Guest Post: Galway Volvo Ocean Race – a lesson in waterproof fashion

The Western city of Galway is abuzz with the festivities of the Volvo Ocean Race.  The city has been polished up and the place is sparkling, the sailors have arrived and the music is thumping.  But let’s focus on what’s important here- what is everybody wearing?!

Galway Volvo Ocean Race – full of big poles

The item de jour of this event is a waterproof rain jacket.  Of the more salubrious variety, Helly Hensen, Henry Lloyd and Musto are aplenty wandering around the dockland area of Galway city.  There are those, less numerous, who are donning the North Face jacket, also suitable for the weather conditions and although a more distant relative of the sailing gear, still shows that the wearer is a proponent of the outdoor pursuits.

Helly Hansen Embla Raincoat

North Face for the Ladies

The weather is as Irish as it gets. Since the festival began, the conditions have ranged from drizzling outbreaks to full-on-downpours with a splash of sunshine in between.  All mocking aside, the practical, pocketed, waterproof, thermal, expensive outdoor wear is worth the investment- and you look the part.  This failing and your sea faring being most closely linked to Viking times (i.e – you ain’t no sailing regular), I firmly believe that the cheapo jacket will stand strong, as long as it’s kept clean

Galway Volvo Ocean Race…overcast but atmospheric…

For the rest, I’ve seen two pairs of wellies, several wearers of woolly hats- and rightly so, we are in Galway for crying out loud!  Most are in jeans, cons and visible socks; or for the over 30s, comfortable footwear… you get the picture.  If you are pottering around, you may very well spot some real-life-sailors in their wet/dry suit…working clothes with a certain appeal, I hope you’ll agree.

Blinded by the Galway Volvo Ocean Race

Guest Post: Blondie