What each dog jacket is built for
The Protector t-shirt and the Fjord raincoat solve different problems, so the right choice depends on the weather and the activity. The Fjord raincoat is a wind- and waterproof shell with a 15.000 mm water column, designed to keep your dog dry in heavy rain. The Protector t-shirt is a snug, stretchy base layer that protects the coat and prevents chafing under a harness or hunting jacket. If you need one piece for wet, windy days, the Fjord raincoat is the obvious pick. If your dog gets irritated under gear or you want extra coat protection during training, the Protector t-shirt is worth considering.
Key facts at a glance
- Fjord raincoat: The Fjord raincoat has a 15.000 mm waterproof rating and a breathable membrane to reduce condensation. This makes it a reliable choice for heavy rain and active outings where your dog needs both dryness and ventilation.
Fjord raincoat - Protector t-shirt: The Protector t-shirt is made of a stretch elastic material that provides natural freedom of movement. It moves with your dog, so it works well as a base layer under a harness or jacket without restricting motion.
Protector t-shirt
Waterproofing vs. coat protection
The Fjord raincoat is the clear winner for wet weather. Its durable polyester shell stops wind and rain with a 15.000 mm water column, and taped seams help keep water out. It also has drainage holes on the chest to prevent water from pooling underneath, which can make your dog cold and uncomfortable. The Protector t-shirt, on the other hand, is not waterproof. It is designed to protect the coat and prevent chafing, especially when worn under a harness or hunting jacket. If your main concern is rain, choose the Fjord; if your dog is prone to rubbing or you want extra protection for the coat during dry training, the Protector is the better fit.
Fit and sizing considerations
Both jackets require careful sizing, but they measure different parts of your dog. The Fjord raincoat is sized by back length, with sizes ranging from 24 to 90 cm. It covers the body well regardless of shape and includes adjustable cinch points for an optimum fit. The Protector t-shirt is sized by chest and neck circumference, available in S to XL. It is snug-fitting by design, so you need to measure your dog's chest and neck to find the right size. The Fjord's adjustable points make it more forgiving if your dog is between sizes, while the Protector's stretch material allows natural movement but needs a more precise fit to avoid slipping.
Designed for active dogs
- Fjord raincoat: The Fjord raincoat is designed for unrestricted movement, with leg straps to prevent lifting in high winds and a dedicated leash opening for wearing a harness underneath. These features make it practical for running, biking, and hiking in wet conditions without compromising mobility.
- Protector t-shirt: The Protector t-shirt has been tested by mushers on races like Finnmarksløpet and Iditarod, and it is made for mushing and safety. This shows it is built for demanding, high-output activities where chafing and coat protection are real concerns.
Protector t-shirt vs Fjord raincoat: which should you choose?
Think about the conditions you usually train in. If you are facing rain or wind, the Fjord raincoat is the practical shell that keeps your dog dry. If you need a layer under a harness or jacket to prevent chafing and protect the coat, the Protector t-shirt is the right base layer. The two can also work together: the Protector under the Fjord for cold, wet days when you want both coat protection and waterproofing.
- Choose the Fjord raincoat if...: You need a waterproof, windproof shell for heavy rain, and you want features like adjustable cinch points, leg straps, and a leash opening for active use.
- Choose the Protector t-shirt if...: Your dog needs coat protection and chafing prevention under a harness or hunting jacket, especially during dry, high-intensity activities like running or biking.
Care and maintenance differences
Both pieces need gentle washing to keep them working. The Fjord raincoat can be machine washed at 30°C with a double rinse, but do not use fabric softener, bleach, or iron. It can be tumble dried on low, and you should secure hook and loop fasteners and zippers before washing. The Protector t-shirt is also machine washable at 30°C, but do not tumble dry it. Following these instructions helps maintain the waterproof membrane on the Fjord and the stretch and reflective details on the Protector.
