Easy to carry on outings or when travelling, the windbreaker is the essential piece you simply cannot do without. It proves very useful in the event of sudden cold spells, particularly in the shoulder seasons, and once adopted it is hard to part with.
So how do you identify the right product best suited to your needs so as not to make the wrong choice?
Before making a purchase, it is important to take into account a few selection criteria to choose the jacket that suits you best.
The functionality of a windbreaker
This type of jacket is ultra practical and highly versatile, able to meet a wide range of needs. That doesn't stop it from being very effective even for very specific uses. First and foremost, you need to define the intended use when you are going to wear the jacket. Depending on your activity, you will choose a piece that is more breathable, water-repellent, or highly water-repellent. If you plan to use your jacket on a weekend trip, for example, the choice will lean towards a lighter fabric that is easily compressible for packing away in your suitcase. In the event of bad weather, you would opt for a hooded windbreaker to protect yourself as much as possible from head to toe. You would also opt for a water-repellent fabric that prevents water droplets from penetrating the fabric while still allowing air to circulate inside to keep you from sweating.
At Pyrenex you will have the choice between a water-repellent or highly water-repellent windbreaker 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 the event of heavy and prolonged rain, water may eventually seep through. A waterproof fabric, with sealed seams, will be perfect for heavy rain. However, a waterproof fabric will lose breathability and lightness… it's a compromise to be found! For cycling outings, you can for example choose a fitted jacket or one with an elasticated waist to prevent cold air from getting in.
The unisex Cyclic model from Pyrenex or the Erine model for women's windbreakers can be perfectly suited to such use. During your walks, to avoid feeling stifled, choose a fabric that allows good air circulation and prevents a feeling of perspiration. Materials such as Gore-Tex or laminated fabrics are often highly breathable and allow good moisture wicking, as does the Pertex found in our collection. At Pyrenex, our goal is to have 100% of our components certified and respectful of nature by 2025, including the Oeko-Tex label. This label guarantees the absence of substances harmful to human health. Also consider the presence of pockets, which can prove very useful for carrying your personal belongings when you prefer to leave your bag behind. The possibilities are endless — it's up to you to choose the jacket that suits you best.
Choosing the right size and fit
Choosing the right size means ensuring you wear a jacket that flatters your figure and shows you off to your best advantage. The difference between a men's and women's windbreaker lies primarily in the cut, which will be more fitted for women. To determine the size that suits you best, it is recommended that you 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 underneath. For example, in winter during your walks you can opt for a fleece jumper and gloves to stay nice and warm.
Make sure to take this extra thickness into account when choosing your size. A garment that is too small risks being uncomfortable and restrictive, while a model that is too large risks not providing adequate protection against the wind. In addition to the chest measurement, it is also important to consider the length of the sleeves and the body. The sleeves must be long enough to cover the wrists, while the body must be long enough to cover your waist and hips. Bear in mind that sleeve length can vary depending on the model and brand.
Finally, don't hesitate to try different models to determine which size and fit suit you best. Make sure to move around to check that the windbreaker does not limit your mobility. In summary, when choosing the size of the piece, take into account your chest measurement, the possibility of wearing additional layers, the length of the sleeves and the body, as well as the level of comfort and mobility you are looking for.
The choice of materials and fabrics
This type of garment is generally a softshell — fairly supple, highly breathable, and resistant to light bad weather. Most of them also provide thermal insulation. They can be made from a variety of fabrics, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester are lightweight and breathable, while natural fabrics such as cotton are more durable but can be less breathable.
Also look for water-repellent materials if you expect to face rainy weather conditions with a lot of water. To ensure durability, the materials used must be resistant to wear and abrasion. Synthetic fabrics such as nylon or polyester are often the most widely used for their endurance. These fabrics are also lightweight and breathable, making them ideal for outdoor sporting activities. In addition to materials, the quality of a jacket's construction is also important for ensuring its durability. Seams must be reinforced to withstand stretching and repetitive movements. Zips must be robust and well sewn to avoid snags and tears.
Just like our jackets from the autumn/winter collection, windbreakers are also designed to last over time. The use of high-quality fabric allows for a lifespan of more than 10 years, and recycled fabrics are used with the aim of moving towards a circular economy. At Pyrenex we have chosen to use, for most of our windbreakers, a polyamide and recycled polyamide fabric, which represents the right compromise between a breathable and lightweight fabric that can be easily stored in its carry pouch, supplied with the product at the time of purchase.
Price
Its cost can vary considerably depending on the quality of the materials and any 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 stand the test of time, it is better to spend more to get quality products. At Pyrenex we have chosen to use higher-performance and more durable fabrics to deliver products that live up to our promise.
