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Why We Love Our Flexshell Fabric (And Think You Should Too!)

Updated: 07/14/20

Flexshell is our proprietary softshell fabric. It is a 3-layer laminated fabric that we specifically designed for skiing and racing use. The outer layer is a stretch nylon with a microfleece backing on the inside that has a waterproof/breathable laminate in between. This fabric is not only super comfortable and versatile but durable and dry too.

Arctica Flexshell softshell fabric in use for teh Black Kat Training Jacket and Black Kat Shorts

Durable

The Flexshell stretch nylon layer creates a comfortable outer shell that is lightweight, yet durable and impervious to gate burn. This makes the jacket perfect for spring or summer ski racing training. It will offer you the protection you need and not show signs of gate damage after your first use. The durable outer shell will also offer protection from the elements the way a hardshell does without that stiff and boardy feel.

Comfortable

First of all, this fabric has stretch. So right off the bat, as soon as you put it on you notice how comfortable it is. The inner octagonal patterned microfleece is soft and warm. It not only insulates when it is cold, but it also wicks moisture and moves excess heat away from your body to keep you dry. This allows the Flexshell fabric to be comfortable and warm in winter and comfortable and dry in the other seasons. A perforated version of this fabric is also used to add extra ventilation in our Flexshell jacket.

Dry

In between the outer shell and the microfleece inner is a laminate that offers a waterproof/breathable barrier to protect you from wind and water. This performance membrane will keep you warm and dry all day long.

 

Flexshell in use

We use Flexshell for demanding high-use 4-season applications. Apparel that needs to be stretchy and comfortable, yet durable and dry, like our Black Kat Training Jacket and the Black Kat Training Shorts.

Black Kat Flexshell Training Jacket

The Arctica Black Kat Training Jacket showing the Flexshell softshell fabric

The Black Kat Flexshell Training Jacket is a great multi-purpose jacket that looks as good on the race hill as it does off. It’s stretchy and comfortable and has a trim racer fit, but doesn’t look or feel like you are wearing a bulky ski jacket. With its moto-inspired styling, it could easily pass for a piece of performance wear for auto racing. Or as super stylish performance-oriented lifestyle outerwear.

This technical jacket offers waterproof and windproof protection from the elements. While still being highly breathable, thanks to the strategically placed perforated vents. The lightweight microfleece insulation is soft and warm and wicks moisture well. The high collar is slightly scooped in the back to make it helmet-friendly while still providing ample protection for your face from the sun and wind.

Once you try this jacket, you will never want to leave home on any trip without it again.

Black Kat Flexshell Shorts

The Arctica Black Kat Training Shorts featuring our proprietary Flexshell softshell fabric

The Black Kat Flexshell Shorts are a perennial favorite for U16 and older ski racers. Extremely durable, yet comfortable – it’s easy to forget you even have them on. These softshell shorts will keep your race suit protected without feeling bulky and uncomfortable. They will also keep you warm and dry too. The softshell outer layer sheds water, while the octagonal grid microfleece keeps your major muscle groups warm.

Arctica mittens on lift chair next to rear wearing Arctica GS Speed Suit and Arctica Black Kat Shorts

We love the durability, comfort, and versatility of our Flexshell training pieces and think you will too. Make the Black Kat Training Jacket and the Black Kat Flexshell Shorts part of your summer ski training kit and see for yourself!

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