How to choose (and how to care for) the oilskin

Boating apparel is not just about style, but more importantly about safety and functionality. From technical jackets to garments for the most extreme conditions, choosing the right gear is essential to ensure comfort, protection and freedom of movement in every situation. The choice of clothing depends on several factors: do you race or just cruise? In what seas will you be sailing and in what weather conditions? Will you be on board for a long time continuously? The recommendation that always applies is the usual one, which is to dress “onion-style” (that is, in layers), but some layers are more complicated to choose than others. One of these is the outermost one, namely the oilskin. We see in this guide by SVB Marine how to choose it and how to take care of it.

The oilskin: what characteristics should it have?

The oilskin jacket (and pants) are the heart of technical sailing apparel. Designed to protect against wind, rain and spray, they are made of waterproof and breathable materials that provide maximum protection without sacrificing breathability. High-quality models offer heat-sealed seams, adjustable bottoms and ergonomic hoods to shelter you from all kinds of bad weather. Be sure to choose a jacket with a good water column, at least 10,000 mm, for optimal protection. Here’s what to check when buying a new jacket:

• Hood: can be retractable, removable, fluorescent, adjustable, lined
• Collar: can be extra high, fleece lined, removable
• Reflectivestripes: there may be colored stripes and inserts at strategic points
• Cuffs: on legs and arms, they are often adjustable on the outside and have a rubber seal on the inside
• Pockets: best deep, often fleece-lined
• Suspenders: there are wide, elastic and adjustable ones
• Reinforcements: best if there are in the nerve points, e.g., on elbows, knees, buttocks
• Zippers: high quality and waterproof, like YKK ones, 2-way, with double storm protection
• Waist: check whether the waist belt at the end of the jacket is adjustable
• Seams: must be welded and/or taped

– Read SVB Marine’s great test-comparison of sailing jackets here –

Waxed pants, often paired with the jacket, complete the outfit for tougher days. Equipped with reinforcements at the most stressed points, they are designed to withstand the wear and tear and impacts typical of life on board. Again, breathability is a key factor here to prevent internal moisture buildup during activity.

How to take care of boat clothing

Proper boating apparel is an essential component of approaching sea outings in safety and comfort. Investing in quality garments, such as waxed jackets, waterproof pants and thermal layers, can make the difference between pleasant and uncomfortable sailing. However, it is equally important to care for these garments in the right way to preserve their technical characteristics and ensure effective protection in later seasons. Washing the garments according to specific instructions, using mild, nonabrasive detergents, and making sure they are completely dry before storing them are essential steps to prevent the fabrics from becoming damaged. In addition, to maintain breathability and water-repellent function, regular cleaning and waterproofing treatments are essential. These measures not only extend their life span, but ensure that the clothing continues to offer high performance and adequate protection in all seasons, whether against rain, waves, or wind.

• To learn how to care for your technical clothing, read SVB Marine’s guide

*Editorial in collaboration with SVB Marine