Is Your Snowboard Outerwear Ready for the Mountain Madness?
Winter is the season of snow, cold winds, white sheets covering the ground, and the perfect time for outdoor activities. For most of us, it is the favorite time of the year to hit the mountains for snowboarding. However, when it comes to snowboarding, it is not just about the technique, gear, and snow conditions, but also about the outerwear that keeps you warm, protected, and stylish. In this blog post, we will explore how to make sure your snowboard outerwear is ready for the mountain madness!
Table of Contents
– Introduction
– Layering for Maximum Comfort and Protection
– Choosing the Right Shell and Insulation
– Waterproof, Windproof, and Breathability Features
– Pockets, Closures, Zippers, and Extras
– Trending Style and Colors
– Proper Cleaning and Storage for Longevity
– Conclusion
– FAQ
Layering for Maximum Comfort and Protection
Layering is a crucial element to consider for your snowboard outerwear. It involves wearing several thin layers instead of one thick one, enabling better body warmth and sweat management. The three main layers are the base layer, mid-layer, and outer layer.
The base layer sits closest to your skin and regulates your body temperature by wicking the sweat away. Invest in high-quality base layers that keep you warm and dry, especially in areas that highlight sweating like the armpits, back, and groin.
The mid-layer acts as the insulating layer. It traps your body heat to keep you warm and holds the warmth generated by your base layer. Mid-layers can be fleece, wool, down, or synthetic, depending on your preference and the temperature outside.
The outer layer is the protective layer, shielding from the wind, snow, and rain. It should be ultra-breathable, waterproof, and windproof to prevent moisture accumulation, which can make you feel cold and damp.
Choosing the Right Shell and Insulation
Now that you know the importance of layering, you can choose the right outer layer shell and insulation. A significant decision to make regarding insulation is whether to go for natural or synthetic. Natural insulation, such as down, is excellent for providing warmth, but if it gets wet, the feathers clump losing their insulation qualities. On the other hand, synthetic insulation is made from polyester and provides warmth even when wet.
When it comes to shells, you have two options, hardshells and softshells. Hardshells are the most waterproof and windproof of the two, but they do not provide insulation, so you will need to layer up underneath. Hardshells are ideal for cold and dry conditions. Softshells, on the other hand, are more breathable but less waterproof. They are ideal for mild to moderate conditions.
Waterproof, Windproof, and Breathability Features
When shopping for snowboard outerwear, it is essential to look for these three features, waterproof, windproof, and breathable. Waterproof fabrics keep you dry by stopping water from penetrating the jacket or pants. Windproof fabrics act as a barrier against the wind preventing cold from chilling you when you’re charging down the slopes.
Breathability, on the other hand, allows you to dump body heat, sweat, and moisture to prevent condensation inside the jacket or pants. Gore-Tex has been the leader in producing waterproof and breathable fabrics used by most snowboard outerwear brands.
Pockets, Closures, Zippers, and Extras
Pockets, closures, zippers, and extras can make all the difference when it comes to convenience, safety, and overall satisfaction with your snowboard outerwear. Pockets provide much-needed storage space for essential items such as phones, wallets, lift passes, snacks, and more. Closures keep out the snow and wind from entering through the sleeves or pants. Zippers are essential for ventilation, allowing the excess heat and moisture to escape.
The extras, such as backpack compatibility, helmet compatibility, key clips, and media ports, add extra convenience to your snowboard outerwear. Keep in mind, these extras add to the cost, so choose wisely.
Trending Style and Colors
Style is an essential consideration for snowboard outerwear. Trending styles include color block jackets and pants, camo prints, neon colors, retro styles, and slim-fitting jackets. It is up to individual preference, but when choosing trending styles, make sure it is functional and comfortable.
Proper Cleaning and Storage for Longevity
To ensure the longevity of your snowboard outerwear, it is essential to practice proper cleaning and storage. Always follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions, so you don’t damage the waterproof or insulation qualities. After washing, it is crucial to store your outerwear in a dry place, avoiding direct sunlight and high humidity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having the right snowboard outerwear can make the difference in how well you enjoy your mountain experience. It is essential to choose the right layers, shells, insulation, waterproof, windproof, and breathable features, pockets, closures, zippers, and extras, trend in style and colors, and proper cleaning, and storage. Investing in quality snowboard outerwear will make sure you are ready for the mountain madness, keeping you warm, safe, and stylish.
FAQ
Q: Can you wear any jacket for snowboarding?
A: You can wear any jacket for snowboarding, but snowboard outerwear is designed specifically for snowboarding, providing extra warmth, protection, and convenience.
Q: Can you wear jeans for snowboarding?
A: Jeans are not ideal for snowboarding, as they are not waterproof, windproof, or breathable. Jeans can also get easily wet, leading to hypothermia.
Q: Can you wash snowboard outerwear in a washing machine?
A: It is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions, but most snowboard outerwear can be washed in a washing machine on a gentle cycle.
Q: What is the difference between snowboard jackets and ski jackets?
A: Snowboard jackets are generally longer and baggier than ski jackets, providing more room for the rider’s movements. Ski jackets tend to be slimmer and more form-fitting.
Q: Do I need to wear a neck gaiter for snowboarding?
A: A neck gaiter is not necessary, but it can provide extra warmth and protection for your neck and face. It also prevents snow and wind chill from entering through your jacket and causing discomfort.
Q: Are expensive snowboard outerwear worth it?
A: Expensive snowboard outerwear is often of better quality, providing better waterproofing, insulation, and durability. However, it is up to individual preference and budget.
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