Any self-respecting sailor knows that being cold on a boat is directly synonymous with seasickness. Here we explain how seafarers are equipped according to the weather to sail in all conditions and keep a maximum of comfort during their sea trips.
The sailor's equipment must keep him dry and warm, even in the most extreme conditions. To do this they must respect the following three rules:
- Evacuate as far away from the skin as possible the moisture related to perspiration and related to the effort that causes a sensation of cold,
- Retain the heat,
- Serve as an absolute barrier against rainthe windand the spray and the packets of sea.
Technical clothing engineers have found the solution to this puzzle with the 3-layer clothing system, which is also used for technical clothing in the mountains. In this system each layer has unique and complementary properties. In order for this system to work, each layer is essential and therefore wool and cotton clothing that absorbs and retains moisture must be excluded.
Layer 1 - Base Layer: Breathable technical underwear to wick away perspiration
LAYER 2 - Mid-layer : Polar fleeces and softshells for thermal insulation
LAYER 3 - The shift jacket and dungarees for protection from the elements
Layer 1 - Base Layer: Breathable technical underwear to wick away perspiration
Made of synthetic fibres (polyamide, polyester,...), the technical underwear is close to the body and allows the sailor to stay dry. This is thanks to the evacuation of perspiration before it cools down. To be worn alone when the weather is nice or to complete with a second thermal layer when the air is cooler.
=> See our technical underwear
LAYER 2 - Mid-layer : Polar fleeces and softshells for thermal insulation
The aim of the mid-layer is to insulate the body to keep it at the right temperature while continuing to allow perspiration to evacuate to the outside. This layer made up of the light fleece at the Gore Tex softshellmust adapt to the intensity of the cold and wind and ensure an thermal equilibrium. In summer, the midlayer can be completely removed, while in winter, it can be made up of a fleece plus a softshell which increases the protection properties against cold and humidity thanks to its water-repellent membrane.
=> See all fleeces and softshells
LAYER 3 - The shift jacket and dungarees for protection from the elements
The watch jackets and coveralls are the essential equipment to protect against wind, rain and waves, while allowing the vapour emitted by the body during the effort to escape. The more breathable and impermeable the textile of the watch jacket is to the elements, the more comfortable it is to wear as it can complete the process of transferring perspiration to the outside. There are several types of textiles for this purpose, from the least technical to the most elaborate, and therefore more expensive. Find all our tips for choosing the right shift jacket.
From yellow wax to the membrane complex 3-layer Gore TexThere are as many techniques as there are manufacturers. To simplify and help understand the price differences, there are 4 ranges of technical textiles used for shift jackets:
- Non-breathable (yellow wax(classic windcheater, classic windcheater)
- Coated textile 1 hydrophilic layer
- Coated textile 2 microporous layers
- Membrane 3 layers (Gore Tex, MTD, ...)
To maintain this double property, it is important to rinse the salt from your equipment, which tends to make the membranes porous and therefore permeable.
=> See our shift jackets and overalls for regatta and coastal cruising,
=> See our watch jackets for offshore navigation.
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