You can get Gore-Tex patch kits for any punctures you encounter. There are also a wide range of textiles available for the outer layers. Many have high Kevlar/

You can get Gore-Tex patch kits for any punctures you encounter. There are also a wide range of textiles available for the outer layers. Many have high Kevlar/aramid content and are much tougher in abrasion than waxed cotton. I have a Ventile jacket which should be the pinnacle of cotton waterproof design, and it is much easier to damage than modern synthetic jacket, and on top of this it doesn't breath as well, or keep me as dry under continuous downpour conditions. It's also harder to repair due to the high density of the fibres.