Are You Making These Deadly Mistakes with Your Snowboard Jacket?
As a snowboarder, your jacket is a crucial piece of gear that protects you from the elements. It keeps you warm, dry, and comfortable while you shred. But are you making any deadly mistakes with your snowboard jacket?
In this blog post, we will go through some of the common mistakes that snowboarders make when it comes to their jackets. We will also offer tips on how to avoid these mistakes and keep your jacket in top condition.
Table of Contents
1. Not Choosing the Right Material
2. Ignoring the Importance of Waterproofing
3. Neglecting to Wash Your Jacket
4. Failing to Properly Store Your Jacket
5. Overlooking Proper Maintenance
6. Conclusion
7. FAQ
Not Choosing the Right Material
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when choosing a snowboard jacket is not selecting the right material. It’s essential to choose a material that suits the conditions you’ll be facing on the mountain.
The most common materials used in snowboard jackets are Gore-Tex, DryVent, and HyVent. Gore-Tex is a waterproof and breathable membrane that is durable and can handle heavy snow and rain. DryVent and HyVent are also waterproof and breathable, but they are less expensive than Gore-Tex, making them good options for those on a budget.
Another factor to consider when choosing a material is the insulation. Down insulation is excellent for very cold conditions, while synthetic insulation is better for conditions that are more damp.
Ignoring the Importance of Waterproofing
Another deadly mistake that snowboarders make is not paying attention to waterproofing. A waterproof jacket is crucial when you’re in wet and snowy conditions. It keeps you dry and comfortable, and it will prevent hypothermia and other cold-related injuries.
To ensure that your jacket is waterproof, look for the hydrostatic head rating. A rating of 10,000mm or higher means that the jacket is waterproof. It’s also essential to make sure that the seams are sealed, as this will prevent water from seeping through.
Additionally, it’s essential to pay attention to the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating. This coating repels water from the surface of the jacket, preventing it from saturating the fabric. If your jacket starts to soak up water instead of repelling it, it may be time to reapply the DWR coating.
Neglecting to Wash Your Jacket
Neglecting to wash your jacket is another mistake that can be deadly. Over time, your jacket will pick up dirt, sweat, and body oils, causing it to lose its waterproofing and breathability.
To keep your jacket in top condition, you should wash it after every few uses. Use mild detergent and a gentle cycle, and never use fabric softener, as this can damage the waterproof coating. After washing, hang your jacket and let it air dry.
Failing to Properly Store Your Jacket
Failing to properly store your jacket can also lead to its demise. It’s essential to store your jacket in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and sunlight. This will prevent the fabric from breaking down and losing its waterproofing.
When storing your jacket, make sure that it’s clean and dry and that all pockets and zippers are closed. This will prevent mold and mildew from developing and will keep insects and critters away.
Overlooking Proper Maintenance
Finally, overlooking proper maintenance can be a deadly mistake when it comes to your snowboard jacket. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your jacket and ensure that it performs optimally on the mountain.
Some things you should do to maintain your jacket include reapplying the DWR coating when necessary, retaping the seams if they start to peel, and repairing any rips or tears promptly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your snowboard jacket is an essential piece of gear that should be cared for properly. Avoiding the deadly mistakes outlined in this post will ensure that your jacket lasts for many seasons and keeps you comfortable and protected while snowboarding.
FAQ
Q: What is the best material for a snowboard jacket?
A: Gore-Tex is considered to be the best material for snowboard jackets, due to its waterproof and breathable properties. However, DryVent and HyVent are also good options for those on a budget.
Q: How often should I wash my snowboard jacket?
A: You should wash your snowboard jacket after every few uses to remove dirt, sweat, and body oils and keep it in top condition.
Q: Can I use fabric softener when washing my snowboard jacket?
A: No, you should never use fabric softener when washing your snowboard jacket, as this can damage the waterproof coating.
Q: How do I store my snowboard jacket properly?
A: Store your snowboard jacket in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and sunlight. Make sure it’s clean and dry and that all pockets and zippers are closed.
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