only were we getting the right breathability, but durability as well. Waterproofing, breathability and durability are three attributes that don’t like each other. You aim for more of one and you end up with less of the others, but eVent were prepared to work with us to achieve the highest levels of all three of these vital attributes.’
Kerr says eVent’s desire to trial different approaches set them apart. ‘With other membrane makers you’re buying off the shelf and have to work with what you’re given, to try and make it work as best as you can. With eVent we got a much higher attention to detail.’
The result of this exhaustive R&D is the Direct Diffusion membrane. It’s designed for maximum breathability and is a “dry system”, meaning it will keep you dry and comfortable in the widest range of temperatures and conditions; it doesn’t have to be damp and humid inside for the fabric membrane to work effectively. Nicholson and other sailors in the forthcoming Ocean Race will require greater agility and balance around the boat as it bounces and shudders its way from wave top to wave top. OFS800 is less bulky than traditional offshore gear, with more emphasis on ease of movement. ‘Our gear naturally has a slimmer profile,’ says Kerr. ‘Most offshore gear is quite boxy and oversized. Obviously, the purpose of that it is so you can layer up with mid-layers and base layers for those conditions. You can still wear those products underneath our gear but it’s articulated in particular joints at the knees of the elbows and the hips. There are no buckles and it’s all quite low profile so you're more agile, not as cumbersome. It’s a more ergonomic design and sailors notice that as soon as they start wearing it.’
OFS800 features a number of innovations as well as patent- pending design elements that are a real break with the industry norms.
Head lock hood design Zhik’s new “head lock” hood design, featured on the OFS800 jacket and smock, engages the sailor’s head with the hood so that it always follows your head movement. With a unique gusseted forehead lock and three-point adjustment, wherever you look, the hood moves with you and prevents wind and water ingress.
Hydrovision visor
An integrated flexible, fog resistant and anti-kink 180° Hydrovision visor replaces the conventional peak and provides improved vision whilst protecting the face from the
pending, quick-seal neoprene neck closure, with an inner gusset that is quick to operate and very comfortable. The waist is sealed with an adjustable neoprene skirt that allows flexible and free movement whilst remaining watertight.
Top: one of the main proving
grounds for Zhik’s new offshore gear is the uncom- promisingly tough
environment of The Ocean Race. Zhik’s very latest ‘head lock’ hood design (above) plus the flexible, fog-resistant Hydrovision visor are two unique key features in the OFS800 jacket and smock
elements. The combination of the hood, visor, high offshore collar and a fully adjustable, shaped face shield – lined with Zhik’s Hydrobase fast-drying fleece – creates a highly effective protective barrier in even the worst of conditions.
Articulated arm panels Articulated arm panelling is ergonomically shaped for enhanced movement. Offset outer wrist closures fit neatly over flexible, watertight neoprene inner seals allowing completely free movement and reducing clutter around the wrist. Photoluminescent Reflexite reflectors and detailing will glow in the dark to ensure the crew are visible in all conditions.
3D utility pockets
The OFS800 jacket has two generous 3D utility pockets, a chest pocket that’s easily reached under a lifejacket, fast drying handwarmer pockets and a quick-access sleeve pocket for accessories.
Flexible anti-corrosion zipper The YKK Vislon anti-corrosion zipper is protected by an abrasion-resistant zipper placket. The unique tapered placket aids movement by reducing bulk when bending through the torso.
Quick-seal neck closure The OFS800 smock has a patent-
Set & forget shoulder straps The OFS800 salopettes incorporate Zhik’s “set and forget” shoulder strap adjustment system. The system eliminates the need for buckles. Low profile hook-and-loop shoulder straps disappear inside the garment once secured, reducing bulk and eliminating pressure points. The straps are lined with a breathable spacer mesh for enhanced comfort. Nicholson says he’s never come across another company so committed to challenging the status quo as Zhik. ‘The guys really do listen when we tell them about what works and what doesn’t work from our point of view as sailors,’ says Nicholson, a double Olympian and three-time 49er world champion.
‘They’re not afraid to try new ideas, quite the opposite, they’re really committed to identifying a problem and then coming up with the best way of solving it. I’m always asking for more from them, and they always listen.
‘If you look at every other industry, every other business in the world, there should always be an up-and- comer looking to take the place of the biggest player. It's no different to any record in the world that is there to be beaten, and usually does get beaten. Gore-Tex has been a terrific product, but it's been around for a long time. I think what we're looking for now is a product that can breathe more, that can be lighter and be more comfortable. That's what we're aiming for, and I’m confident Zhik is well on its way to getting there.’ The OFS800 range is available via
zhik.com or your nearest Zhik dealer.
www.zhik.com
q SEAHORSE 69
THIERRY MARTINEZ/AKZONOBEL OCEAN RACING
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