We've put together this concise guide to help you cut through this labyrinthine maze of hype and jargon and get on with your activities - whether it is playing or merely watching your favorite game - when it is pouring.
Wearing a plain "rain jacket" when it rains is not just insufficient, it has become pass. Modern technology has evolved to the point where it allows you to do so much more than just hunker down during a downpour. What's more, modern technology has not been afraid to embrace changing style trends; not only can you continue doing what you want during a rain, but you can even look cool doing it!
Ok, the secret is out: the best rain gear is water-proof and breathable. That's it. But just hold on a sec, there is a little more to it. Let's explore the nuances of both.
What does waterproof actually mean?
A fabric is classified as 100% waterproof if it keeps water at a pressure of 25 PSI from passing through it. That's about it with the technical stuff. Remember, we promised to keep the jargon to a minimum! Basically "water-proof" means it keeps the rain from getting to your skin even during the heaviest downpours.
Breathability
It is important to remember that waterproofing does not mean that you cannot get wet. Do you just get the feeling that we are talking at cross-purposes here? Read on, things get clearer ahead.
Wearing a plastic bag will ensure waterproofness. But because it does not "breathe" - allow air circulation inside, moisture (read sweat) will collect on the inside. So even though the rain may not get to you, you will start to get wet from the inside. And the more vigorous the activity, the wetter you become!
That is why your rain fabric, in addition to ensuring water-proofness, needs to also be breathable. Let's just get a wee bit technical again: A fabrics breathability rating, represented in units of g/24hrs/m2, tells how many grams of water vapor pass through a square meter of fabric in a day of laboratory testing. A fabric with a rating of 10,000g/24hrs/m2 is considered highly breathable.
Fabrics with higher ratings also tend to be higher in price. Lower-rated fabrics are more affordable. What fabric you will need will depend upon the vigorousness of your activity. The more breathable and waterproof your gear, the more comfortable you will be during high-output activities in heavy weather.
How do modern fabrics ensure both water-proofness and breathability?
In addition to a waterproof shell, they incorporate an inner layer that helps to wick away perspiration, keeping you dry both from the outside and the inside. These fabrics contain pores in the material, small enough to keep moisture, like rain and snow, from penetrating the fabric, but big enough to allow sweat vapor out.
Windproof
When it is both wet and chilly outside your raingear will also need to offer you protection from the wind/chill. Most good waterproof fabrics are both water- and wind-proof, but it is always a good idea to check.
A few more points to watch out for:
Seams
Seams are weak points in rain gear and should be inspected before you buy. In inexpensive raingear products, seams are often welded together and can come apart under stress. Stitched seams result in stronger garments, but every stitch creates a hole where water can enter. To seal holes, seams are taped with a waterproof adhesive to prevent leakage. Go for garments with all the seams reinforced and covered.
Zippers
Zippers are another weak point on jackets and pants. Look for raingear with single or double storm flaps covering the zippers to block out rain and wind.
Vents
Zippered areas, usually in the under-arm of the jacket. When unzipped they allow more breathability in the core and underarm areas during high-level activities.
Hood
Look for a spacious hood with the ability to adjust size and a generous and stiffened bill.
Articulation
Raingear with articulated elbows and knees provides more freedom of movement. Also, look for elbows, knees and the pant seat to be reinforced with extra material to extend the product's lifespan in these high-wear areas.
Pockets
Depending upon your activity, opt for outside pockets as these make for a less-constrictive and ultimately, more comfortable fit.
Pants and Bibs
Bibs provide more protection, pockets and insulation than waist-high pants. Check for adjustable velcro cuffs that allow for a tighter fit for rain and wind protection. Long pant zippers give you more clearance allowing you to put on or remove pants without removing footwear.
Women are shaped differently than men, especially in the waist and hips. Women's pants are designed keeping these differences in mind and will always provide women a more comfortable fit than unisex models.
Heavy-duty models afford more protection and breathability and are more durable. However some sportspersons prefer lighter models as they allow faster movement. Pick out one depending on your needs.
And finally,
Before you buy that rain-suit, look for correct fit. Too snug and it will compress insulation layers; too loose and it won't breathe well. Also, sit while wearing the jacket and pants. Your lower back should be well protected as it's a weak point for heat loss.
With great raingear to choose from, like the extensive collection at Sportsunlimitedinc.com, you have no excuses for sitting, moping around, when it is pouring outside!
About the Author:
Stay dry with our rain gear! A full line of rain jackets and raincoats at unbeatable prices. Shop for rain jackets and raincoats that come in all shapes, styles, and materials from Sports Unlimited.
jimmy fallon jimmy fallon nick collins marco rubio marco rubio wwdc dave matthews
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.