technical information

• What is Softshell? - Softshell component is a high performance fabric that's made of 3 materials: A breathable micro-porous membrane that's windproof and sandwiched between a water repellent outer layer and warm and comfortable fleece lining. These high performance materials provide the following properties: thermal comfort, breathability, low weight, freedom of movement thanks to stretchable component and warmth combined with protection against light rain.
• What is product breathability and the RET index it measures? - The fabric’s breathability corresponds to its ability to transfer body moisture (perspiration). It can be measured thanks to the RET index (Resistance Evaporative Transfer). RET is a resistance index. The lower it is, the more breathable your outfit is. RET between 6 and 12: very breathable; RET between 12 & 20: breathable; a RET above 20: non-breathable. Our products are very breathable with a RET between 7.2 and 12.
• Why do we use RET (resistance evaporative transfer) as the index to measure the breathability of our materials rather the MVTR (moisture vapour transmission rate)? - The MVTR quantifies the amount of moisture that passes through a fabric over a long period. We do not use it because it is not useful to know that a jacket is capable of transferring 20l of moisture in 24h. This is not realistic given that we do not perspire in linear way over such a period of time. However, the RET, which measures the fabric’s instant resistance to moisture passing through, is much more realistic especially when intensely fighting to beat down a spi.
• Why is a windproof product important? - It is very important to protect yourself from the wind when active or resting, because it greatly contributes to body cooling. According to the 'Windchill' model that measures the felt air temperature under the influence of wind and cold: at a temperature of 5°C combined with a 30km/h wind, the felt air temperature will be 0°C. If the air temperature is at 0°C and wind speed at 30Km/h, the felt air temperature will be -6°C. The material used in our products prevents the effects of windchill.
• What is the water repellent effect? - It's the result obtained from applying hydrophobic water repellent treatment to fabric. This process prevents water remaining on the fabric’s surface therefore reducing its ability to absorb water. When you add the idea of movement, water can then slide off the fabric. This characterizes the effects of water repellent effect. Due to this process, water does not seep through the fabric and the garment remains therefore lightweight and is quick-drying.