Technology
25,000miles before lunch
You have to be confident in your product to let Yoann Richomme be the first to test your newest technical clothing in anger
Zhik, claims that its eVent OFS800 offshore clothing range, which is made using a next generation fabric, is the most innovative on the market and technically unsurpassed. During the development process, which included an astonishing 25,000 miles of testing at sea, the company took all the learnings from creating its OSF900 ocean gear and distilled them into a comprehensive offshore range that uses the very best of the latest fabrics available. It’s an approach that high-ranking
Imoca 60 skipper and Vendée Globe competitor Yoann Richomme says has produced gear that’s ‘way better than the previous kit. I like the fact that it is lightweight and very breathable. Sailing inside a dry and warm cockpit, I need to wear light and waterproof gear which allows me to quickly react and go outside for manoeuvres. I can very quickly go from warm inside conditions turning the winch handles to being soaked by a wave on deck a few seconds later.’ The new three-layer fabric has a
bi-component membrane and was created in partnership with eVent Fabrics, a leader in military grade breathable membranes. It offers a class-leading waterproof rating of 24,000mm, along with a game- changing 60 per cent improvement in breathability (with a RET rating of ET <5 m2pa/w), plus excellent waterproof durability.
70 SEAHORSE Staying dry for long periods is
not simply about waterproofing – if moisture can’t escape quickly from the inside of a layer of clothing condensation builds up. This is uncomfortable and makes it difficult to maintain optimal body temperature, with a risk of becoming too hot during periods of heavy activity and then too cold afterwards. Breathability to allow water vapour arising from sweat to escape through the fabric and into the atmosphere is therefore as important as good waterproofing. ‘Most people tend to ask for the
most waterproof sailing jacket on offer and rarely think about breathability,’ says Zhik’s Johnny Rodgers ‘But that’s not the route to the most efficient and comfortable jacket – the eVent EVProtective membrane we use is the most breathable and waterproof one you can buy today.’ This alone makes a huge difference to comfort levels. Nevertheless, achieving a perfect
balance between waterproofness and breathability is a challenge that many in the industry have wrestled with for a long time. But according to Zhik the answer is not elusive when a multi-faceted approach is taken. This starts, of course, with the
best possible new generation breathable membrane, which will represent a huge leap forward in comfort levels. However, the eVent membrane’s marked improvement
Above: as Yoann Richomme explains, today’s solo offshore racers need to react very fast. They often go from energetic winching in a warm, dry cockpit to getting soaked by a wave out on deck just a few seconds later
in breathability was not judged to be sufficient to deal with every situation. Zhik therefore also engineered ventilation zones into the garments. These are positioned in areas prone to the build-up of heat and perspiration such as under the arms and along the back. The enhanced ventilation in these areas helps to get rid of dampness much faster than breathability alone. Strategically positioned moisture
wicking linings also draw sweat away from the skin, further promoting dryness and comfort. In addition, these linings are used in areas where bare skin might touch the fabric such as the neck and cuffs, giving a soft feel and eliminating the risk of chafe, even on long offshore races in the most challenging conditions. Despite the presence of the lining,
the garments remain remarkably light to wear and don’t hinder freedomofmovement. Comfort and efficiency of course don’t solely depend on the performance of the fabric – the garment’s cut, shape and detailing are also critical factors. Articulated armpanelling, for instance, gives themost ergonomic fit possible, without compromising freedomofmovement. Zhik’s designers also created a
new high cut collar to maximise protection. This benefits from an active wicking Hydrobase lining and an adjustable face shield.
ZHIK
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