How to choose a membrane jacket?
Today we will tell you how to choose a protective jacket made of membrane fabric.
Membrane – It is a thin film that gives the fabric water-repellent and windproof properties, while allowing steam to pass through (which is what we need).
My selection algorithm is as follows:
Step 1. To know: Where will you use the protective jacket?
Step 2. We go to the store and look at 2 criteria:
⚠Waterproofing level (mm):
20 000 – withstands storms and heavy rain. Suitable for: winter expeditions.
10 000 – allows walking in heavy rain and wind. For: Kazbek, Island Peak etc..
5 000 – Withstands moderate rain. Good for: Day hikes, jogging, or cycling.
⚠Vapor permeability level (g/m2)):
13 000 – extreme level. Suitable for: challenging expeditions where the level of physical exertion is high.
6 000 – 13 000 – has high breathable properties. For:Kazbek, Island Peak etc..
3 000 – 6 000 – simply breathable fabric. Good for: day hikes, runs or bike rides
Step 3. Let’s go to the fitting room! What are we looking at?
- Size: Choose one that allows you to wear a fleece sweater or down sweater under the jacket without restricting your movement.
- Hood: Try it on for a helmet right away. You’re planning on going to the mountains seriously, right? Then you’ll need a helmet!
- Pockets: must be high, otherwise they fall under the harness and this limits access to them (important for mountaineering)).
- Underarm ventilation – great when there is.
- Regulatory mechanisms at the bottom, on the sleeves, collar and hood – they are needed.
Step 4. Let’s look at other characteristics:
Weight: should weigh little and be compactly packed. Then it won’t take up much space in your backpack.
Protective layer on the membrane (mesh or additional layer on the inside): it’s good to have it!
Цвет: your new jacket should match the color of your helmet and set off the anti-podlip on your crampons. What is it? More on that next time).
But seriously: choose a bright jacket, otherwise they won’t be able to find you on the mountain if they suddenly need to!
Good luck and see you on the trail!
Author: Julia Argunova