Unlike conventional mid-layers, the system combines thermal insulation with high waterproofness. The body mapping design with targeted insulation was developed together with IMOCA sailor Sam Goodchild. The range includes a jacket, gilet and salopette
Midlayers are usually for underneath and are not particularly waterproof. They are designed to keep you warm and transport moisture to the outside, while the oilskin on top protects you from water. Henri Lloyd breaks with this concept: the SmartTherm Pro series is completely waterproof and can be worn as an outer layer or as an insulating mid-layer under heavy oilskins. With the SmartTherm Pro collection, the traditional British brand presents a multifunctional, waterproof insulation layer.
Waterproof and breathable at the same time
The centrepiece of the SmartTherm Pro series is the Dri Pro technology with a two-layer construction. The outer material is made from 100 per cent recycled nylon ripstop with a hydrophilic polyurethane membrane that does not contain PFAS or PFC. This membrane achieves a water column of 20,000 millimetres, which should provide reliable protection against heavy rain, spray and extreme conditions.
At the same time, the material achieves a breathability of 40,000 grams per square metre in 24 hours. This value is very high and is intended to ensure effective moisture transport even during high physical exertion. The laser-perforated Vivo Ocean insulation in selected areas, such as the knees, increases breathability by an additional 30 per cent. The system works by body mapping: areas with high sweat production receive more ventilation, areas that need warmth receive more insulation.
Intelligent body mapping design
The SmartTherm Pro jacket has 150 grams per square metre of insulation on the body and 100 grams on the sleeves. This graduated insulation takes into account that the torso needs more warmth than the arms, which are constantly in motion. The Salopette has 60 grams of insulation on the bib and 100 grams on the legs. Stretch panels on the shoulders and softshell inserts on the knees ensure freedom of movement during manoeuvres.
Sam Goodchild, IMOCA winner and test sailor for Henri Lloyd, explains: "Midlayers are what we wear most of the time at sea. SmartTherm Pro is unique because it combines warmth with breathable water protection. I can stay comfortable and protected all day long." The development with professional sailors can be seen in the details: taped seams instead of sewn seams reduce weight and increase flexibility.
Jacket, waistcoat and salopette
The SmartTherm Pro jacket is equipped with a YKK AquaGuard zip, inner wind flap and fleece-lined pockets. Reflective logos and stripes on the body, sleeves and pockets increase visibility in low light conditions. The hem and cuffs have soft stretch edging for a close fit. The H-hanger on the back allows you to hang it securely on a hook and won't tear off if you hold on to it - a practical detail in rough seas.
The SmartTherm Pro waistcoat uses the same body mapping principle, but concentrates the insulation on the torso. It is suitable as a stand-alone garment for working on deck or as an additional layer. The YKK AquaGuard zip and waterproof material keep you warm and dry. Zipped side pockets provide space for hands and secure storage.
The SmartTherm Evo Salopette offers the same intelligent body mapping combined with breathability. Bonded seams reduce bulk, prevent water ingress and increase comfort. Targeted insulation zones with recycled Vivo Ocean padding and laser-cut ventilation increase breathability by 30 per cent. Lycra panels on the shoulders and softshell inserts on the knees provide flexibility - ideal for manoeuvres on deck or for wearing under oilskins.
Sustainability and availability
The entire range uses recycled materials and does not contain any environmentally harmful PFAS or PFCs. The ripstop fabric made from recycled nylon is robust and durable. Henri Lloyd positions the range as a sustainable high-performance solution for professional and ambitious leisure sailors.
The SmartTherm Pro series is available in the colours black and navy. The unisex cuts range from XS to XXL. The jacket costs 275 pounds (approx. 320 euros), the waistcoat 195 pounds (approx. 226 euros) and the salopette 310 pounds (approx. 360 euros). The collection is available from Henri Lloyd retailers and the webshop.
Technical data:
Material:
- Outer: 100 % nylon ripstop (recycled)
- Dri Pro 2-layer technology
- Hydrophilic PU membrane
- PFAS-free, PFC-free
Performance:
- Water column: 20,000 mm
- Breathability: 40,000 g/m²/24h
- Insulation: 150 g/m² body, 100 g/m² sleeves
- Vivo Ocean insulation (laser perforated, +30 % breathability)
Equipment:
- YKK AquaGuard zip
- Inner wind protection strip
- Fleece lined pockets
- Bonded seams
- Reflective logos and stripes
- Stretch edging on the hem and cuffs
Availability:
- Colours: Black/Navy
- Sizes: XS-2XL (unisex)
- Price: £275 (approx. 320 euros)
SmartTherm Pro waistcoat:
Material and performance:
- Like jacket
- Body mapping design
- Targeted insulation on the torso
Equipment:
- YKK AquaGuard zip
- Side pockets with zip
- Waterproof material
Availability:
- Colours: Black/Navy
- Sizes: XS-2XL (unisex)
- Price: £ 195 (approx. 226 euros)
SmartTherm Evo Salopette:
Material and performance:
- Like jacket
- Insulation: 60 g/m² bib, 100 g/m² legs
Equipment:
- Bonded seams
- Lycra panels on shoulders
- Softshell inserts on the knees
- Targeted insulation zones
- Laser-cut ventilation
Availability:
- Colours: Black/Navy
- Sizes: XS-2XL (unisex)
- Price: £310 (approx. 360 euros)
Alternative midlayer systems:
Michael Rinck
Redakteur Test & Technik
