Rain Gear

[stormin norman]

I am looking to get a lightweight waterproof outer shell/jacket (8oz -12oz). There are so many product out there that I don't really know where to start. I plan on wearing it while actively hiking so it should be somewhat durable and breathable. Does anyone have any suggestions? Thanks

[ChinMusic]

The best piece I have found is the Montbell Peak Shell: http://www.montbell.us/products/disp.php?cat_id=59&p_id=2328435

It is a 3-layer unit that weighs in at about 11-13 oz (depending on size). I also have a Marmot Precip. I find the Montbell Peak to be MUCH, MUCH more comfortable during warm/hot weather rains. I have worn it during storms near 90 degrees, where the dew point was in the low 70s, and found it surprisingly comfortable. I would have died of heat in the Precip and would rather just get wet.

[brotheral]

This Montbell hard shell looks nearly identical to my Sierra Designs Peak Bagger Jacket I've had for several years... I think mine weighs 1 pound. Don't know if they still make it...........

[SGT Rock]

Packa. It breaths through the vents though.

[Kerosene]

The Montbell Peak Shell looks interesting. If you're going to pay that much then I'd also look at the Integral Designs eVent Thru-Hiker Jacket (http://www.integraldesigns.com/product_detail.cfm?id=840&CFID=9047409&CFTOKEN=68400933&mainproducttypeid=1), and The Packa (http://www.thepacka.com) (perhaps in eVent (http://www.eventfabrics.com/eVent_technology.php) instead of sil-nylon which with its venting should really make it comfortable).

If you're looking to spend less than $200, then I'd point you to Frogg Toggs (http://www.froggtoggs.com/catalog/page03.htm).

[Colter]

The Red Ledge Thunderlight parka weighs about 13 ounces, is designed well and is inexpensive. I wore one on the AT and loved it.

[Lone Wolf]

I am looking to get a lightweight waterproof outer shell/jacket (8oz -12oz). There are so many product out there that I don't really know where to start. I plan on wearing it while actively hiking so it should be somewhat durable and breathable. Does anyone have any suggestions? Thanks

Frogg Toggs

[sonic]

Frogg Toggs, light, cheap, enough said.

[taildragger]

Frogg Toggs

[Cedar Tree]

A return. XL Kelly Green, not hiked with, but placed on pack. See ebay description. Starting price: $9

http://cgi.ebay.com/The-Packa-Total-coverage-for-Hiker-and-Backpack_W0QQitemZ130153876862QQihZ003QQcategoryZ2 021QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Thanks for the props guys!
CT

[The Solemates]

the marmot precip has been a mainstay in the hiking community for a number of years and does a good job keeping you dry. you can usually find one on sale for less than $100. dont ever put them in the washer or dryer though.

[stickman]

Stormin, for what season are you buying? In summer, I usually don't bother with rain gear since I get wet anyway by sweating if I cover up while hiking (no matter what they say, nothing is breathable enough to prevent that, at least in my case). Cold weather is a more serious matter. I personally like Frog Troggs for the colder season.

Stickman

[stormin norman]

Thanks for all the information. I am going to take a good look at all the suggestions here and hopefully buy something soon. Thanks again for the help.