The first trips in spring are often the most unpleasant in terms of the cold. Even when the sun is shining, the wind is often still really frosty. An oilskin jacket is not always necessary then - a warm fleece jacket or a knitted jumper are much more suitable.
Musto is launching three new mid-layer models from the Evo series for the start of the season. The two fleece jackets are made of synthetic material and offer targeted insulation. The Windproof Knit combines natural fibres with technical wind protection.
Depending on the weather, the pieces can either be worn on their own as an outer layer in mild conditions or as an insulating mid-layer under oilskins when it gets wet and cold.
Evo Thermal Hooded: Body mapping with hood
The Evo Thermal Hooded Tech Fleece Jacket is the warmest version in the range. It works with a body-mapped construction: the material is more insulating on the torso and lighter under the arms to prevent heat build-up. This targeted distribution of insulation ensures warmth in areas that are sensitive to the cold while maintaining good breathability in areas with high sweat production.
The close-fitting hood offers additional protection in windy and cold conditions without restricting your field of vision. It can also be worn under the hood of the oilskin. Raglan sleeves allow natural arm movement when trimming or manoeuvring. Flat seams minimise friction - important when working for several hours. Elasticated thumb loops secure the sleeves and prevent them from riding up.
A special watch cut-out on the wrist allows a quick glance at the sailing watch without having to push up the sleeve. This detail comes in handy during regattas or when navigating according to a schedule. A chest pocket with a YKK zip and side handwarmer pockets provide storage space for a mobile phone, gloves or other small items.
The material is made from 100 per cent polyester and is bluesign-certified. At least 50 per cent of the fibres are recycled. The jacket is available in black and rust (a muted rust colour) and costs 149 euros. Sizes range from S to XXL.
Evo Thermal Tech Fleece: the slim alternative
The Evo Thermal Tech fleece jacket is the version without a hood and is slightly lighter insulated. It is suitable for sailors who do not need a hood or find it annoying. The breathable fleece material supports a balanced body climate and offers pleasant warmth in cooler temperatures.
The high collar provides effective protection from the wind and can also be worn under the oilskin collar. The elasticated material mix and ergonomic cut with raglan sleeves allow natural freedom of movement. This jacket also features the practical watch cut-out on the wrist as well as chest and side pockets with YKK zips.
The material is bluesign-certified and partly made from recycled fibres. The jacket costs 139 euros - ten euros less than the hooded version. It is also available in black and rust, in sizes from S to XXL.
The main difference between the two fleece jackets is the hood and the slightly thicker body mapping insulation in the hooded version. Those who frequently sail in very cold conditions will benefit from the hood. For milder spring and autumn sailing trips, the version without the hood is sufficient.
Windproof Knit: natural fibre with a technical core
The Windproof Knit is a windproof knitted jumper made from 70 per cent cotton and 30 per cent merino wool. It combines timeless design with functional performance and is aimed at sailors who prefer natural materials. The integrated, elastic windproof lining provides reliable protection against cold winds and makes the jumper ideal for coastal and inshore sailing. The half front zip (halfzip) enables variable ventilation and easy donning and doffing - practical when you're moving quickly between deck and cabin. The high collar offers additional protection from the wind.
Ribbed cuffs on the sleeves, collar and hem stabilise the fit and give the jumper an elegant silhouette. The cotton-merino blend naturally regulates the temperature. Merino wool has the advantage that it insulates even when damp and smells less quickly than synthetic fibres.
The Windproof Knit combines a casual look with technical properties and can therefore be worn not only on the boat but also on land. The discreet knitted logo emphasises the high-quality design. The pullover is available in navy, carbon (dark grey) and quarry (light grey) and costs 199 euros. Sizes range from S to XXL.
Even more warm clothing for cold days:
Mission at the start of the season
All three garments are ideal for the first trips of the season. In spring, when the water temperatures are still low and the wind blows cold from the sea, they provide reliable warmth. Worn as a mid-layer under your oilskins, they protect you from cooling down during long wakes or night trips. In milder conditions, they function as a stand-alone outer layer on deck.
The advantage over thicker down jackets or heavy woollen jumpers is their low weight and high breathability. The garments are not too bulky and do not get in the way when trimming or steering. The quick-drying properties of fleece jackets are particularly practical: if water does get through the oilskins, they dry faster than natural fibres.
The three products cover different needs: The Evo Thermal Hooded is the warmest option for very cold conditions. The Evo Thermal Tech Fleece without hood is suitable for moderate cold. The Windproof Knit is the choice for sailors who prefer natural materials and appreciate a classic design.
Technical data:
Evo Thermal Hooded Tech Fleece Jacket:
Material:
- 100 % polyester
- bluesign-certified
- At least 50 % recycled fibres
Equipment:
- Body-mapped insulation
- Tight-fitting hood
- Raglan sleeves
- Flat seams
- Elasticated thumb loops
- Watch cut-out on the wrist
- Chest pocket with YKK zip
- Side hand warmer pockets
- Embroidered logo
Availability:
- Colours: Black, Rust
- Sizes: S-2XL
- Price: 149 Euro
Evo Thermal Tech fleece jacket:
Material:
- 100 % polyester
- bluesign-certified
- Proportion of recycled fibres
Equipment:
- Breathable fleece material
- High collar
- Raglan sleeves
- Ergonomic cut
- Watch cut-out on the wrist
- Chest and side pockets with YKK zips
- Embroidered logo
Availability:
- Colours: Black, Rust
- Sizes: S-2XL
- Price: 139 Euro
Windproof Knit:
Material:
- 70 % cotton
- 30 % merino wool
- Elasticated windproof inner lining
Equipment
- Half front zip (half zip)
- High collar
- Ribbed cuffs, collar and hem
- Embroidered logo
Availability:
- Colours: Navy, Carbon, Quarry
- Sizes: S-2XL
- Price: 199 Euro
Michael Rinck
Redakteur Test & Technik
