Technical
Information
As different
skiers require different performance levels out of their ski clothing,
most manufacturers offer a wide range of technical fabrics, insulations
and garment features.
When looking
at the water resistant qualities of technical fabrics, they are two
basic principles, surface coatings and membrane backed fabrics.
Coated
fabrics
Coated fabrics have been treated on the outer surface with water resistant
coating. The coatings vary in names, breathability and water resistant
capabilities. These fabrics are sometimes referred to as a coated microfibre.
Membrane
backed fabrics
Membrane backed fabrics are just that. They have a water proof coating
either glued or vacuum sealed to the underside of the fabric, as well
as a coating on the surface to stop the outer fabric from becoming water
logged. Membrane backed fabrics also vary in names, breathability and
water resistant capabilities. One of the brands that is frequently used
in ski wear is Entrant GII by Toray.
Breathability
Breathability of a water proof fabric plays a large part in staying
dry. Skiing like most sports is hot work. Perspiration vapour gets trapped
within the layers of clothing. A breathable outer fabric allows this
vapour to escape through tiny pores, similar to human skin. A fabric
that does not have good breathability will trap the vapour creating
a damp layer close to the body. In very cold and windy conditions, this
can cause a chill effect.
Seams
Seams are another detail that need to be considered when looking at
ski wear. Many manufacturers seal the back of critical seams in ski
wear. Shoulders, front, tops of sleeves and most seams on pants. This
is done with special tape and the process is known as seam sealing.
This prevents water eventually seeping through the seams and increases
the water resistant capabilities of the garment.
Insulation
Insulation in a ski jacket is what makes the garment warm. Synthetic
insulations available today allow ski wear to provide warmth without
bulk. For example, Thinsulate by 3M has a special microfibre construction
which provides about one and one-half times the warmth of down without
a corresponding increase in weight or bulk. Non insulated 'shell' jackets
are also appropriate for skiing or snowboarding use, but may need to
be worn with fleece under garments in very cold weather. Shells are
versatile garments in that they can be used for many purposes other
than skiing.
General
design
The general design of a ski wear garment is also important. Good designs
give consideration to hoods, pockets, zip covers and tags, sleeve fasteners,
basically all those little features that make a less than perfect day
on the slopes more comfortable.
