Pick The Perfect Spring Jacket

Five things to consider before buying your next jacket

 

Spring is a tricky time of year- here in NC we can rotate seasons in a day. Years ago I heard a comedian say after vising our area, "I've been through all four seasons in one week. " Right now the battle is not as much the weather as it is the yellow haze of pollen.  

While we can't control the weather, we can be equipped for unpredictable weather patterns. This time of year, that go to apparel piece better be a jacket with a hood. There are plenty of options and features to consider; it can be a little overwhelming.  To make your life easier, our partners at PCNA have identified five key things to consider when shopping.


1. Protection From The Elements

Spring showers are the real deal and usually arrive without much notice. If water protection is a priority, you'll definitely need to know these terms and look for a jacket with these features:

Critical seam sealed

On these pieces, the most exposed seams like the shoulders, back and front are waterproofed to keep you dry.

Fully seam sealed

These jackets have 100% waterproof seams throughout the entire jacket for maximum rain protection.

Waterproof breathable membrane

This additional layer is bonded to the outside jacket material. It blocks water, while still allowing moisture to escape from the body.

Water repellent finish

This is a coating added to jacket fabrics to make them water-resistant.

The Index Softshell is fully seam sealed for maximum rain protection. (Shop the Index) 

2. Convenience Features

These items make your life easier and make your jacket more fun to wear. Here are a few of our favorites:

Detachable or roll-away hoods

Want a hood only when you need it? Look for a jacket with a hood that can be removed or hidden in the jacket collar. 

Packability

Be prepared, grab a lightweight jacket that packs away into a pocket that forms a pouch. Toss it in your bag or trunk; you're good to go.

Media Pockets 

These hidden phone pockets give you access to your music while you're on the move.

 The Egmont Jacket packs away in a built-in stuff sack. (Shop the Egmont)
3. Style
What look are you going for - professional, casual or somewhere in between? 

Regardless, there's a jacket for you. The Mikumi Hybrid Softshell delivers a professional, sophisticated look and scores major style points with on-trend graphite sleeves. At the opposite end of the spectrum is the Roots73 Hargrave Jacket, a laid-back casual jacket with a classic varsity style. Need something versatile that's ready for both 9-5 and 5-9? The Vernon Softshell's clean lines are refined enough for the office but also look right at home while grabbing drinks after work or running weekend errands.

 The Mikumi Hybrid Softshell delivers a stylish, professional look. (Shop the Mikumi)
4. Breathability

This one's big - just ask anyone who's worn a jacket that doesn't "breathe." They'll tell you firsthand that it feels like wearing a garbage bag on a warm day. For ultimate comfort, look for a jacket that features the breathable membrane we mentioned earlier. The key to how membranes can be both waterproof and breathable lies in the fact that water in the shape of a raindrop is thousands of times larger than water in sweat-vapor form. Micropores in your jacket's membrane or coating are large enough for sweat vapor to escape, but too small for rain to get through. Strategically placed venting also increases airflow to keep you comfortable.  Look for this on lightweight pack-able jackets.

The Vernon Softshell is constructed with a waterproof breathable membrane. (Shop the Vernon)

5. Weight

This one comes down to personal preference and Mother Nature. What do you want your jacket to feel like? Are you looking for a more substantial softshell with a three layer, bonded-fabric construction like the new Bergamo Softshell, or is an ultra-lightweight, packable jacket like the Egmont Jacket a better option? A hybrid knit like the Panorama has the best of both worlds - the warmth and protection of a softshell with the mobility and comfort of an active knit. 

The Bergamo Softshell is constructed with a substantial three-layer, bonded fabric. (Shop the Bergamo)
Ready to begin your quest for the perfect jacket?

You have a lot of options when choosing a spring jacket and the weather-related variables definitely add some challenges. Asking yourself some questions and prioritizing the available features will help you find the perfect jacket for your needs.

Keep in mind that outwear is always a TOP performer for your ROI. 





Click here to shop Trimark's spring jacket collection.
Click here to see the Trimark Spring 2019 Style Guide.

Would you like to see these style first hand? If the showroom is not in your future, check your most recent newsletter for details about our May show- Trimark will be part of the BIG event!