Types of Fabric for Snowboard Clothing

Snowboarding is a sport that is not only extremely physical but occurs under cold and difficult conditions. Because of this, snowboarding clothing must protect athletes from the weather without hindering their performance. There are a few materials, both synthetic and natural, that are common in snowboarding apparel.

  1. Gore-Tex

    • Gore-Tex, a material made mostly of polytetrafluoroethylene, is known for being both breathable and water resistant. The fabric, which was patented in 1976, has become a very popular choice for snowboarding clothing. While several other materials are also water resistant, which is an essential feature in snow apparel, few of them also allow air to pass through. This feature of Gore-Tex clothing adds to its comfort. Gore-Tex items, including coats and pants, tend to be the most expensive of all of snowboarding clothing.

    Wool

    • Wool is one of the oldest types of fabric used to protect people from the cold. Even modern snowboard apparel is woven together with this thread made from sheep's fur. Most wool used by snowboarders takes the form of fleece jackets, which work well as thin, yet warming layers that can go underneath a heavier overcoat. Snowboarding involves constant contact with snow, however, and since wool is more absorbent than Gore-Tex or other materials, it is most effective as an under layer.

    Polyester

    • Polyester is a type of fabric that can be found in nearly all types of clothing, and snowboarding apparel is no exception. In most cases, polyester acts as a replacement or is used in addition to wool. This is because the two are similar, although polyester is cheaper to produce. While polyester does not retain heat as well as wool does, it has the advantage of being less absorbent. Snowboarding items, from gloves to jackets, when constructed with polyester, tend to be the most affordable.

    Ethylene Vinyl Acetate

    • Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) is not a commonly known material. It could be best compared to a foam rubber substance, and it is commonly used in the lining of snowboarding boots. While such boots may have plastic and rubber on the outside, EVA is a particularly effective way of providing inside support and cushioning for the snowboarder's active feet. Most of these liners are removable, to allow the boots to air out after a long day on the slopes.