Waterproof jackets for men: what are they and how to choose?

Every active man has a waterproof jacket in his wardrobe these days. Especially such clothing is needed in areas of humid climates. Protection from rain in modern jackets is provided by a membrane or a water-repellent layer. What jackets are for difficult weather conditions and how to choose them, we will tell you in our article.

A waterproof jacket is essential for people accustomed to an active lifestyle. In the rain, you can run to the nearest stop or car under an umbrella. If you have to stay for more than one hour in bad weather conditions, you cannot do without a comfortable, reliable jacket. Considering the characteristics of such clothes, one should pay attention to two important properties at once: moisture resistance and vapor permeability.

Water resistance is most often due to two reasons:

• the fabric is treated with polyurethane impregnation;
• the product has a thin film (membrane) sandwiched between the front part and the lining.

The optimal indicator of water resistance is considered to be 10-20 thousand mm of water column. If the numbers are underestimated to 5 thousand, it is better not to tempt fate in such a jacket in a heavy downpour. The different level of water resistance, which manufacturers mark their products, indicates the ability of the fabric to retain moisture for a certain amount of time.

The waterproof properties are related to the outer layer of the jacket, while the inner layers determine the comfort. During intense physical exertion, if the product does not "breathe", the evaporation of the body does not get outside, the sweat soaks the clothes and creates a feeling of discomfort. Water vapor permeability values ​​are determined using the RET system. The state of "breathing" of the naked body is taken as 0. The higher the numbers, the less air permeability. The jacket, which is 20 RET, does not "breathe" at all.

Ventilation is provided in different ways: through mesh lining, through pockets, zippers. The use of membrane tissue is especially effective. It is permeated with microscopic pores, through which water does not enter, but air passes.

There are many types of waterproof jackets for men. They are divided according to the water-resistant properties of the material - polyurethane, membrane; by seasonal category - summer, winter. The greatest variety of products is identified for their intended purpose - sports, military, for hunters, fishermen, tourists, climbers, for wearing in the city.

The waterproofness of sports jackets is due to the membrane layer, which also allows for maximum vapor permeability. It is mainly used pore and combined membrane tissue. Products in this category are lightweight even in winter versions.

Like the sports category, military jackets have different purposes, therefore membrane options and impregnated fabrics are used. For the outer layer, fabrics such as nylon, duspo, polyurethane-impregnated cordura, duplex are used. Duplex jackets are suitable for more stable climates, as they quickly lose their waterproof properties with frequent washing.

Lightweight jackets made of high quality membrane fabric, designed for extreme weather conditions.The cost of such models varies from 500 to 1000 dollars.

An urban version of the jacket that protects against rain and wind. A zipper is used as a fastener. The jacket has no lining and is designed for the warm season.

Waterproof and windproof models in lightweight dense fabric with a hood. They do not have fasteners, they are put on over the head. The products are intended for tourists, fishermen, hunters.

As already noted, special impregnations give the materials water resistance. Membrane tissues stand apart, vapor molecules pass through their porous structure, but water molecules are retained.

A variety of waterproof fabrics have been developed based on polyester and nylon:

• Tafetta. The inner layer has a protective film coating. The fabric is lightweight, dense, hygroscopic.
• Oxford. Tough, durable fabric. It is noted for heat resistance and resistance to chemical reagents.
• Duspo. Has a nice matte look, is often used for urban jackets.
• Cordura. Dense fabric, resistant to abrasion, has enhanced water-repellent properties. The disadvantages include high weight and high cost.
• Taslan. Ribbed polyamide material. Used for the manufacture of winter jackets with fur.

Since the jackets are designed for use in bad weather conditions, the colors are mainly produced in dark or camouflage.

Products from manufacturers from different countries enter the Russian markets. The most popular are the English models by Gelertdesigned for the use of products in urban areas. A stylish line of men's waterproof jackets has been released firm Cerva (Czech Republic)... A collection of beautiful motorcycle models with moisture-resistant characteristics was offered by Italian factory A-P RO... Polish Radical company distinguished itself by the release of jackets in bright, creative colors.

The choice of a waterproof jacket depends on the tasks to be solved. The most expensive options are sports and extreme. Everything is thought out in them to the smallest detail, but expensive membrane fabrics require complex care. For outdoor activities in rainy warm weather, it is enough to purchase a windbreaker or anorak. For winter, a pea coat or a model with fur with polyurethane impregnation is suitable.