Differences Between FTX Lite, Armor, and Elite
frogg toggs offers three lines of FTX gear — Lite, Armor, and Elite — all engineered to provide optimal protection and comfort in various weather conditions. Understanding the key differences in waterproofness, breathability, and construction is essential when selecting the perfect gear for your outdoor adventures. This article will break down the specific features of each FTX line, helping you determine which products best suit your needs.
Waterproof and Breathability Ratings Explained
Two key factors to consider when selecting the right FTX outerwear are waterproofness (or water holdout) and breathability. These technical terms are often used together, but they represent distinct qualities that impact comfort and performance. Let’s break down how these factors are measured and what they mean for you.
Fabric Waterproof/Water Holdout Testing
These ratings are determined in independent and in-house laboratories. Though exact protocols differ among labs, the basic procedure involves placing a 1-inch-diameter tube on top of a piece of the fabric. The test measures how much liquid can be suspended in the tube before the liquid starts to leak into the fabric; this not only evaluates water repellency, but it also measures performance under pressure. The higher the level of liquid, the higher the number rating and the greater the waterproof capability.
Fabric Breathability Testing
A fabric’s breathability is what keeps you comfortable during physical activities. Breathable fabric allows moisture and sweat to escape from inside a jacket, pants, or other article of clothing. A fabric with a high breathability level won’t stop you from sweating, but it will help the water vapor pass away from the body instead of trapping it on your skin. Standard laboratory testing for breathability measures the amount of water vapor, or sweat, that passes through one square meter of fabric in 24 hours. The higher the number, the more breathable the fabric; a lower number indicates less breathability.
FTX Lite
FTX Lite active jackets, hoodies, wading jackets, and pants offer defense against the elements, keeping you warm and dry in cool, damp, or wet conditions. These products are made with 2.5 layers, including a spray-on liner that shields the inner membrane and makes the item ultra-lightweight and flexible. The 4-way stretch material can expand both widthwise and lengthwise at the same time for greater elasticity and ease of movement.
With waterproof and breathability ratings of 10k, FTX Lite men’s jackets offer cool comfort when worn during outdoor activities.
FTX Armor
FTX Armor bibs and jackets are designed with a slim, athletic fit, and they feature a Teflon®-coated polyester outer layer for extra protection. Made with frogg toggs’ signature DriPore Gen2® material in the middle layer, this product line delivers impressive water holdout and breathability. The DWR (durable water repellent) finish on FTX Armor products adds another layer of defense by preventing water from saturating the product’s exterior; water droplets will bead up and roll off, keeping you dry through any conditions.
With a 15k water holdout rating, FTX Armor products reliably shield from rain, snow, and wet conditions. A 10k breathability rating reflects the products’ capacity for significant moisture release during moderate-intensity activities.
FTX Elite
Made for the toughest conditions outdoors, FTX Elite bibs, pants, and jackets provide protection and comfort in any weather. Not only do Elite products come in the same flexible 4-way stretch material as the FTX Lite line, they also feature a 3-ply construction. This construction consists of a durable outer shell, breathable middle membrane, and a soft inner lining, all joined together to look and feel like one layer.
FTX Elite products have waterproof and breathability ratings of 20K, providing exceptional protection in prolonged exposure to rain and snow and ensuring optimal airflow during intense activities.
Explore FTX Lite, Armor, and Elite jackets, bibs, and pants from frogg toggs and find your next go-to clothing for outdoor adventures.