LP Competition range jacket (350N) with Transpor lining
April 4th, 2009
Personally I've come to dislike the Transpor lining. yes, it does wick moisture, but it also impedes air-flow, and an unlined single-layer material like Spectra does better at both wicking and at cooling.
I also seriously dislike the velcro patch at the bottom of the zipper on this jacket, as it snags and pulls at the Transpor layer whenever the jacket is not being worn.
The jacket runs slim and short compared to the "same" size jackets from other vendors.
It is well-made, but I wish I had ordered the next step up from LP - the Team 360 Range, both for better protection and for better ventilation. LP is also unwilling to do any custom tailoring, aside from the Long sizes available in the Team range.
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March 22nd, 2009
I bought this product and matching knickers six months ago. I fence three times a week and after multiple wearings and washings, the outfit is STILL in the same pristine condition as when I took it out of the box.
As a woman in the High Maintenance Years, I've found those pesky little hot flashes a real pain during active sports. This suit breathes beautifully and it absolutely, positively, NEVER stinks!
Must say a word for LP's customer service: Perfection!
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December 23rd, 2008
I bought this jacket as part of the competition starter set at the Colo. Springs NAC. The fit and quality are what you'd exect fromn Leon Paul. The full stretch is a extremely comfortable. The unique thing about this jacket, however, is the Transpor lining.
According to its Web site, the Transpor technology is different from other "wicking" materials in thatis is doublelayered. The first layeris the "dry layer" next to the skin. The second layer is the wicking layer outside. The dry layer does not allow moisture to crawl along or flow through it like most wicking materials. Instead moisture exits through the spaces between the yarns, continually moving to the outside wicking layer of the fabric where it spreads out and evaporates.
In most other wicking matierals, the sweat spreads out throughout the layer so evaporation can take place. The problem is, outer layers sometimes prevent that , leaving you still wet. This was exacly my experience with not just the club jackets, but also in my skiing gear that have a wicking layer. I was still wet, but just spread out all over.
This jacket performs exactly as described. While fencing, I don't feel the heat and sweat as before. Not long after an intense, sweat-filled lesson, I actually found mself chilled as the evaporative action took place. I've never had that experience with any of the club jackets I'd worn prior to purchasing this jacket. Further, at the end of my fencing, my t-shirt and plastron were merely slightly damp. This is in sharp contrast to the soaking wet t-shirt and plastron that were the norm.
I'll definately look for the transpor material in my skiing and other sproting gear. Its a nice touch that sets this LP jacket apart.
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