Sports jackets for basketball

Tracksuits, windbreakers, waterproof jackets: what each jacket is for

Each type of jacket meets a different need. The tracksuit jacket, made of knitted or woven polyester, keeps the body warm between warming up and getting on the court. The windbreaker, being thinner, blocks out cold air without providing warmth, perfect for running or biking to the gym. The waterproof jacket protects against real rain, usually with a hood and more durable seams.

Lined jackets, which are rarer, are suitable for coaches and supporters who stay still for a long time in a cold gym.

Water-repellent, waterproof, breathable: reading the label

These three words do not mean the same thing. A water-repellent fabric causes water to bead on the surface and withstands a short shower. A waterproof fabric blocks water for a longer time, thanks to a membrane or coating. Breathability indicates the jacket's ability to allow sweat to escape, which is important if you're wearing it during exertion.

Some sheets provide a numeric value for the water column, like the WP3000 protection of the hmlLEAD jacket from Hummel. The higher the number, the longer the jacket resists rain.

The team jacket, uniform of the bench

On a basketball bench, the team jacket acts as a uniform. Team apparel brands offer the same jacket in many colours, with matching trousers, so players, coaches, and staff wear the same outfit. They often come in men's, women's, and children's cuts, enough to dress an entire club from baby basketball to seniors.

Before ordering for a group, check that the range is available in all the sizes you need.

Joma, Errea and specialists in team apparel

These brands are the most chosen by customers on the site for their jackets.

• Joma, a Spanish brand, notably offers the lightweight Trivor windbreaker, which is easy to slip into a bag.
• Errea, an Italian team apparel manufacturer, offers tracksuit jackets in women's cuts, like the Cristine, as well as in men's cuts.
• Superdry offers more urban jackets, including hybrid and lined models.
• adidas presents Adi365 jackets with Climacool technology and a zippered pocket for the phone.
• Project X Paris adds waterproof jackets with a streetwear style.
• Hummel designs water-repellent training jackets with a mesh lining.

A jacket at a bargain price

For a cheaper jacket, several pages are worth a look. The Black Friday textile comes just when you need to pull out a warm jacket. The Christmas textile page then helps find a gift before the sales take over. The clearance and good deals remain open all year round.

Under the jacket, and below

A jacket is always worn over something, and the other categories complete the outfit.

• Sweatshirts make a warm layer under a windbreaker.
• For a matching set, tracksuits combine jackets and trousers.
• At the bottom, trousers accompany the jacket during warm-ups.
• Close to the body, baselayers keep warmth.
• T-shirts and polos remain the first layer.
• Once the jacket is removed, it's the jerseys and shorts that come into play.
• For the feet, switch to socks.

Frequently asked questions

Can a tracksuit jacket replace a coat?

For a short trip in mild weather, yes. In the middle of winter, it doesn’t provide enough warmth on its own, unless it is lined. Add a sweatshirt underneath or choose a lightweight down jacket for cold days.

How to wash a waterproof jacket without damaging its protection?

Zip it up, wash it at a low temperature with a mild detergent and without fabric softener, which clogs the fibres. Rinse well and let it air dry. A re-waterproofing product restores the effectiveness of the water-repellent treatment when water no longer beads.

Should you take a size up to wear a sweatshirt underneath?

Not always. A regular cut tracksuit jacket accommodates a t-shirt or thin sweatshirt. For a thick hoodie, going up a size prevents tightness in the shoulders and arms.

How to match jacket and trousers from the same range?

Look for the name of the range in the jacket’s title, then find the trousers with the same name. Team apparel brands use the same colours and fabric on both pieces. This way, you can take a different size on top and bottom.

Is a running jacket suitable for basketball?

Yes, for warming up and trips. Running jackets are lightweight, breathable and often have reflective elements useful in the evening. However, they are less durable than a team jacket against the friction of the bench and the bag.