Respecting the Elements.

Respecting the Elements.™
A complete what to wear guide and technical
background to marine clothing.
By Nick Gill
3rd Edition
Respecting the Elements.™
2
What to wear guide contents
Introduction
2
Introduction
Thisisthethirdeditionofmy“whattowear”guide.
3
Fabric selection and testing
3
Why fabric is so important
4
How fabrics have changed
4
Types of fabrics
4
•Coatingsandlaminates
5
•Breathability
6
•Garmentbreathability
6
•Whatiswaterproof
7
•Micro-fibres
7
•Softshell
8
•Testing
10
•Layering
11
What to Wear
12
•DinghySailing
14
•KeelandSportsBoatRacing
15
•InshoreandCoastalCruising
16
•OffshoreandOceanSailing
18
•PowerandGeneralBoating
19
•ColdWeathersailing
20
•Technicalwarmweatherclothing
22
•CharterKitbagselection
23
Care and Maintenance
EvenafterthirtyplusyearsintheindustryIamlearning
somethingnewonmaterialsandproductdesignalmost
everyday.Theseareexcitingtimeswithmanyadvances
infabrictechnology.Ispendmuchofmytimevisiting
factoriesandfabricsuppliersensuringweareup-todatewiththelatesttechnology.Ialsovisitandtalkto
customersregularlyandgetfeedbackonwhatcustomers
arelookingat.
MypassionisstillsailingandIliketogetonthewater
ateveryopportunity.Laboratoryanddesigntheoriesare
allverywellbutitdoesnotmatchusingtheproductin
reallife.Seeinghowitwearsonadailybasis,howisthe
comfort,warmthandbreathabilityetc.
Thefirstsectiondealswiththefabrics,whytheyareso
importantandhowtheyhavechangedinrecentyears.It
alsoexplainsinsomedetailtheconsiderableamountof
testinginvolvedatGillandeverythingwedotoensure
thegarmentsarefitforthehighseas.
The“whattowear”sectionsaresplitbetweentypes
ofsailingandthenwarmandcoolconditions.Italso
showswhatshouldbewornateachlayertoensure
optimumcomfort.
Finallyasectiononhowbesttocareforthegarments
toprolongtheirlife.
Nick
Gill, May 2008
NickGill,May2008
Respecting the Elements.™
Fabric selection and testing.
Why is fabric so important?
Confusing names and diagrams
There are two key elements to sailing clothing, the
garment design and the fabric itself. The fabric represents
over fifty percent of the cost of the garment, and if that
fails then so does the garment. The best looking garment
in the world is not much help when you are battling into
a westerly gale and soaking wetting. That’s why at Gill
we take fabric so seriously.
Five years ago we took the decision to move away from
high profile branded fabrics. Not only were they adding
significantly to the cost, but they also limited the choice of
materials we could use. Most branded waterproof fabrics
were originally developed for the larger outdoor clothing
industry, so when it came to introducing sailing wear
fabrics the choice was limited. For example when Gill
Working directly with different fabric suppliers and
introduced the Gore-Tex® Ocean range in 1997 we had a
coaters we can keep adapting the fabric until it passes all
choice of two materials, heavy and not quite so heavy.
our stringent tests. If the water resistance is not high
We found this too limiting and wanted the ability to
enough after artificial ageing we can add another layer.
adapt fabrics specifically for the marine environment.
If the abrasion resistance on the outside is not good
If you are out walking and it rains you can only get wet
enough we can change that too. For example we found
from above. When you are sailing, water is coming at you
the softer texturised fabrics which had become increasingly
from all angles. Spray or solid waves are coming over the
popular were fine on decks but tended to fluff up where
bow, you are sitting in water and it could be raining as
hook Velcro® had rubbed against it or where harness
well. Then there is the water itself, in most cases it is salt
webbing had chaffed. We could then change the outer
water. Salt water molecules have a much larger surface
fabric to a flatter and denser weave that would resist
area than fresh water and have an abrasive property with
this type of abrasion.
it. You are probably beginning to get the picture that off
the shelf fabrics are not going to do the job as well as
specifically adapted materials.
3
Respecting the Elements.™
How have fabrics changed?
Laminates
Fabrics have changed enormously over the last twenty
A more recent development is the introduction of
years or so. I am not just referring to the waterproof
laminates. A laminated waterproof fabric is made by
technology but also the weight, handle and feel. In the
spreading the coating resin onto a long roll of non
days of PVC coated fabrics, like the fishermen still wear
absorbent paper. This means the coating thickness can
today, the coating would be on the outside. The material
be finely controlled. The paper and waterproof film is
was probably made up of eighty percent coating and
then laminated to the textile woven fabric and the paper
twenty percent textile. Today it is the complete opposite,
is removed. The end result is a fabric that is lighter,
with lighter coatings and a textile fabric on the outside.
whilst being just as waterproof. It is more flexible, softer
The general trend is to lighter, more textured fabrics and
and much more comfortable to wear.
this will continue.
Two layers or three?
Types of fabrics
Conventional waterproof fabrics fall into two main
Today all fabrics are breathable so the choice comes down
categories. Two layer or Three layer. A two layer fabric
more to the handle and feel. This in turn is affected by
is a woven textile with a laminated or coated finish on
the weight, density of the weave, and whether the proofing
the inside. In most cases the garment would then have
is a coating or laminate.
a lining. This protects the coated surface and makes it
Coatings
more comfortable to wear as an unlined fabric may feel
a bit clammy. The advantage of two layer fabrics are that
are the more traditional approach. A Polyurethane
they are generally lighter and less expensive to produce.
based resin is spread onto a woven fabric, a bit like
butter is spread onto toast. It first has to fill in the weave
undulations to seal it and then build up a layer that
Examples would be Inshore/ Coastal Sailing Waterproof
Clothing and Dinghy Wear.
Three layer fabrics take the two layer material and
covers it all evenly.
laminate and add Tricot Scrim on the inside of the
fabric to protect the coated surface. Inevitably it makes
Coating profile
Coating
the fabric a little heavier but this can be offset because
the garment does not need a lining. It is a modern
misconception that lined garments are better, they can
reduce breathability, increase weight and add a layer
to get caught and snagged. Three layer garments are
Laminate profile
Laminate layer lies on top of fabric making
it more flexible, lighter & softer.
Woven fabric
considerably more expensive to produce. The speed at
which the seams can be sealed is slower and the sealing
Laminate
tape itself is much more costly.
Examples are garments where a higher degree of
durability is required such as Keelboat racing, offshore
Woven fabric
4
and ocean garments.
Respecting the Elements.™
Breathability
What is breathability?
A breathable fabric is one that allows the warm moist air
created by your body to pass through the material rather
than build up as condensation on the inside of the garment.
There are varying degrees of breathability. Whether
condensation will occur can depend as much on the
aerobic activity of the wearer as the conditions in which
control dish before and after. This is then represented as a
percentage. (I believe everyone can relate to a percentage
whereas if we talk about 6,000 g/m2/per 24 hours you
are likely to say “so what?”).
A fabric is considered breathable under BS 7209 if it is
higher than 50%. In reality not many companies quote
percentages so it is not always a help.
Microporous Membrane
Direction of Vapour
the garments are being used. There is no such thing as a
condensation-free fabric.
With moderate exertion our bodies give off about half a
Air
Skin
litre of moisture vapour in one hour. This is the body’s
natural cooling system. To prevent discomfort this
moisture must evaporate and not be build up inside the
clothing system.
Water
Air
The most breathable materials are micro-fibres, which
do not have a waterproof coating on them. They are water
Breathable fabrics are made in two ways. Micro porous and
and wind resistant because the fibres are so finely woven.
Hydrophilic. Micro porous fabrics work on the basis that
They are not however truly waterproof. For that you need
water molecules are larger than air molecules and as long as
a waterproof coating or membrane to be added to the
the micro pores are less than 10 microns across air molecules
base fabric.
can escape but water molecules can not get through.
How is it measured?
Fabric manufacturers tend to use the test method that
Hydrophilic Coating
Durable breathable surface fabric
suits their particular fabric the best. Micro porous fabrics
for example, work best in low humidity and at high
temperatures. To get the best results these will be tested
Hydrophilic
Coating
Layers
Water molecules
move through
molecule chain
using BS(DIN)31092 or the “Skin Model/Sweating
Guarded hot plate” test method, more commonly known
as the R.E.T test. This simulates waterproof fabric next
Heat & humidity
are the driving force for
Micro Vapour Transfer
to the skin and tests at 35 °C and 40% humidity: Iin my
experience these are not normally the conditions in which
Hydrophilic coatings breathe through a moisture
we wear foul weather gear. I believe a more realistic test is
absorption process created through a mixture of
BS 7209 which tests the fabric at 20° C and 65% humidity,
hydrophobic (water hating) and hydrophilic (water
replicating the conditions in which products are used.
loving) molecules. The moisture is absorbed through the
The test method measures the evaporation of distilled
chemical chain and pushed to the outside
water over a given period by very accurately weighing a
5
Respecting the Elements.™
Garment Breathability
What is waterproof?
Whenever you see a sailing jacket or salopettes in a shop
When we talk about the word ‘waterproof’, are we
you will see reference to the garments breathability.
talking about the fabric or the garment? Quite often the
Beware however, because this actually means the
manufacturer is talking about the fabric but you mean the
breathability of the fabric that the garment is made
garment. Making a waterproof fabric is relatively easy,
from as opposed the breathability of the garment itself.
but it doesn’t end there. It must stay waterproof over
The design of the garment is crucial to the level of
the life of the garment and the garment needs to be as
breathability it offers.
watertight as possible.
Breathability is reduced by linings and areas of double
BS 3546 states that a fabric must resist water to a pressure
thickness of fabrics, such as pockets, flaps over zips and
of 100cm. This may be satisfactory for walking in wet
collars, reflective panels etc. So whilst we might start
conditions but not for the Southern Ocean or for that
with a very breathable fabric we have already reduced
matter cruising across the English Channel in a normal
its effectiveness by the time it has been made up into a
summer. One of the big differences is that on a boat you
garment. Breathability is then reduced further by what
actually sit in water and it and it will come over the side
is being worn underneath. For example, wearing chest
in green bucketfuls.
high trousers can result in an extra two layers of fabric
in the middle of the garment. Under these there could
be a mid-layer and thermal underwear. All this layering
is technically correct to maintain body temperature and
move moisture away from the body, however, at the same
time it reduces the overall breathability of the system.
Don’t be put off by a simply designed garment. Garments
without linings will be more breathable than those with
linings. The fewer pockets and flaps, the more breathable
it will be.
minimum standard for BS 3546.
Having selected a fabric that is waterproof and will
stay waterproof, we then have to make the garment as
watertight as possible. It starts with the seams, which
are literally punctured by the sewing needles. These are
sealed with a tape that is applied using hot air to melt
the adhesive onto it. The picture above shows how the
garment is fed between two rollers with the hot air nozzle
above it. The taping machine transformed the industry
It is not just the garment design that is important but also
in the early eighties improving both waterproofness and
the fit. For a garment to breathe properly the air needs
reducing manufacturing time.
to circulate as you move about. This is one reason people
in very hot climates wear loose fitting flowing garments.
A garment that is too tight on the other hand can not
move the air sufficiently to aide the breathing mechanism.
6
We set a minimum resistance of 500cm or five times the
Respecting the Elements.™
Micro Fibre and Softshell Fabrics
In recent years there have been two developments in
Softshells as their name implies are a softer more
fabrics that have added a new dimension to technical
comfortable fabric than conventional waterproof fabrics.
clothing. Micro Fibres and Softshells. Micro Fibres are
They are a sandwich of fabrics that block the wind,
fabrics that are so tightly woven that they resist wind and
trap warm air, breathe and resist water. Not as warm
have a degree of water resistance without using any form
as a fleece garment and not as waterproof as a full on
of coating. The advantage of this is that they are much
technical sailing jacket. They do however offer a versatile
more breathable and feel less like an outer layer garment.
solution suitable for the majority of weather conditions
Micro Fibres are usually combined with some form of
and are quite simply the most comfortable garments
insulating material such as fleece or fibre insulation.
you can hope to wear.
They make an excellent mid layer that can be used in a
much wider range of conditions.
7
Respecting the Elements.™
Testing
Gill do not use off the shelf branded fabrics. We find
that they are too restrictive and more often than not they
are developed for an outdoor environment rather than
marine. We have developed our own materials directly
with some of the most technical coaters and laminators in
the world. We select the best fabric for the end usage and
adapt it accordingly.
Gill has a very elaborate system of testing and ageing
fabrics. Making a fabric waterproof on day one is
relatively easy. It is more important to know how it will
perform after several seasons hard use. So how do we
go about doing this?
We use a combination of our own laboratory, Leeds
University Textile Department and field testing. We have
wide ranging equipment in our laboratory for testing
waterproofness, abrasion of materials, artificial ageing
and spray testing. These results are then independently
verified by the Textile Departments of Leeds University.
They have 30 years experience in textile technology.
Our field testing is usually done on Volvo Ocean Racing
boats and the Scottish Sailing Centre on the West Coast
of Scotland. All their instructors wear Gill development
garments and are in use every day from April to October.
Resistance to water pressure
We then machine wash and tumble dry the fabric five
times. (more than most people would do in a garment’s
life) and test the water pressure again. It must still exceed
our minimum water pressure to pass.
Artificial ageing
After that we will artificially age the fabric with flexing
and abrasion. For flexing we use a test known as the
Shildknecht test. This simulates the type of rapid flexing
found when sailing in strong winds. (Rather than the
walking motion flexing found in outdoor clothing).
Again the fabric is tested for water pressure and must
still exceed our minimum.
First of all the fabric is tested for water pressure
Next the fabric is aged in a high humidity incubator for
resistance. The British Standard sets a minimum
168 hours at 70 degrees C and high humidity. This will
hydrostatic head water pressure but at Gill we have
simulate literally years of active use in a short time and if
set our own minimum of five times greater than that
a fabric is going to fail it will normally fail here.
standard in order to be absolutely certain that we can
trust our fabrics to perform.
8
Machine wash and tumble dry
Again the fabric is tested for water pressure and it still
must exceed our minimum. Most fabric suppliers do not
The picture on the right tests garments and fabrics on a
recognize this test as it is deemed too harsh, but it enables
daily basis to ensure standards are met.
us to set a bench mark of performance.
Respecting the Elements.™
Fabric abrasion
Coated abrasion
The coating must also withstand 5,000 cycles of rubbing
with a standard worsted material. This will simulate
the garment being rubbed against clothing worn under
the foul weather gear. After this test the fabric must still
exceed our minimum of water pressure.
Tear strength
Finally it will be tested for tear strength and must exceed
45 Newton’s as laid down in the BS3424.
If you would like to see a short video clip of a product
going from “concept to warehouse” and some of the
thorough testing procedures at Gill check the link on
The next test is for abrasion on both the face and coated
www.gillmarine.com home page, or click on this link.
surface. This will simulate the wear and tear found on
Gill product design and development video clip
the seats and knees of garments. The fabric is abraded for
6,000 cycles against a 320 grade standard grit sandpaper.
Not unlike the decks of many boats! The fabric must
withstand the 6,000 cycles.
More recently we have developed a test that simulates
abrasion and snagging from hook Velcro and webbing.
Many of today’s fabrics are texturised which can make
them prone to snagging. This test has enabled us to
develop fabrics that are resistant to this.
9
Respecting the Elements.™
The layering system
Much has been written about interactive layering
This first layer or base layer is known as the wicking layer
systems, three layer systems and moisture management
and its main purpose is to keep you dry next to the skin.
control. Whatever you might think about all the jargon,
the actual principle is very sound and is essential if you
are to make the most of your waterproof breathable
clothing.
insulating layer. This is the buffer between the warm skin
and the cold air outside. It is important that this layer is
highly breathable and any moisture can continue its
With moderate exertion our bodies give off about half
journey into the great outdoors. Traditionally mid-layers
a litre of moisture vapour in one hour. This is the body’s
have been fleece based garments with or without a
natural cooling system. To prevent discomfort this
windproof shell. More recently Gill has developed
moisture must evaporate and not be built up inside the
mid-layers using ultra compact synthetic insulation.
clothing system.
The material is hydrophobic meaning water hating, it will
Cotton clothing absorbs moisture - anything up to 25%
not absorb water and can keep you warm even if wet.
of its own weight in water. Damp air then transfers heat
The outer layer is where the real protection against the
away from the body twenty times quicker than dry air.
elements takes place and it must be completely water and
Sailing is a sport where you can be sitting still for long
windproof. It should include a hood and collar system,
periods then along comes a sail change or the need to put
protective flaps over the front zip and adjustable inner
in a reef, and all hell breaks loose for a few minutes. You
cuffs. In order to work most efficiently, the fabric should
then sit down again. If you are wearing cotton clothing
be breathable, thus allowing the moist air that’s built up
next to the skin it will absorb the moisture and suck the
inside the garment to escape.
heat out of your body leaving you feeling cold
and clammy and tired.
However, if you are wearing a thermal
underwear base layer it can physically
wick the moisture away from the body
(polyester absorbs less than 1% of its own
weight in moisture), keeping you dry and
warm even after a burst of activity.
10
The second layer, often referred to as the mid-layer, is the
Respecting the Elements.™
What to wear
This next section is designed to help you select the right
When considering your selection think about the
gear for your particular type of sailing. Manufacturers
crossover potential for a lot of the products, particularly
tend to try and pigeon hole everyone into neat categories
base and mid-layers which are such a vital part of the
such as Inshore, Coastal, Offshore etc. I believe the reality
layering system and can also be very successfully used
is not as straightforward as that.
for skiing, cycling and walking.
A lot will depend on where and when you intend to
In addition to the more obvious categories I have
sail. Do you anticipate sailing overnight? Are you an
included sections that cover an Atlantic Crossing, warm
occasional weekend sailor or a die hard all weathers,
and cold weather sailing and the ideal Charter Gear.
all seasons type?
I have created some broad categories which I hope
will cover most of your particular sailing.
11
Respecting the Elements.™
What to wear Dinghy Sailing
WithinDinghySailingIbelievetherearethosewhomay
onlysailoccasionallyonholiday,regularclubsailorsand
theseriousraceronthechampionshiporevenOlympic
circuit.Whereveryousailthereisalwayssomethingyou
willneedifonlybuoyancyvestsandgloves.Thetable
belowseparatesproductsintolayersandseasonstohelp
youidentifytherightproducts.
Gillhasanextensiverangeofdinghyclothingand
accessoriesfromRashVeststoWinterSteamers.Below
Iamhighlightingafewofmypersonalfavouritesthatare
alwaysthefirstitemsinmykitbag.
Speedskin
Compressor Bouyancy Vest
TheSpeedskinwasfirst
Whilstbuoyancyvestsfordinghysailinghaveimproved
developedforTeamGBRBritish
overthelastfewyearstheyhavestillbasicallybeentwo
Olympicsailingteam.
chunksoffoam,frontandback,coveredinNylon.
TheSpeedskincanbeusedasa
summerweightwetsuitor
asamidlayerandundera
drysuitorbreathabledinghytop
andsalopettes.
Whatissospecialaboutthe
Speedskinisitscomfortin
allconditions.Firstofallitis
breathablewhereasNeopreneis
mostdefinitelynot.Itismade
fromastretchy3-layersoft
shellfabricwithawarmfleece
backing.Thematerialisalso
waterproofandwindresistant.
Theergonomiccutofthe
Speedskinisdesignedtofit
closetothebodywithout
impeding movement.
12
ThenewCompressorVesttakesthebuoyancyvestto
anentirelynewlevel.Itiscompletelynonrestrictive,is
streamlinedandhasexceptionallylowbulk.
Themaindifferenceisthatitismadefromnofewer
than15premoldedfoamsectionsandthencoveredin
astretchyNeoprene.Thisgivesthewholeveststretch,
comfortandwarmth.
Thefrontsectionisspeciallyscoopedsoitcanbeworn
inconjunctionwithaTrapezeHarness.Havingworn
thecompressorVestduringdevelopmentandtesting
Iwouldnotwanttogobacktoaconventional
buoyancyvest.
Respecting the Elements.™
Hurakan Winter Steamer
IbelieveGillwetsuitsareoneofthefewrangesavailablethatare100%
specificallydesignedfordinghysailing.Theyhavenotoriginatedfromasurf
ordivingbrandbuthavebeendevelopedwithoneobjectiveinmindwhichis
tomakethebestpossiblesailingspecificrange.
TheHurakanSteamerismadefrom5/3mmNeopreneinagluedandblind
stitchedconstruction.Therearenofewerthan5differenttypesofNeoprene
withinthesuitprovidingabsolutelytherightamountofwarmth,stretch,
movementandprotection.Forexample,TPMGravelSkinontheupperarms
fordurabilityandreducedwind-chill.Di-Guardseat,kneesandshinsfor
addedwearprotection.Manybrandswillforgetdinghysailorsactuallysit
in their boat.
WHAT TO WEAR DINGHY SAILING
13
LAYER
WARM
COOL
Base Layer
Rash Vest
Rash Vest
i2 Lite
Mid-Layer
i4 Salopettes
Speedskin
i4 Salopettes
Outer Layer
Speedskin
Dinghy Smock
Salopettes
Glideskin Top
Short Arm Wetsuit
Shortie Wetsuit
Drysuit
Steamer
Dinghy Smock
Thermal Dinghy Top
Footwear
Trapeze Boots
Hiking Boots
Aquatech
Trapeze Boots
Hiking Boots
Accessories
Deckhand Gloves
Championship Gloves
Pro Glove
Grip Glove
Three Season Gloves
Extreme Gloves
Neoprene winter Glove
Grip Glove
Luggage
Cargo Bag
Rolling Jumbo Bag
Cargo Bag
Rolling Jumbo Bag
Respecting the Elements.™
KB1 Racer Jacket
The KB1 Racer jacket and salopette are perfect examples
of this. The cut of the garment has been designed to give
unparalleled freedom of movement. At the same time it is
stripped down to reduce unnecessary flaps and overlays,
both of which add weight and reduce breathability. The
collar height is lower than on an offshore garment so
hearing is not compromised. The trouser goes over the
shoulder using a stretch material over the shoulders and
upper back. This gives excellent body and leg protection
whilst keeping the arms free.
I would also not leave home without my Softshell Race
Jacket and Pants. Softshell, is a waterproof, highly
breathable fabric. As the name implies they are softer and
more comfortable than conventional waterproof fabrics.
I use the softshell in conditions where full on waterproof
clothing is not needed. It can also be worn as a midlayer
under my KB1 Racer Jacket and Salopettes.
Keel and Sports Boat Racing
During the last few years there has been a
rise in Keel and Sports Boat racing. You have
the thrill of fast close racing without the risk
of capsizing. You need clothing that has the
manoeuvrability of dinghy clothing combined
with durability of offshore gear.
Softshell Race Pants
WHAT TO WEAR KEEL AND SPORTSBOAT RACING
LAYER
WARM
COOL
Base Layer
Tech Apparel Shirts
i2 Base Layers
i2 Base Layers
Mid-Layer
i3 Midlayers
i5 Midlayers
i4 Midlayers
Outer Layer
Soft Shell Race Jacket
Soft Shell Race Pants
Pro Top
Pro Salopettes
KB1 Racer Jacket
KB1 Racer Smock
KB1 Racer Salopettes
Footwear
Deck Techs
Breathable Boot
Hiking Boot
Breathable Boot
Accessories
L/W Technical Socks
Deckhand Gloves
Championship
Pro Gloves
H/W Technical Socks
Extreme Gloves
3 Season Gloves
Neoprene Winter Glove
Luggage
Cargo Bag
Rolling Jumbo Bag
Wet & Dry Cylinder Bag
Cargo Bag
Rolling Jumbo Bag
Wet & Dry Cylinder Bag
The Softshell Race pant is a great “on and
off” the boat product. Warm and waterproof
enough for most conditions, it is smart
and comfortable enough to wear in the bar
afterwards.
14
Respecting the Elements.™
Inshore and coastal cruising
OS2 Jacket
It would not matter where I intended to cruise , the
product that does the job best for me is the Gill OS2
Jacket and Salopettes. Made from a highly breathable
3 dot fabric it has all the features you are likely to need
combined with an excellent fit that makes it so easy and
comfortable to wear.
i2 Tec Base Layer
One of the most important parts of the layering system
is the base layer. The best foul weather gear jacket and
trouser in the world will not work properly unless
there is a good wicking base layer. I always opt for the
i2 Tec system. It is warm, has a natural feel and wicks
exceptionally well. This means after bursts of activity any
condensation is moved away from the body and you will
not feel the clammy chill left with cotton clothing. It also
has a anti microbial treatment which is particularly useful
on long passages. Another feature I like is it is smart
enough to wear as shirt in warm weather. The UPF 35 sun
protection factor ensures you cannot burn.
WHAT TO WEAR INSHORE & COASTAL CRUISING
15
LAYER
WARM
COOL
Base Layer
Tech Apparel Shirts
i2 Base Layers
i2 Base Layers
Mid-Layer
i3 Mid Layers
i5 Mid Layers
i4 Mid Layers
Outer Layer
Inshore Sport
Inshore Lite
Softshell
Inshore Warm
IN4 Coast Sport
IN5 Cruise
OS2
Footwear
Deck Techs
Short Cruising Boots
Breathable Boots
Tall Cruising Boots
Tall Yachting Boots
Breathable Boots
L/W Technical Socks
Accessories
Technical Trainer Socks
L/W Technical Socks
Deckhand Gloves
Championship Gloves
H/W Technical Socks
Extreme Gloves
Helmsman Gloves
3 Season Gloves
Respecting the Elements.™
What to wear Offshore and
Ocean Sailing
OC Racer Jacket
WhensailingacrossOceansyouhavetoexpectandbe
preparedforjustaboutanyconditions.Theclothingwill
bewornforlongerperiodsandsubjecttogreaterwear
andtear.TheGillOCRacerjacketandtrouserare
designedtowithstandtheworsttheSouthernOceancan
throwatyouwhilstbeingdesignedinawaytomakeitas
comfortableasmostinshore/coastalgarments.
Thisisachievedbyselectingadurable5dotfabric,which
being3-layerremovestheneedforalining.Oneofthe
fundamentaldifferencesindesignisthecollarheight.
TheOCjacketgivescompleteallroundprotectionand
withthechinstrapfirmlyclosedisverysnuganddry.
TherewasatimeinfoulWeathergeardesignwhenmore
wasbetter.Todaythatisnotthecase.Notonlyare
materialsmoreefficientbuttheprincipalthatevery
additionalpocketandflapaddsweightandreduces
breathabilityisunderstood.
Crosswind mid-layer
IwouldalsobesuretoincludeourCrosswindmid-layer.
Designedtobewornoverabaselayerandbeneath
awaterproofgarmentforthermalinsulation.Inlight
conditionstheCrosswindcanbewornasanouterlayer
asthewaterprooffabricisfullytaped.Itismadefromthe
latestgenerationlaminatefabricsthathighlybreathable
andextremelyflexibleandcomfortable.Thewarmthis
providedbyanultracompactsyntheticinsulationthat
willnotabsorbwaterandremainswarmevenwhenwet.
Combiningthesalopetteswiththejacketyouhavedouble
insulationinthemiddleofthebody.
16
Respecting the Elements.™
OFFSHORE & OCEAN SAILING
17
LAYER
WARM
COOL
Base Layer
Tech Apparel Shirts
i2 Base Layers
i2 Base Layers
Mid-Layer
i3 Mid Layers
i5 Mid Layers
i4 Mid Layers
Softshell
Outer Layer
Softshell
OS2
Ocean
Atlantic Offshore
OS2
Footwear
Deck Techs
Breathable Boots
L/W Trainer Socks
L/W Technical Socks
Breathable Boots
Tall Yachting Boot
L/W Technical Socks
H/W Techincal Socks
Accessories
Champioship Gloves
3 Season Gloves
Extreme Gloves
Helmsman Gloves
Luggage
See Collection
See Collection
Respecting the Elements.™
Power and General Boating
Having been on a RIB at 20 knots I can vouch for the fact
One of my favourite products on the RIB is the Crew
that having the right gear can be just as important as on a
Element jacket. It is made from a highly breathable and
sailboat. Wind chill alone becomes a huge issue and
supple laminate fabric with Thermore® synthetic fill
combine that with some spray and you will be very
insulation. It is really warm what ever the conditions. It
grateful for something warm and waterproof.
has a hood built into the collar should it be needed and
If it is really cold out would come the Helmsman Gloves
the water resistant chest pocket is useful for mobile phones.
perfect for steering at speed.
POWER & GENERAL BOATING
LAYER
WARM
COOL
Base Layer
Tech Apparel Shirts
i2 Base Layers
i2 Base Layers
Mid-Layer
i3 Mid Layers
i4 Mid Layers
Softshell
Outer Layer
Inshore Sport
Inshore Lite
Softshell
Inshore Warm
Deck Coats
Footwear
Deck Techs
Short Cruising Boot
Accessories
Luggage
18
Short Cruising Boot
3 Season Gloves
Helmsman Gloves
See Collection
See Collection
Respecting the Elements.™
Cold Weather Sailing
The number of times I have heard the reason for not
sailing on a particular day or time of year is “it is too
cold” is considerable. When I started sailing in the 60’s
COLD WEATHER SAILING
LAYER
COOL
down your spine. Today it is a very different story and
Base Layer
i2 Tec Thermals
there is absolutely no reason to feel the cold in just
Mid-Layer
i3 Micro Fleece
Convert Jacket
Convert Salopettes
Crosswind Jacket
Crosswind salopettes
Accessories
Thermal Socks
i3 Beanie Hat
i3 Headband
Arctic Neck Gaiter
i4 Storm Hood
Helmsman Gloves
Neoprene Winter Gloves
Extreme Gloves
the idea of sailing in the winter certainly sent a shiver
about any condition.
The layering story is very relevant and is an essential
part of keeping warm. Included in my kit bag is i2 Tec
base layer, i3 mid layer and the most vital part of all,
the Convert Jacket and salopettes. This range uses a
Thermore® synthetic fill providing an excellent warmth
to weight ratio.
It compresses well and being Hydrophobic insulates even
when wet. The outer fabric is a breathable lightweight
rip-stop fabric that is windproof and has a water repellent
finish. You really are ‘snug as a bug’. One customer
recently reported back to me that she wore it on a mid
winter Atlantic crossing and kept it on for 3 weeks
straight. “It was like wearing my sleeping bag” she said.
Hands and feet always feel the cold and this is
another area in which Gill excels. Whether it be Super
Heavyweight Technical Socks or the Helmsman Gloves
we have a product to suit.
19
Respecting the Elements.™
What to wear for Warm
Weather Sailing
So what has changed in the
last few years?
This article was originally written for the World Cruising
When Gill set out to develop a range of warm weather
club magazine for entrants to the ARC (Atlantic Rally
technical clothing most of the ‘so called’ technical
Crossing from Tenerife to St Lucia).
fabrics felt and looked very synthetic. I realised if we
A few years ago the idea of writing a technical article on
warm weather sailing clothing seemed a bit far fetched.
What was wrong with a pair of cotton T-shirts and a pair
of shorts? The short answer is lots. For a start, cotton
soaks up moisture like a sponge, anything up to 25% of its
own weight in water. Damp air then transfers heat away
were to succeed we needed to find fabrics that not only
performed technically, but felt like natural fibres too.
They needed to look good and be comfortable to wear.
It was a long process, but by continually researching and
developing materials we have managed to find many
different fabrics that meet our criteria.
from the body twenty times quicker than dry air, so whilst
These are the four main characteristics of the fabrics
you might start out feeling warm that can soon change.
we have selected:
• Quick drying
• Fast wicking (moves moisture away from the body)
• UV protection (SPF 50+)
• A natural feel
In addition, some fabrics where appropriate, have a
water-repellent finish. This stops fabrics absorbing
moisture from light rain or spray and gives wind
protection without impairing breathability.
20
Respecting the Elements.™
So what would I wear on a potentially
very warm Atlantic crossing?
Having talked to several ARC participants, they
mentioned that finding protection from the sun was
always difficult, particularly in the middle of the day.
As I mentioned earlier, cotton is out, so any cotton
T-shirts I had would remain below decks until I arrived in
St Lucia. Gill’s Technical Apparel Long Sleeve Tee or Polo
is ideal. There is a cool white colour option, it has SPF 50
sun protection and wicks moisture away from the body
so you avoid that stale feeling when you have worn a
cotton T-shirt too long.
For your bottom half, our Technical Apparel Shorts again
offer UV protection and are made from a natural feel
polyester and very quick drying. Sitting on a glass fibre
deck for long periods can be very uncomfortable so there
is also a short with a facility to take a neoprene or foam
pad. For those who want total leg protection there is a
long trouser version.
Softshell is a relatively new development for marine
it is a smart looking jacket when ashore. An alternative
is the Gill Inshore-Sport Jacket. It is 100% waterproof
exceptionally light and highly breathable.
The fabric is a laminate rather than a coating which
means a higher degree of water- resistance can be
achieved with less weight. It is also has a breathability of
85%, higher than any other fully waterproof marine jacket
I am aware of.
I have included footwear and gloves in my list. Injuries to
feet and hands are the most common of all on boats and
it is always tempting, when the temperature allows, to
wander around on deck barefoot and with unprotected
hands when rope handling. Here I would suggest the
Decktech Shoe. It has exceptional grip with a very flat and
low profile sole that bends around the ropes and uneven
surfaces. This shoe is specifically designed for on the
boat use, and I have never felt more sure footed on my
baby Beneteau as I do in these. I have also received letters
from grateful customers who on long distance races have
caught fingers in winches and are only still in possession
of all their digits because they were wearing gloves.
clothing. Gill softshells are made from materials that block
the wind, trap warm air, breathe and resist water. Not as
warm as a fleece and not as waterproof as a waterproof
jacket, but offering a versatile solution suitable for the
majority of weather conditions. The fabrics usually have
WARM WEATHER SAILING
LAYER
WARM
Base Layer
Technical Apparel shirts
i2 Lite
Quick Dry Shorts
Mid-Layer
i4 Fleece
Outer Layer
Inshore Sport IN7
Inshore Lite IN10
Softshell Jacket
Intrepid Jacket
Footwear
Decktech
Breathable Boots
Accessories
Gloves
Quick-dry peaked
Sailing cap
Polarized Sunglasses
Luggage
See luggage collection
more stretch than conventional fabrics giving better
freedom of movement. The Gill Softshell Jacket would
be perfect for warm weather sailing conditions. Offering
wind and spray protection.
There will undoubtedly be times when more protection is
required, either from wind or spray or just cooler evening
temperatures. The options here vary. The Gill Intrepid
Jacket is made from natural look quick drying polyester
which is windproof, water-repellent and again offers
UV protection. Not only does it work on the boat but
21
Respecting the Elements.™
What to wear on a Summer Charter
and Sailing Holiday
More and more people today are chartering or going on
dinghy sailing holidays either instead of boat ownership
or to provide beautiful weather and exotic locations.
Whilst one of the objects of this exercise is to be able to
leave the foul weather gear behind it is advisable to be
prepared with some lightweight gear and excellent UV
protective clothing.
During a recent holiday at the Sunsail Colonna Club in
Antigua I appreciated having UV Rash Vests and Quick
Dry Shorts. The sun on the water was so bright my
floatable polarized sunglasses were used all the time.
Having not sailed for a few months my hands had
softened up and I was particularly grateful to have
packed some gloves.
WARM WEATHER SAILING
LAYER
WARM
I would probably take the same on a Yacht Charter
Base Layer
Technical Apparel shirts
Rash Vests
Quick Dry Shorts
This would be the Gill Inshore Sport Jacket which is
made from the latest generation of laminated fabrics.
It is highly breathable, fully waterproof, has an
Mid-Layer
i3 Midlayer
Outer Layer
Inshore Sport IN7
Intrepid Jacket
Footwear
Breathable boot
Performance Shoe
Soft flexible luggage is essential for easy storage on
Gloves
Quick-dry peaked
Sailing cap
Polarized Sunglasses
particularly recommend including the Gill Wash Bag.
Accessories
Luggage
22
holiday with the addition of a light weight jacket.
See lugage collection
occasional use hood and is so flexible you do not feel
you are wearing a waterproof garment.
board and there is a wide selection available. I
It features a hanging hook and is perfect for use in the
cramped on board heads.
Respecting the Elements.™
Care and Maintenance
Base-layers and Technical Apparel
Washing and Repair
These may be machine washed at 30-40˚ C. It is vital that
Sailing clothing has a tough life in a tough environment.
no fabric softeners are used as this can reduce wicking
Gill clothing is designed to withstand the rigours of
performance. As these garments are quick drying they
sailing. Regular care and maintenance will improve
should not be tumbled dry. Hang to dry naturally and do
performance and extend the life of your clothing.
not iron.
Salt water is particularly abrasive and should always
Repairs
be rinsed off with fresh water whenever possible.
Waterproof Products
If your garment is torn or damaged, repair kits are
available from Gill. If you are unable to repair your
Waterproof fabrics may be machine washed at no more
garment, we offer a comprehensive repairs service in
than 40˚ C. We recommend 30˚ C for improved energy
Nottingham, England. Contact Gill Customer Services on
efficiency. It is important to use a delicate programme and
+44 (0)115 946 0844 or [email protected] for details.
use mild detergents in small quantities. It is vital all soaps
Lifetime Guarantee
and detergents are thoroughly rinsed off. There are
specialist cleaning treatments available such as Nikwax
Techwash which works really well. The priority is that no
residue is left on the coated surface.
Garments should be dried naturally and away from
direct heat.
All Gill products are guaranteed for their lifetime.
This means that you can trust a Gill product to perform
whenever you need it to. The Gill lifetime guarantee
covers against all defects in material and workmanship
for any product’s lifetime. This means that if after
inspection, the product is found to be defective (other
Garments can also be tumble dried on a medium setting
than what is regarded as fair wear & tear from the natural
for 30 minutes to reactivate the water repellent finish on
life of the garment) we will repair or replace it at our
the outside of the fabric.
discretion, free of charge. The company does not accept
claims for consequential loss.
This guarantee does not affect a purchaser’s statutory rights.
23
Respecting the Elements.™
General Do’s and Don’ts
Use
Alwaysrinseoutwaterproofclothinginfreshwater
Makeyourselffamiliarwithyourgarmentbeforeuse.
aftereveryuse.
Alwaysensurezippers,adjustabletabsandbucklesare
•Workallzips,andpopstudstoremovesalt.
•DON’Tleavegarmentssalty.Saltisacorrosiveagent
andfabricscoveredwithsaltwilldeteriorateovertime.
correctlyfastenedbeforeuse.Gilltakesgreatcarein
designingthemosteffectivewristandnecksealsand
theseshouldbeadjustedbeforethefirstwavecomes
over the deck.
•Alwaysdrywaterproofclothinginfreshair.
DON’Tdrynearheat.
•Alwaysstoredriedgarmentslooselyfolded.
•DON’Tleavewetgearinsailingbagsorconfined
spacesforprolongedperiods.Thisencouragesmildew
toform,whichdoesnotwashout,encouraging
deteriorationofthefabric’swaterproofcoating.
24
NickGill,May2008
Nick Gill, May 2008