Snowmobile Outerwear Facts

Question: There are a lot of companies who advertise the best solution for outerwear. What really is the best solution?
Answer: You need to take yourself into consideration first. What type of riding do you do? What will feel comfortable? Do you like to wear a bulky jacket, or do you prefer lots of layers? The simple solutions to outwear are as follows: A. Don't wear cotton close to your skin. Cotton acts like a sponge and absorbs sweat. It gets trapped in the cotton and brings down your body temperature. B. You should wear layers instead of wearing a heavy jacket. Layering helps trap pockets of warm air, but also allows you to strip down if you get warm on the trail. C. The outer shell of your jacket is probably the most important layer. It should be of high quality, waterproof and breathable. You need to be able to keep the weather out and the warmth in. 

Castle X Caliber Jacket

Question: Is wool or cotton still a good choice to keep warm?
Answer: No. The problem with natural fibers like wool and cotton is that they moisture when they get wet. Today's synthetic insulators like the polyester membrane in the Ski-Doo Helium 50 jacket or the Cynix Insulator in the Castle X Caliber jacket are more scientifically engineered to do battle in the elements. 


Question: Waterproof or water resistant, what is the difference?
Answer: Waterproof means that no water can get through the material. All of the seams and zippers have been sealed to keep out water and moisture. Water resistant means that it has probably been sprayed with some sort of repellent, or it is made from a material that can repel water for a period of time. 


Question: What is "breathable" material?
Answer: This means that the material allows the disapation of moisture away from your skin through the jacket, pants, or bibs. In addition to breathability, make sure to look for gear that has additional venting, especially in the underarm area. 


Question: What is layering?
Answer: Smart layering does two things - it provides better warmth and allows you to adapt to changing weather conditions. You should start with a thermal underwear that is made from a synthetic material like polyester. Stay away from cotton because it won't wick moisture away from your skin. Your mid layer should be easily adaptable, warm and breathable. Your outer layer should be waterproof, breathable and comfortable.