Zhik's 'No Compromise' eVent - launching a new fabric for a new best in class OFS800 offshore range

by Liz Rushall, Zhik 27 Sep 2021 07:05 PDT

OFS800 offshore range © Zhik

OFS800 Smock © Zhik

OFS800 Jacket © Zhik

A result of over 50,000 nautical miles of testing and refinement, Zhik have launched their new OFS800™ offshore range.

It's raison d'etre is creating unrivalled breathability levels without any compromises on durability, waterproofness and Zhik's inventive new protective features.

eVent® fabric technology

OFS800™ uses eVent® membrane technology, widely used by military institutions world-wide for its exceptional breathability and durability, which has been adapted for ocean sailing. As body heat varies during different activity levels its extreme breathability comes from its ability to dynamically regulate temperature through very fast moisture transfer, compared with other materials combinations Zhik tested.

The design journey for OFS800 began with Zhik's collaboration with Team Akzonobel and the Volvo Ocean Race winners Dongfeng Race Team, plus many thousands of miles of athlete testing since with the World's best sailors including in the recent Ocean Race Europe.

The culmination of three years laboratory and real-world testing, material science and functional industrial design led Zhik to the eVent® Direct Diffusion membrane, a bi-component technology developed for the most demanding breathable, waterproof and durability requirements in extreme conditions.

Adopted globally by professional military, fire-fighting and safety services, the millions of microscopic pores built into the eVent® proprietary membrane instantly begin venting water vapour molecules (perspiration) that build up during activity. Zhik's design team have worked extensively with eVent® to optimise the membrane for high performance marine environments.

This unqiue composite material has been engineered for increased durability as well as protection from chemicals, such as deet, oils and lubricants, yet still enabling rapid moisture vapour transfer. This makes it particularly suitable and better than other fabrics at dealing with contaminents such as salt water, whilst retaining the highest breathability levels required to keep offshore sailors comfortable during peak activity.

The Direct Diffusion membrane is designed for maximum breathability and is a 'dry system' meaning it will keep you dry and comfortable in the widest range of temperatures and conditions and it doesn't have to be damp and humid inside for the fabric membrane to work effectively.

OFS800 offshore range

The OFS800 range comprises an Offshore Jacket, Offshore Smock, Latex (dry) Smock and co-ordinating Salopettes. The design focus for the OFS800 is to deliver unrivalled breathability with no compromise on complete protection for outstanding comfort in all conditions. The range introduces a number of new innovative and ergonomic details.

Zhik's new 'head-lock' hood design, featured on the OFS800 Jacket and Smock, engages the saliors head with the hood so that it always follows your head movement. A unique gusseted forehead lock and three point adjustment means where ever you look the hood moves with you and prevents wind and water ingress inside.

An integrated flexible, fog resistant and anti-kink 180 degrees Hydrovision™ Visor replaces the conventional peak and provides improved vision whilst protecting from the elements. The combination of the hood, visor, high offshore collar and a fully adjustable, shaped face shield that is lined with Zhik's Hydrobase® fast drying fleece creates a highly effective protective barrier in even the worst of conditions.

OFS800 offshore range - photo © Zhik

Articulated arm panelling is ergonomically shaped for enhanced movement. Offset outer wrist closures fit neatly over flexible watertight neoprene inner seals allowing for completely free movement and reduces clutter around the wrist. Strategically positioned photoluminescent Reflexite® reflectors and detailing will glow in the dark to ensure the crew are visible in all conditions.

The OFS800 jacket has two generous 3D utility pockets, a chest pocket that's easily reached under a lifejacket, fast drying handwarmer pockets and a quick access sleeve pocket for accessories.

The YKK® Vislon® anti-corrosion zipper is protected by an abrasive resistant zipper placket. The unique tapered placket aids movement by reducing bulk when bending through the torso.

The OFS800 Smock has a highly effective, patent-pending, quick seal neoprene neck closure, with an inner gusset that is quick to operate and incredibly comfortable. The waist is sealed with an adjustable neoprene skirt that allows flexible and free movement whilst remaining watertight.

Sitting in front of fast dry handwarmer pockets, the patent-pending 'adaptive partition pocket' acts as either one large pocket or two smaller pockets. The hook and loop spine stops smaller objects from moving in the front pocket or holds larger objects securely in place.

OFS800 Latex Smock - photo © Zhik

The OFS800 Latex Smock is a streamlined race cut with Latex neck and wrist seals for maximum protection, an adjustable and sealable neoprene skirt and the same quick access arm pocket and photoluminescent reflectors as the Jacket and Smock.

The OFS800 Salopettes incorporate Zhik's 'set and forget' shoulder strap adjustment system. The system eliminates the need for buckles and bulk. Low profile hook and loop shoulder straps disappear inside the garment once secured, reducing bulk and eliminating pressure points. The straps are lined with a breathable spacer mesh for enhanced comfort.

Elasticated waist adjusters allow for a comfortable, tighter fit and 500D nylon reinforced rear and knee panels set the standard for durability. Two large utility pockets have a reinforced 500D nylon lining for added durability from tools and sharp objects, plus there is a handy accessible chest pocket.