Ski jackets can either be waterproof or water resistant. Waterproof ski jackets are recommended as they prevent snow and water entering the jacket and keep the person warmer. Water resistant ski jackets are less expensive.
So, you might now be wondering exactly why waterproof jackets can keep you warmer, what other features you also need to know about (like breathability!), and how to tell how waterproof any given jacket is!
If you are looking to buy a ski jacket and want to know about waterproofing and its importance, keep reading for everything you need to know!
You can tell how waterproof a ski jacket is by looking at its waterproof rating. This is a general rule for waterproof ski jackets, although this may not be specified on all jackets, and not all ski jackets may be waterproof.
However, if you are able to see the waterproof rating of a jacket, it is good to know exactly what the different numbers mean and which might be right for you!
The waterproof rating is determined by testing materials in a laboratory and the higher the rating, the heavier the rain is able to be before penetrating through the material.
In general, lots of ski jacket waterproof rating will vary between 1,500mm or possibly even lower than this, up to above 20,000mm.
<1,500mm- able to withstand only very light drizzle or spray conditions
1,500- 5,000- these are usually water-resistant and can withstand light showers only.
5,000-10,000- these waterproof jackets may be able to withstand a reasonable level of rain and snow.
10,000- 20,000- these highly waterproof jackets are able to offer protection from much heavier rain and snowy conditions.
>20,000- Extreme waterproofing, these jackets may be able to withstand heavy rain.
To conclude, not all ski jackets are waterproof and those that are, are measures in terms of a waterproof rating where a higher rating means it can resist heavier rainfall without letting water penetrate through the fabric.
Waterproofing can help to keep you warm and dry by preventing water from entering the jacket and making your base layer clothing damp and cold. Water entering your jacket can make you very uncomfortable and cold as it cools down close to your skin.
Other features of ski jackets are also important to look out for and can help to keep you warm. Elastic material at the wrists and waist can prevent snow from getting inside your ski jacket, as well as snow skirts providing extra protection.
Features such as breathability and ventilation can also be important features in an active sport such as skiing, to make sure you stay dry and comfortable and to prevent perspiration from staying inside your jacket.
So, there is our guide all about ski jacket waterproofing! If you found this guide useful, be sure to check out our other tips and tricks to make the most out of your trip to the slopes! By the way, we are a ski jacket supplier. If you are interested in our products, please contact us now!
