If you’ve ever been caught out in the open, especially on a camping or hunting trip, then you know how important fire is to survival. Not just the fire; having the right set of tools to start the fire when it is needed is crucial. Ask any outdoor explorer the type of matches to get for your trip, and the answer would be the best waterproof matches.
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Waterproof matches, unlike your average matches, are all weatherproof. This means that either in the rain or snow, it won’t get through to render the sticks useless. By implication, you don’t always have to worry about not being able to start a fire after a torrential downpour because the matches will stay useful.
Let it be of no surprise that there are several waterproof matches in the market. Since different makers design the products, they differ in functionality and waterproof capability. However, we have reviewed some of the best waterproof matches to help you reduce your search time. We have also included sections on DIY matches waterproofing and a buyer’s guide on how to buy one for yourself.
Read on to find out some of the best waterproof matches in the market.
Contents
Top 13 Waterproof Matches
UCO Stormproof Match Kit with Waterproof Case
The UCO stormproof fire starter kit features 25 waterproof and windproof matches and three strikers. Each stick is easy to light and has a burn time of about 15 seconds. The product package includes a storage case that can hold up to 40 matches for convenient storage. An extended stick length comes in handy as it provides extra safety from burning the fingertips. Plus, the cover is made of waterproof and durable ABS plastic; hence, it will float in water to keep the contents dry.
Pros
- Replaceable striker
- No-slip grip
- Submersible
Cons
- Strike leaves trial on the striker surface
Zippo survival tools
The Zippo survival tool protects your matches even in the worse condition you can find yourself. It stores and protects 15 typhoon matches, and it keeps the matches dry even if it falls into the water. The strike pad is protected to ensure an ever-reliable match ignition, and the survival tool is reusable, lightweight, and durable for long-lasting use. The storage case comes with attachments point for use in a pocket, on a pack, and bag. Zippo matches can survive being submerged in water or rain and burns for about 30 seconds.
Pros
- Sturdy storage case
- Sealed strike pad
- Portable design
Con
- Stiff to open
GreenLight Diamond Strike on Box Matches
A single purchase of the GreenLight Diamond Strike on Box Matches offer ten packs of matches with 32 counts in each package. The wooden matches smell nice, and the sparks stay lit long enough till you can light several fires. Each match is small and slides out of the box quickly. The package also has a somewhat stylish appearance. On the downside, you would need to purchase a storage case since the product doesn’t have one
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Burns clean
- Quality splints
Cons
- Tiny sticks
UCO Stormproof Matches–2-pack
Two boxes of 25 matches per box promise reliable performance in extreme outdoor conditions. The sticks won’t go out in the rain or when it is lit and submerged. Interestingly, the matches have to burn out as it won’t if you try to blow them or extinguish with water. Do note, though, that the matches put off a smell. However, it is only for a short period. Unlike regular matches, the product is not meant for indoor use as it does not go out quickly. In all, the product works pretty well and is handy for making intense flames.
Pros
- Extra strikers included
- Completely stormproof
- Burns underwater
Cons
- Striker on the outside box is not durable
Coghlan’s 940BP Waterproof Matches, 4 pack
One of the exciting features of the Coghlan’s 940BP Waterproof Matches is that it cannot be lit by accident. The match design is such that it must be struck on the striker surface of the box intentionally before it ignites. As a result, it is safe for use around kids. Apart from this, the safety matches come with all the necessary features of a survival match.
Pros
- Thicker wood base
- Easy to use
- Great for emergencies
Cons
- A little slow but works nonetheless
UCO Titan Stormproof Match Kit with Waterproof Case, Replacement Strikers, and 12 Matches
Besides use as matches, the revolutionary storage case of the matches is better than most plastic cases and durable for regular use. The casing of the UCO titan stormproof match protects it from rain and prevents water from penetrating it. You have 12 titan matches, three replaceable strikers, a waterproof case, and a cord for proper handling. The titan stormproof matches are windproof and burn up to 25 seconds.
Pros
- Waterproof case
- Replaceable strikers
- 5-inch stick length
Con
- Striker is outside
UCO Stormproof Matches, Waterproof and Windproof
The windproof and waterproof matches by UCO is another excellent stormproof product. Like most matches in its category, the product burns despite rain or wind and is entirely stormproof. The product package contains 25 matches, sufficient enough to see you through lighting a fire outdoors. Each of the match stick has a burn time of up to 15 seconds in any conditions, and extra strikers are included to ensure continuous use.
Pros
- Two extra strikers
- Lights underwater
- The stick itself doesn’t catch flame
Cons
- Not for use indoor because of a strong sulfur smell
UCO Windproof and Waterproof Survival Matches with Sealed Case and 2 Strikers
Strikers can be wet at times, and that causes you to wait till it dries up. However, there is no waiting time with the UCO windproof and waterproof survival matches. The case has two strikers, hence, if one gets wet, the other will still meet the need at the moment. The UCO match case contains 15 matches that are easy to light and will relight after being submerged. Even if you fall into the water with the UCO matches, be rest assure it will work when you need it.
Pros
- Integrated and reusable striker
- Portable for easy carriage
- Up to 12 seconds of burn time
Con
- The striker is outside the case where it can get wet
Coghlan’s Windproof Storm Matches, 20-Count
Coghlan has been into the business of making outdoors more comfortable for a long time. The brand understands that matches can be hazardous when wet and that why they know just how to produce this suitable waterproof match. The product is a useful tool for harsh weather and outdoor living. Plus, the light cannot be extinguished by wind, and it can withstand immersion in water. The match heads burn nicely for just 10 seconds, and the tub comes with two striker surfaces. It is ideal for treks, backpacking, hiking, camping, and more.
Pros
- NATO approved
- The tub comes with two striker surfaces
- Windproof matches
Con
- Burns out a little too quickly
MORISK Permanent Match, Waterproof Fire Starter Survival Lighter with Flint Metal
The Morisk permanent match is a fire starter with a lovely look and a lightweight feel. It is a creative lighter with a built-in ‘W’ shape flint scraper. You simply have to strike metal matchstick on the ferrocerium rod in the side, and… it’s lit. Morisk permanent match can be used to light a fire in any weather condition. This flint match works even after being soaked in water, and it can be easily kept in the pocket, on your key chain, or in a backpack.
Pros
- Refillable lighter fluid
- Premium design; and a perfect gift for friends and families.
- Easy to keep around the belt
Con
- Takes a few tries to ignite sometimes
Coleman Waterproof Matches (4 Pack)
The Coleman Matches come with extra-large heads that generously come in contact with the strike surface for easy use. One excellent feature is that it is waterproof and will always light even after contact with water. On the downside, the head breaks off reasonably quickly. Apart from this, it packs enough punch for reliable outdoor use.
Pros
- Waterproof striking surface
- Large heads
- Up to 40 matches in the package
Cons
- Burns out quickly
Mini Fire Starting Kit
The Mini Fire Starting Kit is the perfect gear needed for building a fire in harsh outdoor environments. The kit contains 12 hurricane matches, matches case with extra strikers, and sugarcane fire starters. By implication, you don’t only have a waterproof match; there are replaceable strikes for regular use. The matches light up quickly and burn for up to 12 seconds. The fire starters are made from sugarcane waste and are easy to ignite.
Pros
- Match case holds about 40 matches
- Three replaceable strikers
- Sturdy and compact box
Cons
- Limited burn time of 12 seconds
UST Waterproof Matches
The UST waterproof matches is an excellent product with a regular match design, but waterproof nonetheless. Produced by one of the best outdoor companies that seek to make outdoor fun, this match is an excellent gear for outdoor use. There are 160 matches in the entire package, with 40 waterproof matches in each box. This match is still useful when damp or wet and dual striking surfaces.
Pros
- Up to 40 matches in the box
- Highly portable
- Practical size
Con
- Made in China
Factors to Consider Before Buying Waterproof Matches
Storage
Although the matches are waterproof, it would be unreasonable to leave them with no protection. As a result, we recommend that you shop for a product with a storage container. It could be a flimsy spice-like bottle or sturdy case. Buy products with this feature and ensure an extra layer of protection for your matches.
Quantity and Length
The more the match stick in the package, the more convenient it is to use. The rule here is simple, buy products within your budget that offers the most matchstick in a single buy. Another factor to consider is the length of the stick. Long match sticks are more comfortable to use. Plus, it is also easy to start a fire with the type compared to shorter ones. For example, since some matches can burn up to 20 seconds, it is best to have a significant length to hold them for long, even without gloves.
Weather Conditions
Waterproof matches do not automatically translate into windproof matches. Hence, you should look for this feature separately. If you are camping near a windy environment, look to buy a windproof fire starter. If you don’t, then you can stick with only the waterproof quality.
Striking Surface Design
A sturdy striking surface will see you through a considerable number of match sticks without falling apart. However, we recommend that you look for surfaces concealed inside a storage case for protection from moisture.
How to Waterproof Matches
DIY waterproof matches are excellent alternatives to the ones that are bought online. Not just this, basic knowledge of how to waterproof your matches is handy, especially when you are not satisfied with the performance of the one you purchased. To be fair, though, the process should be supervised by an adult as it could be dangerous.
Let us cover four of the most popular methods of waterproofing your matches.
Turpentine
This method is the safest as it has a higher flash point, and you don’t need flame as you will with the other methods.
To start, mix up a little quantity of turpentine in a small glass, preferably tumbler size. Avoid using plastic as the element is strong and could eat through your plastic. Follow this and place the matches with the head facing down into the solution. Let it soak for up to five minutes until the whole head is soaked.
Remove the matches from the solution and dry them by spreading them out on a paper. You can also use a hairdryer to increase dry time. Wait for about 20 minutes until it is dry for more effectiveness.
Nail Polish
Just like we demonstrated with the first method, dip the head of the matches into nail polish. Let it cover a significant portion of the stick just below the match head. Then, let the polish dry by holding the match stick in your hand for less than one minute.
Place it on a table and suspend the head of the edge of your surface so that excess polish can drip off. We recommend that you place a piece of paper beneath the match to catch falling polish. Scrap a small part of the polish to reveal the stick head that you need.
Candle
Burn your candle down a few centimeters after lighting it to make sure that you have enough wax. When this is done, extinguish the candle and dip the match head into the wax. Be sure to let it cover at least 3 millimeters of the stick at the head. Then, hold it over the fire for less than a minute and let the wax slightly harden.
Place the match on a counter or table and suspend the head as you would if you used nail polish. Wait for the wax to cool, but don’t let it become hardened and pinch away the wax coating.
Paraffin Wax
The final method is to coat your candle with paraffin wax. Melt the wax in a boiler and leave enough to let you cover your matches. We recommend that you wrap your matches in a bunch with a string and dip them into the wax.
So that you know, you can use any color of nail polish. Not only this, but you can also combine the turpentine method and wax for a lasting and a more reliable result.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How long will waterproof matches burn?
The duration of burning time varies from one product to the other. It could be as quick as ten seconds, and it could last for as long as 30 seconds. Read through each of our reviews to find the burn time that is peculiar to individual products.
- How do waterproof matches work?
Waterproof matches are soaked in water-repellent and combustible compounds that burn even when they are wet. Some of these compounds include phosphorous, magnesium, and sodium. It sometimes features a friction-increasing material like silica or ground glass and a few elements in the striker to prevent accidental lighting.
- Can I strike anywhere with my matches?
Most waterproof matches, especially the ones we have listed above, are not strike anywhere matches. As a result, most products come with a striker tailored for easy and quick lighting.
Conclusion
The best waterproof matches are must-have companions when you are out in the open. Read through our review and find the best product that will suit your need. Perhaps you need information on how to make your next purchase worth it, then read through our buyer’s guide section for valuable purchase information.