How to choose a jacket for windy weather?
Why do people love windbreakers? Remember the main problem of the off-season - what to wear? It is not cold enough outside for an autumn-spring jacket, and it is no longer comfortable to wear a turtleneck, sweater or tracksuit. A windbreaker comes to the rescue! It makes training easier in the cold months. It protects from cold wind, dampness and even rain (it all depends on the material), and also prevents hypothermia. The next advantage of a windbreaker over other outerwear for the cool season is that it is super light! You hardly feel it on your shoulders, and the level of thermal comfort can be easily adjusted with inner layers of clothing.
The windbreaker is very comfortable for running, short walks and long hikes. It can be used as everyday clothing. Modern models are functional and look stylish. If the weather is damp and drizzling, you can use the hood, otherwise you can take it off or hide it in the collar. Models with straight sleeves and cuffs, with a central zip or anorak are available. The cut can be loose, straight or slightly tight. The color range is for every taste.
Today's publication is devoted to the topic - how to choose a jacket for windy weather. And we will consider in detail the following topics:
- Windproof materials and technologies in sports jackets.
- Types of jackets with different levels of wind protection.
- Fittings and details providing protection from wind.
- The importance of a properly cut windproof jacket.
- Tips for caring for your windproof jacket.
Windproof materials and technologies in sports jackets.
Windproof materials and technologies play an important role in creating a comfortable and functional lightweight jacket. They help protect against wind while maintaining breathability and providing a comfortable microclimate under the jacket in various weather conditions.
Here are the main ones:
- Membrane fabrics - have a microporous structure that allows air to circulate, but does not allow moisture to pass through. Such materials provide excellent wind protection and protection from rain, since small pores prevent the penetration of water droplets, but allow the release of excess moisture released by the body.
- Windproof coating - applied to the top layer of clothing to prevent wind from penetrating through the fabric.
- Softshell is a hybrid material that combines the properties of membrane fabrics and impregnated fabrics. It has good wind protection, excellent breathability and a high degree of comfort. They provide good freedom of movement and are ideal for active sports.
- Gore Windstopper - technology from Gore is widely used in various windproof products. The material has a high degree of wind protection, while maintaining excellent breathability.
- DWR coating is not a material technology, but an important addition to windproof fabrics. DWR treatment helps repel water and prevent the fabric from soaking, which also helps improve windproof properties.
- Polar fleece with windproof membrane - technology for increased wind protection.
- Windproof membranes are thin layers of special materials that block wind penetration while maintaining breathability and comfort.
- Lamination - lamination technology allows several layers of fabric to be joined together, creating a durable and windproof material.
- Thermal barrier is a technology that uses different layers of materials with different thermal insulation properties to create effective thermal insulation that prevents heat loss and protects against cold wind.
If you are planning to purchase a windbreaker for specific weather conditions, needs and activities, it makes sense to contact the manufacturer or seller to get more information about the materials and technologies used in a particular model. It is also recommended to pay attention to the combination of different technologies and materials in order to obtain maximum protection from the wind while maintaining the comfort and functionality of the clothing.
Types of jackets with different levels of wind protection.
A windbreaker in the classic sense is a light outerwear with a zipper or buttons, designed to protect from the wind, but not necessarily from rain or extreme cold. Depending on the material, style and purpose, there are several types of windbreakers.
The Windbreaker is the most common type of windbreaker. It is usually made of lightweight nylon or other windproof material. It has a straight silhouette, a front zip fastening, elastic cuffs and a drawstring at the hem to prevent wind penetration.
Softshell - usually made from a combination of different materials, such as polyester, elastane and membrane fabrics. Provides good wind protection, and also has breathable properties and some degree of water repellency.
Hardshell and Windstopper - designed for maximum protection from wind and moisture. Usually made of waterproof but breathable materials such as Gore-Tex or other membrane fabrics. Provides excellent protection from strong wind and rain.
3-in-1 Windbreaker is a multifunctional windbreaker made of two separate layers - an outer windproof layer and an inner insulated layer (e.g. fleece). Both layers can be used separately or combined together for better thermal insulation and wind protection.
An anorak is a style of windbreaker that slips on over the head, usually with a hood. It fastens with a zip or snaps at the front (to the chest line), and often has a large pocket at the front. It can be made from a variety of materials.
A windproof parka is a long windbreaker jacket, usually with an insulated lining and a hood. It is designed to provide warmth and wind protection in cold weather.
A Retro Windbreaker is a windbreaker made in a retro style, often featuring prints, references to the past, or bright colors that were popular in the past.
Each of these windbreaker types is designed for different conditions and activities, so the choice depends on the specific needs and preferences of the individual. Generally, higher levels of wind protection can also mean less ventilation, so this is also something to consider when choosing.
Fittings and details providing protection from the wind.
Various fittings and details are used for wind protection, helping to retain heat and preventing the penetration of cold air.
- Zipper. A good zipper has a good coating and tight teeth. It is able to tightly block the openings between the strips of fabric, which prevents the wind from penetrating.
- Flap. Some windbreakers have a flap on the inside or outside of the zipper. The flap covers the zipper openings, providing additional protection from the wind.
- Cuffs on the sleeves and at the bottom of the product. They can be adjustable or made of elastic material that fits the wrists and waist, preventing the penetration of cold air and wind.
- Dense seams also eliminate the possibility of wind penetration through small cracks.
- Wide wind protection flaps provide additional protection from the wind. Typically located on the chest and/or back.
- The hood is removable or integral. The headdress with adjustable drawstrings allows it to fit tightly to the head, preventing wind from penetrating the neck and head area.
- Windproof lining. Some lightweight jackets may be equipped with a lining that provides additional thermal insulation and wind protection.
- Adjustable elements - drawstrings with a lock at the waist or at the hem. Allow the windbreaker to fit tightly to the body and prevent wind penetration.
- Ventilation holes: Some windbreakers have ventilation holes that allow you to regulate the temperature inside the jacket during active movements and prevent overheating.
All elements and fittings of the windbreaker work together to provide windproof properties and create comfortable conditions in cold and windy weather.
The importance of a properly cut windproof jacket.
Another important aspect to consider when choosing a windbreaker is the right cut, a comfortable fit. The comfort, functionality and style of the product depend on it. The windbreaker should be loose enough to allow you to put one or more layers of clothing under it, but not so big that you catch the wind and freeze.
Some windbreakers are designed for specific activities or sports events. For example, sports windbreakers may have a straight cut for greater freedom of movement. In addition, a stylish cut makes the clothing more visually appealing. This is especially important if you want to wear a windbreaker not only for sports events, but also in everyday life. Also, a comfortable cut is the right balance between wind protection and breathability, it simply eliminates overheating of the body.
In general, the correct cut of a windbreaker is important for it to perform its functional tasks and at the same time bring pleasure from use to its owners. Therefore, when choosing a windbreaker, you should pay attention to the appropriate size and style so that it best suits your needs and preferences.
Tips for caring for your windproof jacket.
Proper and timely care of a windproof jacket will help maintain its presentable appearance, preserve its protective properties and extend the life of the product. Here are some tips on caring for a windbreaker.
- Follow the manufacturer's care instructions. Follow the washing method and temperature recommendations on the label.
- Wash your windbreaker regularly, if the instructions allow it, to remove sweat and dirt.
- Use gentle detergents When washing, choose mild, material-safe detergents. Do not use harsh bleaches or chemical cleaners, as they may damage the fabric and coating of the windbreaker.
- Close zippers, fasteners, and Velcro before washing and drying. This will prevent damage to other items and the material of the windbreaker itself.
- Avoid sun drying, especially if it is made of membrane or has a coating. Sun drying can cause fading and deterioration of the material.
- Store your windbreaker properly - in a dry and cool place to avoid material deterioration and mold.
- Repair and maintenance. Check the condition of your windbreaker regularly and immediately repair any defects, such as torn seams or non-working fasteners. If necessary, contact a specialist in outerwear repair.
- Be careful with sharp objects to avoid cuts and punctures of the material.
- Use as directed - avoid extreme conditions and operating situations where it may be damaged.
Following these tips will help keep your windbreaker in good condition and maintain its functionality for a long time.