Technical Glossary — Technical Clothing
Technical Glossary — Technical Clothing
All technical terms related to outdoor clothing, listed alphabetically.
- Anti-static
- A fabric property limiting the accumulation of static electricity, reducing dust attraction and discharges.
- Water Column (mm)
- Measures a fabric's water resistance. 2,000 mm = light rain, 3,000 mm = moderate rain, 10,000+ mm = heavy rain.
- Ergonomic Cut / Second Skin Feel
- Shape that follows the body's natural morphology for a close fit, without discomfort or chafing.
- Flat Anti-Irritation Seams
- Seamless construction preventing chafing and irritation during prolonged efforts.
- Aerodynamic Design
- Shape designed to reduce wind resistance. Used in cycling and trail running jackets.
- DWR (Durable Water Repellency)
- Water-repellent treatment applied to textiles. Water beads and rolls off the fabric. Can be reactivated in a tumble dryer.
- Moisture-Wicking / Quick-Drying
- A fabric's property to transfer perspiration outwards and dry quickly after getting wet.
- Hardshell
- Fully waterproof and windproof jacket for extreme weather conditions.
- Thermal Insulation
- A garment's ability to maintain body heat by limiting heat exchange with the outside.
- Windproof Properties
- Protection against the penetration of cold air through the fabric, without necessarily being waterproof.
- Thermal Regulation
- A garment's ability to maintain a stable body temperature, either by retaining or evacuating heat.
- Optimal Breathability (g/m²/24h)
- Amount of water vapor expelled in 24 hours. The higher the number, the more breathable the garment.
- Softshell
- Flexible, breathable, and slightly waterproof fabric. Ideal for intense activities in cool weather.
- 3-Layer System
- Layering principle: base layer (moisture wicking) + mid-layer (insulation) + outer layer (protection).
- Anti-Odor Treatment
- Property limiting bacterial proliferation responsible for bad odors after exercise.
- UPF 40+
- Ultraviolet Protection Factor: the fabric blocks over 97.5% of UV rays. Essential for activities at altitude or in sunny environments.
- Optimized / Active Ventilation
- Directed airflow system (ventilation zippers, mesh panels) to prevent overheating during intense efforts.