<p>The inherent characteristics of biomimetic superhydrophobic coatings impart exceptional waterproof and impermeable properties, rendering them highly suitable for the protection of metallic materials. However, the poor mechanical robustness of such coatings, which are prone to failure under external stress, has constrained their long-term service life. Inspired by the integral superhydrophobicity in porous materials, this study reports a porous superhydrophobic PDMS-based composite coatings (SHPCCs) prepared by with self-similar porous structure via a water-in-oil emulsion templating approach. Critically, microscale polyethylene particles are incorporated into the PDMS matrix, meanwhile 10 wt% fluorinated SiO₂ (relative to the PDMS base agent) is dosed into the pore architecture to regulate nanoscale roughness and surface energy of the coating. This strategy further refines the surface and internal geometry of the SHPCCs, enhances its overall strength modulus, and lowers its surface energy. Under the tested conditions, the optimized coating retained high water repellency after abrasion and maintained improved electrochemical corrosion resistance. This work provides a feasible strategy for improving the mechanical robustness of porous superhydrophobic coatings and demonstrates their potential application in corrosion protection of marine metallic structures.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>