25
/Dec
Things to Consider When Buying Rain Gear
Now that we’re heading into spring, waterproof raincoats are next on the agenda. They’re not exactly the most glamorous item of clothing out there, but a wet-weather jacket is still a wardrobe essential when those irritating spring showers can you leave you completely drenched at a moment’s notice.
Before diving into the many, many weather-proof options out there, it’s worth considering what exactly you need for your new purchase. Are you looking for a jacket that’ll keep you dry on the move? Something stylish to reach for when the weather turns foul? Or a next-level performance piece that will keep you and your essentials safe and sound in the worst weather imaginable?
After you’ve determined exactly what it is you’re looking for, the following pointers will serve as a handy primer to help you find the waterproof outerwear of your dreams. As always, though, we’d recommend getting out there and trying on a bunch of pieces before committing to a particular purchase.
Without further ado, here are a few things you should check before buying a new waterproof raincoat.
1. Find Your Style
Shorter, cropped styles are ideal for active people like cyclists or joggers who need something form-fitting that still allows their legs to move freely. If you’re wanting something to keep you dry while indulging in a bit of physical activity, though, you’ll need to make sure your jacket’s fabric is suitably breathable, otherwise, you’ll end up drowning in sweat.
2. Think About Fabrics
This area will affect the way your raincoat performs significantly. The main choice you have is between natural fibers, such as cotton or wool, and fully synthetic materials, although there are additional options to consider whichever route you take.
Natural fibers can either be treated with waterproofing substances or woven together incredibly tight to prevent water from penetrating their surface.
3. Consider the Construction
Not all waterproof jackets are created equal, and there are some features that will really set certain models apart – so keep an eye out for them when you’re shopping around.
The first of these is taped seams. While fabric itself can be made effectively 100% waterproof, the points at which it’s sewn together will always represent a weak spot where water can seep in. Having the seams of a jacket taped on the inside will reduce the chances of this happening by a long way. Likewise, zips are another potential point of entry for water, and the very best products will tape those too.
While the neat-collared look of a rollaway hood is preferable to some, these options will typically have a less defined shape when opened out, which could be a problem in heavy downpours. Equally, a high placket will keep out more intense rain and give better heat insulation but might be a little uncomfortable for some people, given how close it rises under the chin when zipped to the top.
4. Take Care
While fashions come and go, you can rest assured there will always be rain. Luckily, with the right care and attention, a good waterproof jacket should last you many years – if not a lifetime. It’s worth bearing in mind that different products require different amounts of maintenance, so it’s important you know what you’re getting yourself into before you pull the trigger.
Treated natural fabrics will gradually lose their waterproof functionality over time thanks to dirt and oils clinging to their surface, and will need periodic re-treatment to maintain their full use. This can be done using eco-friendly products like Nikwax or by adding a chemical-heavy DWR (Durable Water Repellent) spray to the surface of the product. Make sure you check your garment’s care instructions first though before you cover it with potentially harmful substances.
Before diving into the many, many weather-proof options out there, it’s worth considering what exactly you need for your new purchase. Are you looking for a jacket that’ll keep you dry on the move? Something stylish to reach for when the weather turns foul? Or a next-level performance piece that will keep you and your essentials safe and sound in the worst weather imaginable?
After you’ve determined exactly what it is you’re looking for, the following pointers will serve as a handy primer to help you find the waterproof outerwear of your dreams. As always, though, we’d recommend getting out there and trying on a bunch of pieces before committing to a particular purchase.
Without further ado, here are a few things you should check before buying a new waterproof raincoat.
1. Find Your Style
Shorter, cropped styles are ideal for active people like cyclists or joggers who need something form-fitting that still allows their legs to move freely. If you’re wanting something to keep you dry while indulging in a bit of physical activity, though, you’ll need to make sure your jacket’s fabric is suitably breathable, otherwise, you’ll end up drowning in sweat.
2. Think About Fabrics
This area will affect the way your raincoat performs significantly. The main choice you have is between natural fibers, such as cotton or wool, and fully synthetic materials, although there are additional options to consider whichever route you take.
Natural fibers can either be treated with waterproofing substances or woven together incredibly tight to prevent water from penetrating their surface.
3. Consider the Construction
Not all waterproof jackets are created equal, and there are some features that will really set certain models apart – so keep an eye out for them when you’re shopping around.
The first of these is taped seams. While fabric itself can be made effectively 100% waterproof, the points at which it’s sewn together will always represent a weak spot where water can seep in. Having the seams of a jacket taped on the inside will reduce the chances of this happening by a long way. Likewise, zips are another potential point of entry for water, and the very best products will tape those too.
While the neat-collared look of a rollaway hood is preferable to some, these options will typically have a less defined shape when opened out, which could be a problem in heavy downpours. Equally, a high placket will keep out more intense rain and give better heat insulation but might be a little uncomfortable for some people, given how close it rises under the chin when zipped to the top.
4. Take Care
While fashions come and go, you can rest assured there will always be rain. Luckily, with the right care and attention, a good waterproof jacket should last you many years – if not a lifetime. It’s worth bearing in mind that different products require different amounts of maintenance, so it’s important you know what you’re getting yourself into before you pull the trigger.
Treated natural fabrics will gradually lose their waterproof functionality over time thanks to dirt and oils clinging to their surface, and will need periodic re-treatment to maintain their full use. This can be done using eco-friendly products like Nikwax or by adding a chemical-heavy DWR (Durable Water Repellent) spray to the surface of the product. Make sure you check your garment’s care instructions first though before you cover it with potentially harmful substances.
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