Thus, during their experiments, the researchers noticed that the rubbery coatings worked best for repelling ice, even when they weren't water-repellent.
Usual hydrophobic materials show their great water-repellent properties because of air pockets on them that reduce the contact of water droplets with the underlying surface.
Ideal snow shoveling clothing for the rest of the body is lightweight, layered, and water-repellent to increase ventilation while maintaining insulation.