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If you are often out in the cold for work or recreation, you know it takes a lot of effort to keep yourself comfortable and warm for the duration of your activities. Trudging through the cold weather will prove to get a lot easier with the help of a good-quality thermal jacket.
Stay warm and comfy with our thermal outerwear collection at All Security Equipment. Our line of products includes insulated jackets and winter coats suited for weathering some light rain to freezing cold.
Uses of Thermal Jackets
Thermal jackets are designed to keep the user warm and protected against outdoor elements for extended periods. They are essential gear for those living in cold climates, whether they stay indoors or outdoors.
Heated jackets are also therapeutic. They ease muscle tension, promote better blood circulation, and relieve pain and stiffness from the cold.
Features to Look for in a Thermal Jacket
A thermal jacket can be worn as a mid- or outer layer atop a base layer to help trap the body's warmth. Here are some features to consider when choosing the right one.
Fabric Material
Thermal clothing is made using fabric technology that contributes to the regulation of body temperature. Thermal jacket fabrics may be natural or synthetic, or a combination of these and aid in heat retention.
- It has a natural insulating and moisture-wicking property that retains the body’s warmth even when wet.
- Merino Wool. This soft wool has the same insulating property but is gentler to the touch. It is good for people with sensitive skin.
- Fleece is made of polyester and other synthetic fibers and recycled materials. Although not waterproof or water-resistant, fleece is quick-drying and breathable.
- Polyester thermal jackets have excellent insulation and moisture-wicking properties, preventing heat loss.
- Cotton Blend. Cotton blend thermal jackets are soft and breathable insulating fabric material. Cotton is moisture-wicking, and the blend of synthetic fibers enhances its heat retention.
Insulation
Thermal outerwear is reinforced with insulation materials, which block the heat transfer from the body to the environment.
There are two popular insulation used for thermal jackets that are efficient in restricting heat loss:
Synthetic Insulation
Synthetic thermal insulation is made of fine polyester filaments. This material can be treated against water and odor to improve outdoor performance. Synthetic insulation is fast-drying and is one of the most recommended products for use in wet and humid environments.
A thermal jacket with synthetic insulation is affordable, although it might be bulky and heavy when packed.
Down Insulation
Made from the soft and fluffy feathers of ducks and geese, down is considered the best insulator. It is ultralight, very warm, and compressible, which makes it easier to pack if you are traveling.
The problem with down is that it is slow-drying and does not insulate when damp. Although packable, it may not be the best choice in the case of rain and snow.
Some thermal jackets with down insulation are treated with a polymer or DWR (durable water-repellent) coating to make them water-resistant. But of course, you should expect its price to surge. The best use of down insulation is in very cold and dry conditions.
Waterproofing
For outdoor activities, waterproofing is an important feature to consider to keep you protected from the elements. For this category, you may opt for a thermal jacket with synthetic fabric and insulation.
These materials are treated to repel water and work against sweat. However, it should be noted that waterproof jackets are not totally watertight. Some have porous designs to make them breathable. Technically speaking, more waterproof thermal jackets are less breathable, and vice versa.
Breathability
A breathable thermal jacket allows sweat to escape to prevent condensation and make the user more comfortable. A thermal jacket with breathable features has better temperature regulation. It warms the body but prevents overheating.
The breathability of a thermal jacket is measured by the Thermal Evaporative Resistance coefficient (RET), which is the capacity of the fabric to stop water vapor from escaping.
When choosing a breathable jacket, choose the fabric with a lower RET. You can usually find this information easily on the product description sheet. A RET between 12 and 20 is moderately breathable but may not be very comfortable during a physical effort.
If you want a more breathable fabric, choose thermal jackets with <12 RET.
Additional Features to Look For
Thermal jackets can also be reinforced with different features to make them functional. Look for these features, especially if you want to maintain the balance between waterproofing and breathability.
- Zipped Mechanical Vents. Insulated and waterproof jackets with zipped vents in the core and underarms are handy for thermal regulation.
- Hood/No Hood Jacket. Depending on your needs, you can choose jackets with a hood or without one. The hood is useful for extra warmth but may be bulky for packing. Detachable hoods that you can zip inside the collar are more versatile and portable.
- Pocket Features. Pockets are great for added storage and may come with zip, snap, or Velcro enclosures. Zippered pockets offer secure storage and added rain protection.
- Adjustment Features. Drawcords, zips, and cuffs make it easier to adjust the fit for comfort. Drawcords at the hood and bottom hem seal the jacket against cold winds.
All Performance Thermal Jackets
All Security Equipment wants you to experience warmth and comfort from the cold outdoors with our reliable thermal jackets and related products. We offer thermal jackets in different sizes, including youth jackets and youth bottoms for various fits.
Browse through our selection and check our product features and size guide. Compare similar products and get the best deal from our sale price and best sellers.
Contact our customer support for assistance with product and order information, order status, shipping policy and other needs.
