Just because you think they serve a common purpose – clothing you – does not mean they are treated the same. Think of their differences: usage, material, frequency of use, quality, fabric… the list just goes on. Beyond routine cleaning or washing, when we speak of technical fabrics, it is important to take a lot of care in handling them if you expect them to serve you even after using them once or twice and with the same level of performance and utility they provided when you first bought them.
Caring for your Technical Fabrics
Technical fabrics come in many types or forms; therefore, it follows that each has its own unique care and maintenance requirement. Before anything else, however, make sure to check whether the manufacturer has specific instructions regarding the care of the garment or fabrics.
Waterproof/Breathable Rainwear: Most rainwear fabrics are treated with durable water repellent (DWR) finish and other laminates or coatings in order to make it resistant to water or precipitation. Too many washings will diminish the coatings, though, so you only need to wash your waterproof/breathable rainwear when there is noticeable buildup dirt, smoke, oils and other residues. There are specialized products that are designed to clean these materials, so you shouldn’t be too reckless in using normal detergents without checking whether they can cause damage to the fabric and its coating or DWR finish.
Gore-Tex: When washing Gore-Tex it’s recommended using warm water. Although there are no specific restrictions or limitations regarding laundry products, it would be best to avoid using fabric softener when rinsing the material. The use of liquid detergents is generally recommended over other forms.
eVent: Much like Gore-Tex, eVent laminates perform best when washed with liquid detergent in warm water. However, dry clean is strictly prohibited.
Soft Shells: No matter what type of soft shell it is – classic soft shells, windproof jackets, or waterproof/breathable soft shells – they are often treated with DWR finish. Thus, cleaning should only be done when primary contaminants (dirt, oils and residues) are highly noticeable using specialized cleaning products. Fabric softeners should never be used.
Durable Water Repellent (DWR): Exposure of fabric to abrasions, sweat, and contaminants such as dirt, oils, and other residues over time diminishes the effectiveness of DWR. Reviving DWR requires regular washing and tumble-drying. In some instances, the use of an iron at a warm steam setting can be used to touch it up. There are specialized products specifically made for the reapplication of DWR.
Fleece: The synthetic fibers used in fleece garments are generally sensitive to heat, making them prone to melting when exposed to high temperature. Therefore, drying should be done at a low temperature setting. You can wash synthetic fleece as often as you like since they are tough. Be careful of the detergent or cleaning product you use since there are some with strong chemicals or additives that could affect the fabric’s color quality and even its insulating features.
Synthetic Base Layers: Base layers are primarily prized for their moisture-wicking capabilities. Exposed mainly to sweat and perspiration, they are most susceptible to odors and thus require more regular washing. Since they are worn next to the skin, it is important to be mindful of the laundry or washing detergent that will be used. There are specialized cleaning products for synthetic base layers, even those specifically designed to combat odors. They are not be bleached or applied with fabric softeners, dry cleaned, or ironed.
Wool: Most of the time, wool can be machine-washed, but a high level of care should be involved when washing since wool is prone to shrinkage. Shrinkage is the main problem when it comes to wool so you have to be circumspect of the detergent or washing solution you choose. Although wool can resist odors, it does not mean it should not be laundered regularly. While washing, make sure they are separated from other items, especially those that have fasteners or hooks, since wool is not resistant to abrasion.
Down: One thing you should remember about down: do NOT dry clean them. You shouldn’t be too casual about washing them either since most of the time you would require bigger washing and drying equipment to handle your down garments.
Beyond One Wash
Technical fabrics need more care and specific handling instructions than your usual items of clothing. Of course, beyond washing, drying and storage, you also have to exercise a level of care while using it. They protect you, it’s true, but you should also return the favor.
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What do you do when you feel cold or you are exposed in chilly conditions? You probably wear layers. Or you choose to wear something thick. You could layer up as much as you want, or you could wear something thick, but that is no assurance that you are getting the insulation you need. Further, you could have the best base layers, but that won’t matter if your outerwear is…well, pretty much “useless”. Thus, you have to make a more informed decision when choosing your outerwear.
Materially Speaking
The insulation capabilities of your outerwear is largely dictated by the material or fabric used, and the choice of insulating outerwear will depend on your choice of activity and the conditions you will be subjected to.
Down – Considered to be the best insulator found in nature, outerwear with down insulation are very durable and have the highest level of compressibility. It is also considered the lightest and, in proportion to its weight, provides the most warmth. However, their insulating properties are lost when they get wet and, once wet, it takes a long while before they dry up, making them ideal only during dry weather.
Synthetics – Synthetics, mostly made of polyester, are favored due to their resistance to precipitation and water. Since they have the added advantage of being quick-drying, they can be worn during wet conditions, increasing their versatility as insulators. Compared to down, they are bulkier and slightly heavier. Also, if you are looking for extra breathability, synthetics aren’t for you.
Fleece – This is ideal for people with high levels of activity in cool conditions. Among the three, they offer the highest level of breathability and softness. Some fleece outerwear are equipped with wind-resistant membranes, enhancing their capability to ward off the wind. Since they are stretchable, most climbers favor them for the enhanced range of motion they provide. They are the bulkiest and, sometimes, the heaviest among the three materials, and they are not designed to be worn in prolonged periods of cold weather.
Pitting Elements Against the Elements
The material of the insulated outerwear isn’t the only consideration when making a purchase. Here are three other major elements that make the difference.
Waterproof – Weather is anything but predictable, so no matter how much weather forecasts predict that the day you’re hitting the outdoors is as sunny as can be, you should still prepare for the possibility of rain. Therefore, your outerwear should have waterproof capabilities or, at least, a certain level of water-resistance. To accomplish this, many outerwear are coated with membranes that allow such resistance to precipitation or snow. Normally, stitching along the seams can cause holes where water could seep in. To address this problem, the seams are sealed or “taped”.
Windproof – A sunny and bright weather does not entirely rule out the presence of chilly and harsh winds. Make sure the fabric of your outerwear is windproof or the material is made with a degree of wind-resistance.
Breathable – The ability of your outerwear to provide protection and comfort is not complete without breathability. Sweat vapors can form inside the garment while the wearer has it on, and it the outerwear is not capable of letting the vapor seep out, there will be a lot of discomfort involved and, in worst case scenarios, potential hypothermia.
Make Your Choice
Choosing the best insulated outerwear for you for a certain activity need not be complicated. All you need is a bit of common sense, a lot of research, and knowing exactly what you want and need.
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In any backpacking trip, a sunny weather is generally preferred, though not a prerequisite. For some people, being in the great outdoors while the rain is pouring is actually literally pitting themselves against nature and the elements, making the experience even more worth it. But exposing yourself to the elements does not mean completely ignoring the basics of protection and comfort. That is why you should make sure you are well-prepared to stay out there – yes, even with lashing rain.
Choose Your Rain Jacket
Some people take rain jacket for granted. Others are content if it can shield them from the rain or doesn’t get them wet. If you care about your overall health and your backpacking experience, however, you would have to be more mindful with choosing the right rain jacket for you. Here are the 4 main categories that rain jacket fall under.
Waterproof/Breathable – Generally the traditional and most preferred type of rain jacket for most people. The fabrics for this category are often treated with laminates or coatings to repel water yet still allow perspiration or sweat vapor to escape. Thus, you won’t be in danger of overheating or be plagued with the general feeling of discomfort of having heat trapped inside. Gore-Tex is a popular high-tech laminate, while makers of rain jacket often have their proprietary technology for these laminates or coatings, such as The North Face’s HyVent. These are made to withstand heavy downpours.
Water-resistant/Breathable – Designed for strenuous activities and mild rain, light shower, mist or dry snow, these are mostly made with soft-shell fabrics. Thus, they merely delay saturation of the fabric but do not prevent or repel it. They are often made using fabrics that are stretchable and highly breathable, with some being treated with durable water repellent (DWR) finish.
Hybrid – Hybrid rain jacket combine the features of the first two categories: they are soft-shell designs but with the laminate attributes of waterproof/breathable rain jacket. They are still highly breathable and waterproof enough for heavy weather; however, they have the stretchable properties found in soft-shell fabrics. This mixture of features makes this a favorite among active people who look for flexibility in their outdoor sportswear.
Waterproof/Non-breathable – In these types of rain jacket, precipitation is repelled with the coating or laminate applied on the fabric, but body heat remains inside, not allowing sweat to get out. This is considered the cheapest among all four types of rain jacket, but they are meant for minimal use only as they won’t serve you well in heavy outdoor activities.
Defining Features To Look Out For
After making a decision as to the type of rainwear you need, here are a few key factors that should be considered in making the final decision as to which rain jacket to buy.
Weight: In any type of outdoor activity, the lighter your gear and outfit are, the better. After all, you would need ease of movement, comfort, and convenience, so a bulky and heavy rain jacket would only hamper you. Depending on the activity and its corresponding level, the weight of the rain jacket should be ideal for your needs.
Seam Taping: Often, rubberized “tape” is used to seal up the holes made when sewing the various parts of the rain jacket together. The strategic taping of the seams is often indicative of the breathability or moisture control capabilities of the rain jacket. While others have all their seams taped up, other rainwear are only taped up in the main areas that are most prone to moisture.
Hoods: There are adjustable hoods that could be fine-tuned accordingly should you have a need to wear a helmet underneath it or not. Some hoods are also made to be detachable in case they won’t be needed. Lately, the trend in hoods now feature them having stiffened brims that serve as awnings to keep rain from dripping on to your face. The hoods are considered to be the one that truly provides full coverage against the elements.
Vents/Armpit Zippers: Fabric breathability can only do so much. In order to let out moisture completely, direct air is still the best option. Thus, many rain jacket now have venting built on the upper back and armpit areas, secured by zippers (“pit zips” for armpit vents). Some mesh-lined pockets are also designed for increased air circulation.
Linings: Although most people are resorting to layering, linings are still important in rain jacket, especially in waterproof/breathable fabrics. Technically, they become one of the layers. Being lightweight and breathable are still two major considerations when it comes to linings.
Come Rain, Come Snow
Don’t let a little bit of precipitation (or lots of it, for that matter) stop you from enjoying your backpacking trip. Making sure you have the right backpacking rainwear will ensure that you still enjoy the experience in relative warmth and comfort and, at the same time, protect your health and well-being.
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Never discount the importance of wearing the best base layer since it is the garment responsible for regulating your body temperature. It should be able to wick perspiration away from your skin and keep it warm and dry. A very good base layer – mainly some types of T-shirts, tights, briefs, sports bras and other underwear – will prevent any feelings of discomfort when you are performing any outdoor activity and also ward off hypothermia during winter or cold weather.
Weighing In
When choosing the most suitable layer for yourself, you should consider the temperature and activity level you will be involved in, and this has a lot to do with the weights of the base layer.
Lightweight: As standalone outfits, lightweight base layers can be used during mild to cool conditions such as running or climbing. When used in layering, these usually go first and are designed to fit tighter and more snugly to the skin to manage moisture or sweat netter.
Midweight: Layers of the midweight category are often worn as first or second layer, in combination with lightweight layers beneath it or heavier layers over it to get the optimum level of warmth you need. It is still important that it be able to wick moisture away from your skin. On its own, it can be worn during moderately cold to cold conditions
Heavyweight: Perfect for frigid or coldest weather or temperature, these are almost always worn over lighter layers. Its emphasis is on insulation more than moisture management.
Material Matters
Base layers are made of various materials with each having their pros and cons for certain types of temperature and activity levels, as well as your personal preferences. These are the various materials commonly used in base layers.
Synthetics – Base layers under this category are typically combinations of polyester, nylon, and/or spandex. Aside from superior moisture-wicking, these lightweight base layers are design to resist abrasion and afford a bit of a stretch for its users. Garment care is required since these are petroleum-based fabrics and thus would end up with a foul smell if neglected. That shouldn’t be too difficult since these are wrinkle-resistant and caring for them is relatively easy.
Wool – Wool is preferred by a lot of people because it is soft and has superior insulating properties. The most commonly used wool used in the Merino wool, whose natural fibers provide excellent wicking performance and is proven to be resistant to odors, stains and wrinkles. Finer than other types of wool, the merino wool’s insulating capabilities are second to none, thanks to the air pockets found in its fibers. It is also lightweight and considered to be a great base layer for all seasons or weather conditions.
Silk – Athletes or men and women engaged in winter sports prefer treated silk to be the fabric of their base layers. Chemically modified for improved wicking, silk is very smooth and very thin, making it ideal for layering. The downside to silk is its heightened sensitivity to abrasion and sunlight, as well as the extreme caution needed in washing it.
Don’t Overlook The Basics
You may have different specifications when it comes to choosing which base layer to use. However, at the end of the day, the best base layer for you would be that one which would keep you warm, dry and comfortable in your chosen outdoor activity. Sometimes we tend to focus much of our attention on our outerwear without realizing that it all starts from within – in this case, the base layer.
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It is quite a no-brainer, really. If you’re going somewhere cold, wear something thick. If it’s somewhere you expect to be warm, wear lighter clothing. It becomes tricky when you really have no idea how the weather will turn out, despite what weather forecasts indicate. And, in backpacking trips, that is often the case. This is where the principle of layering becomes very essential: its versatility shows a degree of preparedness and practicality on your part and affords you a level of comfort and protection when you are out there, at one with nature and exposed to its volatility.
Underneath all those Layers…
Layering shouldn’t be too complicated. However, it shouldn’t be haphazard, either. Remember that comfort and protection are first and foremost when layering, and what comfort and protection could be had when you simply get whatever item of clothing you have and pile it all on? Many would suggest 3 to 5 layers that one should have; for now, let us speak of the basic and most important ones.
Base Layer – As the word denotes, the “base layer” is the first layer next to your skin. Basically, it’s your underwear, which could be anything from bras, sports bras to long underwear sets. The base layer has two purposes: moisture control and temperature control. It should keep your skin warm and dry, keeping perspiration or sweat away. There are a variety of fabrics and fabric combinations used in base layers, but when it comes to backpacking, cotton is not advisable. They may be what underwear is typically made of, but when it comes to base layers for backpacking, they retain moisture, which is the last thing one wants when engaged in any outdoor sport. Often, the favored fabrics for base layers are merino wool, synthetics and sometimes even silk. The lightweight merino wool is generally the most preferred due to its superior moisture wicking capabilities and resistance to fire. It also has the added advantage of not giving off a foul smell when the user perspires, which is often the case in some synthetics, such as polyester and other polypropylene base layers.
Insulating Layer – This middle layer is primarily for insulation, helping you retain heat by keeping air close to your body, thus protecting you from the cold. Aside from trapping air, they also wick away moisture to keep you dry. This layer is mainly composed of a light jacket, polyester fleece vests, tights, wool or goose down sweaters and sweatshirts. These insulators should be soft, warm, breathable, and still keep on insulating even when they are wet. They should also be able to dry faster.
Shell Layer – This outer layer is designed for protection against the weather and the elements, such as rain, wind, snow and chill. Not only should they block the elements but also be able to keep your body heat trapped inside yet still breathable enough to let moisture seep out. Advancements in material and fabric technology include the treatment of these outer layers with durable water repellent (DWR) finish in order to reinforce its water-resistant properties. Aside from the fabric, it is important that the fit of your shell layer be given a lot of thought of. It should have a generous amount of room to accommodate the inner layers of clothing you will be wearing. Choices range from waterproof raincoats to water-resistant and soft shells. Although you do not expect to need a shell layer, it should always be part of your backpacking gear.
Living it Up By Layering Up
While making a fashion statement with the clothes you wear is considered important by a lot of people, it is not the primary consideration when dressing up in layers for backpacking. Remember that when you are in the great outdoors, comfort and protection are the most important considerations; looking good is a far second. So layer up and be comfortable as you enjoy your backpacking experience.
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