Now you know the best quality sailing jackets and where to get them. The choice is entirely up to you. Mark your preferences and select a sailing jacket brand that appeal to your taste and needs.
Don't underestimate this. You will be disappointed if you get a heavy duty ocean jacket when all you need is a yachting jacket for the practical sailor.
Or if you want a sail jacket for serious sailors, (athletic sailing, coastal sailor etc.) you'll need to find a waterproof jacket that does the job.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING YOUR SAILING JACKET
TYPE OF MATERIAL/FABRIC/Jacket Designs:
An ideal sailing jacket should be made of synthetic materials. Jackets made with synthetic materials like polyester,nylon or neoprene are usually durable, lightweight and impermeable to water.
LIGHTWEIGHT
You definitely don't need a bulky and heavy sailing gear. Go for a jacket made with lightweight fabric and easily packs down to nothing. You'll feel more at ease and comfortable. Moreover your movement will be less restricted.
Breathable
Your sailing jacket while being protective should be made of breathable fabric. You shouldn't be wearing a jacket thatfeels like a heated oven.
DURABILITY
Choose a sailing jacket that is durable enough to withstand the unfriendly splashes of salty water, take the rough winds and is able to weather the harsh weather conditions on sea.
The quality and type of material used in constructing your jacket determine its durability. Look for brands that are reputably known for durable products.
WATERPROOF
A jacket is not meant for sailing if it isn't properly waterproofed. A great quality sailing jacket should not only be water-resistant but should be able to take the drenching of heavy waves an drain, and still remain impervious to water.
Water should simply bead off the jacket and never penetrate the fabric. You'll need such a jacket to stay dry,protected and warm.
Also check for provisions made to seal off any water that might leak in from the cuffs, collar or waist end.
FIT
Choose a jacket that fits snugly to your body. Too large and you'll be left with spaces that could trap in wind and get you cold. An overly tight jacket will equally have you uncomfortable. Go for a sailing jacket that is comfortably your size and tailored to suit your body structure.
SIZE
Most brands of sailing jackets available for sale come in a wide range of sizes, from small to extra large. For the plus sized, some brands like Helly Hansen have an expanded size options in most of their jacket designs ranging from small to 5X- Large.
Use the size chart, where available, to cross-check how the measurements of the shoulder, chest and waist tally with your body size.
STYLE AND DESIGN
A sailing jacket brand worth the money aptly combines functionality with style. A quality jacket should have a nice cut,smart design and nice construction.
You don't want to appear shabby in your sailing jackets. Look good for the fishes, even if you're alone on sea and not bothered about your looks.
Additional features like straps, vents,adjustments and brand Logo make jackets look sophisticated and eye-catching.
Sailing jackets come in different styles.There are jackets that have hoodies, popped collars, pockets, zippering, etc.
These extra features aren't just for aesthetics but equally serve some vital functions.
For example, a jacket that has a hoodie will keep your head and neck region dry while you're sailing under the rain.
POCKETS
No sailor jokes with the pockets on his sailing jacket, as this is one of the most useful features on a good sailing jacket. Your preferred sailing jacket should have pockets deep enough to house small items like your sailing gloves, sunglasses, cellphone, keys, etc.
Some nice jacket brands even come with exterior and interior pockets in order to help the sailor organize and store his immediate personal effects.
So with that being said, hopefully you'll find the perfect sail jacket. There are some serious sailing brands mentioned so you should have found your favourite sailing jackets above.
Choose the ideal ocean gear and hit the waters.Happy Sailing!