Easy to carry when going out or traveling, the windbreaker is the essential piece of your wardrobe. It is very useful in case of cold weather, especially in mid-season, and once adopted it is difficult to part with it. But in the end, how to identify the right piece best suited to your needs? Before purchase it, you should take into account some selection parameters.
The functionality of the windbreaker
Windcheaters are ultra practical and very versatile jackets, which can correspond to a wide range of needs. This doesn’t prevent it from being very efficient even for very special uses.
First of all, you have to define the use you want to make of the windbreaker. Depending on your activity, you will choose a jacket that is breathable, water repellent or highly water repellent. If you plan to use your jacket for a weekend trip for example, you will choose a lighter fabric that can be easily compacted to store it in your suitcase. In case of bad weather you would prefer a piece with a hood to protect you up to your head. You would also prefer a water-repellent fabric that will prevent water drops from penetrating the fabric while letting the air circulate inside so you don't sweat. At Pyrenex you can choose between water repellent and highly water repellent windbreakers for better protection. It is important to note the difference between water repellent and waterproof. A water-repellent fabric will protect you from light rain but in case of heavy and prolonged rain, water can infiltrate over time. A waterproof fabric, lined with waterproof seams, will be perfect for heavy rain. However, a waterproof fabric will lose breathability and lightness... it's a compromise to find!
For bike rides, you can choose a tight fitting or one with an elastic waist to prevent cold air from entering. The Cyclic unisex model from Pyrenex or the Erine model for women can be perfectly suitable for such use.
During your walks, to avoid feeling suffocated, choose a fabric that allows a good air circulation and will prevent a feeling of sweat. Materials such as Gore-Tex or laminated fabrics are often very breathable and allow for good moisture wicking, just like the Pertex in our collection. At Pyrenex, our goal is to reach 100% of our components certified and respectful of nature by 2025 with, in particular, the Oeko-Tex label. This label guarantees the absence of substances that are harmful to human health.
Think also about the presence of pockets that can be very useful to carry your personal items when you choose to leave the bag aside. There are many possibilities: it's up to you to choose the jacket that suits you best.
Choosing the right size and fit
Choosing the right size means making sure you wear a jacket that will flatter your body type and make you look your best. The difference between men's and women's vest lies mainly in the cut of the jacket, which is more fitted for women. To determine the size that suits you best, it is recommended to measure your chest at the widest point of your bust. This measurement will allow you to compare the dimensions with those provided by the manufacturer.
It is also important to take into account the possibility of wearing layers under the vest. For example, in the winter when you're out walking, you might want to wear a fleece sweater and gloves to keep you warm. Be sure to factor in the extra layer in your choice of size. A windbreaker that is too small may be uncomfortable and restrictive, while one that is too large may not provide adequate wind protection.
In addition to the chest measurement, it is also important to consider the length of the sleeves and body of the windbreaker. The sleeves should be long enough to cover the wrists, while the body should be long enough to cover your waist and hips. Keep in mind that sleeve length can vary by model and brand. Finally, feel free to try on different models to determine what size and fit is best for you. Be sure to move around to make sure the product doesn't limit your mobility. In summary, when choosing a piece size, consider your chest size, the possibility of wearing extra layers, sleeve and body length, and the level of comfort and mobility you are looking for.
The choice of materials and fabrics
Windproof garments are softshells that are generally quite flexible, breathable and resistant to minor weather conditions. Most of them also provide thermal insulation. They can be made from a variety of fabrics, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester are lightweight and breathable, while natural fabrics such as cotton are more durable but may be less breathable. Also look for water-repellent materials if you expect to face rainy weather conditions with lots of water. To ensure the durability of a piece, the materials used must be resistant to wear and abrasion. Synthetic fabrics such as nylon or polyester are often the most used for their endurance.
These fabrics are also lightweight and breathable, making them ideal for outdoor sports activities. In addition to the materials, the quality of its construction is also important to ensure its durability. Seams should be reinforced to resist stretching and repetitive motion. Zippers should be sturdy and well-sewn to prevent snags and tears. Just like our fall/winter collection jackets, windbreakers are also designed to last over time. The use of high quality fabric allows for a life span of more than 10 years and the fabrics are recycled in order to bring them closer to a circulating economy. At Pyrenex we have chosen to use polyamide and recycled polyamide fabric for most of our windbreakers, which represent the right compromise between breathable and light fabric to be easily stored in its storage bag, provided with the jacket at the time of purchase.
The price
The cost of a windbreaker can vary greatly depending on the quality of materials and additional features. Set your budget and find a model that meets your needs while staying within your budget. If you want to invest in good products that will last over time, it is better to invest more money in quality products. At Pyrenex we have chosen to use the best and most durable fabrics to deliver products that live up to our promise.
