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We’ve all been there. You’re caught in an unexpected downpour, your workout is cut short, or your commute becomes soggy. Staying dry is essential for comfort, performance, and even safety in various outdoor activities.
Under Armour, a leading name in athletic apparel, recognized this need and developed UA Storm technology, a range of water-resistant treatments designed to repel moisture and protect you.
But how does this technology work? And what are the differences between the various levels of UA Storm protection? In this post, we’ll unpack the science behind UA Storm, explore its various applications, and help you understand which level of protection is right for your needs. We aim to guide you to the best Under Armour product.
The Science Behind UA Storm: Durable Water Repellency (DWR) Explained
At the core of UA Storm technology is a concept known as Durable Water Repellency, or DWR. This isn’t a waterproof membrane, like in some high-end rain jackets. Instead, DWR is a specialized finish applied to the fabric’s exterior. This finish creates a microscopic, “spiky” surface that increases the contact angle of water droplets. Think of it like a lotus leaf, where water beads up and rolls off easily.
This increased contact angle prevents the water from saturating the fabric’s fibers. Instead of soaking in, the water forms beads that roll off, carrying away dirt and debris. This DWR treatment applies to a wide range of Under Armour products, from jackets and pants to backpacks and shoes.
However, it is important to note that DWR is water-resistant, not waterproof. It can handle light rain and splashes effectively, but prolonged exposure to heavy rain will eventually overcome the DWR’s ability to repel water.
The Benefits of a DWR Finish Beyond Repelling Water
While the primary function of DWR is water repellency, breathability is also an added benefit. Because UA Storm technology utilizes a DWR finish, the fabric of the gear maintains its breathability. Waterproof membranes, while stopping water, reduce air flow. The DWR finish UA Storm uses allows the fabric to breathe, helps regulate temperature, and keeps you comfortable.
This breathability is crucial, especially during physical activity. When you sweat, your body releases moisture vapor. If this vapor can’t escape, it builds up inside your clothing, creating a clammy and uncomfortable feeling. This can lead to overheating in warm weather and chilling in cold weather. The DWR finish allows this moisture vapor to pass through the fabric, preventing liquid water from entering. This balance between water resistance and breathability is a key advantage of UA Storm technology, particularly in the Storm 1 and 2 levels.
Understanding the Levels of UA Storm: 1, 2, and 3
Under Armour categorizes its Storm technology into three levels, each offering a different degree of water resistance and breathability. Understanding these levels is crucial for choosing the right gear for your activities and weather conditions. We have found the following levels during our research.
UA Storm 1: Water-Resistant
This is the base level of UA Storm technology. Gear labeled with “UA Storm 1” features a basic DWR finish that repels water and keeps you dry in light rain or drizzle. It’s ideal for everyday use, workouts in mild conditions, or activities where you might encounter occasional splashes. The breathability is excellent at this level, making it suitable for high-intensity activities. We’ve found it provides good basic protection without sacrificing comfort.
UA Storm 2: Highly Water-Resistant & Windproof
UA Storm 2 steps up the protection significantly. In addition to a more robust DWR treatment, gear with this designation incorporates windproof construction. This means it blocks wind chill, providing extra warmth and protection in blustery conditions. It’s great for running, hiking, or training outdoors in variable weather. We appreciate the added wind protection it offers.
UA Storm 3: Waterproof & Windproof
This is the highest level of UA Storm technology. Gear labeled “UA Storm 3” is designed to be waterproof and windproof, featuring a fully waterproof membrane or laminate and the DWR finish. This provides the most robust protection against the elements, keeping you dry even in heavy rain or snow. However, it’s important to note that while “waterproof” offers the highest level of protection, it may slightly compromise breathability compared to Storm 1 or Storm 2. We recommend this level for activities where staying completely dry is paramount, such as extended outdoor adventures in harsh conditions.
Caring for Your UA Storm Gear
To maintain the effectiveness of UA Storm technology, proper care is essential. The DWR finish, while durable, can degrade over time due to dirt, abrasion, and repeated washing. We’ve compiled some helpful tips to help:
- Regular cleaning: Wash your UA Storm gear regularly, following the care instructions on the garment’s label. Use a mild detergent designed for technical outerwear. Avoid fabric softeners, as these can clog the fabric’s pores and reduce the DWR’s effectiveness.
- Tumble drying: After washing, tumble dry your gear on a low heat setting. The heat helps reactivate the DWR finish.
- Reapplying DWR: Over time, you may notice that water no longer beads up as effectively on your gear. This indicates that the DWR finish needs to be reapplied. You can purchase DWR sprays or wash-in treatments specifically designed for technical fabrics. Follow the product instructions carefully to restore the water repellency.
- Avoid excessive abrasion: Avoid sharp objects or rough surfaces that could damage the DWR.
UA Storm in Different Product Categories
UA Storm technology isn’t limited to just jackets. Under Armour incorporates it into various apparel and accessories, allowing you to build a complete, weather-resistant system. We can see its uses in several categories:
- Jackets and outerwear: This is the most common application, with various jackets offering varying levels of protection (Storm 1, 2, or 3) for different activities and weather conditions.
- Pants: UA Storm pants are available for running, training, hiking, and other outdoor pursuits, providing water resistance and often wind protection.
- Footwear: Some Under Armour shoes feature UA Storm technology, providing water resistance for wet conditions. This is particularly useful for trail running, hiking, or just walking in rainy weather.
- Accessories: Backpacks, hats, and gloves can also incorporate UA Storm technology, keeping your gear and extremities dry.
Conclusion
UA Storm technology offers a versatile and effective solution for staying dry and comfortable in various weather conditions. By understanding the different levels of protection (Storm 1, 2, and 3) and the science behind DWR, you can make informed choices about the gear that best suits your needs.
We believe that whether you’re a dedicated athlete pushing your limits or simply someone who wants to stay dry on their daily commute, Under Armour’s commitment to innovation provides reliable protection. Remember to properly care for your UA Storm gear to ensure its long-lasting performance.