Biothane/PVC vs. Traditional Materials: The Ultimate Guide to Waterproof Dog Accessories
Updated 15 October 2026
In short: traditional materials (polyester, nylon, leather, rope) absorb water: they're light, soft or stylish, but dry slowly and can hold smells. Coated webbing (PVC or TPU, including the BioThane® brand) stays watertight on the surface and wipes clean with a sponge. Waterproof is ideal for the lead and collar of dogs that love water; for a harness, the comfort of a padded design often comes first.
Traditional materials: strengths and limits
| Material | Strengths | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Polyester, nylon | Light, supple, affordable, varied patterns, machine-washable | Absorbs water, dries slowly, can hold smells |
| Leather | Stylish, durable if cared for, softens over time | Dislikes water, stiffens if often wet, needs care |
| Rope, cotton | Pleasant to hold, natural look | Very absorbent, gets dirty fast, hard to clean thoroughly |
Waterproof materials: strengths and limits
Coated webbing is textile webbing wrapped in PVC or TPU. BioThane® is the best-known brand (in PVC and TPU versions), but there are others, like our soft PVC Hexa. Details are in our guide to waterproof materials.
Watertight surface
Doesn't get waterlogged or heavy, wipes clean in seconds.
Few smells
Water and skin oils don't soak in: much less for the wet dog smell to cling to.
Variable quality
A low-grade coating can be stiff or crack; check suppleness and finish.
Less breathable
Over large areas against the body (covering harnesses), it can feel warm.
Which material for which accessory?
Waterproof really pays off. A lead drags on the ground, through wet grass and mud: coated, it stays light, clean and keeps a good grip when wet. In polyester it's lighter and more colourful, ideal in dry weather.
A hygiene question. Worn all day, a fabric collar soaks up skin oils, saliva and water. A waterproof collar rinses and dries in an instant. Always check the fit: two fingers between the collar and the neck.
Comfort first. A harness covers more of the body and takes the pull: a padded, well-fitted Y design is often more comfortable. After a muddy walk, rinse it and air-dry it.
True or false
Waterproof webbing is antibacterial.
FALSEIt isn't antibacterial: it's simply smooth and non-absorbent, which makes it easy to clean. It still needs wiping.
Leather is the best choice for a dog that swims.
FALSELeather copes poorly with repeated soaking: it stiffens and warps. Coated webbing is better suited.
Polyester still has its place.
TRUELight, soft, colourful and machine-washable: perfect in dry weather and in town.
At Goofy Goldens: Hexa waterproof collars and multi-position lead for water dogs, printed polyester collars and leads for every day, and padded Confort Y harnesses.
Frequently asked questions
Should I choose a Biothane or PVC collar?
Biothane is a brand made in both PVC and TPU. Compare the suppleness, finish and hardware of the model instead.
How do I clean waterproof gear?
With a sponge and soapy water, then rinse and wipe dry. Dry the clip and rings well, especially after the sea.
Is leather suitable for rainy walks?
Occasionally, if well cared for. Soaked often, it stiffens and warps.
Is a waterproof harness better?
Not necessarily: comfort and a good fit come first. A padded fabric harness can be rinsed after mud and air-dried.
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