Introduction of ski jacket fabrics

By Sarah Kao Last updated: April 10, 2023

Did you ski this winter?

Remember the fond memories of your last skiing? It's time to update your gear! However, did you know that there are many other fabrics for ski jackets? Although it has the same waterproof and moisture-permeable function, what is the difference between coating and lamination?

Basic knowledge of waterproof and breathable

The common micropores on the market are hydrophobic materials. The material has countless small holes invisible to the naked eye, which are smaller than water molecules but larger than water vapour molecules. Thus, they can prevent water molecules from entering but can allow water vapour molecules to pass through. The hydrophilic glue itself has no holes to directly block the penetration of water into the garment, absorbing the moisture emitted by the skin through the hydrophilic material. It then evaporates into the environment.

Fabric plus waterproof and permeable layer we call 2 layers, and 2.5 layers will be printed on the back (coating surface or lamination surface) pattern. Of course, you can also do three-dimensional printing to avoid the uncomfortable feeling of the fabric sticking to the skin when sweating. The third layer is to add fabric outside the waterproof and breathable layer, which is usually knitted fabric.

Coating

The coating is a process in which liquid glue is applied to a cloth and then cured, and hydrophilic and hydrophobic types are also available. Because it is a comprehensive coating, the durability of the coating is relatively good, and it is not easy to peel off. Relatively, it will be harder and stiffer than the cloth of the lamination, and it is easier to have the sound of clothes rubbing.

Lamination

In addition to the common PU and TPU materials, the membrane materials have even environmentally friendly membranes, such as recycled, biomass and the TPEE and nylon same as the cloth.

Usually, the degree of water pressure and moisture permeability depends on the selected membrane itself, commonly used from 3K/3K. 5K/5K to 10K/10K is very simple for suppliers to choose from. The lamination can be divided into full lamination or dot lamination. Full lamination to transfer the bonding cloth to the membrane will be better, and dot lamination uses PUR to make the cloth and membrane fit. The lamination fabric usually feels more pleasing to the touch, and can also maintain the elasticity of the fabric itself, which is a better choice for people who pursue comfort.

Choose the right waterproof and breathable jacket

Because the function of waterproof and breathable can be selected according to the value given by the brand, and when choosing a waterproof and breathable jacket, it is recommended to pay attention to durability and choose the type of coating and full lamination. If you pay attention to comfort, you can choose the style of the film, waterproof and breathable. There is no way to be better, only more suitable.