Choosing a snowboard jacket

The right snowboarding jacket is not the least important factor in comfort. A quality item should protect a person from temperature changes and the effects of wind gusts, neutralize falls, divert sweat secretions, which cannot be avoided during active movement. In this article, we'll take a look at how to choose the right snow jacket for you.

There are many different types of quality snowboard jackets available today. Such things are sewn taking into account that under them it was possible to put on clothes in several layers, as well as appropriate protective ammunition. The spacious cut of these snowboarding products guarantees complete freedom of movement for the user. The bottom of such jackets is made elongated so that when bending and performing various tricks, the back and lower back of a person are always covered. A kind of "skirt" can be attached to the waist area from the inside, creating a barrier protection against penetration of water and snow.

It can be easily slipped directly onto the safety helmet. In this case, the hood will reliably protect the user from the effects of cold wind and snow. Well-made jackets can be adjusted due to the presence of special velcro, elastic bands, zippers and various tightening.In most copies, a large number of pockets (both internal and external) are provided in which a person can keep various useful little things.

Many users who are fond of snowboarding are wondering if there is any difference between a ski suit and a snowboard jacket. In fact, the difference between these things is minimal. First of all, the differences in design and colors are highlighted. For example, for snowboarding, mainly bright and youth models of jackets are produced, but clothing for alpine skiing is most often characterized by a strict monochromatic design.

There are differences in the shape of snowboarding and skiing jackets. Ski jackets are made to be sleeker, tidier and even more sophisticated. Snowboarding cannot boast of such qualities. These models look rude and extremely simple. When you look at them, you may get the impression that they are 4-5 sizes larger than their owners.

Modern models of snowboarding jackets are divided into several distinct types, each of which has its own design features. In order not to be mistaken in choosing such clothes, it is very important to take into account the subspecies to which it belongs.

Modern models of snowboarding jackets are available in longer and shorter ones. Long models are also called anorak. Such products are presented in a wide range. Most manufacturers produce male models of anorak, however, sometimes there are female versions on sale.

Longer versions of snowboarding jackets often come without a full zip. Many copies have such a fastener, but only on the pockets and in the neck area. Anorak jacket is often complemented by a large number of front pockets, is characterized by a continuous cut, and is equipped with an adjustable hood.

A wide range of classic snowboard jackets with a front zip are presented today.... Such products are distinguished by a modern cut, have a removable hood, and an anti-snow "skirt". The latter is not removable in many models.

Many well-known manufacturers produce high-quality models of jackets with zippers. These warm protective products are made from practical materials that are durable, moisture resistant.

Today on sale you can find many excellent products for snowboarding, equipped with special heat and moisture insulating membranes. Many types of jackets are also complemented with special impregnations.

As stated above, modern snow jacket models are divided into different types according to the materials used in their manufacture. This criterion is one of the most important in choosing the perfect and practical winter sport clothing.

Depending on the types of membranes used for the production of snowboarding jackets, there are several types of similar products.

• Models with a pore-free membrane. The name of such parts speaks for itself. This material has no pores or holes in its structure for the passage of moisture droplets. In this case, their removal is realized according to the principle of osmosis - once on the surface of the membrane, moisture seeps into the outer layer, and a special upper part prevents it from getting back. The main disadvantages of jackets with such membranes include not the fastest moisture wicking and high cost.

• Porous membranes. In the manufacture of many snowboard jackets, special porous-type membranes are used. The design of these products is simpler. In them, humid air is discharged outside through a special porous structure, due to which the "breathing" properties of winter sports clothing are at a decent level. Jackets with porous membranes have their drawbacks. If the thing is used incorrectly, then the membrane elements run the risk of quickly failing. In addition, products with the considered insulating components are characterized by whimsical washing and care.

• Combined elements... Such a membrane is a composite material, which includes two main components - porous and solid. Jackets with these components have all the advantages of the options discussed above, but they are not without disadvantages. Usually such specimens are available in the arsenal of experienced snowboard aces.

If inside the jackets the bodies of winter sports enthusiasts are protected from moisture and cold by special membranes, then a special impregnation of the product is provided on the outside. This impregnation protects the snowboard jacket very well from water, effectively repelling it in all conditions. Even the smallest condensation particles, which are in dense fog, are absorbed into droplets, falling on the treated surfaces. The formed droplets easily flow down without causing the slightest inconvenience to the user.

When buying a quality winter sports jacket, it is very important to consider the fact that the impregnation on its surface must be periodically renewed. It comes in the form of an aerosol. The necessary cans with suitable formulations are sold in many sports stores, so you won't have to look for them for a long time.

The exterior design of snowboarding jackets can be very different. Most often in sports stores there are models made in the following colors:

• black;
• yellow;
• white;
• red;
• pink;
• green;
• blue;
• gray;
• pistachio;
• purple.

Often one jacket model combines several contrasting colors at once, for example, black and yellow or blue and pink. Buyers can choose for themselves both monochromatic options and products decorated with multi-colored geometric patterns, abstract bright prints, drawings in winter and sports themes.

Modern manufacturers produce very attractive snowboarding jackets. On store shelves, you can find both baggy oversized items and models of the fitted type. The latter are usually intended for women.

Sports enthusiasts have a great opportunity to choose absolutely any snowboard jacket. The highest quality products are produced by many well-known companies. Let's get acquainted with some of them.

• Peak Performance. A well-known brand specializing in the production of not only reliable and practical, but also very attractive jackets. The assortment of the manufacturer includes both brutal men's and more elegant women's products. Peak Performance products contain very good Gore-Tex membranes.

• Norrona. This brand is especially popular and demanded in European countries. Jackets with the Norrona branded logo are elite, so they are not cheap, but they are characterized by impeccable quality.

• Marmot. Produces high quality equipment for winter sports enthusiasts. The practical and durable jackets of this brand contain membranes from the NanoPro family.

• Patagonia. The products of this manufacturer have long been famous for their brilliant quality, attractive design and high level of comfort. Products designed for freeriding, snowboarding, and winter tourism are especially popular.

• Haglofs. The models of this well-known company are characterized by relatively low prices, which attracts many buyers. Haglofs branded clothing is very popular, since it has been produced for a very long time and has managed to prove itself.

• Columbia. An internationally renowned manufacturer that holds a leading position in the sporting goods market. Columbia snow jackets are relatively inexpensive, yet offer the highest quality and comfort.

Let's find out what criteria should be based on in order to find the perfect model of a quality snowboard jacket.

• The size... This is one of the most important parameters of any equipment. The jacket must exactly match the anatomical features and physique of the user. Too small a thing will cause a lot of inconvenience, and too large will not contribute to proper thermoregulation, which can lead to negative consequences for a person.

• The quality of the seams. A very important parameter that affects the level of comfort and dryness during a person's stay in the fresh air. More often than not, low-quality jackets start to leak along the seam, so it is important to make sure that they are all well glued. All seams are sealed must be present on the tag of the item, indicating the quality of the seams. It is recommended to check this information, especially if you are buying a cheap model of a jacket.

• Quality of pockets, cuffs, zippers. The condition of these components always affects the quality of winter equipment. Jacket cuffs are usually made of soft rubberized material with a characteristic two-layer structure. Zippers of things should be treated with special compounds that do not allow moisture to pass into the jacket. The clasp must be comfortable and serviceable.

• Membrane properties... You need to learn about the parameters of moisture resistance and vapor permeability of membranes in the product. A high-quality membrane is designed for a minimum precipitation volume of at least 5000 mm. Models of the middle price category are characterized by a moisture resistance level of 10-20 thousand mm. This indicator will be enough, but you can purchase a more practical option with values ​​of 30-40 thousand mm.

• Concerning vapor permeability, then 5000 g / m2 will be acceptable here. The best models are characterized by indicators of 20-30 thousand g / m2.

• Design, brand... It is recommended that you choose attractive jackets that suit your taste. Today, a buyer with any preferences can find a suitable option.

Here are some helpful tips for caring for your snowboard jackets.

• Do not use conventional detergents to wash products with membranes. Small particles of powder or thick gel can clog the micropores of the membrane parts and settle on the fabric fibers. This will ruin your clothes. Washing your snow jacket with a single wash using a classic wash can damage it.
• You also need to refuse professional dry cleaning.... This is due to the fact that during such cleansing procedures very often very aggressive agents and compounds are used that can seriously harm things.
• To remove dirt and stains from snowboard clothing, special clear liquids must be used.... They are sold in many sports stores.
• Washing the things in question should be made by hand in warm water with a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees.
• Wringing out or twisting a thick or thin jacket is not allowed. Drying on a battery or other heater is prohibited. Even just next to heating devices, the product cannot be placed.
• It is recommended to shake well the winter sports clothing after the washing process. It is necessary to allow the accumulated water to drain off the thing. You can dry the washed jacket on a regular hanger at room temperature.
• After the insulated product has completely dried, it will need to be treated with a special water-repellent impregnation... Do not iron the membrane materials due to the possibility of serious damage.
• Special means for the care of membranes extend their service life, however, it must be borne in mind that sooner or later they begin to harm the tissues. After 15-20 washes, the membranes lose their previous properties. This is why you should not wash your equipment too often.