- Waterproof Rating
The higher the rating number, the more waterproof a fabric will be. Gore Tex do not use the same system as everyone else - they quote single, double (2L) and triple layers (3L) of waterproof membrane. To be waterproof, an item of clothing needs more than a waterproof fabric - you also need to consider the seams.
- Not Quoted (2)
We only quote the waterproof rating of a garment when it is backed up by information displayed on either a garment tag/label or the manufacturers website/brochure. We have not, therefore, quoted ratings for all our garments. This does not, however, mean they are not waterproof but it is a fairly reliable indicator that the waterproof rating is likely to be under 5,000.
- Up to 5,000 (24)
Perfectly adequate for most snow sport uses.
- Up to 10,000 (38)
A good level of waterproof rating, capable of withstanding long periods of heavy rain.
- Up to 20,000 (16)
Garments with a 20,000 rating offer a very high degree of waterproof protection for the serious outdoor sports enthusiast who demands the highest performing technical garment.
- 20,000 Plus (1)
Simply the best level of waterproof protection available (excluding some Gore Tex fabrics).
- Gore Tex 2L (1)
A double layer of waterproof Gore Tex membrane, making the garment doubly waterproof.
- Insulation
You do not necessarily need insulated garments for snowboarding or skiing. It depends on whether you tend to suffer from the cold more than others - this tends to be the case for children, women and smaller men. It also depends on how much energy you exert - the more active you are , the hotter you will become. Beginners tend to exert far more energy than do experts. The final factor is the weather - which in turn is dependent on the time of year and location of your resort. People ski in temperatures ranging from -35 to +10 degrees celsius - so choosing the correct degree of insulation is very important.
- Insulated (41)
Insulated outer layers are a good idea if you are snowboarding or skiing in North America - where temperatures are significantly lower than in Europe - or if you suffer from the cold or if you just prefer being nice and warm and snug. We recommend insulated jackets for children and small adults who suffer from the cold. Please look at the product descriptions on our website because some garments are more insulated than others. We have included in the 'Insulated' category all garments which have zip out or removable linings.
- Down (8)
The ultimate in luxurious warmth. Ideal for riding in North America or on cold European days in January or February. Made from either goose or duck down, these garments are great for apres ski too - because trudging about town in the evening can be bitterly cold!
- Softshell (1)
Just like a normal shell jacket but this time the outer fabric has a much softer feel (nothing like the hard nylon feel you get with anoraks!) and is flexible, making it possible to have a tighter fitting jacket without restricting movement. Most soft shells come fully lined and many are highly technical with high waterproof and breathability ratings.
- Lined Shell (29)
Lined Shell garments are the most versatile because they can be worn on their own with very little underneath on sunny afternoons, on mild spring days and in snow domes or on dry slopes. You can also use them on bitterly cold winter days by 'layering-up'. The lining gives a higher degree of comfort and 'cosiness' versus the most technical unlined shell garments.
- Shell (5)
Exactly the same as 'Lined Shell' garments - only without any lining!
Some of the highest specification most technical and breathable snowboard and ski garments use an unlined shell construction.
- Removable Liner (2)
Jackets that come with a removable liner system offer skiers and snowboarders the best of both worlds. The liners are usually zipped in making it quick and easy to transform your jacket from an insulated one for when it's cold to a more breathable shell for when it's hot.