Fire starting gear ranks up there with water purification. You can have the best technique in the world, but if your matches are soaked, you're eating cold food and sleeping cold.
Waterproof matches come in two types: coated matches that resist moisture, and stormproof matches that burn even when wet. The really good ones stay lit in wind and rain. A waterproof case matters as much as the matches themselves.
1. Uco Stormproof Match Kit
UCO Stormproof matches will light after being submerged. They burn for 15 seconds even in strong wind.
The orange waterproof case floats and includes three strikers. At 0.00026 pounds (likely a listing error, probably closer to 0.26 pounds), the kit is light enough to keep in any pack. 25 matches give you plenty of attempts.
Pros:
- Burns even when wet
- Wind-resistant 15-second burn time
- Waterproof floating case
- Three strikers included
- Bright orange for visibility
Cons:
- Single-use matches eventually run out
- Manual striking can be difficult in extreme cold
2. Stormproof Waterproof Matches
LKTdesign stormproof matches work even after submersion. Watertight case keeps them dry until you need them.
Windproof design lights in gusts. At 0.12 pounds, they're light and compact. Good for survival kits or backup fire starting.
Pros:
- Submersible and waterproof
- Windproof in strong gusts
- Watertight storage case
- Very lightweight
Cons:
- Limited quantity per pack
- Worn strikers may need replacement
3. Zippo Typhoon Match Kit
Zippo's match kit uses weather-resistant design. The red and grey case protects matches from rain and moisture.
Includes integrated striker surface. Compact at 4.8 inches tall. Made by Zippo, which means quality construction.
Pros:
- Weather-resistant case
- Integrated striker surface
- Compact and lightweight
- Red and grey color for visibility
- Zippo quality construction
Cons:
- Limited match count needs replenishing
- Plastic case can crack under hard impact
4. 2 Pack Waterproof Windproof Torch Lighters
These are plasma lighters, not matches. USB rechargeable, no fuel needed. Dual arc design creates a windproof flame.
Waterproof construction works in rain. At 0.1499 pounds for two lighters, they're convenient backup. Orange and black color scheme.
Pros:
- USB rechargeable, no fuel needed
- Windproof and waterproof
- Dual arc flameless plasma
- Two-pack for backup
Cons:
- Requires USB charging access
- Plasma arc may not light all materials as easily
5. Coleman Waterproof Matches
Coleman matches use waterproof coating that works even after submersion. Four-pack gives you multiple boxes to spread around your gear.
At 0.1 pounds total, they're light. Black and green packaging. Coleman quality at an affordable price.
Pros:
- Waterproof coating survives submersion
- Four-pack for multiple uses
- Very lightweight
- Trusted Coleman brand
Cons:
- Limited burn time per match
- Requires striker surface
6. Waterproof Matches Survival Kit
PinbWD kit includes 20 stormproof matches with a protective case. Available in larger 100-piece packs for extended trips.
At 0.035 pounds, it's extremely light. Works in wet and windy conditions. Good for emergency preparedness.
Pros:
- Stormproof in wet and windy conditions
- Protective case included
- Extremely lightweight
- Large pack options available
Cons:
- Striking technique takes practice
- Case size varies by model
- Best for outdoor use only
7. Survive Permanent Match
The SURVIVE Permanent Match is a metal fire striker that works indefinitely. Waterproof design lights fires repeatedly.
Pack of five means backups for different locations. Metal keychain design. At 0.03125 pounds per unit, they're negligible weight. While you're at it, take a look at our waterproof lighter. While you're at it, take a look at our fire starters. While you're at it, take a look at our emergency survival tent.
Pros:
- Unlimited strikes from each unit
- Waterproof metal construction
- Pack of five for multiple locations
- Keychain size for portability
Cons:
- Striking technique requires practice
- Striker stick needs drying if very wet
- Not a continuous flame like traditional lighters
How to Pick the Right One
- Maximum weather resistance: UCO Stormproof or LKTdesign
- Rechargeable option: 2 Pack Plasma Lighters
- Budget multi-pack: Coleman 4-Pack
- Unlimited use: SURVIVE Permanent Match
- Best all-around: UCO Stormproof Match Kit
Bottom Line
I carry UCO Stormproof matches because they work when everything else fails. For longer trips, I add a SURVIVE Permanent Match as backup since it never runs out.
