A day spent skiing or snowboarding demands careful selection of the right gear. Along with your skis, board, and boots, you’ve also got to find a ski jacket that offers the right level of comfort and protection from the cold. We know there’s a wide range of ski and snowboard jackets out there, all of which promise to meet the most rigorous standards. So how do you decide which is really the best for you?
Here at Boathouse Sports, we have the utmost confidence in the products we offer our customers. We also have the inside knowledge you need to make the right purchase, whether you’re shopping for Gore-Tex rain jackets or other apparel. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind as you make your selection.
Snowboard jackets typically come in one of three styles. Insulated jackets offer substantial protection against the cold but may be lacking in breathability. Insulating materials can be synthetic or they can be made from water-resistant down. Next are shell styles, which includes both soft shell jackets and hard shell jackets.
Soft shells offer good resistance against less severe weather and are stars when it comes to breathability. On the other hand, hard shell jackets are slightly less breathable but ideal for layering. In this case, black Gore-Tex jackets might be a great selection to wear with multiple layers.
Then there’s the 3-in-1 jackets, which are available in two pieces that can be worn together or separately for maximum comfort.
When sizing Gore-Tex ski jackets, there are a few essential factors to consider. You must measure specific areas of the body, including the jacket and sleeve length, as well as chest circumference and bottom circumference. Having accurate measurements ensures the best possible fit, while also helping you find women’s and men's Gore-Tex rain jackets that offer unbeatable comfort.
While protection from the elements is crucial, a comfortable jacket ensures you feel your best on the slopes.
Gore-Tex snowboard jackets also offer a variety of special features designed to tighten jacket openings to prevent wind, rain, and snow from getting in. For example, many men’s and women's Gore-Tex rain jackets have cinch cords at the bottom, as well as closures on the wrist to protect your arms from harsh weather.
Of course, hoods are standard with many jackets, and detachable hoods offer great versatility on days with milder weather. Some features can also help you cool down if it’s warmer than expected, such as armpit zippers to increase the flow of air over your body.
Other features to consider are front zipper covers, powder skirts, and pockets.
No matter where you ultimately stand on jacket selection, you’re bound to be impressed by what Boathouse Sports has to offer. Our men's ski and snowboard jackets are designed for maximum quality and protection in mind. Similarly, we provide a range of women's ski and snowboard jackets suited to all types of conditions and needs.
Review our selection today to find a quality product you can rely on.
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Designed by Boathouse founder John Strotbeck for the 1976 Olympics, the Stevenson owes its popularity to one distinct feature: the extended tail. This patch of extra waterproof coverage makes sitting on a damp bench totally comfortable. It’s a game-changer when it’s needed, and can be tucked away when it’s not. Other perks of the Stevenson jacket include a roll-away hood, a micro-mesh moisture-wicking inner lining, taped seams for legit waterproofing, and orbital gusset shoulders for non-restrictive arm motion. The Stevenson has plenty of pockets, a drawcord bottom, and a ventilated cape to further add breathability.
Before Gore-Tex, apparel was either waterproof and non-breathable (think of a yellow rubber raincoat), or prone to getting wet in inclement weather. Gore-Tex jackets use a polymer technology to create a layer that lets air pass, but blocks water droplets. Usually, there’s also a comfort layer that provides a soft feel and moisture-wicking properties, and an outer layer of material that may feature a water-repellent coating.
Boathouse Sports carries a selection of Gore-Tex rain jackets, including insulated parkas for the cold winter months and lightweight designs for the in-between seasons.
The story of how this specific design came to be goes back to the 1990s, when colleges and universities were requesting more apparel to keep their players comfortable during games. One of our clients was the University of Tennessee. As sports fans may already know, Tennessee’s main color is a unique shade of orange. It was quite difficult to dye properly, but we finally figured it out. Around this time, Boathouse was working on a Stevenson jacket for the U.S. Military, made from olive green Gore-Tex. After these orders, we were left with rolls of each color. Since neither of these colors is particularly common when it comes to sports team colors, the rolls of high-quality Gore-Tex simply sat in a warehouse.
Fast-forward to last year, when a member of our team had the brilliant idea to reclaim the spare fabrics and make a new Stevenson jacket. As fate would have it, the Tennessee orange and the Army green look incredible together. We've saved fabric that otherwise might have ended up in a landfill and created an attractive look that's wind/waterproof, breathable, and has extra coverage when you need it.
In fact, you really can't do better than Gore-Tex rain jackets from Boathouse.com. But how long will these jackets last? The simple answer is 5-10 years with proper care, depending on how often you wear it. Read on to learn more details.
Gore-Tex is a layer of stretched Teflon with pores that are small enough to let air pass through. Gore-Tex waterproof jackets feature this stretched polymer layer sandwiched between an inner fabric layer for comfort and an outer shell to protect it from abrasion and friction. Some Gore-Tex apparel has added insulation, and some do not. From gloves to parkas, pants to rain shells, Gore-Tex apparel comes in many designs.
Almost always, Gore-Tex clothing features DWR coating. It stands for Durable Water Repellent--a polymer that's also applied to the garment's outer layer. This causes water to bead and roll off the fabric to help keep you dry. The outer layer can become saturated with water if the coating wears off. It will make you feel damp and clammy, even if your jacket isn't leaking. When Gore-Tex stops working, it's usually worn down DWR that is the culprit.
If your Gore-Tex clothing is properly cared for, it should remain waterproof for 3-5 years. It can easily last for ten years or more if you store it properly and don't wear it that much. Of course, with regular active use, friction and heat can cause the DWR to break down more quickly. The good news is that you can reapply the coating to a garment. It will never be as good as the one applied in the factory. However, you can keep your Gore-Tex functioning pretty close to new with yearly reapplication.
There are a lot of waterproof garments out there, but few work as well as Gore-Tex. When investing in waterproof apparel, make sure you're getting the real deal. Trusted retailers like Boathouse.com have men's Gore-Tex rain jackets and women's Gore-Tex rain jackets for a wide range of weather conditions. They also carry Gore-Tex pants and gloves, which really come in handy on a rainy day. From the soccer field to the golf course, waterproof apparel can keep you comfortable, even when Mother Nature isn't cooperating. And with the right care, your favorite jacket could last a decade or more.
]]>Gore-Tex is a material designed to block water droplets while allowing air and water vapor to get through. Gore-Tex pants are made with this waterproof, breathable material. Other common items made with Gore-Tex include jackets and gloves. For this blog, we’ll be talking about rain pants, but all Gore-Tex apparel works the same way.
Gore-Tex is a flexible membrane of stretched Teflon that has pores big enough for air to pass through but repels water droplets. Gore-Tex waterproof pants and other apparel often have a soft layer against the skin and an outer layer—which protects the inner polymer against abrasion, heat, dirt, and other things that may cause damage to its waterproof capabilities. Often, this outer layer is covered with a DWR (durable water repellent) coating to keep it from becoming water saturated. Gore-Tex gear made for colder environments will also have layers of inner insulation.
Gore-Tex pants are popular with hikers in wet climates, people who fish, people who work outside, golfers, and athletes who train outdoors. Basically, anywhere it’s wet is a good setting to wear Gore-Tex pants. Keep in mind the level of insulation in your clothing, though. For example, you don’t want to feel overheated and uncomfortable by wearing a winter jacket on a summer fishing trip. Make sure you have the right pants for the season--cutting-edge Gore-Tex technology will ensure you’re cool and dry.
An industry leader since the 1980s, Boathouse.com is proud to carry a full selection of Gore-Tex rain gear, which includes pants and jackets. Many of our designs are customizable and make great team warm-up or sideline wear. Gore-Tex apparel is perfect for rowing teams and sports that run deep into the fall, like football and soccer. Boathouse.com was founded by a two-time Olympian, so we know precisely what every elite athlete demands from their warm-up apparel, uniforms, and cool-down clothing. The best part? All of our custom apparel is made right here in Philadelphia, PA. So, if you want the best for your high school or college squad, you’ve come to the right place.
]]>The three founders decided upon a new fall race located within Philadelphia's Boathouse Row, turning the 1000-meter Graduate Sculls competition into a head racing format. This format allowed competitors to race the clock across the 1000-meter course to try and achieve the fastest time.
In the first Head of the Schuylkill Regatta, just twelve women took part. However, that figure was 3,200 in the 2013 edition.
The spirit of inclusion has continued to grow in the Head of the Schuylkill Regatta, as adaptive and recreational athletes are now allowed to compete as well.
While the Regatta began in 1970, it was only named the Head of the Schuylkill Regatta in 1975, after Thomas Ekins, a Philadelphia painter. Eakins was well known for his work painting scullers on the Schuylkill River.
Due to the popularity of the event growing rapidly, the format switched to a two-day event in 2008. This move opened the event up for even more racing, and the new format allowed the Regatta to be marketed as a full weekend event in Philadelphia.
Within the new format, college crews competed on Saturdays alongside elite and master's rowers. Any remaining elite and master's rowers competed on Sunday, alongside high-school and veteran rowers.
As well as hosting thousands of rowers this year, the 22' Regatta will play host to 20,000 - 30,000 eager spectators on the 29th and 30th of October.
With that crowd volume, it is no surprise that the Regatta is deemed one of the nation's premier rowing events.
As you can see, the Regatta event is one of the biggest of its kind, so if you are looking to compete in this prestigious competition, it is important that you have the correct rowing apparel.
To make sure you look and feel the part, be sure to check out our range of pro-quality men's unisuits and women's unisuits, to ensure you get the most out of your weekend of rowing.
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Reflective running gear is designed to make the person more visible. Running when it’s dark is exhilarating but running when it’s dark without the proper gear is dangerous. Read below to find out what to look for when choosing your reflective running gear from Boathouse.
High Visibility Material
Hi-vis running clothing uses contrasting, bright colors to make the wearer more visible to others. For example, workers in potentially dangerous industries like construction or utilities wear this clothing when working on roads or at busy sites. Likewise, runners wearing it on rainy days, at twilight, or break of day--are much more easily seen. At Boathouse, our hi-vis running gear is moisture-wicking, highly breathable, resilient, and easy to care for with a compression fit. Outfit yourself with the best so you can run any time, day or night.
Reflective Material
Reflective running gear is ready when you are. It’s constructed from a high-performance fabric--reflecting light from your immediate surroundings. A driver will see a runner when the reflective material flashes the light back in their direction. Remember, it will only work in conditions where a light source is hitting it. Our hoodie with a reflective gold flag is perfect for an early fall jog, keeping you warm and safe as you head out at twilight.
There are several types of reflective and hi-vis athletic clothing that you should consider when making your choice. Wearing reflective or high visibility material on all sides of your body is the safest choice.
Vests, Shirts, Pants, Shorts and Sports Bras
Every single bit of workout clothing you wear can be outfitted with high visibility or reflective material. The key is to make sure that it’s the right material for the climate and that its reflective properties are sufficient for a safe 5K at dawn in the hot summer months, or on the coldest morning in January.
Skullcaps and Hats
Wearing reflective hats helps drivers see you from a distance. Choose skull caps that keep you visible and warm during the colder months or choose regular baseball caps fitted with reflective pieces. Make sure that the reflective material is placed strategically.
Clip-On Lights and Headlamps
You could also add a clip-on light to any part of your body that needs extra visibility. They’re lightweight enough to stick just about everywhere, making them ideal safety gear. Equipped with a quality headlamp and reflective gear, running miles in the dark on well it route is optimum. But it’s also exciting and invigorating.
Boathouse has a wide selection of hi-vis and reflective athletic and running gear. Check out our collection so that you can select what suits you best and keeps you safe when you hit the trail for your run. At Boathouse, we believe that all people deserve the same top-quality gear of an Olympic athlete, and we’ve been designing and manufacturing it since 1976.
]]>There are key differences between the two. Read more to discover the difference so you can make more informed choices.
Understanding the differences between golf pants and dress pants and what those differences mean on the course can help you choose the right ones when you're ready to play.
Since they're more suited to the office, dress pants are made from thicker material. It allows for a more structured and tailored shape, so they are ideal for more formal settings. That thicker material, however, can make them much more difficult for a golfer.
Golf pants are constructed from materials like polyester, cotton, or polyester-cotton blends that are much lighter and provide plenty of stretch, allowing the golfer more freedom of movement. Golfers can comfortably swing, bend, stretch, or walk. Waterproof gear is made of materials like nylon and nylon blends, keeping legs dry even when it's pouring. Fleece golf pants keep you nice and warm during chilly, rainy days.
Dress pants are usually lined. It creates a pleasing and high-end silhouette not suitable for an outdoor sport. They would be uncomfortable, hot, and distracting. However, golf pants are not lined, so they're cooler and certainly more comfortable to wear, making them a better option out on the course.
One of the realities of hitting the links is that at some point, a player will have to wade through muddy, wet, grassy areas. Dress pants stain easily in these circumstances since they're made from materials that weren't intended for the outdoors. On the other hand, golf pants are often fabricated from stain-resistant material, allowing you to dig deep in the marshes for those missing balls!
When you're on the course, you want--and need-- to stay comfortable. It's an active sport and can cause you to sweat profusely. These pants are designed to wick away moisture so that you stay dry even in even the most humid conditions.
Check out Boathouse's full collection of golf pants to see what options work for you. Whether you're hunting for sportswear for inclement weather or just want to look good, we've got you covered with our custom golf clothing.
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Check out the following if you're looking for ideas about what golf apparel to throw on when the weather refuses to cooperate.
The following are some of the items that'll help keep you dry in rainy weather. In fact, this golf apparel will help keep you in the game for as long as you want.
Outerwear is an absolute must. You need to keep dry, so you don't become uncomfortable or waterlogged. You also need to ensure that your jacket will still give you a full range of motion. Gear constructed with four-way-stretch fabric is ideal. Waterproof golf pants and jackets made out of material like Gore-Tex are perfect. They are lightweight, so they don’t don't weigh you down and negatively affect your swing. Choose men's Gore-tex jackets and women's Gore-tex jackets. At Boathouse, our outerwear is engineered for optimal performance and comfort so that you stay warm and dry with a full range of movement for all 18 holes.
If your rainy weather is accompanied by cooler temperatures, throwing on some layers will keep you cozy.
Soggy shoes and socks soaked by rain will take you right out of the game. Keep your feet nice and dry by throwing on waterproof golf shoes. Bring an extra pair of socks in case they get wet, too.
Rain makes your clubs slippery to the touch, so find all-weather gloves that help you firmly grip the club. It will allow you to swing in the wet weather without compromising your hold. Choose cart mitts or gloves to keep your hands warm and dry if it's also cold. Make sure you keep an extra pair on hand in a carrier bag just in case.
You need to hold steady as you swing. Make sure you replace your grips and spikes before heading to the course. This will ensure that you have the traction you need without compromising your swing.
In addition to your clothes, you'll need some extra gear, so your game is not affected by a downpour.
y seem basic but carrying a towel with you can be one of the best things you bring when playing in the rain. Not only will you need it to wipe down your face and hands, but you can also use it to wipe down your cart and clubs.
A substantial umbrella is a no-brainer in inclement weather, especially when dealing with harsh winds.
Don't let a little rain stop you from scoring a perfect round. At Boathouse, we have everything you need to battle the elements, from waterproof golf jackets to waterproof golf pants. Reach out to us if you have any questions about the gear you need to keep going when the weather is not cooperating.
]]>Performance outerwear innovator Boathouse Sports is proud to announce our first-ever collaboration with ChappyWrap, a leader in manufacturing woven, heirloom-quality blankets that are known the world over for their extraordinary comfort and coziness. We’ve partnered together to release a first-of-its-kind water resistant outdoor blanket collection, featuring attractive designs and premium textiles and fabrics that are made to last. Featuring our unique, high-tech Supplex® fabric, these blankets are made for optimal functionality, keeping you dry and comfortable during all of your favorite outdoor activities, from picnics and camping to boating or watching an outdoor sports event.
We believe that teamwork brings out the best in us. This is true on the river, on the track, and on the court - and it's also true in the design world. When we got together with ChappyWrap, we knew something special was on the horizon. We set out to make a water-resistant mid-warmth blanket that’s perfect for the campsite, the beach, the stadium, or the porch. The result is the new water-resistant outdoor blanket available now, exclusively at ChappyWrap.com. We feel that we’ve created a water-resistant blanket that’s perfect for outdoor environments that can be wet or rainy at times, but also something that is soft and comfy enough to curl up with on your couch while you binge-watch your favorite shows (in our case, replays of the 1984 and 1988 Olympics!).
So how exactly do you make a blanket that is warm, soft to the touch, and water-resistant? The answer is a jet air textured nylon fabric known as supplex fabric. This high-tech material feels so much like 100% cotton that many people can’t tell the difference. Supplex is also breathable, holds its shape, dries quickly, and retains its color. The water-resistant blanket from Boathouse Sports and ChappyWrap features a soft cotton-blend on one side, and our Supplex fabric on the other. This combo checks all the boxes for comfort, durability, looks, feel, breathability, and water-resistant properties.
As you know, Boathouse Sports has decades of experience producing the highest-quality waterproof outerwear. We’ve learned that our customers have very high expectations for waterproof and water-resistant clothing. With this new blanket, we’ve taken years of experience and customer feedback into account. Our ChappyWrap collaboration allowed us to create a blanket that can be used in all the same places you’d expect to find Boathouse apparel. Great places to use your water-resistant blanket include:
Together with ChappyWrap, we also know that style matters. Our new water-resistant outdoor blanket is available in four designs, including True North Navy, Casco Bay Stripe, Classic Navy Stripe, and Fair Winds Navy. Not only will it keep you feeling warm and comfortable, but it will also look amazing.
Remember, just because you have a water-resistant blanket, it doesn’t mean you can leave your jacket at home. At Boathouse Sports, we’ve had the water-resistant jackets vs. waterproof jackets debate many times, and the best choice depends very much on your environment, the amount of time you’re going to spend in the elements, and how much breathability you require. Of course, whether you’re going waterproof or water-resistant, it’s always a good move to bring one of these new blankets along. Head over to ChappyWrap.com and find the right design today.
]]>As Title IX turns 50 this June, Boathouse Sports wanted to do something special to commemorate this milestone, while also empowering female athletes of the future. With 77% of the Boathouse workforce comprised of women, and our brand’s special attention to women’s collegiate sports, we thought it was only fitting to do something special to celebrate this significant anniversary. In the spirit of all-inclusiveness, our Title IX Tailwind unisex hoodie is a performance garment that men, women, and non-binary folk can wear.
Whoever you are, if you want an elite performance hoodie and want to support a good cause, the Title IX unisex hoodie is for you. Boathouse Sports is donating 10% of proceeds from the sale of this hoodie to the Women Leaders in College Sports Foundation. This foundation, in conjunction with the Pioli Family Endowed HBCU Scholarship, supports women who are seeking a career in sports leadership. It’s a great way to help ensure that women continue to make strides, not just on the field, court, or track, but in positions that can significantly shape the sports world and help us take those final steps towards true gender equality in athletics.
The limited-edition Title IX Tailwind is more than a collector’s item. Like other Tailwind performance hoodies, it’s premium activewear that’s engineered for fit, durability, and comfort. It features Stretch-Lite fabric for a non-restrictive fit, a warm drawstring hood with a raised neckline, and a scalloped bottom that further aids mobility, especially if you’re a rower. A large front pocket is great for holding small items, and moisture-wicking fabric pulls perspiration away from your skin when the race heats up. Whether you’re training for a regatta against rival schools, or simply going for a jog on a chilly morning, you can count on a Tailwind hoodie to keep you comfortable and reach your top performance level.
When you need to perform at your best in rain, sleet, snow, or freezing temps, count on Boathouse for gear that will help you get the job done every time. Our GORE-TEX® jackets will fully protect you from even the harshest weather conditions, with innovative engineering for optimal performance.
This truly is a limited run of 53; when we’re out, we’re out. So, if you're interested, make your move. Like a gold medal–hungry Olympian competing in their final event, it’s now or never.
The limited-edition Extreme Weather GORE-TEX® Gusset Stevenson jacket was made to check off every box on the wish list of the NFL players who commissioned them. Exceptional features of include:
The relaxed-fit Stevenson jacket is available in unisex sizes ranging from XS-2XL.
Designed with the iconic “tuck tail,” the Stevenson is an incredibly versatile jacket, and was an instant hit with the U.S. rowing team at the 1976 Olympics. Orbital gussets for improved shoulder movement and an ultra-soft flannel lining made the Stevenson comfortable, warm, and ready for action. For warming up, training, and relaxing, this groundbreaking jacket has proven popular with athletes from many different sports and at all levels.
The Extreme Weather Stevenson gets its unmatched breathability from Boathouse’s flagship fabric, GORE-TEX®. Gore-Tex jackets use a patented multi-layer design to block cool air and rain, while allowing your body heat to properly vent. This is why GORE-TEX® is so popular with athletes who compete in harsh weather and people who work outside all year round; it prevents uncomfortable overheating and helps you stay focused and full of energy. At Boathouse, we carry high-quality men’s Gore-Tex jackets and women’s Gore-Tex jackets that are all made in the U.S.A.
Boathouse.com is proud to manufacture all of our apparel, including this limited-run Stevenson jacket, right here in Philadelphia, PA. This means we can make sure that all of our high standards are met, from the first cut of fabric to the last stitch. Whether you’re a serious athlete who trains out in the elements every day, or you just want a warm, breathable, and ultra-unique waterproof jacket, the Extreme Weather Stevenson is a great choice. Order yours while supplies last, and make sure that a little bad weather doesn’t extinguish your competitive fire.
]]>If you’re shopping for top-quality winter workout clothing essentials and training gear, understanding the differences between compression and rowing shorts can help you reach your peak performance without ever being distracted by or constrained by your apparel. Here’s what you need to know to choose the right option.
Whether you’re training outside or hitting the gym, it’s important to choose the right workout clothing. Since rowing trou and compression shorts come with their own pros and cons, it’s worth considering the type of workout you’ll be doing before packing your gym bag.
If you’re planning an intense workout, rowing trou can help you stay comfortable from your warm-up to cool-down. Compared to compression shorts, rowing shorts are better suited for outdoor workouts, including kayaking and surf skiing. With an elastic waistband, glide stitch seams, and extra lining, you won’t have to worry about anything getting in the way of your next training session.
Meanwhile, compression shorts are made of a stretchy material that conforms to your body to produce compression in your butt and thighs. If you’re running or lifting weights, compression shorts can help improve your athletic performance by reducing muscle fatigue. In turn, compression shorts can lead to better, faster, and longer runs and reps.
If you’re searching for extra groin support, some compression shorts also feature cup pockets for added protection. They provide a convenient, comfortable way to protect sensitive areas while you’re training or competing. Compression shorts are the perfect solution for baseball and football players who want an extra layer of protection but don’t want to sacrifice comfort.
If you’re planning a Peloton or Hydrow workout, rowing trou offer a more comfortable alternative than compression shorts or Peloton clothing. At Boathouse, our lightweight, close-fitting trou are specifically designed to keep your core warm, wick away moisture, and prevent chafing.
Unlike other workout clothing, our rowing shorts are manufactured without a butt seam, which helps eliminate rear chafing during rowing workouts. Our Accel II Solid Rowing Trou also features extra lining and padding to boost comfort during longer workout sessions.
Our men’s workout shorts and pants feature durable, lightweight performance fabric that helps prevent riding up when working out, keeping everything in place from start to finish. This way, you won’t have to interrupt an intense rowing session to make adjustments. Even better? You won’t have to deal with the pain of chafing days after your workout.
Choosing the right sports apparel can make all the difference for your next workout or training session. At Boathouse, we manufacture comfortable, durable, high-quality men’s rowing trou and women’s rowing trou right here in Philadelphia, PA.
If you’re searching for new men’s or women’s workout shorts and pants, count on Boathouse for comfortable training clothing that will transform the way you work out. We offer a variety of training and workout clothing, so you’re sure to find your perfect fit.
]]>Choose from several different styles of custom ice hockey jerseys—each with different design features and pricing structures. The style you choose determines the way we apply your team logo, number, and name to your ice hockey jersey. So, how can you choose the right option for your team?
If you’re searching for budget-friendly custom sports apparel, screen-printed jerseys are a great choice. The first step is to choose a jersey style, including your primary color and piping color. Next, upload your logo.
Once we have the blank jersey selected, we’ll create a series of “screens” for each individual color on your logo. Screens are pretty similar to picture frames: we place the corresponding color of ink onto each screen. Then, we push the color through to create your custom jersey design. You’ll be able to choose up to four colors, with the price corresponding to the number of colors screen printed onto your jersey.
If you want to get the most bang out of your budget, sublimated jerseys are a great choice for your custom team sportswear. You’ve probably already seen sublimated jerseys at the rink. They typically feature eye-catching designs with cool striping patterns or graphics.
With sublimated jerseys, the sky's the limit when it comes to graphics, colors, logos, names, and numbers. Sublimated jerseys start with a black or white piece of fabric, and then a computer program injects the colors according to your design. All of the colors are dyed into the jersey, so you won’t have to worry about fading or peeling after a few games.
Dreaming of the vintage, retro hockey jerseys your favorite players used to wear? Consider investing in custom embroidered jerseys for your team. First, we’ll create an embroidered patch of your twill logo and hand sew it to a blank hockey jersey.
After we finish the front of your jersey, we’ll flip it over to finish the back. We can apply hand-sewn numbers to the back of your hockey jersey or sleeve, or you can really bring your jersey to life with hand-sewn individual letters. Embroidered Boathouse custom jerseys have a classic, old-school look and feel, but they’ll last for years to come.
Hybrid designs are also available to help you bring your dream jersey to life. Let's say you're after a vintage embroidered logo and a striped pattern—but you're working with a limited budget. We can help you design a custom sublimated jersey with sublimated names and numbers—and we'll top it off with an embroidered logo for that "old-school" feel.
Not all jerseys are created equal. At Boathouse, we manufacture our apparel right here in Philadelphia, PA. Whether you’re shopping for five or 500 ice hockey uniforms, we can help you choose the right jerseys for your entire team or organization.
We know how important custom hockey jerseys are to players—and we make sure our jerseys are worthy of the athletes who wear them. Count on us for high-quality custom ice hockey jerseys in a wide variety of attractive styles.
]]>Worried that the process of ordering uniforms will be tedious and time-consuming? Don’t be - that's where Boathouse comes in. We make the process easy with our special uniform design tool and a helpful support team. Our products are made right here in Philadelphia, PA, and we prioritize high quality - so you can always feel confident ordering from us! Here's what you can expect when you purchase your jerseys from Boathouse.
When you head to our website to order new custom sports jerseys for your team, you'll begin by picking the style you want. Boathouse offers a wide selection of jersey styles for both men's and women's teams, featuring a variety of sharp and eye-catching designs. You can find the style that best suits the attitude and personality of your team, whether you need a uniform for basketball, soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, or another sport. The result will be a jersey that your players will be proud to display both on and off the field!
Once you have chosen a style for your new uniform, you will be able to customize a suitably striking design for it. You can choose the size, lettering, and placement of your team's logo, and you can order the uniform in your team's colors. The process is straightforward and simple, and you'll be able to finalize and submit your design online. Once you have placed your order for your new custom team jerseys or custom sports shirts, our company will take care of the rest!
Finally, Boathouse will create professional-quality uniforms for your players. These are carefully crafted, hand-stitched garments that are comfortable and durable. All of our custom team jerseys are shipped directly to you from our factory in Philadelphia. Our embroidered, screenprinted, heatsealed, or sublimation jerseys are designed to hold up for a lifetime of use, so your players can wear them with confidence. We can guarantee that you, your team, and your team's fans will love your new uniforms!
When it's time to reorder new uniforms for a new year—and new players—we make the process as easy as possible, even if it's been a while since your last purchase. Just put in your new order, and we'll get you your uniforms as quickly as possible.
At Boathouse, we have placed more than 500,000 custom uniform orders for our customers and counting! We believe that great uniforms make for great players, so we’re committed to offering the best apparel possible. We offer a wide variety of options for custom jerseys for you and your team to choose from, so don't hesitate to check out our online shop!
]]>Parka jackets from Boathouse.com are equipped with a warm lining and protection against the cold, all while providing a sleek, modern look, making them the perfect option for athletes and outdoor adventurers. Here’s what you need to know about parkas to stay comfortable, warm, and ready for action.
One popular type of parka jacket, anoraks, are hip-length, hooded, pullover jackets with a short zipper at the hood. Unlike your average parka, anorak jackets are typically designed without a front opening.
The Inuits, who are credited with the creation of this style of jacket, lined their anoraks with fur for added protection against the cold, but today's anoraks can be stuffed with down and synthetics. Meanwhile, some anoraks lack any insulation, only acting as a breathable water- and wind-proof shell layer on colder days.
Anorak jackets are a practical option for outerwear whether you’re canoeing, hiking, or catching a football game. From the fit and fabrics to the colors and detailing, anoraks come in all shapes and sizes. Better yet, anoraks are timeless—they never go out of style, making them a must-have for any cold-weather wardrobe.
Sports parka jackets are engineered to keep your team warm while remaining lightweight and breathable, even in warmer weather. Need to stay warm before your next heat? Waterproof swim parkas are the perfect poolside sports apparel. These same designs can double as rugged outdoor gear that can keep you protected from the rain and wind—even during the roughest rainstorms.
Manufactured with elite athletes in mind, our top-quality parkas come equipped with innovative features, including hoods that can trap body heat and comfortable lining materials. If you’re looking to keep your squad warm on cold days, our winter outerwear can help your athletes look the part without sacrificing their comfort.
Teams that dress together perform better—whether you’re warming up for your next soccer match, stretching before practice, or strategizing with the coach.
At Boathouse, we make it easy to bring your design vision to life with custom outerwear that showcases your team’s colors, logo, and lettering. To design a custom parka jacket for your team or organization, all you have to do is upload your design or use our online tool.
When you choose custom jackets, you’re opening yourself up to a new world of personalization options. You can create a sleek, all-black parka with your team’s logo for style points, or you can design an old-school parka with knit colors matching your team’s colors. Custom parka jackets are a great way to turn up the heat on the field with captivating, head-turning designs and unrivaled comfort. When it comes to design options, the possibilities are nearly endless.
Choosing the right parka jacket can make all the difference during your next hiking trip, soccer game, or outdoor adventure. At Boathouse.com, we manufacture top-quality jackets right here in Philadelphia, PA.
Whether you’re shopping for a new sports parka jacket or custom parka jackets for your whole team, rely on Boathouse for apparel that will last for years to come.
]]>There are differences in performance hoodies when you compare designs for men and designs for women. However, unisex hoodies - like the Tailwind unisex hoodies from Boathouse.com - minimize those differences and offer apparel that will look great on both men and women. Generally speaking, unisex sizes are men’s sizes. If you’re a guy and you wear a medium, choose a medium. If you’re a woman and would like a snug fit typical of modern activewear, choose a size down from what you normally wear. If you’d like a looser “boyfriend-style” fit, or want something baggier for lounging around your home, select the same size you would normally buy, just be advised that it may feel a bit bulky.
Here’s a sizing chart with standard unisex hoodie measurements in U.S. inches that can help you make your decision if you’re still unsure what size will be best:
|
XS |
S |
M |
L |
XL |
2XL |
Chest |
32-34 |
36-38 |
40-42 |
42-44 |
46-48 |
48-50 |
Waist |
28-30 |
30-32 |
32-33 |
33-34 |
36-38 |
40-42 |
Sleeve |
31 ½ |
32 ⅛ |
32 ⅝ |
33 ¼ |
33 ¾ |
34 ⅜ |
The latest performance unisex hoodies are premium athletic gear made to be super-comfortable and versatile. Even if you’re not training for a marathon or a championship match, you’ll still appreciate the added perks of this high-tech apparel. From fabric that’s designed to wick moisture away from your skin while remaining soft to the touch and highly breathable, to 4-way stretch construction that won’t restrict your motion, new designs like the Tailwind from Boathouse.com are engineered to feel good and keep you focused. Drawcord closures, elastic cuffs, durable stitching, and convenient pockets are other design elements that make the latest unisex hoodies stand out from the pack.
Not all unisex hoodies are created the same. At Boathouse.com, we manufacture our apparel right here in Philadelphia, PA, which means we can keep a close eye on the entire manufacturing process. We know how key elite sportswear is to world-class athletes, and we make sure our clothing is worthy of the competitors who wear it. Rely on us for high-quality hoodies in a wide variety of sizes. Size not right? Take advantage of our free returns and exchanges to get the perfect fit.
]]>As of the 2020 (well, 2021 really) Tokyo games, there are 7 types of rowing events. They feature both sweep rowing events and sculling. Since 1976 there have been events for both men and women, which takes the grand total to 14 events for this year’s games.
Here are the different Olympic rowing events:
Though some events like men’s eights with a coxswain have been part of the Olympics since rowing was introduced in 1900, there have been some changes along the way. One of the best examples is the inrigger competition of 1912. Featuring inrigger shells which have the oarlock directly attached to the gunwale, this event lasted for only one Olympiad. Other events had a much longer lifespan; pairs with coxswain and fours with coxswain were a fixture in the games from 1900 all the way up until 1992.
In the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the United States has qualified for 9 overall events. This is impressive, because though the U.S. has historically done quite well at rowing, the modern era of the sport is dominated by Germany, the U.K., and New Zealand. Seven women’s teams and two men’s teams will compete in this year’s games. This year, the U.S. was the only country to qualify for all 7 women’s events. The men’s team will compete in Coxless Fours, (or simply, Fours), and Eights. The outlook for team U.S.A. is good, especially for the women. It’s likely they’ll bring home some medals this year!
Your squad may not be quite ready for an Olympic regatta, but that doesn’t mean you can’t train and race in elite athleticwear. At Boathouse.com, you’ll find rowing clothing for crew that’s made to meet the highest manufacturing and performance standards. Our company was founded by Olympic rower John Strotbeck, so we know exactly what you're looking for in rowing apparel. Lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking, non-restrictive, and tailored to prevent chafing, our rowing unisuits for crew are engineered for the heat of competition.
If you want new uniforms for your school or club, our rowing apparel is fully customizable. Because we make our clothing right here in Philadelphia, USA, we can ensure the highest standard of quality and offer industry best turnaround times. Outfit your team with championship-worthy unisuits today.
]]>Here’s a brief list of the main differences between women’s and men’s hoodies, with more info to follow:
Sizing
For starters, the most obvious difference between men’s and women’s designs is the sizing. Women’s sizes run considerably smaller than men’s sizes, and it’s always smart to check a sizing chart, especially if you’re purchasing a hoodie as a gift. Unisex hoodies are based on men’s sizes, so if you’re a woman, plan on buying a size smaller than you usually wear. In the past, hooded sweatshirts have often been somewhat baggy and formless. Modern hoodies, however, are much more streamlined, stylish, and non-bulky, whether you’re buying men’s, women’s, or unisex.
Men’s and women’s bodies can differ greatly in shape, and non-unisex hoodies are tailored to reflect this. Generally, women’s performance hoodies are designed to fit a naturally more curvy body, while men’s hoodies are more rectangular. Women’s hoodies are often cut to be a little more snug-fitting, whereas men’s are a little looser, but there are plenty of exceptions to this rule. Traditionally, men’s zip-up hoodies will feature the zipper tab on the right side, while a women’s zipper tab will be on the left side, though today, it’s not always the case.
Unisex designs are another versatile option. Similar to men’s designs, and made from stretchable fabric that can comfortably conform to a woman’s curves, unisex hoodies are always top sellers. In fact, many athletes prefer these designs to men’s or women’s designs. Like any other clothing, the “right” hoodie for you will have a lot to do with your fit preference and your personal style. What’s most important is that you feel comfortable, whether you’re training for a marathon or curled up on the couch.
Whatever style you choose, quality still matters. From unisex performance hoodies, to designs for men and women, hoodies from Boathouse.com are made to meet the high standards that today’s elite athletes demand. They’re soft to the touch, yet highly durable, and engineered to help you manage perspiration and temperature while you exercise. Non-restrictive and non-bulky, they won’t hold you back or get in your way while you're stretching out or rowing towards the finish line. Founded by Olympic rower John Strotbeck and made right here in Philadelphia, PA, Boathouse.com hoodies are premium activewear that will help you reach your potential as a competitor.
]]>Usually, this is a porous fabric that's covered with a durable water resistant (DWR) coating. This DWR layer repels moisture. In light rain, it will cause water droplets to ball up and run off your jacket instead of getting absorbed into the fabric. Though protection against rain and snow isn't as good as with a waterproof jacket, water-resistant garments are usually more breathable, weigh less, and are available at a more affordable price point.
Non-porous materials like rubber or plastic are completely waterproof but also offer very limited breathability. Apparel made from multiple layers of synthetic membranes coated with DWR, like GORE-TEX waterproof rain jackets, solves this problem by using the latest in fabric technology to create clothing that is nearly 100% waterproof and still offers a good amount of breathability. Expect to pay more for waterproof apparel that is also breathable.
In addition to this high-tech fabric, waterproof apparel also has taped or welded seams. This prevents water from leaking in at the garment’s weak points.
If you’re planning on spending a lot of time outdoors in less than perfect weather conditions, you probably want to invest in a waterproof jacket. Hikers, campers, athletes who train every day, rain or shine, and people who work outdoors or live in very rainy climates will definitely benefit from a fully waterproof jacket.
If you occasionally jog, train, or work out in light rain or misty conditions, apparel like water-resistant tracksuit jackets from Boathouse.com’s Tempo collection will help you stay dry and comfortable.
Both water-resistant and waterproof jackets make excellent outer shells when worn on top of a hoodie or fleece, and can be easily rolled up and tucked into your gym bag or backpack.
Whether you choose a lightweight water-resistant jacket, or one that’s fully waterproof, you'll find that quality manufacturing makes a huge difference when it comes to effectiveness and performance. Boathouse.com manufactures all of our apparel right here in Philadelphia, PA. Handcrafted and made from cutting-edge fabrics, our water-resistant and waterproof clothing is engineered to meet the needs and expectations of today’s elite athletes. We offer full customization options on a variety of activewear, including many water-resistant and waterproof designs, which makes us a popular supplier of team apparel for many NCAA Division I programs, as well as smaller schools and club teams. Place your order today and enjoy industry-best turnaround times on all custom apparel.
]]>GORE-TEX. It’s a word you’ve undoubtedly heard if you’ve ever shopped for performance outerwear. But what exactly is this high-tech fabric, and why are GORE-TEX jackets so popular with outdoor athletes? Read on and learn what makes GORE-TEX rain jackets so popular. We’ll try to explain what makes this material so effective at blocking water, without going too deep into the impressive science at work behind the scenes.
Waterproof materials like plastic and rubber have been around for decades, or even centuries, but they have one major drawback: they aren’t breathable at all. GORE-TEX, on the other hand, is both waterproof and breathable. Made from stretched polymers, GORE-TEX has microscopic pores. They are small enough to prevent water droplets from getting in, but large enough to allow for water vapor and air to pass out. Usually, this polymer membrane is paired with additional layers, including a polyester or nylon outer layer that provides durability, as well as inner layers that provide added warmth and softness as needed.
The outer layer usually features an additional durable water-resistant (DWR) coating that prevents water from being absorbed. GORE-TEX waterproof jackets also have either taped or welded seams to prevent water from leaking where pieces of fabric are joined together, as well as flapped zippers.
The result is apparel that will allow you to vent body heat while still protecting you from rain and snow. This makes GORE-TEX a fabric popular with athletes who train every day regardless of weather, hikers and campers who trek into areas with unpredictable weather patterns, and anyone who lives in a place that experiences rain or snow.
Whether you’re stretching out before a match on a damp fall day, or running errands around town during a rainstorm, you’ll find jackets made from GORE-TEX are an effective barrier against wetness, and still remarkably comfortable to wear.
Licensed to produce GORE-TEX fabric, Boathouse.com brings decades of experience with handcrafted manufacturing to make sure all of our waterproof jackets meet the highest standards for fit, function, and looks. Men’s GORE-TEX jackets are available with Sport Fleece™ or Weatherblock™ lining, depending on how much warmth you require. Breathable, yet windproof, they also feature rollaway hoods for extra protection.
Find Women’s GORE-TEX Jackets at Boathouse (H2) Looking for a design that’s tailored for a woman’s body? Women’s GORE-TEX jackets from Boathouse.com are crafted with your body in mind. They provide extra space where you need it, yet feature a non-bulky, athletic fit. Like the men’s designs, they are completely waterproof, windproof, breathable, and feature zipper flaps and sealed seams.
If you’re looking for excellent waterproof clothing for your squad, you’ve come to the right place.
A proud supplier of NCAA athletic programs, Boathouse.com offers many customization options on GORE-TEX jackets and pants. Since we make our apparel in Philadelphia, we can offer some of the shortest turnaround times in the industry for all custom orders. Start off your season with championship-level apparel from Boathouse.com.
]]>A hard shell jacket is any waterproof, windproof jacketed designed to keep you dry in rain. There are a lot of fabrics used to manufacture these weatherproof jackets, ranging from silnylon and PVC raincoats, but here at Boathouse we use the best of the best–Gore-Tex®–but more on that later. Obviously, since this type of jacket is designed specifically as a waterproof, weatherproof barrier to keep the wearer warm and dry, Hard shells also tend to have hoods (any jacket claiming to be a hard shell that doesn’t include a hood so no be considered). The best hard shell jackets are light and packable and are a better choice than a soft shell jacket when weight and space are an issue.
Hard shells jackets are arguably the most versatile jacket for winter weather because it can be used year round. They are typically lightweight and breathable, especially our Gore-Tex performance rain gear, so they are ideal for protection against spring showers and summer thunderstorms as well as winter snowstorms. Also known as “outer shells” during the winter seasons, you can layer a hard shell jacket on top of a warm and water resistant soft shell (like our equinox and elevate jackets) for ultimate warmth and protection when shoveling snow, skiing, snowboarding, or any other outdoor winter activities.
Gore-Tex is the most effective weatherproofing fabric in the industry. Its membrane is completely water-resistant and is guaranteed to keep you dry. The fabric also allows ventilation by letting perspiration pass through from within, giving you an unbeatable combination of waterproof, windproof and breathable weather protection.
Boathouse Gore-Tex jackets can be fully customized from a range of colors to suit your individual needs. Features include roll away hoods for protection from rain, with storm flapped zippers and pockets to ensure the jacket completely seals out the elements.
Boathouse offers 3 main hard shell jackets for men: the waterproof Gore-Tex Blitz jacket, the waterproof Gore-Tex Barrier Jacket and the Waterproof Gore-Tex Stevenson. These jackets aren’t necessarily for men only, as all of our hard shells are unisex (except the waterproof Dare Jacket which is designed exclusively for a women’s silhouette – more on that in the following paragraph)
The waterproof Blitz Jacket is our best selling jacket. In addition to the enhanced features that come standard on Boathouse elite performance outerwear like the orbital shoulder gusset and cape, our customers love the extra waterproofing like sealed seams and storm flapped zippers (most other brands don’t provide this level of waterproofing). The blitz jacket is available retail in 8 in-stock and ready to ship colors OR you can customize it for your team or group.
The waterproof Barrier Jacket is the Blitz Jacket with the addition of an upper right front jacket pocket. It offers all the same weatherproof protection as the Blitz with a little extra utility and style.
The waterproof Stevenson Jacket is a hard shell jacket with a “tail”. This jacket design was originally created for rowers who had to sit for hours on very wet seats. To provide some extra cushion and a dry surface to sit on the designers of this jacket extended the back about 8” which kept rowers backsides warmer and drier than any other jacket on the market. This added utility was not just great for rowers, but for athletes of all types who had to sit on clod benches, bleachers, or other surfaces during inclement weather.
While we offer the same unisex Barrier, Blitz and Stevenson jackets for women as we do men, Boathouse created the waterproof Gore-Tex Dare Jacket specifically with a woman’s body type in mind. While the men’s and unisex jackets are boxy and straight, the women’s Gore-Tex waterproof Dare jacket is produced with a more tapered, curvy fit for a feminine silhouette. The Dare jacket is more appealing in look and style for women with all the same weatherproofing features as our classic unisex Gore-Tex styles.
Our jackets are available to be customized online for your group or team online and produced in our vertically integrated factory. All Boathouse outerwear is American made and ships factory direct from Philadelphia, USA. Shop our curated collection of hard shell jackets today at Boathouse.com.
]]>Let’s start things off with a brief overview of windbreakers. These jackets are lightweight in nature, weighing in at about 1.8 oz. (half the weight of a winter jacket according to PARCL). Being so lightweight makes them perfect for use as a layering piece when there is a slight chill in the air, such as spring or fall. They should be retired to the closet when temperatures hit less than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Fun fact: the purpose of a windbreaker jacket is to provide a barrier that slows convective heat loss that that occurs when there is movement in the air.
We’re going to be flat out honest here – we don’t like referring to our Mission Pullovers and Victory Jackets as “windbreaker jackets” because they are so much better than your typical, run-of-the-mill windbreaker. Only our windbreakers include unique features like our signature Orbital Shoulder Gusset© which provides maximum movability and an enhanced and unrestricted range of motion, and an open cape for ventilation. However, let’s be honest…by definition and style our Mission and Victory are really, really good windbreakers.
Our windbreakers are made of our lightweight supplex fabric. This American-made technical fabric is moderately water-resistant and highly breathable, which makes it the fabric of choice for athletes everywhere. We have plenty of Boathouse classic windbreaker jackets to choose from.
Our Mission jackets are quarter zip pullover windbreakers designed to be functional and fashionable. In contrast to our Victory full-zip jacket, this windbreaker design allows for easy over-the-head access pull this jacket over your head for quick and easy. A lot of our customers prefer the quarter zip look and the easy of putting on/taking off without having to fully zip/unzip.
Another fun fact: Windbreakers are called Windcheaters in England!
Athletes love our Mission and Victory Windbreaker jackets because of the enhanced range of motion due to the cutting-edge orbital shoulder gusset© and the ventilation from the open cape. But what really makes these jackets stand out is that they are Made right here in Philadelphia, USA. You heard that right – windbreaker jackets that are made in America by hard working Americans.
Both our Mission Pullover and Victory Jacket windbreakers are available for both men and women. The only difference being that the women’s windbreaker pullover styles have a more tapered, less boxy fit than the men’s pullover windbreaker version.
Boathouse has a variety of men’s and women’s windbreaker jackets. Shop our selection of windbreaker jackets now.
]]>Soft shell is a type of outerwear that’s more breathable, stretchy and comfortable than typical waterproof jackets (commonly referred to as “hard shells”) like Gore-Tex jackets. The fabric is usually a warm material such as fleece or our very own Equinox 3-layer soft shell fabric. A soft shell jacket is the preferred choice in outerwear for outdoorsmen and women who enjoy high output athletic activities like climbing, biking, skiing, and snowboarding because the material is much more breathable than a hard shell (aka you won’t be a sweaty, hot mess when you take off your jacket). Soft shells offer more weather resistance and warmth than typical mid-layers like fleeces, and more comfort and maneuverability than a traditional hard shell jacket.
Soft shells are typically more breathable and comfortable than hard shell jackets. They are also more fitting to your body, and have enough stretch to move naturally with you, whereas traditional hard shells are restricting and reduce your range of motion. What athletes really like about soft shell is that if they work up a sweat the breathable material will allow the moisture to escape, whereas hard shell jackets lock moisture and leave the wearer oftentimes sweaty and wet.
While soft shell jackets offer protection against moisture, we refer to them as “water-resistant” instead of “waterproof”. This is because soft shell fabrics have a durable water repellent (DWR) coating that keeps moisture from penetrating the fabric initially, but after long periods of time the moisture will soak through the woven fabric.
Our Zenith soft shell fabric is highly water resistant. It has a unique 3 layer construction that includes a tough woven shell for water repellency, a soft brushed liner for comfort and warmth, and a waterproof laminate sandwiched in-between. We use this fabric on all of our elite performance soft shell jackets and vest such as:
Our men’s and women’s soft shell jacket is the perfect all-weather American-made softshell. They are water resistant, breathable and lightweight and also incredibly comfortable to wear. Unlike a hard shell jacket you won’t get all sweaty and wet while performing at the top of your game in the cooler fall and winter months. Key features of the Equinox jacket include:
The Equinox soft shell is available in 3 retail colors or available to customize using our online customizer. Choose your colors, upload your logo and select sublimated patterns for the side panel and create your own custom soft shell jacket! At Boathouse.com you can do it all online in minutes.
The Equinox vest is the same design and construction as our Equinox Jacket but in a traditional vest design. We offer it as a softshell vest for men and women's fit. This softshell vest is ideal for more moderate fall temperatures, or to act as a mid-layer under a hard shell jacket for double the warmth and protection without the bulkiness of layering up in 2 jackets.
We also offer the ability to create a custom soft shell vest using our online customizer. You can simply embroider names and logos starting at just $6 per vest, or go fully custom and select fabric colors, side panel patterns and upload your logo using our online customizer.
What separates the Elevate soft shell from the equinox soft shell jacket is the hood. The Elevate jacket is essentially the same design, construction, and Zenith soft shell material but with the addition of a warm, comfy and water-resistant adjustable hood with a concealed chord lock. This soft shell can be purchased retail in 3 stock colors or as a custom soft shell jacket using our online customizer.
We hope you found this post helpful in your search for a soft shell jacket. While you’re here, Boathouse has a variety of American-made soft shell jackets and vests to shop at https://www.boathouse.com/collections/soft-shell-jackets-vests
]]>BLJ Community Rowing, the only black-owned and operated rowing club in the U.S., has partnered with Boathouse Sports to advance their goal of creating diversity and inclusion within the sport of rowing. To help support this effort, Boathouse is donating 30% of BLJ’s Team Store proceeds to help fund their free learn-to-row clinics and intern programs.
]]>BLJ Community Rowing’s inception stemmed from the need to diversify the sport of rowing. Having trained and competed nationally and internationally, founder Brannon Johnson realized the glaring lack of diversity and athletes of color in the sport and started BLJ Community Rowing in her hometown of Philadelphia. Since the outset of the club in 2013, BLJ Community Rowing has offered free learn-to-row clinics and rowing courses through Mt. Airy Learning Tree (MALT), a community-based non-profit whose goal is to strengthen and enrich the diverse community of Northwest Philadelphia, area schools, and the American Red Cross.
Known as the “Boathouse Without Walls”, the BLJ program has since expanded to become one of the most diverse organizations on the Schuylkill and the only black-owned and operated rowing organization in the country. BLJ Community Rowing has taught and coached 200+ classes to over 1,500 Philadelphia area residents, ranging in age from 12 to 65. What sets BLJ apart is the symbiotic relationship within the organization; BLJ coaches are teaching masters how to row, while those same masters sponsor BLJ coaches training to compete at the national level. The interns mentor the youth, then ultimately become BLJ coaches creating a synergy that drives this community.
"...one of the most diverse organizations on the Schuylkill and the only black-owned and operated rowing organization in the .US.”
When you remove boundaries and provide opportunities you create options for the community; and when the community has options its members can make better choices. So, what began as a learn-to-row program quickly morphed into a thriving community for rowers of color.
Founder Brannon Johnson built an extensive resume within rowing and coaching since she began her journey at the Fairmount Park Community Rowing program when she was just 15. As her love for the sport increased, so did her speed and strength. She trained at Boston University’s elite summer rowing program for two years then placed in the Philadelphia City Championships and Stotesbury Regatta shortly thereafter. Her drive and perseverance led to a full athletic scholarship to the University of Texas for rowing. In 2003, Brannon competed at the Henley Royal Regatta on Thames River in England as a Single Sculler.
During the same year as her race at the Henley Royal Regatta, she began teaching rowing classes through Mt. Airy Learning Tree (MALT) and hosting free learn-to-row clinics.
BLJ Community now teaches numerous rowing courses during the spring, summer, and fall for MALT, Chester County Night School, and Main Line School Night. More importantly, they still host free learn to row clinics that have become wonderful meccas of learning. They teach people about swim lessons in partnership with Diversity and Aquatics and American Red Cross. They teach people how to row, educate parents on the opportunities that rowing can provide for their youth and share their stories. Rowing can be a vehicle to a better life and because all the staff/coaches at BLJ are African Americans who have rowed competitively, they are living examples for the youth.
"Rowing can be a vehicle to a better life and because all the staff/coaches at BLJ are African Americans who have rowed competitively, they are living examples for the youth."
BLJ Community Rowing has partnered with Boathouse Sports to spread their message of fostering an inclusive rowing environment that is accepting of all people of color and advance their goal of creating diversity and inclusion within the sport of rowing.
To help support this effort, Boathouse is donating 30% of BLJ’s Team Store proceeds to help fund their free Learn-to-Row and Intern Programs.
We hope you will join us as we work towards the common goal of diversifying the sport of rowing.
]]>It took us just over a week to design and produce our first cloth face masks. These masks are standard 2-ply masks (meaning 2 layers of cloth) that have been proven very effective against blocking the spread of aerosol particles that may contain the COVID-19 virus. They are hand-washable and reusable, and if taken care properly can last a very long time (that means don’t put in a washing machine!). They are one-size-fits-all, meaning the elastic ear loops are super-stretchy (250% stretch) and include adjustable ear loop toggles so you can customize for the perfect fit. Better yet, these custom face masks for sports can be designed completely online in minutes with our online customizer. You choose the colors, patterns and upload your logo and we do the rest in our FDA registered factory. Whether you’re looking for preppy cloth face masks, custom cloth face masks or simple 1-color masks we’ve got you covered!
Neck Gaiters (also called buffs) are the slightly cooler cousins of the cloth face mask. However, as popular as they are with athletes, outdoorsmen and younger adults, there has been some question into the efficacy of how much they actually protect you against the transmission of the aerosol particles that carry germs and viruses. Here’s what you need to know:
A small study from Duke University prompted fears that neck gaiters were not effective at blocking the spread of aerosol particles. In response to the Duke study, aerosol scientists conducted their own gaiter experiments. New research showed that when a single-layer gaiter was worn doubled up, it was highly effective at blocking a range of particle sizes.
Within just 1 week of hearing this news, we updated our old single-layer gaiter design to address these findings by adding a second layer of fabric for extra protection. #ChallengeAccepted!
This enhancement lets you be the coolest kid in your neighborhood while safely protecting yourself (and others) from the spread of COVID-19. In addition to stock retail options, our custom neck gaiter for sports teams can be designed online in minutes using your patterns, your logo and your colors. We’ll make them and ship factory direct from our Philadelphia factory in just a few weeks.
If you want maximum protection, adding a face shield along with a cloth mask will provide ultimate protection not just from breathing and inhaling particles, but from viral aerosol particles entering through the eyes too. Our FDA compliant face shields include one headband and one reusable PVC shield that can simply be wiped and sanitized before each use. The PVC is soft and not breakable, so it can also be used as a sports face shield on or off the field.
The EX21 3-Layer Face Mask System is unlike any other mask on the market today, and we’re really proud of that. The EX21 mask is a three layer system that is backed by decades of science related to the ability of polypyrrole (PPy)-treated materials to use a positive charge on polymer backbones to attract negatively charged outer shells of pathogens. What does that mean? Simply put, there are 3 layers, an outer shell, a middle filter, and a “virus busting” inner layer with some really cool science behind it. This third layer is a lightweight poly which has been coated with a cutting-edge PPy coating/tech that has a positive charge which attracts pathogens (which are negatively charged). Since PPy is void of the proteins which are required for pathogens to survive it sucks them in and disarms them.
The EX21 can be purchased for immediate shipment from our in stock options or be customized in an unlimited numbers of colors/ designs.
Customize your own cloth mask or neck gaiter online (and in minutes) here: https://www.boathouse.com/collections/ppe-custom-protection-masks
]]>“Do the right thing” is the mantra we at Boathouse have lived by during these unprecedented times. This phrase represents the mindset of doing whatever needs to be done to bring about positive change in your community and the world...
]]>No matter what the effort involved, no matter the resistance against you – you do it because it has to be done, because it is, simply put...the right thing to do.
In recognition of what would have been the 28th Summer Olympics next month and the #BlackLivesMatter movement, Part 1 of our series tells the story of Tommie Smith, John Carlos and Peter Norman at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City.
*Thank you Grace Latz for sharing this story with us!
1968 Olympic sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos won gold and bronze for the United States. At the award ceremony they received their medals shoeless in protest of black poverty. Smith wore a black scarf to represent black pride; Carlos wore beads around his neck. As he accepted his medal, Carlos stated “this is for those individuals that were lynched, or killed and that no-one said a prayer for, that were hung and tarred; for those thrown off the side of the boats in the Middle Passage." As the Star-Spangled Banner played, the two bowed their heads and raised a gloved fist.
Although Smith and Norman did the right thing it was the only Olympic Games in which they ever took part. Both men earned a fame that has lingered to this day.
Tommie Smith and John Carlos wore on their tracksuits a banned circular badge of the Olympic Project for Human Rights (OPHR), an organization founded by sociologist Harry Edwards to protest racial segregation in the U.S., South Africa, and elsewhere; to protest racism in sport generally; and to call for a number of concrete actions including the banning of South Africa and Rhodesia from the Games; the restoration of Muhammad Ali’s heavyweight boxing title; the removal of Avery Brundage from the IOC committee; and the hiring of more African American coaches.
Peter Norman, A white Australian Olympic Sprinter and Silver Medalist at the 1968 Olympic Games also wore the highly controversial Olympic Project for Human Rights (OPHR) badge on his tracksuit in solidarity with Smith and Carlos. The two American medalists told Norman - who was raised in a Salvation Army family and had criticized the “White Australia” movement in his home country - about their plan earlier that day, after the final. Norman, without hesitating, agreed to stand with them in support. All three athletes were booed off of the podium, and all three faced widespread censure and criticism from both the sporting establishment as the media, as well as threats, upon returning to their homes.
What many don’t know is that Peter Norman was given his famous badge by the American rowing coxswain, Paul Hoffman. Hoffman and many of his teammates from the American eight-man crew - all of them Harvard students - were followers of Edwards and active supporters of the OPHR. They sent hundreds of hand-written letters to other members of the U.S. team in other sports, encouraging them to take a public stand against racial injustice. “If you are in sports,” Hoffman said, “you have an obligation to use whatever platform you have.” These actions were not well-received, and the crew was formally censured by the president of the USOC, Douglas Roby.
“If you are in sports,” Hoffman said, “you have an obligation to use whatever platform you have.”
Peter Norman died of a heart attack on October 9, 2006. At the funeral both Smith and Carlos gave the eulogy, where they announced that the U.S. Track and Field association had declared the day of his death to be "Peter Norman Day" -- the first time in the organization's history that such an honor had been bestowed on a foreign athlete. Both men helped carry his coffin before it was lowered into the ground.
For more information on Tommie Smith, John Carlos and Peter Norman please visit the following resources:
Harvard Crimson article in 1968
Global Sport Matters piece
Hear The Boat Sing "Don't Shoot The Messenger"
CNN on Peter Norman
Wikipedia on the Olympic Project for Human Rights
Wikipedia for Paul Hoffman
letters to Harry Parket from USOC and Harvard President
Have an athlete in mind that is using his/her platform to make the world a more inclusive space? Share in the comments below who you'd like to see featured in our next installment of "Do The Right Thing".
]]>Changes are hard because it affects our daily routine and when your routine is out of sync, some of us may feel lost and/or even depressed. The first step to move forward is to know that it is normal for us to feel this way. We as people, are creatures of habit and we need some sort of certainty in our lives but right now, there are so many uncertainties and that can leave you feeling frustrated, especially for some of us who are Type A individuals who want things to be in our control. It is important for us to acknowledge that these changes are happening. Let us accept that this is happening to us, to our loved ones, our neighbors, to the people around us and everyone around the world.
Tell yourself, “I am aware that these changes I am going through with work/school/training/life are challenging. Now what can I do about it?
There are a lot of things that are out of our control right now. We do not know when this pandemic will end, we are not sure when life will return to normal, or even if it will. We do not know what policies and regulations the government will have for us tomorrow. So, let us focus on things we can control instead. A famous saying reminds us that, life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we respond to it. What is in our control? Our thoughts, our attitude, our actions and our behaviors.
Wake up everyday seizing every opportunity to learn, grow and be better. It is not Groundhog Day, it is another opportunity to be better than we were yesterday. A few days of brooding over the self-isolation policy is enough, now time to get off the couch and get life going!
We are not fortune tellers - we do not know what the future holds, so let’s not worry about the future for now. Focus on the now. What can you do now that your future self will thank you for?
"We are not fortune tellers - we do not know what the future holds, so let’s not worry about the future for now. Focus on the now. What can you do now that your future self will thank you for?"
Use this time to learn and grow. Have you always wanted to learn to play your ukulele that has been sitting in the corner of your room collecting dust? Read that book you bought and have not touched? Learn a new recipe? Pick up a new language? The options out there to do something even in the confines of your room are endless!
We are connected to the whole world via the Internet. However, be careful of what you absorb from the online world. Some information may be inaccurate or even dangerous, so be diligent with what you read and watch. This is not a time for bad energy or criticisms, instead, spread love, hope, prayers and kindness. The world needs more of that right now.
The days, weeks and months will pass whether or not you did something different or learnt something new. So why not make the most out of this time?
"The days, weeks and months will pass whether or not you did something different or learnt something new. So why not make the most out of this time?"
Yes, we all have fallen out of our daily routine. Gone were the days we wake up at 5am to row with our crewmates in the dark. Working from home is filled with distractions- the TV, the snacks, the couch, the dogs, and the kids! So what now?
Set yourself a new routine! It is your chance to take control of yet another thing in your life. The only person who knows yourself best is you. If you have the most energy in the morning, get that workout done before the day begins. If you love coffee but your favorite cafe is closed, make your own coffee. Not everything has to go out of sync. We have to learn to be a chameleon here- change and adapt.
Make time blocks for your daily schedule and be disciplined with yourself about it. 7-9am is time to get my workout in. 10-12pm you are in work mode. 12pm-1pm is lunch time and time to scroll through your social media platforms. Remember to give yourself breaks. Let’s get to it!
"Not everything has to go out of sync. We have to learn to be a chameleon here - change and adapt."
Being socially isolated is challenging because we are social creatures and we are so used to being around people, especially the bunch of us who live in big cities. This is a time to connect to the people who we have yet to catch up with because of our busy lives.
For those of us who see our teammates almost everyday, we still can see them everyday virtually. Get a Zoom workout in with your crew. Each person suggests 1-2 exercises and everyone performs a few sets of them!
Everyone is facing his or her own challenges but wear your heart on your sleeve and embrace these moments of difficult times. Talk it out with someone you trust and do not be afraid of asking for help or advice. You may not get the answers or help you want but sometimes, just knowing that there are others who are going through the same obstacles as you can make you feel better. Most of the time, you will realize that the issues that you are facing are negligible as compared to what others are experiencing.
That does not mean that the problems you are facing are not stressors. The change in perspective may help make things become more manageable and allow you to take control of some aspects that felt out of sync in your life.
Boston Marathon has been postponed from April to September, which means it is back to the drawing block for some of us who have been training for the big day. The Olympics has been pushed back to a year later. All the hard work that we have put in during winter does not have to go to waste. Take it as an opportunity to be better prepared for our big races.
Some of our races are cancelled and yes, that is awful! But hey, there are future races to train for. Your life as a runner or a rower or a swimmer does not have to end just because you have to miss a whole season of racing. Who you are and what you are made of lie in what you do on a daily basis and not in the position you obtain at the national championships. The time will come for you to shine.
And for the rest of us who have been giving plenty of excuses that we do not have time to train, well, now is the best time to workout. The gyms are closed but bodyweight exercises and functional training can do wonders to your body.
For us who are still allowed to head outdoors for some form of physical activity but still are maintaining a safe distance from others, use this time to explore a new trail and enjoy the beauty that Mother Nature has to offer. If your state or country is not allowing you to be outside, there are many online fitness programs for you to do right now.
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Share with your family and friends these tips and let’s continue to stay at home, stay safe and healthy. Wash your hands with soap regularly and let’s all work together to get through these trying times.
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THE SEVEN THINGS THAT ONLY A ROWER CAN UNDERSTAND
Boathouse Ambassador Tymir Green-Ellis shares his perspective on life as a rower – From the dreaded "canoeing comparison" to the agony of watching a novice on the erg, a rower’s life is something that not everybody can understand. Here's Tymir's top 7 things most people outside of rowing culture will never get. Read Tymir's Story
BOATHOUSE BRAND AMBASSADOR PROFILE – A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A COXSWAIN
Meet Jesse – He's one of the main coxswains for Boulder Community Rowing in Colorado, as well as their novice coach. He first heard of Boathouse while rowing for Colorado Junior Crew when he was ordered his first Gore-Tex Stevenson. Since then he's accumulated total of three different Stevenson Jackets, one of which was purchased in 2016 at the Head of the Charles Regatta to have autographed by the United States' Women’s 8 gold medalists. We asked Jesse to share a typical day training for fall race season in Colorado, and explain his thoughts on what makes a great rower, the challenges of training on the water in Colorado, and why getting “out of your head and into the boat” is a game changing mentality for rowers. Read Jesse's Story
TURNING GRIEF INTO THE ACTION THAT WOULD FULFILL MY DREAM OF BECOMING A ROWER
Tragedy and loss can galvanise us into action, making our priorities crystal clear, and give us a strength we did not know we had. Boathouse Ambassador and Navy Veteran Russell Gernaat knows this all to well. When his wife of 22 years passed away from cancer, Russell focused his grief into the energy needed to fulfill his lifelong dream of learning to row and train for in the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics. Having come out the other side of grief, Russell knows that when tragedy strikes you only have two choices “You can spin circles and go nowhere, or you can get up and move forward.” Read Russell’s Story.
]]>Mike Jensen from the Philadelphia Inquirer gets candid with Boathouse Founder and CEO, John Strotbeck, about Boathouse's new business fighting COVID-19.
Excerpt from The Philadelphia Inquirer article "North Philly’s Boathouse Sports, run by a former Olympic rower, switches gears to make masks and other coronavirus PPE" by Mike Jensen.
Growing up in Margate, attending Atlantic City High, Strotbeck had been a lifeguard in the summer, his rowing stroke adapted to rough waters. Which brings us to today, to the rough seas of a coronavirus pandemic, which shut down life as most know it, including the prosperous local sports-apparel business Strotbeck had built over decades, which was suddenly deemed nonessential.
“We were shut down,’’ Strotbeck said of his Boathouse Sports operation, run out of Hunting Park Avenue. “Had to furlough everybody, including myself. About 200 people.”
The following week, Strotbeck was talking to a couple of friends who are nurses in New York. He can’t remember which one mentioned the urgent need for masks and other personal protective equipment. A light went on. Hospitals had surgical filters and wraps, he was told, that weren’t being used for elective surgeries. He had a factory full of sewing equipment.
“We got a few samples,’’ Strotbeck said, and he sent them to the big local hospital systems. Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia got back to him right away. “They basically approved them that same day. We made them into masks.”
They delivered their first pallet two weeks ago, and began a project to make surgical gowns.
Full article available here >>
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Boathouse is taking steps to convert our workplace from an athletic apparel to PPE medical supplies. This will solve a number of problems including providing essential medical personnel lifesaving protective supplies, getting our employees back to work, and allowing our business to continue until this pandemic is over. Most importantly, it’s the right thing to do! We believe we are days away from a solution that may provide some immediate healthcare value and speaking with multiple contacts about how we can help them.
Watch the video update below:
Read the original release here: https://www.boathouse.com/pages/covid-19
]]>You may prioritize your sport first but you can not forget to complete your assignments. You have to remember, without school you will not have the sport. If this is something you think you will struggle with, get a group of your teammates and create a study group, or take time to meet up with a study group after practice. Everyone knows it is important to prioritize homework but especially with student athletes because if you don’t do your work, this could lead to consequences having to do with your eligibility to play or worst case scenario suspension or being kicked off the team. Believe it or not, studies have shown that more academically inclined students are better in the playing field.
Being in a sport, especially if you participate in one that you have to wake up at the crack of dawn, make sure you have time for yourself. Of course, school and practice are important but you need to remember to give yourself some alone time or you might just drive yourself crazy. Whether that may be doing a hobby of yours, or just taking time to watch your favorite TV show. It is important to step back from what you are doing and give yourself a break, it will help you improve more than if you do not give yourself free time. What will free time do for you? Lots of things! First off it will relieve stress. Stress can majorly affect a lot of other functions in the body and giving yourself a mental, as well as physical break, can level out stress. This will help you maintain your focus and keep yourself motivated for training in the future. More often than not athletes forget the reason why they are training so hard and lose sight of what their end goals are. It is important to take a step back and look at the big picture of what each athlete is trying to accomplish.
You have your priorities, but having a social life is also very much needed. Since you know your practice and school schedules way in advance, share that with your friends and schedule times you can hang out or meet up for lunch during the week so you can get in your time somewhere other than on the field. Obviously your friends might not know what they will be doing 3 weeks from now but make sure you are able to communicate with your friends so they don’t think that you don’t want to hang out or don’t want their company
Do Not, and I repeat Do Not stress about not having enough time for assignments because of a game you had over the weekend or a late-night practice. Professors will understand that the sport is a time commitment and is important to you, especially if you are going to said school on a scholarship. All you have to do is communicate your issue to your professor and they will more likely than not give you an extension of an assignment. This does not mean slack off and not do your work and make sports an excuse because that will only get you in more trouble. But do not be afraid to ask for help, it will save you a lot of stress believe me.
We all have gone through some sort of injury while playing sports before, whether it was minor or major it needs to be addressed. You can not perform to the best of your abilities and if you push it off like there is nothing wrong it could get worse in the future. This is just as important as giving yourself ‘me’ time as said previously. Yes, it may not be the best feeling having to sit out of a few games or practices, but your performance will only get worse if you do not tend to an injury no matter what the severity is.
You will be spending a LOT of time with your teammates. This is something you have to take into consideration when joining a sport. These people will be a big part of your life, so do not let little discrepancies get in the way, or your time as a student-athlete will not be fun. Make sure you make the most fun and the best memories with them because this group of people will be the most important part of your athletic career. This sport will be a big-time commitment so you must make connections with people on the team to make the experience worthwhile
It is understandable that after going to practice you may not have the energy to go to another club meeting. School not only allows you to learn, but you should use your time in college to meet new people and try new things. If it doesn’t work, then move on from it but it at least shows that you are well rounded. Try out a club with a friend on your team that has similar interests so you are not doing it alone, and you can keep each other on track.
It is easy to just fall into the lifestyle of eating junk food from the dining hall. Just because you are very active does not mean you should fall into the ways of a lazy college student. The better the food you put in, the better you will perform. That does not mean you have to restrict your diet, just be mindful of how many scoops you're having for dessert after a big dinner when you have to train the next day.
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If you liked this read other stories from Boathouse Ambassadors >>>
You may have heard the name Emily Schmieg. If you haven’t you will. With too many accolades to mention in this modest article, Boathouse Ambassador Emily Schmieg has been competing, placing, and winning since her first gold in the lightweight quadruple sculls at the 2015 USRowing National Championships.
All coaches have their tics. There are certain styles and habits they look to build on their teams, and standards each of their players are expected to uphold. The traits coaches like and dislike, however, can take a very long time for players to grasp. But not if you play for Coach Jake Scott.
8 Things To Be Aware Of As A Rower
From learning how to effectively "pull your own weight" to knowing the different levels of competitive rowing, there's a LOT to know about the rowing community. Read this to discover the top 8 things you must know to get by in the rowing world.