Extreme sports like snowboarding have changed the approach athletic designers take to develop apparel for these athletes. Although fabric choice, comfort and protection are key to the design, style and silhouette are also important. Waterproofing the fabric is a key element to ensure the garments protect the athlete from the harsh outdoor elements.

Design, Color and Style
Athletic designers have added graphics as well as distinct patterns with bold colors to snowboarding attire. Silhouettes are created as fashion statements for snowboarders, with styles varying between various snowboard manufacturers. Seaming and color blocking, a term referring to different fabric color inserts, are also used within the design scheme. Abstract-driven patterns and prints are also frequently employed.

Waterproof Fabrics
Breathable waterproof fabrics prevent water from penetrating through the textile fibers as well as allow the athlete's perspiration to escape through the fibers and away from the inside of the garment. Waterproofing generally closes the pores of the fabric.

GORE-TEX
W.L. Gore and Associates developed and trademarked their waterproofing method, known as GORE-TEX. Aside from implementing this method to outerwear, GORE-TEX is also used for footwear and gloves.

Soft Shells
Although soft shells, such as fleece backing or mesh lined, offer more flexibility in movement, it is used for light, leisure activities. Although snowboarding apparel has influenced soft shell garments, these styles often do not provide the added protective foam.

Padding
Designers insert padded protectors for added protection as well as for part of the overall style and silhouette. Padding is inserted in between textile layers to cushion and soften falls as well as protect specific areas such as the elbow, shoulder and tailbone. The soft foam padding thickness ranges from a 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch in width. Although heavy padding provides more protection, it also prevents less movement. Outer breathable shells, which wick moisture away from the body during extreme activities, are also implemented in the styling.