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How To Buy Waterproof
/ Breathable Jackets
Features To Covet
- Durable Water Repellent finish on
outer fabric.
- Two-way front zipper for more
ventilation and flexibility options.
- Hood that is adjustable for head /
helmet size.
- Hood design that actually moves
with your head when you look side to side.
- Hood bill generous enough to shed
rain from glasses, goggles and eyes.
- Generously sized underarm zippers
for added ventilation options.
- Plethora of well-placed pockets to
stow items you need to keep handy.
- Chest pockets that zip open from
top to bottom keeps your small items from spilling out.
- Mesh backing behind chest pockets
adds to the ventilation options.
- Draw cord at waist allows for more
customized fitting and cuts down on drafts.
- Storm flaps--the baffle over the
zipper--that close with Velcro or snaps let you leave the zipper open for
airflow into the jacket.
Made For Women Does Not Mean
Unisex!
How is a woman's jacket sized differently than a man's? Typically, for any given
size, the sleeves will be up to three inches shorter, the neck opening up to one
inch narrower, the chest size up to three inches narrower, the torso up to two
inches shorter and the waist-to-hem flare (women have curves you know) is up to
two inches wider.
Variables To Consider
An Adventure Network Truth from the
mouth of Michael:
The hard reality remains that you'll need a couple of jackets to span the
territory between breathable and waterproof--between a foggy San Francisco
morning jog and a monsoon-season slog up Mount Unbelievable.
Jackets for Runners, Xcr Skiers,
Mountain Bikers and More
High sweat output shells. These shells break the wind, turn back a little
moisture, and transpire sweat very well. Since you want to feel fast, weight and
waist-length cut are concerns. Less is more, so if it's too long, too baggy, or
heavier than 15 ounces, look again. Hoods either roll up or zip off.
Storm Shells
I bow before the miracle of waterproof-breathable technology when the weather
gets really ugly. Gore-Tex still rules, but don't ignore Triple Point Ceramic or
some of the other laminates or coatings now out there. Seek out little extras
such as fleece-lined handwarmer pockets and around the face area as well as a
wrist area altimeter pocket for mountaineering shells.
Jackets for Mixed Conditions
A mixed-conditions shell approaches a high-output shell in breathability, yet
will also turn back a short downpour. Such jackets are versatile, but if you
stay out in the rain, you'll eventually get wet. Look for cuffs, waists, and
hems that can be adjusted to open wide for added venting options.
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