OUTERWEAR - JACKETS
Snowboard Jackets are specifically designed outdoor jackets that take the special conditions and necessities of Snowboarding into account. In this section we will take a look at Snowboard Jackets, their functions, features, and where and how to buy Snowboard Jackets.

If there is one product that has undergone a rapid development, it is the Jacket. Fifteen years ago, an outdoor Jacket was generally green with a hood. Nowadays, the difference between fashion and functionality has become very blurry. Fashion is taking over inventions from the outdoor arena, while outerwear is more than ever taking color and design into consideration. The extremes of fashion and functionality now seem to have reconciled for good.

What has not changed is the function of the outer layer in the Three-Layer System: the water and/or windproof layer which protects against the elements while releasing the moisture as a result of performing the activity. Nowadays, Jackets have this with a multitude of fabrics, laminates, and coatings, each with its own price and specific advantages and disadvantages. However, not every Jacket is suitable for each adventure or activity. In this section, learn the importance and functions of the outer layer:

The Fuctions of a third layer

• Waterproof
  A Snowboard Jacket needs to be waterproof. There is an ISO norm that defines whether a piece of clothing can be called waterproof or not. In general, clothing may be called waterproof if it can bear a water column of 120 to 150 centimeters (4 to 5 feet). For instance, the best Jackets can withstand a water column of tens of meters. The water column test is done by placing a tube on a piece of fabric. The tube is filled with water until water droplets form on the other side of the fabric. Subsequently, the number of centimeters of water is measured in the tube. Aside from the qualities of the fabric, two other factors are of importance in determining the waterproof capacity of a Snowboard Jacket. First, all the seams need to be closed with tape, and the other one is that the construction of the Snowboard Jacket should prevent water penetration. This means that the zippers are covered, the inner layers do not absorb water, waterproof fabrics are used throughout the coat, etc.

• Windproof
  Wind strongly influences the temperature within the Snowboard Jacket. Aside from being uncomfortable, it also negatively affects the breathing quality of the outer layer. Unlike Fleece Jackets, the windproof capacity of Snowboard Jackets is not an issue. In fact, if a Snowboard Jacket can withstand a water column of tens of meters, it is also windproof.

• Breathability
  Even while resting, a person loses more than half a liter in fluids through its skin everyday. While performing an activity, the amount of liquids one loses increases. To release the moisture, a Snowboard Jacket needs to be able to ventilate or breathe, not through holes but through the fabric itself. This is not very difficult as cotton and nylon are already breathable fabrics. The difficulty arises in making the fabric waterproof aside from being breathable. This seems very exotic but there are many different layers which can achieve this based on a simple physics principle. Beneath the Snowboard Jacket, the temperature and humidity are higher than in the outside. This creates a pressure whereby pushing the moisture outside.
  

Jacket or shell?
Functional outer jackets are called 'Shells'. These Jackets are generally part of a Three-Layer System. The Shell forms the outer layer of the three layers. Such a specific Jacket is in perfect harmony with the second layer, usually a shirt or fleece and the first or base layer. In other words, it is important that when buying a Jacket, consider what you are going to use it for. If you need a Jacket to protect you against the rain on a spring or autumn walk, the heat-saving properties of Jacket are less important. It is more important that the Shell protects you against the wind and sheds excess moisture. However, if you're going through the jungle and need protection against a tropical monsoon, you may want a genuine waterproof Jacket. The choice between a Jacket and Shell is up to you.

Membranes and Coatings

• 2-Layer Construction
  wind and rain
  perspiration and moisture
  outer fabric
  waterproof and breathing membrane
  loose lining (mesh or fleece)

• 3-Layer Construction
  perspiration and moisture
  wind and rain
  outer fabric
  waterproof and breathing membrane
  loose lining (mesh or fleece)
  
  

Throughout the years, different manufacturers have developed layers which are waterproof and breathable. All of them are vulnerable and need a supporting fabric to become usable. There are basically two methods to achieve this. You can produce the layer and then attach it to the supporting fabric (laminate). Such a layer is called a membrane, together with the laminate. The alternative is to directly attach the material to the fabric through coating. Additionally, there are two principles which explain how a membrane or coating breathes. Certain layers are by themselves waterproof as well as microporeus. Minuscule pores are large enough to let vapor through, but not water. Other layers attract water (hydrophile) and transport water parts from one side to the other side of the layer.

Layering
As you may know, the ideal way of clothing for every activity is to use different layers. In order of importance, the keys to a successful layering system are warmth, weight, moisture management, and packing the right number of layers. Generally, it is advisable to follow the Three layer system. The first layer is the base layer which consists of Thermal Underwear. The middle layer is general clothing or a fleece jacket. Lastly, wear an outer shell which protects you against wind and rain.

You should try to find the optimal balance between these factors to keep you warm without adding too much weight. The added advantage of layers is that you can add and remove layers during the day according to how you feel and the weather conditions. Hence, you need to be prepared as far as Snowboard Outfit is concerned. Bear in mind that proper pre-departure planning will ensure a perfect trip.

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