuffs give protection when conditions turn, while multiple zipped pockets keep smaller essentials safe.

Its lightweight design also makes it easy to layer with women’s running tees depending on the temperature.

Wet trails bring a whole new set of challenges, which is where the Karrimor Caracal Waterproof Trail Running Shoes come in.

A waterproof membrane helps keep your feet dry when running through wet conditions, while the rugged Dynagrip rubber outsole provides traction across varied terrain. The mix of waterproof protection and trail-ready grip makes the Caracal from Karrimor a practical choice when a little rain isn't going to stop your run. in.

The right choice will depend on where you're going and the weather you're expecting.

Water-resistant gear is suited to lighter rain, splashes and everyday conditions, while waterproof gear is better when you need added protection during very wet weather or outdoor adventures.

It's also worth considering your activity. A lightweight water-resistant jacket may be all you need for a short workout in light drizzle, whereas waterproof workout pants, a waterproof jacket and waterproof footwear can offer better protection when you're heading into heavier rain or tackling wet trails.

Whatever the forecast has planned, choosing the right fitness gear suited to the conditions can help you stay feeling good and focused on the activity ahead.

Explore waterproof and water-resistant footwear, jackets, pants and outdoor fitness gear at Sports Direct.