Has anyone tried using the REi Airflyte softshell as rain protection for backpacking?
I am one of those who sweats prodigiously and is naturally very warm (you'll spot me hiking in a summer weight baselayer down to about 40 F) therefore the eVent fabric is attractive for its superior breathability. But I'm unwilling to shell out $300 for the rain jacket that incorporates eVent. The Airflyte jacket appears to be a middle of the line route with even more breathability than the $300 shells because it is a softshell.
Link: http://www.rei.com/product/798999/re...nt-fabric-mens
Pros:
Breathable
Waterproof aside from the stretch panels
Wind resistant
Replaces a warmth layer
Stretchy!
Cons:
Not windproof (I have a wind/water resistant nanopuff to go beneath)
The stretch panels are not waterproof
Might absorb water outside the eVent membrane?
Probably cut very slim because it's designed for running; might need to size up to enable layering
For the record, I'm not afraid to get wet. If the rain is warm, I won't be wearing a jacket at all, just my trusty hat while I enjoy the shower. So this would be primarily a cool to cold rain layer.
Any thoughts?