The DuckSkinz jacket, which also comes in brown and white, provides a light, flexible layer of protection against wind and spray.
It’s getting easier and easier to be a huge nerd about what you wear sailing. If, like me, you strive to find the perfect fabric and/or layering combination for every condition, you might want to stock your quiver with a DuckSkinz jacket by Sun Protection Zone.
Made of a stretchy, proprietary fabric that sheds water and UV rays, says the company, “like water off a duck’s back,” this lightweight jacket is ideal for those liminal conditions when you want a layer of protection against the sun and spindrift, but you don’t want to put on something that’s going to restrict your movement or make you sweat. The DuckSkinz jacket has a moisture-guard coating that will resist a light spray, but make no mistake: this is not a spray top. Similarly, the jacket’s tightly woven fibers will block a light breeze, but this garment is not meant to serve as an outer layer for truly foul weather. As a mid layer, however, the jacket is very well suited; it’s made of a polyester/spandex blend that is quick-drying and unrestrictive.
What I like best about the DuckSkinz jacket is the full-length zipper. Nothing revolutionary here, just a zipper, but on this type of garment– the type you’re always taking on and off as conditions change– it’s essential. The high neckline is also key for warding off the dreaded monkey-collar sunburn.
$70.00, www.duckskinz.com
