Post by bnc on Nov 13, 2014 16:06:56 GMT -5
I have been involved in testing off the shelf clothing for ability to retain heat. Basically a heat source is placed inside an item then digital thermometers placed outside the item measures the temperature rise as function of time.
Most common items measured were synthetic fleece, acrylic lined items, Dupont Thermolite, wool, down, etc.
The biggest surprise was that some fleeces were no better than a T shirt while others were pretty good but the best fleece was only about 1/2 as good as a much lighter Thermolite liner. Thermolite and a heavy wool coat nearly tied but nothing compared to a down puffer style jacket which as like a factor of seven better than Thermolite.
The down jacket tested reminded me about the scarf. The jacket tested has a zipper that zips all the way up to form a high Mandarin style, down filled collar that ended up under my chin. No need for a scarf with that set up.
Down is great for riding when you are not engaged in any activity but I wore that jacket for a walk with my dog at 50 degrees with just a T shirt under it. I was covered in perspiration after an hour.
Most common items measured were synthetic fleece, acrylic lined items, Dupont Thermolite, wool, down, etc.
The biggest surprise was that some fleeces were no better than a T shirt while others were pretty good but the best fleece was only about 1/2 as good as a much lighter Thermolite liner. Thermolite and a heavy wool coat nearly tied but nothing compared to a down puffer style jacket which as like a factor of seven better than Thermolite.
The down jacket tested reminded me about the scarf. The jacket tested has a zipper that zips all the way up to form a high Mandarin style, down filled collar that ended up under my chin. No need for a scarf with that set up.
Down is great for riding when you are not engaged in any activity but I wore that jacket for a walk with my dog at 50 degrees with just a T shirt under it. I was covered in perspiration after an hour.
