Knowledge to show off: When are clothes waterproof?
A jacket is considered waterproof if it has a water column of at least 1500 to 2000 millimetres. This measurement indicates how much water pressure the material can withstand before moisture penetrates. Interesting fact: What is waterproof in Germany is by no means waterproof in Switzerland.
According to the European standard EN 343 ("Protective clothing against rain"), a product with a water column from 800 mm is "waterproof (class 1&2)", from 1300 mm "waterproof (class 3)", from 2000 mm "waterproof (class 4)". The Swiss Federal Materials Testing Institute (EMPA) in St. Gallen, Switzerland, assumes that a functional material is waterproof from a water column of 4000 mm.
When sitting on damp ground, a pressure is built up that corresponds to approx. 2000 mm water column. When kneeling in a squatting position, approx. 4800 mm of water column already presses on the clothing.
The YT Tech Shell collection
The Tech Shell jacket and trousers form the centrepiece of the collection. Both products are characterised by a three-layer material construction which, according to YT Industries, fulfils three essential requirements for mountain bike clothing: Waterproofness, breathability and durability. The surface is treated with an environmentally friendly WR C0 coating. Both jacket and trousers have a waterproofness and breathability rating of 15,000 millimetres water column, known in the industry as a 15k/15k rating.
Technical features of the Tech Shell jacket
The Tech Shell jacket has taped seams to prevent water from penetrating. Several pockets are available for storing equipment and personal items. YT Industries uses waterproof zips from the manufacturer YKK. Other features include magnetic fasteners, Velcro fasteners on the cuffs for customisation and an integrated goggle cleaning cloth.
The Tech Shell Zip Trousers shares the robust material properties of the jacket, including the 15k/15k rating for waterproofness and breathability. A special feature is the waterproof zips up to knee height, which are designed to allow easy access to knee pads.
Packable wind waistcoat & insulated jerseys
YT Industries has developed the Packable Wind Vest for less extreme weather conditions. This waistcoat is made from Taslan fabric which, according to the manufacturer, provides effective protection from the wind and is also water-repellent to ward off light rain showers. A practical detail is the integrated packing strap, which can be used to attach the waistcoat to the bike frame when it is not needed.
The collection is complemented by Drirelease Insulated Jerseys, which are available as hoodies and long-sleeved jerseys. These Jerseys use special technical fabrics to regulate body temperature and at the same time ensure high breathability.
YT Industries states that hydrophilic fibres are incorporated into the fabric to wick moisture away from the skin. This should increase comfort, especially on longer ascents. The loopback terry fabric structure should also contribute to breathability, while inserts under the arms should improve freedom of movement in technically demanding passages.
Colour variants & sizes
The entire Tech Shell collection is available in three colour variants: Jet Black (black), Dune Grey (grey) and Moss Green (green). Each product is available in six different sizes to cover the widest possible range of body sizes. YT Industries wants to ensure that mountain bikers, regardless of their stature, can find suitable clothing for demanding weather conditions.
Technical specifications
Tech Shell jacket (price: € 199.90) and trousers (€ 149.90)
- Three-layer material structure
- WR C0 coating (environmentally friendly)
- 15k/15k waterproofness and breathability rating
- Sealed seams
- Waterproof YKK zips
- Magnetic fasteners
- Velcro fasteners on sleeve cuffs (jacket)
- Integrated glasses cleaning cloth (jacket)
- Waterproof zips up to knee height (trousers)
Packable Wind Vest (Price: 89,90 €)
- Taslan fabric
- Windproof and water-repellent
- Integrated pack strap for frame attachment
Drirelease Insulated Jerseys (Price: from € 69.90)
- Available as a hoodie and long-sleeved jersey
- Hydrophilic fibres in the tissue
- Loopback terry fabric structure
- Inserts under the arms for freedom of movement
General information:
- Colour variants: Jet Black, Dune Grey, Moss Green
- Available sizes: 6 (unspecified)
Dimitri Lehner
Editor
