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Is Your Snowboard Outerwear Ready to Brave the Next Blizzard?
As a snowboarder, you know the importance of having the right gear to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable during your riding sessions. While your snowboard, boots, and bindings are essential, your outerwear is just as important. With that in mind, this guide will help you determine if your snowboard outerwear is ready to brave the next blizzard.
Waterproofing
The most important feature of your snowboard outerwear is its ability to keep you dry. You need waterproof gear, and not just water-resistant. Your outerwear’s waterproofing is measured by its Hydrostatic Head (HH) rating, which indicates the amount of water pressure your gear can withstand before it starts to leak.
Most reputable brands offer outerwear with a minimum of 10,000mm HH rating, but the higher the rating, the better. If you find yourself in wet conditions often, consider investing in gear with a 20,000mm HH rating or higher.
Breathability
While it’s important to stay dry, it’s also important to stay comfortable. You don’t want your outerwear to trap sweat and moisture, leaving you feeling damp and cold. This is why breathability is an essential factor to consider when choosing your gear.
Breathability is measured by the amount of water vapor your gear can release, often referred to as its Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR). The better the breathability, the higher the MVTR. When choosing your outerwear, look for gear with at least a 5,000g MVTR rating, but aim for 10,000g or higher if you’re a more active rider.
Insulation
Staying warm on the mountain is crucial, but it’s important to find a balance between warmth and breathability. Outerwear insulation can come in the form of synthetic or natural down materials. Synthetic insulation is generally less expensive, more waterproof, and easier to maintain, while natural down insulation provides better warmth and breathability.
Your gear’s insulation is measured in grams, with higher numbers indicating more warmth. For most riders, 60-100g of insulation in the jacket and 40-60g in the pants is sufficient. However, if you tend to get cold easily or ride in frigid temperatures, consider upgrading to gear with more insulation.
Material Quality
The quality of the materials used in your outerwear is another essential factor to consider. High-quality materials often cost more, but they’ll last longer and perform better than cheaper materials. Look for gear with sturdy zippers, reinforced seams, and durable fabrics that can withstand wear and tear from constant use and falls on the mountain.
Fit and Comfort
Last but not least, your snowboard outerwear should be comfortable and fit properly. You want gear that’s not too tight, but also not too baggy. Proper fit will ensure that your gear can do its job and keep you dry and warm, while also allowing you to move freely on the mountain.
When trying on gear, make sure you have enough room to layer underneath without feeling restricted, but also avoid gear that’s too loose, as it will let cold air in. Look for gear with adjustable cuffs and hems, so you can customize the fit to your liking.
Conclusion
Now that you know what factors to consider when choosing your snowboard outerwear, it’s time to inspect your current gear and determine if it’s ready for the next blizzard. If you find that your gear needs upgrading, don’t hesitate to invest in high-quality outerwear that will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable on the mountain. Remember, your outerwear is just as important as your board, so choose wisely.
FAQ
- How often do I need to replace my snowboard outerwear?
- Can I wear regular winter clothes for snowboarding?
- What should I look for when buying snowboard outerwear?
- Can I use the same outerwear for skiing and snowboarding?
Your outerwear should last several seasons if it’s well taken care of. However, if you notice any tears, rips, or damage to the waterproofing or insulation, it’s time to replace your gear.
You can wear regular winter clothes for snowboarding, but they won’t perform as well as gear specifically designed for snowboarding. Regular clothes aren’t as waterproof or breathable as snowboarding gear, and they may not fit properly, which can limit your mobility on the mountain.
When buying snowboard outerwear, look for waterproof and breathable gear with quality materials and a proper fit. Insulation and waterproofing ratings are important factors to consider.
Yes, you can use the same outerwear for skiing and snowboarding as they both require similar gear. However, some brands offer gear specifically designed for each sport, so you may find that snowboarding gear is more comfortable or better suited for your needs.
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