What is the composition of the moisture barrier in the turnout coat?

• A. Crosstech Black 2F Nomex with woven pajama substrate
• B. Kevlar weave with cotton lining
• C. Polypropylene mesh
• D. Teflon coated fabric

Answer: (A)

The moisture barrier in a turnout coat is a breathable, waterproof layer that blocks liquid water from penetrating while allowing sweat vapor to escape, helping keep the firefighter dry and comfortable inside the coat. Crosstech Black 2F Nomex with a woven pajama substrate fits this role because it combines a waterproof-breathable membrane (Crosstech) with a flame-resistant Nomex fabric, plus an inner woven pajama substrate that provides a soft, abrasion-resistant layer against the skin and helps the barrier lie smoothly between the shell and the liner. This construction delivers both water protection and heat/flame resistance, which is essential for turnout gear. The other options don’t provide a proper moisture barrier: they either describe materials not used as the primary waterproof-breathable barrier or refer to components (like outer fabrics or spacers) that aren’t the moisture barrier itself.