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Some good comments posted..That being said I spend about 60 days backpacking every year and have spent along time trying to find the "perfect"light rain shell...I'm currently using an earlier version of the zpacks jacket called the challenger,and have been satified so far with it's protection...keeps me dry and works well to fend off wind when a jacket (puffy)would be too much..I'm not sure of the propriety material used in the newer zpacks jacket,mine used "e-vent" as I recall...I own both the OR Foray and Marmot Precip...both "decent"jackets but on the heavier side and neither pass sufficient moisture without pit zips opened....that being said if your out in deteriorating conditions and getting wet is not an option for safety reasons"think hyperthermia "then is the time you appreciate a good piece of equipment....
Patagonia M10 for the win. Waterproof+breathable+packable.
This jacket needs to be lightweight AND waterproof! Can we be sure the "winner" is waterproof?
How about the Zpacks Vertice rain jacket? 6.2 oz (M), w/ pit zips. Pretty new so I haven't seen reviews yet, but looking like lightest on the market now. No idea if it is performs like some of the other ultralight "rain" jackets - i.e. water resistant rather than waterproof.
Langostino
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I just posted about owning the earlier version of the zpacks jacket called the challenger,the verrice is the newer one...it's pricey but I love it...if your interested in their jacket they have good customer service folks that can tell you about their products....
Atmako
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Thanks Atmako - I have a Zpacks tent and i agree that the customer service when I had some questions was very good. I’m on hold for now with expensive gear purchases, too many last summer before the John Muir Trail! But will definitely consider this jacket In the future.
The Houdini isn't waterproof, why is it on here?
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I'd wager most people who voted in this poll either don't hike or only do so because it's the cool thing to do and don't really venture far off trail. Not to seem like a massive elitist or anything, but I've noticed Patagonia is really popular in outdoor fashion circles amongst people who don't really actually do much out of doors.
RyanL
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That last sentence, yes, so much.
I call it "Patagucci" now.
The Montbell Versalite is 6 oz and has pit zips... how could you go wrong with that?
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I appreciate your comments...do you know which Marmot products are using the nano proprietary material?
Atmako
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You will want to check out their web page. You might also inquire to them about improvements in the potential of delamination. I heard occasional reports about delam but have heard that about other membranes also. Also prepare for the C6 DWR to fail as technology has not yet been able to overcome that challenge with good MVTR and Air permeability. DWR re-treating is somewhat of an accept standard at this point, technologically speaking. As more is spent on R&D, you will see better future solutions, although I do not know when. There are some permanent DWR's but they are better used in colder conditions as they do not vent well so designs are incorporating pit zips. Nextec Epic fabrics have their place also but are fouled by body oils so need more frequent washings.
Which of these would be best for hot and humid weather (Florida)?
RyanFromGDSE
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Not going to say which one, but for all- you are going to want more ventilation (zips, panels) than a breathable fabric. Breathable fabrics only breath when there is a temperature and humidity difference (Air in the jacket has to be hotter and more humid than air outside the jacket, by a good margin).
Vents/Zips are what you're looking for. I think the Patagonia Stretch Rainshadow is the best blend of weight and ventilation, that's why I submitted it.
I paid about 20 bucks for Frog Togs, basically Tyvek jacket and pants. They work just fine, and a huge bargain when comparing cost.
I have the Houdini and it definitely isn't a rain jacket. The Alpine Houdini or Torrentshell would be more suitable for use in the rain.
ComfortablyNumb
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ya definitely not a rain jacket. Made that mistake on the JMT this year.
ComfortablyNumb
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I looked at the Alpine Houdini and Torrentshell long and hard. They get the most attention of the Patagonia rain jackets. I also tried the Mountain Hardwear stretch and the Helium II and Helium HD, OR Foray, Marmot essence, etc. My search for jackets was pretty long. In the end, I decided I wanted something with pit zips and hand pockets for sure. Because no matter how breathable fabric is, it's not as breathable as air. Especially in humid conditions. And for pockets...I'll be using it in the rain.
I ended up stumbling across the Patagonia Stretch Rainshadow and I couldn't be happier. At 10oz, it's about 4oz heavier than the lightest options on the market, but I think it's well worth it. The fabric is also MUCH more comfortable than some of the gore-tex options I looked at. It's as light/lighter than any jacket with it's features and packs smaller than most (especially gore-tex).