Are zippers in the armpits of jackets the key to staying sweat-free? Pit zips are the ventilation zippers found on various hard-shell jackets, usually located near the armpit, from which they derive their name. So, should you consider jackets that feature this beneficial addition?

What Are Pit Zips?

Pit zips serve as effective ventilation tools on jackets designed for active outdoor activities. Whether you are hiking, climbing, running, or working in outdoor environments, it’s natural to produce sweat, even during cooler weather. These jackets are tailored with ventilation options to help release perspiration while allowing airflow to aid in drying your skin. Some may have vents positioned across the back, while others feature zippers in the armpits to allow for customizable airflow.

Benefits of Pit Zips

When perspiration cannot escape, you risk becoming drenched, leading to discomfort and chills from your own sweat. A non-breathable hard-shell jacket may prevent moisture from escaping, resulting in you becoming wet from the inside out rather than from the elements. This can undermine the purpose of wearing a jacket that effectively keeps adverse weather at bay.

Usage of Pit Zips for Ventilation

When exerting yourself to the point of sweating, but the weather keeps you in need of your jacket, simply opening the pit zips can provide relief. It’s advisable to unzip them slightly after warming up to maintain a comfortable body temperature with effective ventilation.

However, if rain is present, consider keeping the pit zips closed, particularly in windy conditions. Always remember to secure the pit zips before raising your arms overhead in inclement weather to prevent rain from funneling down the sleeves and into the jacket—this can be quite an unwelcome surprise.

Moreover, be cautious as pit zips can sometimes be mistaken for pockets, especially if your jacket has vertical zippered pockets on the chest. This can lead to items unintentionally falling inside the jacket, and, consequently, you may lose them without even realizing it.

Decline of Pit Zips in Jacket Design

While pit zips were once a common feature on high-quality hard-shell jackets, they are now becoming less prevalent. Manufacturers are focusing on creating more breathable jacket materials without compromising on weather protection. As they achieve improved airflow, the need for pit zips diminishes, as this feature introduces another potential point of failure. Companies often prefer to streamline designs to enhance durability and simplicity.

Nevertheless, you can still find jackets equipped with pit zips, offering added flexibility for ventilation. If you tend to sweat excessively beyond what the breathable shell can handle, seek out designs incorporating pit zips for an enhanced outdoor experience.