Buy sailing jacket: protection on the water for every sailing area
A sailing jacket is the outermost protective layer of your sailing clothing. It keeps wind and water out while allowing moisture to pass from the inside to the outside. The right choice depends on two factors: your sailing area (inland water, coastal water or open sea) and the intensity of your sailing. The table below helps you choose based on protection level.
| Level | Sailing area | Jacket | Typical conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| BR1 / Inshore | Inland water, calm coast | Helly Hansen Pier 4.0, Musto BR1 Channel | Spray-proof, light rain, short sessions |
| BR2 / Coastal | Coastal water, North Sea | Helly Hansen Skagen, Musto BR2 Offshore 2.0 | Fully waterproof, sustained rain, coastal sailing |
| Offshore light | Offshore in moderate conditions | Helly Hansen Skagen Pro | Heavy seas, prolonged exposure, offshore passages |
| Offshore race | Open sea, extreme conditions | Musto Aegir Race | GORE-TEX technology, offshore racing |
Helly Hansen vs Musto: style and technology
Helly Hansen and Musto are the two leading names in technical sailing clothing. Helly Hansen uses its own HellyTech materials. Musto uses the BR system with GORE-TEX on the higher lines. Both brands offer separate cuts for men, women and children.
Men, women and children: fit for every body
Women's sailing jackets are narrower at the shoulders, shaped at the waist and wider at the hip. For children, Helly Hansen offers the Salt Port line in a junior cut.
Layering system: how to combine a sailing jacket
- Baselayer: transports moisture away from the skin. Use synthetic or wool, never cotton.
- Midlayer: a fleece or lightweight down vest retains warmth.
- Sailing jacket: blocks wind and water.
Frequently asked questions about sailing jackets
- What is the difference between a BR1 and BR2 sailing jacket?
- A BR1 jacket is spray-proof and suitable for inshore sailing on inland water and calm coast. A BR2 jacket is fully waterproof and suitable for sustained rain and coastal sailing at sea.
- Which sailing jacket is right for a beginner?
- For beginners, the Helly Hansen Pier 4.0 and the Musto BR1 Channel are excellent choices. Both offer sufficient protection for the conditions most beginners will encounter.
- How do I combine a sailing jacket with sailing trousers or a sailing suit?
- A sailing suit (jacket and trousers from the same line) guarantees matching protection levels. When buying separately, always ensure the jacket and trousers have the same waterproofing level.
- How do I care for a sailing jacket?
- Wash at 40°C without fabric softener. Restore the DWR coating by tumble-drying on low heat. Lubricate zips regularly with zip lubricant.
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