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Anoraks are pullover type garments with a hood and a short zip opening.
Cagoules are like anoraks but are often longer and have no zip.
Canoeing Cags are short cagoules, usually without a hood. Good for outdoor sports and swimming.
Jackets have full length zips. They are most versatile.
Overalls are one piece suits that cover you completely, stay in place and keep the wind out.
Ponchos are large loose fitting garments for full cover with good ventilation.
Most have no sleeves.
Tracksuits are quick drying and great for swimming resistance training or adventure sports.
Often worn underneath waterproofs.
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Between Swimwear and Wetsuit
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Waterwear will keep you warm, but not necessarily dry.
It is for activities where you're in and out of the water a lot and want protection from sunburn or windchill.
When it is too warm to endure a wetsuit, but not right for swimwear, waterwear offers you convenience and sun protection.
You can avoid the bulk and discomfort of a wetsuit if you don't need that much warmth.
Waterwear is essential for fun and successful outdoor adventures.
When boating, coasteering, or during adventure sports and the like you spend more time out of the water.
Often you're only briefly in the water or get splashed.
Above all, enjoy your time in or on the water.
Our Amphibian Quest
For many watersports you should be able to swim in clothes.
Be it adventure sports, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, you probably won't do it just in swimwear.
The right clothing will make all the difference.
For years we've searched for the optimal amphibian outfit
which allows you to jump in and out of the water all day and yet be comfortable.
You basically become like an amphibian, existing in a world that sways between dry air and wet adventure.
The preferred approach is to be able to go from dry land into water and back to dry land
wearing the same clothes.
Breathable splash suits come close to this ideal and provide a comfy outer layer.
They can be worn all day long, in and out of the water.
Wear quick drying clothes underneath on cooler days.
Aquatic Activewear should:
- dry quickly
- provide sun protection
- feel good both wet and dry
- be windproof and breathable
- be comfortable in hot climates
- keep you warm in cold climates
- be practical for travelling and swimming
- look good everywhere
No outfit can do all of that, but you can easily adjust it by layering several amphibian clothes, which can make the difference.
Choosing the right clothes enhances your comfort, allows you to stay in or on the water for longer
and keeps you ready for more fun.
Try your kit before you venture out for any aquatic activity.
Function
This lightweight outer clothing layer keeps you warm but not necessarily dry.
You may get wet from sweat condensation during vigorous exercise or if you've been in the water.
It keeps the wind off you and reduces cooling from evaporation when you're wet.
The argument usually goes something like this:
- If it is warm and raining, just get wet.
- If it is cold and raining, put on your rain clothes.
You'll get wet from the sweat, but you'll be warm.
Running along the road or trail in the rain, you'll feel like you're a kid again, ready to jump into every puddle you see.
Instead of dreading wet weather, you'll appreciate the variety it brings to your adventures.
In any case, carry some spare dry clothes for later.
Practical Considerations
First, whatever the material, we have a strong preference for the anorak style raingear over the jacket/parka style.
The shorter zip makes it less bulky.
However, the jacket/parka style (with the full length zipper) is easier to vent.
Quality waterproof tops and pants coupled with a layering system are the most effective.
Under-layers should be quick drying and keep you warm even when wet such as thermals or fleece.
Bring a warm hat and gloves.
Second, look at the weight.
Many people seem to prefer a light coated nylon jacket for the warmer months.
Others have been hiking in an uncoated anorak-style wind shell all autumn and winter,
changing their insulation layer for the change in temperature.
It works fine.
The Chimney Effect
Most ski parkas and snowmobile suits are coated on the inner surface of outer fabric to block wind and water.
Warmth is lost if they’re open at the bottom and top so air can flow up thru, like a chimney.
Lighter weight warm humid air rises out upper openings and is replaced with cold dry air from below.
It’s obvious that heat is lost warming that cold air.
What isn’t so obvious is that the relative humidity of that air when warmed is extremely low.
It DRIES your skin, dehydrates you, and takes away heat by evaporation.
Waterproof versus Water Resistant
To be truly waterproof, rain gear must be made of waterproof fabrics and have sealed or taped seams so that rain cannot leak through the small perforations made by sewing needles during construction. Sealing and taping seams takes special equipment and extra time and adds to the garment's cost.
If the gear features water-resistant fabric, it usually means that a coating has been applied to the material to help repel water. Water-resistant fabrics work well for light rain and drizzle. But, they won't handle steady rain. If you're looking for real protection, get true waterproof fabric.
Waterwear Suppliers
Camaro Austria
Crewsaver UK
Gul UK
Levi's USA
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