Shopping for children clothes at any time can be challenging if you have to drag the round the shops, but throw in having to shop for clothes that will withstand cold temperatures and you really have an obstacle. Even if you're only heading to your local snowboard center you still require to know what to look out for in snowboard clothes to avoid over spending on things you don't require. The following snowboard clothes quick guide is aimed at helping you choose which style of ski clothing you require for your occasion.
Childrens Ski Jackets
There are three types of snowboard coats which you can purchase. Here's a quick run-through of each:
Insulated
When it comes to snowboard jackets this is often the most common. Goose down feathers or artificial fibres are most commonly used in these jackets for heat. The external layer of the coat will be measured for its water-proof levels in millimetres. Trespass' Tres-Tex technology has been specifically developed with water-proofing in mind, so look out for it on their products. Insulated coats can be utilized for more adventures, not only for skiing. Hill walkers and even dog walkers have been known to utilize these in the winter months.
Shell
The outer layer protection is offered by the shell jackets. To adjust to different conditions and weather, shell coats are best utilized with several layers depending on the weather or activity. Shell jackets offer terrific protection from moisture with special waterproofing, as well as the fabric being breathable.
3-in-1
These flexible waterproof jackets is one of the most well-known coats you can purchase. By mixing shell and insulation into one jacket, 3 in 1 jackets are wonderful value and very popular. 3 in 1 jackets often have a detachable layer which you can wear on it's own as a stand alone coat when the weather is milder in temperature.
It's advised that you get your kids to try on the different kinds of jackets to see which will be the best fit for them. If your children enjoy a wide range of activities all year round, a 3 in 1 jacket would be an excellent choice. This means you can quickly adapt to any weather condition without needing separate jackets.
Ski Pants
When buying snowboard pants for kids it's recommended to purchase ones that closely match the details and spec of the ski coats. Although you should try to purchase pants that have reinforced knees and seat as this helps with falls if you're using these for snowboarding and skiing. If you're just learning to ski you can expect to fall over quite a lot so the strengthened knees will help cushion the fall. Having strengthened areas on your pants will help them last longer and avoid rips and tears.
Make certain that your children has plenty of room in their ski pants. This is crucial as children grow extremely quickly and you don't want to have to fork out for expensive snowboard wear year after year. An excellent way to avoid doing this is to get ski pants with an adjustable waist and plenty of room in the legs.
Design Details
There are also a few design details you should keep an eye out for when picking a children's ski wear. Here is a brief list of the main things to look out for:
Waterproof Levels
As we've stated, examining your ski wear for levels of waterproofing is very crucial. An excellent recommendation of water proof levels is about the 10,000-20,000 range.
Breathability
Even though the weather is cold, because you're basically working out you will be developing a sweat from the active movements. A breathable jacket will allow any moisture and sweat to escape from the breathable fabric and still keep you hot.
Venting
This works for the same purpose as breathable material. Most great snowboard coats will have zipped vents at the arm pits, which receive cold air and help to cool down the body when it gets too overheated.
Taped Seams
Having a waterproof coat is excellent but is meaningless if your coat has no taped seams. The stitching in material creates a weak point in the waterproofing, meaning that water can creep in through the tiny holes. Taped seams help to stop this, by covering the stitching.
Cuffs.
You will want your children's ski wear to have adjustable cuffs, typically made with Velcro straps. The reason adjustable cuffs are important is to stop snow getting in to your sleeve which then melts and sends icy cool water up your arm.
Extras
You can add extra attributes to your snowboard clothes so be sure to look out for these. The main ones that you will most likely use and often need are:
Removable And Adjustable Hood
This helps to avoid cold winds getting caught in your hood, often when people pull their hood up over their headgear.
Snow skirt
Another wonderful extra is a snow skirt, which is connected to the bottom of a snowboard coat and helps to prevent snow entering your jacket when you fall.
Colour
Ski clothing can be pricey so if you want to make your snowboard jackets or pants last longer, buy them in neutral colours that are good for boys or girls. This means you can pass your clothes down to younger relatives and get more usage from it. That's a money saving tip you can take to the bank!
Pockets
When you're on the ski slopes, you may need to carry more things that you assume. Most people have essential items they require to keep with them. Lift passes, cash and mobile phones are most common along with your ski goggles. Look for zip-able internal pockets for valuables and other pockets exclusively designed for goggles and lift passes. These little but beneficial add ons make things easier when holding a few items.
So now you have the low down on buying snowboard clothing for children. Next time you're flying off on a snowboard vacation you will be completely prepared to maximize your trip!