Is Your Snowboard Outerwear Ready to Take on the Toughest Terrain?
Introduction
Winter is fast approaching and snowboard enthusiasts are getting ready for a season filled with exhilarating moments. If you’re an experienced snowboarder, then you know that apart from the excitement of the sport, your snowboard outerwear is crucial to your overall on-mountain experience. Nothing can dampen your spirits quicker than getting wet or feeling cold while tackling the toughest terrain. To make sure that does not happen to you, we have put together this blog post to guide you on what to look for when selecting your snowboard outerwear.
Table of Contents
I. What to Consider when Choosing Snowboard Outerwear
II. Materials Used for Snowboard Outerwear
III. Insulation
IV. Waterproofing/Breathability
V. Jackets and Pants Features
VI. Layering
VII. Conclusion
VIII. FAQs
What to Consider when Choosing Snowboard Outerwear
When selecting snowboard outerwear, functionality should always come first. However, there are a few other things to keep in mind such as fashion, comfort, and price. Before we dive into the different features to look for in snowboard outerwear, let’s look at some other important considerations:
1. Fit – make sure your jacket and pants fit well and are not too tight or too loose as this will hinder your movement.
2. Purpose – consider where you will mainly be snowboarding; different terrains will require different protection levels.
3. Fashion – select outerwear that appeals to you aesthetically. This will allow you to express your style as you ski and snowboard.
Materials Used for Snowboard Outerwear
When it comes to materials used in snowboard outerwear, they should be strong enough to handle wear and tear caused by your ski and snowboarding movements. Snowboard outerwear is usually made of synthetic materials such as nylon, polyester, or Gore-Tex. These materials are preferred because they are lightweight, water-resistant, and breathable.
Insulation
The insulation in your snowboard outerwear is what keeps you warm and comfortable while skiing. In general, there are three types of insulation that are used in snowboard outerwear: synthetic, down, and hybrid.
1. Synthetic – This type of insulation keeps warm air within the jacket and provides a lot of warmth even when wet. Synthetic insulation is also preferred because it is easy to care for and tends to be cost-effective.
2. Down – For the most efficient insulation, down is the best. It’s warmer than synthetic insulation however, it tends to be expensive and more difficult to care for.
3. Hybrid – This type of insulation uses synthetic materials and down together to maximize both warmth and flexibility. Hybrid insulation is preferred when temperatures vary and climates change constantly.
Waterproofing/Breathability
This is perhaps the most crucial component of your snowboard outerwear. A good jacket and pants should keep you dry without sacrificing your comfort. Outerwear that is waterproof keeps you dry by repelling water, while breathable materials allow perspiration to evaporate, keeping you cool. Snowboard outerwear typically ranges between 5,000mm and 20,000mm waterproof ratings, with a minimum of 10,000mm recommended for optimal protection.
Jackets and Pants Features
Jacket and pants features are an important consideration when selecting snowboard outerwear.
1. Hood – A jacket with a hood provides extra protection from the wind, cold, and snow.
2. Pockets – Pockets are essential for storing different items while skiing, such as phones, keys, and wallets.
3. Vents – Snowboard outerwear should have adequate ventilation to allow sweat to escape and airflow to move.
4. Cuffs – Cuffs are essential to keeping snow out of your gloves and jacket. Look for outerwear with adjustable and tight cuffs.
5. Recco System – This feature is included in some snowboard jackets and pants to help rescue teams locate you if you become lost or buried.
Layering
Layering is an important aspect of snowboard outerwear; it allows you to customize your outfit depending on the day’s weather conditions. A typical layering system includes a base layer, mid-layer, and outerwear. Base layers should be comfortable, moisture-wicking, and at least two layers thick. Mid-layers should offer warmth and flexibility, while outerwear provides protection from the elements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your snowboard outerwear is essential for your on-mountain experience as it provides protection from the cold, snow, and wind. Before selecting your snowboard outerwear, consider its purpose, the material used, insulation, ventilation, waterproofing, and breathability. Make sure to choose outerwear that fits well and is appropriate for the terrain you’ll be snowboarding on. Layering is also essential for when weather conditions change. With these tips, you will be ready to take on the toughest terrain this upcoming season.
FAQs
1. How do I ensure my snowboard outerwear fits well?
A. Make sure to try on snowboard outerwear before purchasing.
2. What is the most efficient insulation?
A. Down is the best insulation, but it is also the most expensive.
3. What is the purpose of ventilation in snowboard outerwear?
A. Ventilation allows sweat to escape and airflow to move, keeping the rider cool.
4. What is a Recco System?
A. A Recco System is a feature in some snowboard jackets and pants that helps rescue teams locate you if you become lost or buried.
5. Why is layering important in snowboard outerwear?
A. Layering allows you to customize your outfit depending on the day’s weather conditions.
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