Outer Layer in CO: hardshell, softshell, etc
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I like spending time outdoors, particularly hiking, at all times of year. I've had a "waterproof" jacket that I bought 15 years ago which I found out a while back was no longer waterproof. I washed it and treated it, and it was waterproof again ...... for about a month. I've also got an older Gore-Tex Patagonia jacket that I got used. It too was waterproof but doesn't seem to be anymore (though that may be related to it being quite dirty. should probably wash it). |
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Softshell's all great when it isn't raining because of the breathability. I'm always in a soft shell when it's snowing or when it's windy. Soft shells varry in water/wind proofness. I also have a cheaper hard shell for the rain. Hard shells are also good in heavy wet snow. They don't breath well and are sweaty when it's not raining. Consider a different jacket for different situations. I spent a lot on my soft shell (A marmot ROM), which I wear the most and love. My raincoat is a cheaper REI hard she'll that I love and is very beefy. I'll probably update to a Patagonia Houdini soon. |
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I have a very cheap, packable Sierra Design rain jacket. The just-in-case type of jackets. This design doesn't appear to be available anymore, but it's very light weight and 100% polyester, so truly waterproof. It packs down to less than the size of a chalk bag. Its hood also (I just discovered) fits very nicely over my climbing helmet, almost like it was made to do so (though I doubt it was). |
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As long as the sierra designs jacket you have still works, I would stick with that. There a many models on the market I can think of with a similar description when that needs to be replaced. |
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Thanks Max! I actually found that I liked the Patagonia Simple Guide Hoody after trying some stuff on in most of the local stores. There was a limited selection and price was also a factor, but it seemed like a good compromise. I ordered one online in the color and size I wanted as I couldn't find that in any of the stores, though I tried. I'll be taking the rain jacket along when wearing the guide hoody, just in case. And it feels like my fleece will fit underneath it just fine too. I wish I could have tried a few more designs on, such as the Knifeblade, but I found what I found. |