FIELD: manufacture of coated threads. SUBSTANCE: method involves coating basic thread with aqueous solution comprising water-soluble superabsorbent precursor; drying and heating for structuring or polymerizing said precursor and changing it into absorbing material. Resultant multifilament thread has superior water-absorption capacity provided without use of organic solvents or excessive amounts of water. Said thread may be used for manufacture of water-impermeable optical communication cables employed as reinforcing members. EFFECT: simplified method and improved quality of coated thread. 6 cl, 7 tbl
