Glossary

Arm lift - refers to how much a jacket hem lifts when you raise your arm above your head. Especially important on climbing jackets.

Breathability - refers to the amount of water vapour that is able to move from the inside of a garment to the outside, leaving the user drier and more comfortable. Not to be confused with wicking (i.e. a product can be very breathable but will not wick very well - quite often the case, especially with waterproof fabrics).

Build quality - refers to issues to do with the manufacture of the product. As manufacturers cut costs they frequently sacrifice build quality, often resulting in stitching problems. Not to be confused with durability (i.e. a product can be very well built but not be very durable)

Durability - refers to how resistant the fabric is to abrasion. Not to be confused with build quality (i.e. a product can be very durable but have poor build quality). 

Wicking - refers to the amount of liquid water (including sweat) that can be pushed away from the user to the outside of the garment, leaving the user drier and more comfortable. Not to be confused with breathability (i.e. a product can be very breathable but will not wick very well - quite often the case, especially with waterproof fabrics).

If there are any terms you would like me to provide a definition for then please email me - completemountaineering@yahoo.co.uk