Strafe Outerwear Ski

Frequently Asked Questions

• What sets Strafe Outerwear shells apart for backcountry skiing?

  Strafe focuses on lightweight 3-layer hardshells engineered for high-output alpine use, using fabrics like eVent, Schoeller Aerobrane, and Pertex Shield 3L to balance waterproofing with exceptional breathability. Their construction—taped seams, YKK AquaGuard/VISLON zippers, 4-way stretch panels and CORDURA scuff guards on pants—prioritizes durability and mobility without unnecessary bulk.
• How does the Nomad Jacket compare to the Cham Jacket for touring and freeride?

  The Nomad is built more for freeride and technical descents with a roomier cut, large chest pockets and a storm-compatible hood, while the Cham is lighter and more streamlined for fast ascents, often featuring Schoeller Aerobrane for superior moisture transport. Both use 3-layer construction and taped details; choose Nomad for downhill performance and Cham when ventilation, weight savings, and skin-up breathability matter most.
• How should I size Strafe jackets and pants for layering and mobility?

  Strafe uses unisex sizing (XS–XL) with jackets generally cut generous for layering and mobility and pants graded slightly slimmer; if you plan heavy insulating layers, consider sizing up or consulting the product-specific size chart. Look for 4-way stretch and articulated patterning in models like the Recon Kit and Cham to ensure unrestricted movement without excess bulk.
• What features do the Northwoods Bib and Cham Pants offer for backcountry use?

  The Northwoods Bib provides deep chest and thigh pockets, a built-in belt, integrated boot-compatible cuffs and CORDURA scuff guards for abrasion resistance, while Cham Pants emphasize lightweight hamstring vents, slim leg profiles and powder cuffs for reduced snagging and better ventilation on long tours. Both styles use YKK water-resistant zippers and taped seams to keep snow and wind out during variable alpine conditions.
• Which Strafe shell fabric should I choose for breathability on long skin-ups versus maximum wet-weather protection?

  For sustained high-output efforts, Schoeller Aerobrane is the best choice—its hydrophilic polyurethane membrane and lightweight face fabric excel at moving moisture vapor and releasing heat. If you need stronger wet-weather defense, eVent or Pertex Shield 3L offer higher water resistance while retaining solid breathability, and all three are implemented in Strafe’s taped 3-layer shell constructions across Nomad, Cham and Recon pieces.