Anorak and Cagoule Design
Anoraks and Cagoules are lightweight tops, usually without lining. The fabric is often an Oxford nylon which is waterproofed with polyurethane, and the seams are taped.
The hood has one draw cord around the face which reduces water coming in. Another draw cord or velcro strip may go across the back of the head to reduce the overall size of the hood for a better fit. There is a drawcord at the base of the garment, so you can pull it up and tie around the waist for better leg movement.
Most cagoules are knee-length for better cover. Some cagoules have a pouch pocket in the chest area. When rolled up, the hood or front pocket doubles as a bag into which the cagoule can be packed.
This is as close to the ultimate in rain protection that you can get.
It also provides excellent cover when worn on a boat or the beach.
Swimming is easy in a cagoule, as many of our readers have told us.
Length
Short canoeing cags avoid windchill and keep you warm in open water or wild splash sports.
Knee length adventure cagoules provide better cover when you often go in and out of the water.
Full length cagoules reach to the ankles and provide the best rain cover. They also keep you warm on poolside during swim breaks.
Fabrics
Look out for a soft breathable fabric. Most anoraks are made of windproof or showerproof nylon fabric. The lighter ones are made of silky soft Pertex. Some expensive anoraks and jackets may be waterproof, most are not.
Don't bother with expensive fabrics. They are only slightly more waterproof. You might as well wear two simple anoraks for a similar effect. When used as swimwear all this is not important, so focus more on the feel of the fabric.
Front Pocket
The lack of a zipper means that anoraks often come with a large-format “kangaroo” pocket, which offers easy access to snacks, gadgets, handwarmers and the like.
Make sure you get at least one zipped pocket so you can keep a locker key or small change in it. Some anoraks and many canoeing cags have pockets with drain holes, which keeps the weight down during frequent immersions, like stand-up paddling or kayak rolling.
The anorak can be folded into itself by using the built-in kangaroo pocket,
or packed into a protective case that can be stored or worn on the belt.
Sun Lotion Alternative
If you have sensitive skin, a hooded anorak is a comfortable alternative to traditional sun screen products. It doesn't wash off when swimming and remains wearable after you've been in the water and has good air circulation.
A wet anorak keeps you cool on hot days and feels pleasant as it dries in the breeze. Matching tops and pants make this a practical outfit on land or in the water.
Less Bulk
An anorak rain hoodie with only a short zip closure, or none, is more comfortable than one with a bulky zip all the way down the front. It weighs less and is not so stiff, which helps during watersports or swimming. This makes it a thin and light sun protection swimsuit.
Lightweight anoraks are ideal for outdoor activities where weight could be a consideration.
Many people buy anoraks as a lightweight coat for wet sports, available in popular team colours.
This practical outfit looks good around town,
but is useful for many watersports because it keeps you warm when you get wet or go swimming.
The hood may fill up with water so we wear it up which also provides better sunburn protection.
