If you love skiing and snowboarding, you know how essential a good snow jacket is. It should keep you cozy, dry, and comfy on the slopes. But how do you pick the right one from the many options available? One key factor is the jacket’s construction, which can be 2 layer, 2.5 layer, or 3 layer fabrics. They each have their own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the weather, your activity level, and your personal taste. In this post, we’ll compare 2 and 3 layer jackets and help you find the best one for you.
( And For Your Information! Don’t forget to pack a pair of your best snowboard gloves, and you don’t want to miss our snowboarding gear check list to provide you with the perfect protection. Also, take a look at our snowboarding attire recommended to you! Our official VECTOR website has it all! )
What is 2 Layer and How it’s made?
A 2 layer jacket has two parts: an outer fabric and a waterproof membrane or coating. The outer fabric protects you from wind and sun, while the membrane or coating keeps water out and lets sweat escape. The membrane or coating can be made of different materials, such as Gore-Tex, eVent, or DryVent.
However, a 2 layer jacket also needs a lining to protect the membrane or coating from damage and dirt. The lining is usually a mesh or fleece fabric, and it adds comfort and warmth, but also weight and bulk. The membrane or coating works by having tiny pores that are smaller than water droplets, but larger than water vapor molecules. This way, the jacket keeps you dry both outside and inside.
VECTOR has always prioritized every customer’s seamless experience and comfort while shredding on the snow. Our Glow Classic collection and Meteor 2L Anorak collection not only allows you to feel the high-end fashion design, but also the stretch from our 2L upgraded fabric, which includes DuPont SORONA fabric, which substantially improves the elasticity of the clothes and does not compromise comfort at all. It also has water repellent properties. The lightweight outerwear design provides excellent sporty performance on the snow field.
What is 3 Layer and How it’s made?
A 3-layer jacket is a waterproof apparel that consists of three primary components: an outer fabric, a waterproof membrane or coating, and an inner fabric. The outer fabric is frequently made of nylon or polyester which protects you from wind, abrasion, and UV radiation. The waterproof membrane or coating stops water from outside while enabling moisture vapor to escape.
The features of 3 layer will make the jacket more waterproof, breathable, durable and warmer. Therefore, you may love it or hate it relying on its excellent quality but relatively high price, but we believe that given you are an enthusiastic and talented skier and snowboarder, you will get hooked on it!
Furthermore, VECTOR is dedicated to provide all professional skiers and snowboarders with an outstanding and fulfilling choice; with our VerteX and Snowshell collections both built of professional 3L fabric, you won't want to pass up a stylish and practical 3L snow jacket.
Differences Between 2 Layer & 3 Layer:
2 layer and 3 layer jackets have different advantages and disadvantages, depending on your needs and preferences. Here are some of the main differences between them:
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Even 2 layer jackets are not much lighter than 3 layer jackets, but it usually offers the insulation which is the interlayer and brings more comfortable and warm feelings to all the skiers and snowboarders. And due to the . These features make it feasible for both indoor snow parks and standard outdoor slopes, making it perfect for beginners who desire to have their first shred of snow.
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3 layer jackets are officially more durable, waterproof, breathable. They are also more ideal for harsh weather and demanding tasks due to their outstanding performance and dependability. We know the price of it might be a great cost for you, but it is a great cost that you won't regret. For those of you who want to succeed in your trials and expeditions to make a name for yourself in the backcountry, the 3L fabric is the best.
Your Preferences and Suitable Scenarios:
You could choose the ideal jacket based on your budget, level of sport, weather conditions, and unique preferences.
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2 layer jackets are ideal for urban settings or easy snow trips with less or no luggage, and they can handle mild or short wet weather conditions. 2 layer jackets are lighter, more comfortable, and more packable than 3 layer jackets.
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3 layer jackets are perfect for unpleasant weather and high-intensity activities, such as with a heavy luggage or ready to shredding in challenges on slopes. 3 layer jackets are more durable, waterproof, breathable, and comfortable than 2 layer jackets, and they offer the highest level of protection and reliability.
If you enjoy fashion choices such as layering, and vivid hues, you should look into the VECTOR Insnow and Snowpark collections made of 2 layer textiles; if you want thrilling adventures and the recklessness of shredding on the snow field, the VECTOR 3 layer fabric granted VerteX and Snowshell collection must be the best choice as well as ideal partners for your professional snow trip.
Bring VECTOR and enjoy shredding! We are confident you will have a pleasant and relaxing snow trip!
FAQ:
Q: How do I wash and care for my 2L or 3L snow jacket?
A: We recommend that you hand wash or choose the regular cleaning mode of your washing machine to minimise the number of washes, as this may cause some damage to the coating or the materials used in the jacket! If you don't mind the stains that much, you can wipe them off with an authorized detergent. It is not necessary to wash the whole piece regularly.
Q: How do I choose the right size and fit for my 2L or 3L snow jacket?
A: You can choose the right size and fit for your 2L or 3L ski jacket by measuring your chest, waist, and sleeve length, and comparing them with the size chart of the brand. You may also want to consider the style and cut of the jacket, such as slim, regular, or relaxed fit. You should also try on the jacket with the layers you plan to wear underneath, and make sure you have enough room to move comfortably and adjust the zippers, cuffs, and hood.
Q: What are the benefits of wearing a 2L or 3L snow jacket over a regular jacket?
A: A 2L or 3L snow jacket is designed specifically for skiing and snowboarding and other winter sports, and it offers several benefits over a regular jacket. Notably, our VECTOR Snowshell collection is waterproof, breathable, and can be used as a regular technical jacket as well, making it a wonderful option for you to dress it in many situations.
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