Wet weather gear has for decades followed a pattern of gradually increasing waterproofness and breathability, with a corresponding reduction in weight. New yarns, fabrics and manufacturing techniques are driving progress here. At the same time, new features are constantly being added with the feedback of top-flight racing and cruising sailors: a reflective patch here; a cargo pocket there.
But the next generation of offshore gear will manage all these things without trashing the environment in the process, as more recycled yarn finds its way into jackets and trousers and less damaging waterproofing agents are used.
Gill
British brand Gill recently revamped its collection of big boat sailing gear, although they’re still known as OS1 (ocean), OS2 (offshore) and the coastal OS3. To rein in prices, Gill uses its own non-branded fabric, called Xplore (2 layers) and Xplore+ (3 layers). The
