What is the “Softshell” multi-layer component?
Softshell is a high-tech fabric combining 3 materials: a breathable and windproof microporous membrane sandwiched between the water-repellent outer layer and the warm and comfortable fleece inner layer. The properties of this high-tech material offer you thermal comfort, breathability, a lightweight design, and ease of movement thanks to its stretchable, warm and water-repellent component.
What does water repellent mean?
Not to be confused with waterproof! A quality achieved by applying a hydrophobic, water-repellent treatment to a fabric. The process prevents water from sticking to the fabric’s surface, limiting its ability to absorb water. When movement is added to the equation, water glides over the fabric. This is what is called water repellence. On a jacket with water-repellent properties, water does not soak into the outer fabric; so it remains light, does not retain moisture and is quicker to dry.
What is breathability and the RET index?
The fabric breathability corresponds to its ability to allow water vapour generated by the body (perspiration) to escape. It can be measured using the RET (Resistance to Evaporative Transfer) index, which is expressed in PAa·m²/W.
The RET is a resistance index; the lower the value, the greater the breathability of the garment. RET between 6 and 12: very breathable; RET between 12 and 20: breathable; RET above 20: not breathable. The RET of our yacht racing softshell is equal to 18.85 Pa·m²/W.
How important is windproofing?
Protection from the wind is critical, as wind can chill the body significantly whether you are active or at rest. According to the windchill model, which measures how the air temperature feels when factoring in the wind and cold: at a temperature of 5°C combined with winds of 30 km/h, the temperature felt will be 0°C. If the air temperature is 0°C and wind speed is 30 km/h, the temperature felt will be -6°C. The materials used in our products help to counter the windchill effect
What is the hood like?
The hood of this product has been designed so as not to get in your way as you sail. The positioning of its seams is such that the hood follows the movements of your head. Its adjustment point at the top lets you adjust it to the right height. Its additional adjustment points at the collar let you modify the width to help stop the wind and cold from getting in. The hood has been tested to be worn with and without a waterproof jacket on top.
Water repellency maintenance:
To regenerate the water repellence of the fabric, thereby optimizing the performance of your garment throughout its life, you can use a re-waterproofing spray or liquid water repellence reactivator. The full water repellency of the Sailing 900 softshell jacket can withstand 5 washes. After that, we recommend reactivating the waterproofing treatment to ensure performance.
