Has anyone tried any of these types of superhydrophobic water protection coatings before? There's a few brands in the market, some targeted for sneakers, etc. NeverWet seems to be the most easily accessible though:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGr0skTrBHo
It doesn't seem to block any UV light as well:
"NeverWet is formulated with UV inhibitors that protects it from degradation caused by the sun's rays. NeverWet does not offer UV protection to the treated surface."
http://www.rustoleum.com/homeowner/faqs/neverwet-faqs/