Ski Jackets – Provider of the Third Layer

Ski Jackets

Ski enthusiasts will often discuss the different layers that go into creating an appropriate outfit. The ski jacket is the final piece and is known as the third layer to the system. This article will go over the different layers as well as the properties that the third layer must have in order to be effective. To withstand the cold and the sun an outfit must be made of the proper fabrics to prevent freezing, overheating, and a few other possible conditions. Every winter jacket should have three basic qualities: wind proofing, waterproofing, and breathability.

The three layer system is designed to deal with the needs of the body while protecting it from the harsh winter environment. The first layer is known as the base layer and usually involves a synthetic material that draws moisture away from the body. The material will also not retain water and so keep the body from becoming cold as it sweats and the perspiration cools. The middle layer or insulation layer is to retain body heat. Creating a layer or still or “dead” air allows for body heat to be retained and keep the wearer warm. The last layer, the outer shell, is used to keep the elements out. The jacket used here will make sure water, wind, and the cold do not reach the skin.

The first test of the ski jacket is to ensure that it is windproof. Freezing winds can quickly drop body temperature and allow hyperthermia to set in if not properly prevented. Wind can go a long way to negatively impacting the breathability of a material, which can cause overheating to occur. Most ski wear will not have to worry about wind proofing, because a water proof garment will also be wind proof.

Waterproofing is vital on the slopes. Waterproofing is measured by the amount of water a garment can withstand before the insides get wet. Several precautions are also taken into consideration when wearing the third layer. The necessity for there to be tape around all the seams of the jacket is one of them. The waterproof material needs to be used throughout the entire garment, and the inner layers need to not absorb water. The use of fabrics which prevent water penetration is another quality to look out for.

Breathability to prevent overheating is something else every jacket needs to take into account. The human body loses fluids every day, even when resting and of course more fluids are lost when engaged in a vigorous activity. The jackets must be able to let water escape without letting water in, which seems strange. Due to the humidity and temperature level inside the jacket, a simple law of physic will cause the water on the inside to leave the jacket while the waterproofing prevents water from getting in.

Ski Jackets are a wonderful invention and have gone through many advances; they are a technological marvel compared to the original cold weather gear. Taking time to understand the three layer system will help you make a better choice when selecting which ski jacket you will need for your adventures. The different layers each have their own responsibilities and will work in concert to keep you warm and protected. The wind proofing, waterproofing, and breathability of the fabrics will prevent you from feeling any discomfort while making your way down the slopes, though they won’t afford much help against a tree you fail to avoid. Safety is a must and it starts with what you wear and a proper ski jacket will work with the other layers to keep you safe.

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