The invention relates to hydrophobic coatings comprising reactive inorganic nano-particles, as well as their use in industrial processes. These coatings combine hydrophobic or even super-hydrophobic properties with superior mechanical properties and easy proccessability. Some super-hydrophobic coatings may even have self-cleaning properties. These hydrophobic and super-hydrophobic coatings may be applied in the food industry, exterior or interior decoration, automobile industry and display industry. Also comprised within the invention are finished articles comprising a coating of inorganic nano-particles.