Rain hardshell... OR Foray or Marmot Minimalist?

Looking for an all-around goretex paclite hardshell. Both jackets are very similar in design and intent. Fit and durability primary considerations between the two. Prefer fewer bells and whistles.

Anyone have experience/input with BOTH jackets?

Thanks!

whether you consider the arm pit to waist zip a bell or whistle, i have found it functional and flexible. I have used it in "poncho mode" to carry a pack under my jacket so it was covered from the rain.

EDIT: was talking about the foray btw. also got it really cheap on a prodeal. not sure i'd pay full retail for it. but for a cheap beater packable just in case shell, it serves its purpose

Pack lite is crap, go either for pro or just go for a Pertex shell. Pack lite has been untouched since 1998!! Idk about you but I wouldn't pay the gore premium for 19 year old tech.

I've got a Minimalist, size medium, I'll sell you for 85 bucks shipped.

that guy named seb wrote:Pack lite is crap, go either for pro or just go for a Pertex shell. Pack lite has been untouched since 1998!! Idk about you but I wouldn't pay the gore premium for 19 year old tech.

Point taken.

I'm by no means set on paclite. It was just a really good price on both shells, and I'm in the market for a decent 3-season rain shell. I now see there are better options out there. Found a goretex Active shell in the same price range.

Appreciate the input.

Zirkel wrote: Point taken. I'm by no means set on paclite. It was just a really good price on both shells, and I'm in the market for a decent 3-season rain shell. I now see there are better options out there. Found a goretex Active shell in the same price range. Appreciate the input.

What is your price range and what feature set are you after?

I've got the minimalist. Its fine, honestly climbing in the Sierra's, I think a hard shell is my least used, least important layer. I would just buy whatever is cheapest, its probably just going to sit at the bottom of your pack.
In the Summer in the Sierra's I started carrying around a ultra-light water proof layer instead, since I almost never use the thing

I used the shell on ice and alpine climbs in the Canadian Rockies, in a blizzard on Rainier and Shasta. It kept me dry and helped keep me warm.