Articles (2020)

Overview

The GoLite Jam received the highest overall score and was the second highest rated pack for load carrying capacity, at 30 pounds (13.6 kg), in Backpacking Light’s 2004 Frameless Pack Review. The key to the Jam’s load carrying performance is not any one feature but a combination of many things done well. It has wide side fins on the hipbelt that contour around the hips to prevent slippage. There are five compression straps to compact the pack contents into the virtual frame. The Jam has an internal foam backpad which supplements the rigidity of a ground pad that is rolled in the pack and a narrower/taller pack profile that forms the pack contents into a stable, vertical cylinder conducive to forming a virtual frame.

The GoLite Jam had one of the best balances of load carrying capacity, pack weight (21 oz size L), and features of the packs we tested. With three external pockets, including a large fabric rear pocket, the GoLite Jam provides quick access to your most needed items during the day. With some care (e.g. if you’re not planning on dragging it across granite) the Jam is one of the lightest packs suitable for aggressive off-trail-travel, winter ski trips and mountaineering or climbing. Climbers and skiers will appreciate the Jam’s taller, narrower pack profile for good balance and arm swing clearance. The pack’s climbing features include: the ability to carry two tools (including shaft holders), a climbing rope, and/or skis and poles. The Jam’s major weaknesses are under-padded shoulder straps that dug into our shoulders at higher pack weights, and while the Jam’s Dyneema® Gridstop fabric is plenty durable for trail use, a lack of fabric reinforcements in high wear areas may present a problem for abusive off-trail-travel and climbing.

Specifications

• Backpack Style – frameless, top loading with roll top closure (no top pocket or flap)
• Fabric Description – Pack body: 140 g/sq m (4.13 oz/sq yd) 215 denier nylon with Dyneema® gridstop reinforcements. Rear pocket: Arrowhead Cordura™ ripstop nylon. Side pockets: Nylon mesh
• Sizes – S (16-18″), M (18-20″), L (20-22″); size L used for our reviewer’s 19.5 inch torso
• Volume – Size L = 2950 ci, 48 liters (main packbag 2300 ci, pockets 200 ci, extension collar 450 ci)
• Weight – 21.1 oz (598 g) as measured size L (manufacturer claims 23 oz size L)
• Volume-to-Weight Ratio – 140 ci/oz for size L (based on 2950 ci, size L, and a measured weight of 21.1 oz)
• Load Carrying Capacity – Manufacturer-reported at 30 lbs; we agree, as long as the pack is packed with some skill and degree of rigidity. Limiting factor in load carrying capacity is harness collapse and resulting strain on shoulder straps, which are not able to bear much weight; we estimate that the GoLite Jam’s upper limit will be somewhere between 25 to 30 pounds depending on user skill and level of tolerance for discomfort.
• Carry Load to Pack Weight Performance Ratio – 22.7 (based on 30 lbs and a measured weight of 21.1 oz)
• MSRP – $89.00

Features

Numerical ratings follow a scale of 1 to 5 (1 = poor, 5 = excellent).

Frame and Suspension – 4.0

The GoLite Jam uses a 1.5-inch webbing hipbelt in conjunction with wide, triangular side fins that contour well around the hips and waist to prevent belt slippage. The main pack bag has four side compression straps and one top compression strap. These combined with a ground pad rolled as a cylinder inside the packbag create a relatively rigid virtual frame to comfortably transfer pack loads of up to 30 pounds to the hipbelt. Without the rolled up pad, the Jam’s load carrying capacity is lower but the pack’s internal backpad and compression straps still make a virtual frame capable of carrying up to 15, possibly 20 pounds. The taller and narrower profile of the Jam helps to form a virtual frame. This shape forms the pack contents into a stable vertical cylinder more conducive to forming a virtual frame than wider packs which do not control loads well. Finally, at 38 liters un-extended capacity, the GoLite Jam is a good volume for most lightweight backpacking loads (neither too large nor too small). That is, once you put an ‘average’ set of lightweight backpacking gear in the pack, the main pack bag will do much of the load control, leaving the compression system to do the final touches on the virtual frame. Our major gripe with the Jam’s suspension is that the padding in the shoulder straps is poorly resilient to load compression. With heavy loads, the straps dug into our shoulders on 16 to 20 plus mile trail days. We’d like to see more substantial shoulder straps similar to the thermo-molded Brock™ foam ones used in GoLite’s new Unlimited Series packs.

Usable Features and Ease of Use – 4.5

While the Jam is a bit heavier than the lightest packs in its capacity range, it is also more versatile. The Jam’s design and features make it suitable for all of the following activities: short overnights, mid to long distance backpacking trips, winter ski trips, and climbing. There is enough exterior pocket storage that one should not have to delve into the main pack bag much during the day. The pack loads easily and, using the compression straps, it is not difficult to create a decent virtual frame with varying load volumes. Some of the Jam’s main features are:

• Five compression straps, four side and one top for good load control and creating a virtual frame.
• Internal foam back pad to protect your back from lumpy loads, this also improves the virtual frame by adding some rigidity to a rolled up ground pad in creating a virtual frame. (The pack with internal pad also works well to put under your legs at night as an adjunct to a short (e.g. 30 inch) ground pad.)
• Mesh side pockets that easily hold a 1-liter water bottle or Platypus and are nice for seeing what’s in the pockets and drying wet gear. Depending on how high you wear your hipbelt, access to the side pockets (e.g. grabbing a windbreaker or water bottle) without taking the pack off was difficult but not impossible. Our reviewer was able to remove and replace water bottles while hiking.
• Large rear pocket of Arrowhead Cordura™ ripstop nylon fabric with a large curved zipper for easy access.
• Dual Tool loops and Velcro shaft-holders attached to mini-daisy chains. Also a central mini-daisy chain at the top of the pack. Plenty of options to lash additional backpacking and climbing gear.
• Top, and top side compression straps work well for holding a climbing rope or additional ground pad and easily secure tent poles, fishing rods, and trekking poles placed in the side pockets.
• Internal Hydration pocket that will handle a 3-liter hydration system along with left and right hydration tube ports and all the necessary tube mounting hardware on the shoulder straps. (Note: we aren’t huge fans of internal hydration pockets due to the inconvenience of unloading the main pack bag to refill them on the trail.)

Load Volume Flexibility (Compression) – 4.5

With five compression straps, the Jam has one of the better compression systems among lightweight frameless packs. This compression system was a contributor to the pack’s high ratings for load carrying capacity. In addition, the compression system kept low volume loads under control. The Jam has four compression straps on the sides of the main body, two about mid pack just above the side pockets, two at the top of the side panels, and finally one compression strap on the top of the pack that doubles as the closure for the roll top/extension collar.

For even better load control we’d like to see another pair of compression straps in the lower portion of the pack. To compensate for the lack of compression straps in the lower portion of the pack we put our sleeping bag, extra food and extra clothing into the lower portion of the pack (or anything you don’t need immediate access to that combined has enough volume to reasonably fill the lower section) and locked it down with the mid-pack compression straps. This better maintained the pack’s virtual frame and provided a solid structure to transfer load to the hipbelt fins.

Field Performance

Pack Load Carrying – 4.0

In the field, with a well-packed and compressed main bag, the Jam did well carrying loads of up to 30 pounds. The data collected on the Jam in our “Frameless Backpacks: Engineering Analysis of the Load Carrying Performance of Selected Lightweight Packs” article supports this performance. To achieve this level of performance we used a ¾ length Ridge Rest pad rolled up as cylinder inside the pack. We then placed the rest of the pack contents inside this cylinder and correctly tightened all five compressions straps. We liked the taller and thinner profile of the Jam. This profile is more resilient to collapsing and creates a better virtual frame. The narrow profile also gave the pack good balance for off-trail scrambling and climbing and free arm swing for both trekking poles and climbing tools.

At 25 to 30 pounds the pack’s virtual frame begins to collapse and the torso length shortens. When this happens, more weight transfers to the pack’s shoulder straps. As noted earlier, the air mesh shoulder straps are under-padded, have little structure, and do not distribute loads comfortably. At 30 plus pounds they dug into our shoulders on 16 to 20 plus mile days when we were carrying substantial amounts of water on a long, dry stretch of trail. One shoulder strap edge even caused a small abrasion. Stiffer and more padded shoulder straps would distribute weight more evenly and smoother strap edges would prevent abrasions. For those who like to carry a bit of weight on their shoulders, more comfortable shoulder straps would increase the comfortable load carrying capacity of the Jam.

Durability Field Observations – 3.5

The Jam’s 4.13 ounce per square yard, 215 denier, Dyneema® Gridstop nylon suffered no serious damage (other than some scuffs) from the trail backpacking, off-trail travel and scrambling we subjected it to. The Jam is designed with features that clearly appeal to climbers and rigorous off-trail travelers (e.g. dual tool holders). In our estimation, the Dyneema® Gridstop will not handle a back slide down a scree slope, or heavy duty bushwhacks. (In the past, we ripped a large hole in the bottom of another pack that used a similar weight of Spectra Gridstop fabric.) Climbers and serious cross-country travelers will need to exercise care to not overly abuse the Jam in their more aggressive pursuits.

Value – 5.0

The Jam may be the most feature rich $89 pack on the market. It can carry up to 30 pounds (13.6 kg), weighs only 21 ounces (590 g), has good volume compression, plenty of pockets and external storage options, and climbing amenities. If abrasion is not a major concern, it is one of the lightest packs suitable for aggressive off-trail-travel, winter ski trips, and light and fast mountaineering or climbing.

Recommendations for Improvement

The Jam’s shoulder straps are under padded, have little structure and do not distribute load well to the shoulders. We’d like to see more padded and firmer shoulder straps similar to the thermo-molded Brock™ foam straps used in GoLite’s new Unlimited Series packs or possibly the shoulder straps used on the Breeze or Gust packs. Since the Jam has all the features to make a great off-trail and climbing pack, it’s a pity that it doesn’t have fabric reinforcements. We’d like to see some x-Pac™ or Cordura fabric to reinforce the bottom of the pack and the rear pocket. Also, a pair of lower compression straps would improve the pack’s virtual frame and content control with low volume loads. Finally, we’re not fans of internal hydration pockets. They are okay when you first load up the pack in the morning. But re-filling internal hydration bladders during the hiking day is a pain as you have to unload and reload most of the main pack bag to put the re-filled bladder back in. We would rather have seen the hydration pocket located on the outside of the pack, or a pack design that does not include such a specifically designed pocket.

Introduction

The Katahdin and its smaller but otherwise identical counterpart, the Pamola (not tested), have a shoulder strap, hipbelt combination that are more highly padded, with a greater range of adjustability, than found in most ultralight frameless packs.This suspension system combined with top, middle, and bottom compression straps create a pack capable of comfortably carrying 20 pounds (9.1 kg) for the average user. The three compression straps are the keys to the pack’s versatility and to creating a virtual frame. Unlike the side panel only compression straps on most packs, the Katahdin’s compression straps wrap all the way around the back of the pack giving them a much greater range of compression. The Katahdin is one of a few ultralight packs to use a bottom compression strap, giving it an advantage in creating a virtual frame with very low volume loads. As load weight and volume shrink during a trip, or when the pack is used for a day hike from camp, the compression straps collapse pack volume into a small solid unit retaining both fit and carry comfort. The pack has a number of harness adjustments including an adjustable hipbelt height to fine-tune it for torso length.

The Katahdin could use more outside pocket storage space. Its two wing pockets are small and usable for only small items, and the lower mesh pockets are normally occupied by water bottles. Users may find themselves delving into the main pack bag during the day for commonly used items.

While the Katahdin is durable enough for typical trail hiking, it is not suitable for abusive off-trail travel or climbing. It lacks axe loops, durable fabric, and a top compression strap to stow a rope.

Specifications

• Backpack Style – frameless, top loading, drawstring closure, no top compression strap
• Fabric Description – body is 1.3 oz/yd² (44 g/m²) silicone impregnated ripstop nylon; bottom and wings are 200 denier PU coated ripstop nylon; back panel is stiff nylon mesh; water bottle pockets are nylon mesh.
• Sizes – size large (tested) is the Katahdin, and fits torsos 19-22 inches (48-56 cm); size medium is the Pamola, and fits torsos 15-19 inches (38-48 cm).
• Volume – Katahdin 3350 ci (55 L); Pamola 2475 ci (40.6 L).
• Weight – 26.1 oz (740 g) as measured for the Katahdin (manufacturer claims weight is 26 oz (737 g) for the Katahdin and 24 oz (680 g) for the Pamola)
• Volume to Weight Ratio – 128 ci/oz (based on 3350 ci Katahdin and a measured weight of 26.1 oz)
• Load Carrying Capacity – 20 lb (9.1 kg) maximum comfortable load carrying capacity with 25 lb (11.4 kg) maximum tolerable. Equinox claims maximum load for the Katahdin is 35 lb (15.9 kg), and comfortable load is 25-30 lb (11.4-13.6 kg).
• Carry Load to Pack Weight Performance Ratio – 12.3 (based on 20 lbs and a measured weight of 26.1 oz)
• MSRP – $110 US

Features

Frame and Suspension – 3.0

The Katahdin’s three full-wrap compression straps and padded, adjustable harness extend its load carrying capabilities without the use of stays. The top, bottom, and middle compression straps are the keys to the pack’s versatility and to creating a virtual frame. Unlike the side panel only compression straps on most packs, the Katahdin’s compression straps wrap all the way around the back of the pack giving them a much greater range of compression. The Katahdin is one of a few ultralight packs to use a bottom compression strap, giving it an advantage in creating a virtual frame with very low volume loads. The “framesheet” is no more than a piece of stiff nylon mesh that is also the back of the pack’s main compartment and adds little if anything to the pack’s rigidity and virtual frame. The wearer creates a “virtual frame” with a ground pad rolled into a cylinder inside the pack, and by tightening the three prominent compression straps to compress and stiffen the pack’s contents. Alternatively, you can place a folded ground pad inside the pack against the back panel to increase the stiffness of the pack.

The Katahdin’s shoulder straps and hipbelt have more padding than is typically found on frameless ultralight packs. The shoulder harness consists of 0.5 inch (13 mm) EVA foam contoured shoulder straps with load lifter straps at the top, an adjustable sternum strap, and length adjuster straps at the bottom. Without a top compression strap on the pack, we found it difficult to get enough compression in the top of the pack to effectively use the load lifter straps.

The hipbelt is wide and well padded (4 in/10 cm wide by 0.75 in/19 mm thick EVA foam with a softer padding on the outer surface). The hipbelt has a hook and loop attachment to the pack, making it adjustable for torso length (a nice feature not seem in many ultralight packs). It’s also removable. Removing the hipbelt reduces pack weight by 7 ounces (198 g) bringing the total weight of the pack to 19.1 oz (541 g). Since we received our pack for review, Equinox has upgraded the hipbelt and lower back panel on the Katahdin and Pamola to CoolMax fabric. Equinox claims that this reduces hipbelt slip and improves moisture management.

Usable Features and Ease of Use – 2.5

This pack has a limited amount of outside pocket space for frequently used items. There are a total of four pockets: two upper zippered pockets on the compression strap wings, and two mesh pockets on the lower side panels. The wing pockets are small, oddly-shaped, and useful only for small items. They are not easily accessed when under tension by the compression straps and not accessible while wearing the pack. The water bottle pockets are large enough to accommodate a 2-liter round bottle. It’s difficult to insert a flexible bottle like a Platypus because the corners catch on the mesh (trimming the sharp edges of the bladder at a light angle fixes this). With the pack on, our long-armed tester could barely remove and replace a 1-liter bottle from the side pockets. The Katahdin lacks a large rear mesh pocket for drying gear and/or miscellaneous items. It’s possible to store wet gear under the compression straps, but there is still no place to put miscellaneous items to which you need ready access.

The compression straps have fast-snap connectors in the middle for easy release. The dangling strap ends look untidy, but are very functional for securely tightening the compression straps from two directions. The Katahdin’s flat bottom creates a more stable base than is normally found with frameless packs helping it to remain upright when placed on the ground. There is no top pocket. Access to the pack’s contents is through a top drawstring opening. There is no compression strap going over the top of the pack. This both makes compressing the upper pack impossible, and eliminates the ability to store additional items on top of the pack. There is no hydration sleeve or tube port. The pack has a haul loop, but no ice axe loop or daisy chain. Our tester found that back perspiration was quickly transmitted through the stiff nylon mesh to the interior of the pack. For this reason, the gear selected to go against this mesh back panel should be either packed in a water resistant stuff sack or capable of tolerating moisture from sweat.

The Katahdin is suited for on-trail hiking, but is less suitable for peak bagging and climbing. It does not have ice axe/tool loops; there are minimal attachment points on the outside to attach climbing hardware or ropes; and the 1.3 oz/yd² (44g/m²) silicone impregnated ripstop nylon used in much of the pack is not up to abusive off-trail travel and climbing.

Load Volume Flexibility – 4.5

The Katahdin’s three compression straps wrap all the way around the pack, giving it a much greater range of compression than most ultralight backpacks. Furthermore, the Katahdin is one of only a few ultralight packs to use a bottom compression strap, giving it an advantage over most packs to control very low volume loads. The compression system effectively keeps the pack collapsed and solid as load volume decreases during a trip. It also maintains the pack’s virtual frame, allowing it to transfer weight to the hips even with very low volume loads. The Katahdin also works well as a “day hike from camp” pack because of the compression system’s ability to keep the pack solid (we placed a sleeping pad inside to provide some stiffness). Our only complaint is the pack’s lack of a top compression strap.

Field Performance

Pack Load Carrying – 3.0

We tested the Katahdin with loads ranging from 40 pounds (18.1 kg) down to 10 pounds (4.5 kg) in 5-pound (2.3 kg) increments. We used both a Therm-a-Rest Prolite ¾ inflatable (folded into four layers) and a ¾ Ridge Rest (folded into five layers). In both cases the sleeping pad was placed inside the main pack bag, against the back panel. The folded Ridge Rest pad gave the pack more rigidity and better weight transfer than the folded Therm-a-Rest.

Equinox claims that this pack will carry a maximum load of 35 pounds (15.9 kg). In our estimation, 20 pounds (9.1 kg) is the maximum comfortable load and 25 pounds (11.4 kg) is the maximum tolerable load for the Katahdin.

With the Therm-a-Rest pad, torso collapse occurred around 20 to 25 pounds (9.1 to 11.3 kg). With a folded ¾ Ridge Rest pad against the back panel our reviewer found 25 pounds (11.3 kg) was a reasonable load if he carefully packed the Katahdin. In this mode the pack transferred about 75% of the weight to his hips and about 25% of the weight to his shoulders and chest. The Katahdin showed similar performance in our “Frameless Backpacks: Engineering Analysis of the Load Carrying Performance of Selected Lightweight Packs” article.

Overall, we found that for the average user, a 20 pound (9.1 kg) load is an honest comfortable load rating for the Katahdin when properly packed with a rolled or folded foam ground pad inside the pack. Going beyond the 20 pound (9 kg) maximum load capacity depends on: 1) packing the pack properly by using a very rigid ground pad like a Ridge Rest, and sufficiently compressing the pack; and 2) how much weight you can comfortably tolerate on your shoulders. Those who tolerate some weight on their shoulders may find our 20-pound rating conservative, as the well-padded shoulder straps on the Katahdin ameliorate some discomfort of increased shoulder weight.

Durability – 3.0

In our testing the Katahdin withstood the normal scrapes and dings of trail backpacking although we did get some minor abrasions on the silnylon. While the main compartment is 1.3 ounce silnylon and is vulnerable to abrasion and punctures, it is protected on the bottom and sides by 200 denier ripstop nylon. Still, the bottom sides, and the entire rear and top of the pack are unprotected silnylon. As such, the Katahdin is probably not up to aggressive off-trail use, peak bagging or climbing. All seams are double stitched with a webbing seam binding, and all stress points are bar-tacked. The side pockets are made of a heavy nylon mesh that should survive moderate bushwhacking.

Value – 3.0

At $110, the Katahdin is a slightly better than average value for a lightweight frameless backpack. Its greatest strength is its versatility of handling different volume loads from daypack size to maximum capacity for long distance trips and cold weather trips. It has a large number of adjustments to properly fit the user and above average padded shoulder straps and hipbelt. If the pack had adequate outside pocket space for convenient access to frequently used gear, and if it were a bit more durable, it would earn a higher rating.

Recommendations for Improvement

A feature we really missed when testing this pack is a large outside mesh pocket to dry gear or to keep maps, rainwear, and other routinely accessed items handy. Overall the pack needs more outside pocket space. A full height mesh pocket on one side would help. Also, the compression strap wings could double as stay pockets, where tent poles or trekking poles could be inserted to create a rigid suspension. This would involve removing the somewhat unusable top zippered pockets, and adding an entry point at the top of the compression strap wings to accept the longer items. We’d also like to see a compression strap over the top of the pack for a more secure top closure, to improve the load lifter strap performance, to allow storage of bulky items, and of course to facilitate better compression at the top of the pack.

Overview

The Granite Gear Virga combines an innovative compression system (with eight separately adjustable compression straps) with a well-padded harness to create a frameless pack capable of comfortably carrying 25 pounds. When packed properly, the compression system, harness design, and load lifter straps work well together – an impressive feat for a frameless pack. While testing the Granite Gear Virga along the Uinta and Wind River High Routes, which required difficult off-trail travel over rock, ice, and snow, the Granite Gear Virga offered a level of fit and stability that we have not commonly found in frameless backpacks.

The Granite Gear Virga’s suspension system is built on shoulder straps that are more comfortable than those used in most ultralight frameless backpacks, and a light webbing hipbelt. The anatomically curved and padded shoulder straps are a boon as pack weight increases and more weight inevitably gets transferred to the shoulders. The Granite Gear Virga is made with more rugged fabrics than many packs in its weight class, with substantial fabric reinforcements in abrasion-prone areas of the pack’s bottom panel, lower sides, and rear panel. All of the pack’s high stress areas, like the shoulder strap and compression strap attachment points, are also reinforced with Cordura. The Granite Gear Virga is suitable for backpacking, off-trail scrambling, and alpine climbing. The pack’s major weaknesses include shoulder strap attachment points that are too low in relation to a hiker’s shoulder crest resulting in poor load transfer when the pack is under packed, and lack of external pocket storage for commonly accessed items. (Admittedly, climbers and minimalists may love the pack’s current pocket configuration.)

Specifications

• Backpack Style – frameless top-loading backpack with roll-top closure
• Fabric Description – 210 denier, 6.1 oz Cordura in high stress (shoulder strap and compression strap attachments) and high wear (rear pack panel, bottom of the pack) areas; 70 denier 2.4 oz silicone coated nylon in the packbag. Durastretch (four way stretch nylon) side pockets.
• Sizes – Short, regular, and long, to fit torsos from 14 to 22 inches. As tested: size M fit our reviewers with 18 – 20 inch torso lengths.
• Volume – 4800 ci, 56 L (3200 ci main + 200 ci pockets); extension collar adds 1400 ci
• Weight – 20.5 oz (580 g) as measured, size M (manufacturer claims a weight of 21 oz)
• Volume to Weight Ratio – 234 ci/oz (based on 4800 ci and a measured weight of 20.5 oz)
• Load Carrying Capacity – 25 lb (13.6 kg) as estimated by BackpackingLight.com (20 lbs as rated by manufacturer)
• Carry Load to Pack Weight Performance Ratio – 19.5 (based on 25 lbs and a measured weight of 20.5 oz)
• MSRP – $100

Features

Numerical ratings follow on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 = poor, 5 = excellent).

Frame and Suspension – 4.0

The compression system is at the heart of the Granite Gear Virga’s virtual frame. Two catenary cut compression panels, combined with eight compression straps (two straps on each side panel, two on the back, and two that cross the rolled top), when tightened down, combine with a ground pad rolled as a cylinder inside the packbag to create a relatively rigid virtual frame. By comparison, most frameless packs lack compression systems as substantial as that of the Virga, and thus, are more sensitive to load distribution anomalies. With the Virga, even an under-volume load can be sufficiently stabilized.

Virtual Frame: The catalog picture shows the pack with good vertical stability.

The Virga’s anatomically curved shoulder straps are more padded (0.5 in / 1.2 cm thick) than those found on most lightweight frameless backpacks. With the pack properly loaded and compressed, the load lifter straps pull the pack close to your back for optimal pack stability and balance while hiking or scrambling on rough terrain. Shoulders straps are attached to a hinged, reinforced fabric yoke on the back of the pack. Granite Gear claims that the yoke construction offers more durability than the standard bar tack attachment method for securing shoulder straps that is used in most backpacks.

In our opinion, the shoulder straps are attached too low, as evidenced by our observation that the pack’s torso length (and virtual frame) collapses with low-volume pack loads, which negate the ability of the load lifter straps to maintain stability (tension) in the yoke. This collapse is more pronounced if you do not use a rolled up ground pad inside the pack – a vital component of the frame and compression system. Fortunately, this problem can be alleviated in large part by properly adjusting the pack’s volume with its compression system to create a tall, narrow cylinder that forces load distribution evenly throughout the pack’s vertical length, rather than allowing the load to droop to the bottom of the pack.

We found the 1.5-inch (3.8 cm) webbing hip belt to provide acceptable load transfer for loads of up to 25 pounds. For those ultralight hikers used to carrying backpacks with minimal, or no, hip belts, such as the GoLite Breeze, you will appreciate the richly padded shoulder straps while having the flexibility to take some load off the shoulders with a lightweight hip belt.

Usable Features and Ease of Use – 3.0

The Granite Gear Virga has a hipbelt, elastic side pockets, sternum strap, load lifters, and rear compression straps to hold bulky and large items like a wet tarp, or additional sleeping mat (e.g., on a snow trip). The side pockets and side compression straps are suitable for long, skinny items like tent poles, a fishing rod, trekking poles, or snow anchors. The Virga’s dual crossing top compression straps compress the top of the pack better than most of the top closure systems we’ve used. One gripe: the lower side compression straps cross over the top of the side pockets, making it difficult to remove and replace a water bottle or other items while hiking.

The Virga has most of the features one would want in an off-trail and alpine climbing backpack – durable fabric in high wear areas, dual tool loops, a reasonably slim profile for good balance and arm swing clearance, large capacity, a versatile compression system, and easy climbing rope attachment using the top and side compression system. When the Virga was properly packed with a full load, its load control and pack stability were among the best tested for off-trail scrambling, bushwhacking, and climbing.

For some trail hikers, the Granite Gear Virga is a bit minimalist and may not have enough external storage options to organize gear effectively. While the compression straps on the center of the pack are useful for storing soft goods (tent and poles, a rolled up sleeping pad, or raingear), you’ll have to use the side pockets for small items that you want close at hand while hiking.

Load Volume Flexibility (Compression) – 5.0

The Granite Gear Virga’s effective compression system allows it to carry a load greater than the manufacturer’s rated capacity. In addition, the careful backpacker can utilize the compression system to keep even day-sized small loads stable and under control. The Granite Gear Virga’s eight compression straps and two catenary compression panels result in the ability to stabilize a load that cannot be matched by any other frameless backpack on the market. The dual top closure straps compress the top of the pack effectively, which plays an important role in maximizing the effectiveness of the shoulder strap load lifters.

Field Performance

Pack Load Carrying – 3.5

When using a standard sized sleeping pad rolled inside the packbag as a cylinder, and packed at least to its non-extended capacity, the Granite Gear Virga gets high marks for the ability of its virtual frame to provide load carrying comfort. The Virga’s compression system can compress the packbag to form a nearly rigid pack that efficiently transfers the load between shoulders and hips. The pack remains rigid enough that the load lifters on the shoulder straps work similarly to load lifters on internal frame packs, pulling the pack tight to the back.

Granite Gear rates the Virga’s load carrying capacity at 20 pounds (9 kg). They admit that this is a conservative number, designed to compensate for people who randomly throw stuff in the pack without taking the time to make a proper virtual frame. When properly packed the Virga’s effective virtual frame and comfortable harness resulted in our ability to carry loads up to 30 pounds (14 kg) with no severe consequences (with some of that weight on the shoulders). As such, we feel that properly packed, the Granite Gear Virga will provide acceptable load carrying comfort up to 25 pounds (11 kg) for most hikers, with the ability to carry 30 pounds (14 kg) in a pinch for those long, waterless stretches of trail.

Unlike Granite Gear, however, we feel that the hiker that randomly throws gear into the pack, failing to properly use the load compression system or take advantage of the virtual frame support provided by a rolled sleeping pad, will not achieve comfort even at loads as low as 15 pounds (7 kg) – for any frameless backpack, and the Virga is no exception. In fact, the Virga may suffer more than other frameless packs because of the need to maintain a rigid virtual frame through the shoulder strap yoke and load lifter area to prevent frame collapse and properly keep the pack weight’s moment arm from exerting excessive torque on the shoulders.

Durability – 4.0

The only thing holding the Granite Gear Virga back from a higher durability rating is the use of silicone coated nylon fabric in the pack body. Even so, fabric reinforcements in key areas make the Virga suitable for alpine scrambling and bushwhacking where you won’t constantly drag your pack against sharp rock or plow pack first into groves of slide alder. The Granite Gear Virga uses a more tear and abrasion resistant 2.4 ounce silnylon as compared to the more common 1.3 to 1.7 ounce fabrics used by other manufacturers. Cordura (6.1 oz) is used in high wear areas, such as the bottom, back panel, and much of the rear panel. The Durastretch side pockets protect the silnylon on the lower side panels. Still, the pack has some of the lighter fabric exposed, and as strong as it is relative to lighter silicone coated nylons, it won’t withstand long-term abuse by repeated abrasion against granite or lengthy bushwhacks through slide alder or brambles.

Value – 4.0

At only $100 we think the Granite Gear Virga is a good value. For its weight, the Virga creates an effective virtual frame, offers a comfortable harness, is durably constructed, and offers a versatile compression system suitable for a wide range of load sizes. The Virga’s durability, climbing friendly amenities, stability, and minimalist design will appeal to aggressive off-trail travelers and fast and light climbers who don’t overly abuse their packs.

Recommendations for Improvement

• The Virga’s lower compression straps run over the top of the side pockets. If the compression straps are tightened down, they need to be loosened to access pocket contents, a nearly impossible task to perform while hiking. We suggest moving these straps up to clear the top of the pockets.
• The lower portion of the pack is prone to abrasion (e.g., sliding down a steep slope) and would benefit from tougher fabric in the region below the lowest compression straps.
• While adaptable to a wider range of torso sizes than other frameless packs, the Granite Gear Virga’s shoulder yoke-and-load-lifter system is quite sensitive to torso collapse when the pack is under-loaded or improperly packed, making the Virga more appropriate for intermediate and advanced lightweight hikers who pay a reasonable amount of attention to packing their pack. Eliminating the yoke and load lifter system in favor of shoulder straps that attach slightly higher than a hiker’s shoulder crest would be the optimal situation, but it would also require a greater range of pack sizes that would likely increase the cost for the manufacturer and for the retailer who is required to stock more packs.

Overview

The Moonstone Nitro Jacket is a minimalist jacket designed for the alpinist, backcountry skier, and adventure runner. Specialized features of the Nitro include a sculpted hood that fits over a helmet and a shortened body to accommodate a climbing harness. The Moonstone Nitro offers a water-resistant front zipper and side pocket zippers, a long sleeve length, an inside zippered mesh pocket, and an extended tail. At 14.2 oz, the Moonstone Nitro weighs about 2 oz (57 g) more than the “sweet spot” for lightweight nylon shell jackets that appeal most to backpackers. Overall, for someone who participates in “helmet sports”, the Nitro Jacket is a good value for a helmet-compatible shell, and would serve well for backpacking. However, for people who have no particular need for a helmet- and harness-compatible shell, there are other, lighter, and more backpacker-friendly (longer) shell jackets available.

Specifications

• Garment Style – Hooded shell jacket.
• Fabric Class – Waterproof-breathable.
• Fabric Description – 40D Storm Flight 2.5 Layer Ripstop (Nylon ripstop face fabric with a DWR microporous polyurethane coating and a second polymer applied in a diamond matrix pattern). Finished weight is 2.3 oz/yd² (77 g/m²).
• Weight – Men’s size Large: 14.2 oz (403 g)
• MSRP – $150

Features

Ventilation (4.0)

Depending on weather conditions, ventilation is accomplished by opening a combination of: extra long (15 in/38 cm) pit zips, full-length front zipper, hood drawcords, cuffs, and waist drawcord. The front pockets are not mesh-backed to provide additional ventilation.

Usability (3.5)

The specialized features of this jacket are its sculpted and adjustable hood that fits over a climbing helmet, and slightly shorter body to avoid interference with a climbing harness. The tab for adjusting the back of the hood is too small and is difficult to locate with your fingers. Also, there is no provision for stowing the hood, or securing it out of the way in wind, when it is not needed. The two zippered side pockets have an enormous capacity, but are more useful when not carrying a pack (they are not quite high enough to provide easy access while wearing a hip belt). The low-profile neoprene/Velcro cuff tabs are easy to adjust, and the inside zippered mesh pocket is very handy.

Front and side zippers are of the so-called “water-resistant” type. While these zippers are a nice feature, they are stiffer and require two hands to operate the zipper. Pit zips are easy to open and close while wearing the jacket.

Sizing (3.5)

The Moonstone Nitro Jacket layers easily over a high-loft synthetic or thin down insulating jacket. The body is dropped 3 in (8 cm) in the back to help compensate for its shorter length in the front. For heavy rain, the Nitro is not long enough to protect the trunk, so rain pants are necessary.

Fit (4.5)

The sculptured hood has three drawcord adjustments (two on the front and one on the back) to produce a snug fit around a helmet, insulated hat, billed cap, or bare head (see photo). The articulation of this jacket is superb. With the hood snugged, head-turning mobility with or without a helmet or pack is excellent. The sleeves are long enough to withdraw the hands. Sleeve and torso articulation are sufficient to allow the hands to be lifted above the head without exposing wrists or waist. When layered over midweight insulation, there is plenty of shoulder freedom to cross the arms.

Field Performance

Storm Resistance (4.5)

We subjected the Nitro to inclement conditions with and without a helmet, and with and without a pack, and found no leakage problems. The front full-length zipper and side pocket zippers are water-resistant, but did not leak. Pit zippers are not water-resistant and have a protective storm flap. All seams are taped. The cuffs are elastic with neoprene/Velcro tabs. The hood’s three drawcord adjustments and flexible brim provide face protection with or without a helmet and with the hood open or snugged. A waist drawcord on one side snugs the bottom hem around the butt to help seal out rain and wind.

Breathability (2.5)

Hiking at a pace of 3 mph (4.8 kph) on fairly level ground at cooler 32-45 deg F (0-7 deg C) temperatures in rainy and snowy weather with all vents closed, we found the jacket to be quite comfortable over a base layer. Carrying a pack under the same conditions resulted, unsurprisingly, in a gradual warmup inside the jacket. However, more strenuous activity in the form of carrying a 20-pound (9.1 kg) pack at 1-2 mph (1.6-3.2 kph) on a steady 10-20% uphill grade created wet and humid conditions in the jacket. With all of the vents closed, heat and moisture built up inside the jacket to the point that the activity could not be maintained without some ventilation. After this test, the inside of the jacket was thoroughly wet with condensation and the base layer worn underneath was very damp. We note that the level of breathability exhibited by the Nitro Jacket may be sufficient for less strenuous climbing and backcountry skiing, but it is not adequate for more strenuous backpacking and adventure running. In general, the perceived breathability of the Nitro is on par with other polyurethane-coated jackets in this price class.

Ventilation (3.5)

Thanks to the pit zips, this jacket provides some relief for overheating. Carrying a pack at cooler temperatures at 3 mph (4.8 kph) on fairly level ground was comfortable with the pit zips open. However, during the higher exertion level test, opening the pit zips only provided partial relief. At the end of the test, the inside of the jacket was again wet and base layer damp, but not as much as the “vents-closed” breathability test. Some benefit is realized with the pit zips, but inability to provide cross flow ventilation between the pit zips and other torso vents (e.g., mesh backed torso pockets) limits their effectiveness. Thus, the Nitro needs more ventilation if it is to be used for higher exertion activities, perhaps in the form of mesh-backed pockets. However, because the torso pockets are low on the jacket, wearing a pack would reduce the effectiveness of pocket-based ventilation (see photo), and the stiff water-resistant zippers tend to hold the pockets closed, limiting air exchange.

Durability (3.5)

We found the Moonstone Nitro Jacket to be sufficiently durable for general outdoor use, including off-trail hiking and scrambling. Its 40 denier nylon fabric face provides middle-ground durability for lightweight rainwear. Although the complex construction of a shell jacket provides some reinforcement owing to its numerous seams, pockets, and zippers, there are no heavier fabrics used in high wear areas. Overall, we would be comfortable using this jacket for off-trail bushwhacking, mountaineering, and backcountry skiing, but we would be hesitant to subject it to excessive abuse. In summary, we felt that its durability-to-weight ratio wasn’t particularly unique, especially when compared to other rain jackets in the 12-14 oz weight class.

Value (3.5)

With an MSRP of $150, the Nitro Jacket is one of the more expensive rain shells reviewed. However, it is somewhat unique in that it is designed to accommodate (successfully) a helmet and climbing harness, and at the same time be suitable for backpacking and backcountry skiing. For alpinists who have a need for the Nitro’s helmet and harness compatibility features, and want one jacket that can “do it all” the Moonstone Nitro is a reasonable value.

Recommendations for Improvement

The drawcord adjustment on the back of the hood needs a larger tab so it can be located and operated more easily, especially while wearing gloves or mitts. The jacket could use a bit more ventilation. Adding mesh backing to the torso pockets, and raising them upward by an inch, would certainly help. Finally, while the Nitro Jacket offers some nice features, at 14.2 oz (403 g), it is also 2-4 oz (57-113 g) heavier than some other ripstop nylon rain jackets on the market with similar features.

Overview

The Sierra Designs DT Tech Jacket is a stylish, athletically cut rain jacket. It is built with Entrant DT – one of the more breathable of the lightweight waterproof PU-coated fabrics on the market. This fabric is textured on the interior face for improved comfort against bare skin. For times when the fabric cannot breathe sufficiently for the workout, the Tempest has a variety of easy-to-use ventilation options to keep air circulating. This jacket has a simple, usable hood and one-handed cordlocks at the neck and waist. The downfall of the DT Tech Jacket, however, is in its waterproof zippers; after a short period of time, the polyurethane coating began to delaminate and peel, allowing water to enter the jacket and making the jacket appear worn out before its time. A poor DWR finish appears to inhibit breathability in wet conditions.

Specifications

• Garment Style – hooded jacket
• Fabric Class – waterproof-breathable
• Fabric Description – Entrant DT: 2.5 layer W/B with a printing on a nylon face fabric, weight= 2.3 oz/sq yard
• Weight – 13.2 oz
• MSRP – $129

Features

Ventilation (4.0)

The Sierra Designs DT Tech Jacket features unique 14.5” forearm zippers that run from just below the armpit to the wrist. It has Velcro cuffs at the wrists and a one-handed elastic drawcord at the waist. It also features vented front pockets to provide frontal ventilation.

Usability (3.5)

The Sierra Designs DT Tech Jacket has several useful features. In addition to the vented front pockets on each side, it also has a small left breast pocket protected by a waterproof zipper, as well as vertical inner pockets for an energy bar or sunglasses. The forearm zips of the Sierra Designs DT Tech Jacket, while not allowing for torso ventilation like full pit zips, are extremely easy to use with one hand. Its hood rolls up nicely when not in use and it has a one handed drawcord for sealing the jacket around the neck. The hood cords have neoprene sliders in place of plastic cordlocks and require two hands to use. The hood also has a Velcro adjustement in the rear to control hood volume (there is not enough room for a climbing helmet). It has stylish reflective piping along each arm for safety in the city.

Sizing (4.0)

The Sierra Designs DT Tech Jacket has an average and athletic cut – it fits more like a running jacket than a backpacking parka. Its shorter hem ends just below the waist. It layered over well enough over a Golite Coal (although the Coal stuck out the bottom a bit) without compressing the Coal’s insulation markedly (it won’t layer over an Integral Designs Dolomitti without compressing its insulation, however). The arms of the tempest are cut long enough to withdraw your hands in the rain.

Fit (4.5)

This jacket fits like a running jacket and moves like a high-motion shell. It offers a full range of motion in any direction – the fit is excellent for a medium build. The hood offers approximately 80% of the full range of motion, moving with the head better than some jackets we’ve used but not as well as the MEC Aquanator or other hoods with a rear cinch. This jacket seals up nicely at the wrists, waist, and neck and has a comfy bit of soft fabric at the neck. Sierra Designs paid a lot of attention to designing the fit of the DT Tech Jacket.

Field Performance

Storm Resistance (2.5)

The Sierra Designs DT Tech Jacket features fully taped seams and keeps the majority of the water out. However, after 2 months of heavy use, the brittle PU coating of the waterproof zippers started to crack, allowing some moisture to enter the jacket in a downpour in the front zipper and at the breast pocket.

Breathability (2.0)

With all vents closed, the Sierra Designs DT Tech Jacket was perceived to be more breathable than the MEC Aquanator jacket but quite a bit less breathable than other products, including Gore-Tex XCR, Gore-Tex Pac-Lite III, and eVENT. When hiking on flat ground, it breathed reasonably well. Because of the printed inner face fabric, this jacket was more comfortable to wear with bare skin than other garments with unprinted polyurethane face coatings. While wearing a 20 pound pack, the Sierra Designs DT Tech Jacket became pretty moist inside on moderate grade trails. Predictably, the inside became wetter when exerting more energy on the uphills with the vents closed.

The Sierra Designs DT Tech Jacket also performs below average in the area of water resistance because of a DWR finish that didn’t match up with other jackets we tried. The DWR wore off after little use, resulting in its outer face fabric becoming damp instead of beading water off. The resilience of the DWR appears to be a problem, as this was most noticeable after a couple of washes (following manufacturer washing guidelines). The loss of DWR didn’t result in leakage of external water through the fabric, but it certainly inhibited its breathability in wet conditions: the Sierra Designs DT Tech Jacket often felt clammy and damp on the inside in wet weather.

Ventilation (4.5)

While somewhat breathable and lightweight, polyurethane-type fabrics like Entrant DT require ventilation options for times when the fabric’s permeability rate is exceeded. When things get warm inside the Sierra Designs Tempest, you have many options. By opening the forearm zips, loosening the wrist cuffs, loosening the drawcords at the neck and waist, and opening the front vented pockets, this jacket allows a lot of moist air to escape. When snowshoeing uphill with a 20 pound pack in slushing rain, this jacket allowed us to stay relatively cool and dry, even with the front zipper closed.

Durability (1.5)

Water resistant zippers that cracked after only a few months (see photo), and a DWR finish that was impressively anti-D have serious implications for the jacket’s ability to remain breathable and storm resistant.

Value (2.5)

$129 is certainly not an outrageous price to pay for a jacket with the features and styling of the Sierra Designs DT Tech Jacket, but Sierra Designs must address durability issues with the DWR and waterproof zippers before we can recommend this jacket as a “Good Buy”.

Recommendations for Improvement

We really liked the design of the Sierra Designs DT Tech Jacket – it was an instant favorite for its fit and ventilation. However, waterproof zipper cracking and DWR failure indicate some material sourcing deficiencies that need to be addressed. One handed cordlocks at the hood would also be nice for ease of use, although the neoprene sliders work fine and save weight. With a slightly longer cut, the Sierra Designs DT Tech Jacket would appeal to more backpackers.

Introduction

The Montane eVENT Superfly is the most breathable shell we’ve tested. At an honest 15 oz (425 g) the Montane eVENT Superfly is also the lightest hooded jacket using the new, ultra breathable eVENT fabric. With its design focus on total waterproofness, the Superfly excels at keeping you dry in unimaginably wet conditions.

The hood, with its generous brim, wire stiffener and excellent adjustability, was one of the few that kept water off our glasses. The Montane eVENT Superfly’s 3-layer shell fabric is tough and well suited for off-trail travel, scrambling and even light alpine mountaineering. The jacket has an excellent fit and nice touches like a wire stiffened brim and a double storm flapped front zipper. The jacket uses all eVENT fabric in contrast to other manufacturer who use panels of less breathable and heavier stretch fabric and a trim fit to reduce their use of the expensive eVENT fabric. It has a roomy cut and good mobility. The main weakness of the eVENT Superfly, given our US bias against moisture accumulation (which contrasts a UK bias towards uncompromised weather protection), is its lack of ventilation. The jacket has no pit zips, core vents or vented pockets. Even so, the ultra breathable eVENT fabric does an admirable job of compensating for the Montane eVENT Superfly’s lack of vents.

Note: We reviewed a pre-production sample. The eVENT Super-Fly should be available to US Markets sometime in late spring of 2004.

Specifications

• Garment Style – Hooded Jacket
• Fabric Class – Waterproof breathable – Oleophobic, air permeable, hydrophobic PTFE (non polyurethane laminated)
• Fabric Description – 3-layer eVENT eV130 SL Storm, 3.4 oz/yd2 (115 g/m2). Outer shell, 40×40 denier high tenacity mini-ripstop nylon. Inner shell, nylon tricot.
• Breathability Specification – 21,000 g/m2/24hrs MVTR, JIS B2 (inverted cup with desiccant)
• Weight – 15.1 oz (428 g) BPL measured men’s large, 15.0 oz (425 g) manufacturer spec.
• MSRP – £175

Features

Ventilation Options (2.5)

There are no pit-zips, core vents, or mesh backed pockets on the eVENT Superfly. Montane engineers decided to rely on the high breathability of the eVENT fabric to move moisture out of the jacket. As such, they focused most of their design efforts on waterproofing the garment and reducing weight. The jacket does have a full length front zipper and adjustable, elastic and Velcro cuffs which provide some ventilation. The roomy fit and drawcord hem also aid in ventilation.

Usability (4.0)

The Montane eVENT Superfly has a roomy hood with an elastic face aperture draw-cord and single-hand operated cord locks on either side. The brim is large with a nice wire stiffener. A Velcro tab on the rear of the hood adjusts the brim to the right height and keeps it there. Another Velcro tab stows the rolled hood at the back of the jacket’s collar. The hood is cut a bit snug and barely fits over a low profile climbing helmet. The Montane eVENT Superfly has three pockets with water-resistant zippers: two hand-warmer pockets and a large napoleon pocket.

The Superfly is designed to minimize leaks. Montane backs all the pockets with eVENT fabric to prevent the minimal leakage from the water-resistant pocket zippers from entering the layers under the jacket. The napoleon pocket’s water-resistant zipper has an additional storm flap. To protect the single slider, uncoated, #3 front zipper, Montane uses a double overlapping storm flap that closes with Velcro and snaps. We liked the ease of operation of the non coated zipper but found that the Velcro on the storm flaps had a mind of its own and occasionally fastened itself when we didn’t want it to.

The jacket’s hem has an elastic draw-cord with single-hand operated cord locks on either side. For safety, the Montane eVENT Super-Fly has reflective strips on the sleeves, sides and chest. Finally, the eVENT fabric was surprisingly quiet, supple and pleasant to wear.

Sizing (4.5)

The eVENT Super-Fly has a roomy fit suitable for layering over a high-loft synthetic insulating jacket with 1” of loft without compressing that loft in either the body or sleeves (our reviewer is 5’8″ and 150 lbs and was testing a size M jacket). The jacket is cut a bit long and provides more coverage than many ultralight rain jackets. In the front, it came down to just below the crotch of our 5’8” reviewer and in the rear its drop tail extended to mid thigh. The hood layers well over a balaclava or insulated jacket hood but is a bit snug for all but a low profile climbing helmet.

Fit (4.5)

The eVENT Super-Fly has good head-turning mobility while wearing a pack. Its sleeves are a long and the hem did not lift, nor were our wrist exposed, when raising our arms above our head. There is ample room to withdraw the hands into the sleeves. There was no binding in the shoulders when crossing our arms across the chest while layered over a mid-weight fleece jacket.

Field Performance

Storm Resistance (5.0)

The Montane eVENT Superfly is designed to be stormproof, consistent with a UK bias towards total elemental protection. It’s no surprise, then, that the jacket kept us dry, even in torrential rain. The front zipper has a double storm flap, the pocket zippers are water resistant, and the pockets are backed by eVENT fabric. There are no vent zippers, mesh lined pockets, or other leak-prone areas. The hood, with its generous brim, wire stiffener and excellent adjustability, actually kept water off our glasses. (For most rain jackets the only way we can keep our glasses dry is to wear a 3 oz (100g) ball cap under their minimal and floppy hoods.)

Breathability (5.0)

With all zippers and vents closed, the Montane eVENT Superfly is the most breathable jacket our reviewers have tested. This is due to the high breathability of the eVENT fabric. We hiked uphill with a pack on for an hour at 40 deg F (5 deg C) in windy conditions. Our heart rate was above 80% of our max HR for most of the hike. At the end, our baselayer was damp, even wet in a few places, but not soaked. Our previous experience with non-vented WP/B jackets under similar conditions is a completely soaked baselayer. At moderate exertion levels, hiking with a 20 lb pack on level ground at 3 mph at 40 deg F (5 deg C), we stayed comfortable, with moisture only building up underneath the pack and its shoulder straps. Most of this was due to the limited breathability of the pack and not that of the eVENT fabric. Bottom line: eVENT breathes.

Ventilation (4.0)

The Montane eVENT Superfly surprised us. At high exertion levels we expected to get pretty sweaty with its limited ventilation. We didn’t. As mentioned above, we got damp but not soaked. To be fair, eVENT, even though it is arguably the most breathable waterproof fabric on the market, is not the Holy Grail of moisture transport. Nor is any other waterproof breathable fabric. Per previous tests performed by Backpacking Light, given similar fabric breathability, a better vented shell will always keep you drier. This also held true when comparing the Superfly to shells with more ventilation options. At high exertion levels, our clothing retained more moisture when worn under an unvented Montane eVENT Superfly than we would in well-vented jacket with a similarly breathable fabric. At moderate exertion levels the lack of vents was not a problem. The breathability of the eVENT fabric was sufficient to keep us comfortable. This is in comparison to our experience with other WB/B fabrics where need to open vents to maintain the same level of comfort at a moderate exertion level.

Durability (4.5)

With its 3.4 oz/yd² 3-layer fabric, the Montane eVENT Superfly is tougher than most jackets we test. It’s abrasion resistance to granite and puncture resistance against thorny brush gives the jacket a level of durability that we come to expect from a garment that weighs close to a pound. It is well suited for the abuses of rock scrambling, serious bushwacking, or alpine climbing.

Value (3.5)

At £175 (about USD$350) the Montane eVENT Superfly is not cheap. Nonetheless, it currently sets the weight standard for a hooded rain jacket using the ultra breathable eVENT fabric. It is extremely waterproof, and quite breathable for a jacket without pit-zips, core vents, or mesh-backed pockets. At 15 oz (425 g) it is reasonably light for a full zip, full featured jacket with a shell fabric tough enough for serious climbing. Competitor’s eVENT jackets are similar in price and weigh more. Lighter Gore-Tex Pac-Lite jackets shave a few ounces and are a bit less expensive than the Montane eVENT Super-Fly.

Recommendations for Improvement

We realize that UK and US garment designers differ on the relative importance of complete and total waterproofness vs. ventilation. Your standard UK hill “walker” thinks nothing of starting a hike in 36 degree (2 C) sleet, sitting down on the summit in horizontal rain and having relaxed lunch of tea and sandwiches as if they were in their own living room. They even enjoy doing it! Americans, on the other hand (and yes, we are making generalizations) are more prone to wait for “weather windows” so they can climb in fair conditions, and skip their raingear altogether. The Montane eVENT Superfly is true to its UK roots by focusing on keeping its wearer warm and dry in severely foul conditions. One of our reviewers, who has experienced the inclemency of Scottish hillwalking, is certainly sympathetic to this design philosophy.

On the other hand, we are Yanks at heart, and we like the cooling and moisture transport of mesh backed front pockets, core vents and pit-zips. We’d be thrilled if the Montane eVENT Superfly incorporated some of these ventilation options and used less rigorous storm protection (read: more user friendly) on the front zipper. We’d even suffer a bit of leakage for the changes. It would also be a nice touch to add a double slider on the front zipper which would help with ventilation and also with harness compatibility.

Introduction

The Montane Hydra-Lite Smock is (as far as we know) the lightest fully waterproof rain shell on the market (Smock is UK for anorak or a half-length front zipper). Our pre-production sample (size L) was 7.6 oz (215g). Its strength is excellent rain protection. Lack of pit zips or pocket ventilation mean that the jacket is best suited for storm protection rather than sustained active use.

The hood fits well around the face with the front aperture drawcord cinched tight. With the rear Velcro adjustment properly set for volume as well brim height, the hood provided excellent protection from precipitation. The hood’s brim has a wire stiffener (a boon for eyeglasses wearers in the rain). The shell’s hood fits passably over a small volume climbing helmet, but the fit is questionable with standard helmets like the HB Dyneema Carbon. Additional nice features are fully fleece-lined collar free of the hood, and that the hood neatly stows into a Velcro flap on the back of the collar. Torso articulation is sufficient for climbing, and the cut is suitable for layering over a reasonable amount of insulation, making it an ideal backpacking jacket. A longish hem covers the waistline and drops below the butt in the rear. The single napoleon pocket has a water resistant zipper and is backed with waterproof fabric.

Light weight, good breathability, room for layering, and great storm protection make the Montane Hydra-Lite Smock a great choice for that occasional storm. Stuff it in your pack (or possibly pocket) and you’ll hardly notice its additional weight or volume. Take it out when the weather turns nasty and you will notice its protection from wind and precipitation.

Note: The Hydra-Lite Smock replaces the Freeflow fabric Micro Super-Fly for summer 2004. The Super-Fly remains in the Montane line but changes to heavier and more expensive eVENT fabric and goes from 8.5 (240 g) oz to 15 oz (425 g). Please see a review of this jacket LINK. We rue that Montane is dropping the Freeflow Micro Super-Fly from its line as we thought that the full zip and dual pockets are well worth the extra once over the Hydra-Lite Smock. Of course, what we’d really like to see is a Freeflow Micro Super-Fly with pit-zips and mesh-backed front pockets.

Specifications

• Garment Style: Jacket – Hooded Anorak (half-length front zipper)
• Fabric Class – Waterproof, breathable
• Fabric Description – 30D Freeflow Micro DWR+ PU-coated nylon. Finished weight: 1.6 oz/yd² (45 g/m²)
• Breathability – 10,000 g/m²/24hrs JIS L 1099 B1 method (inverted cup)
• Weight – 7.6 oz (215 g) (measured); Size Large
• MSRP – £ 80.00 (currently $148.00)

Features

Ventilation (2.5)

The Montane Hydra-Lite Smock has a half-length front zipper, a medium-sized hood, and a single drawcord hem. Mesh-backed torso pockets would have little weight, and improved ventilation. Pit zips using small zippers would substantially increase ventilation. The front zipper and drawcord hem allow for limited ventilation. The elastic sleeve cuffs are not adjustable, cannot be opened, and thus, do not contribute to ventilation.

Usability (3.5)

The Montane Hydra-Lite Smock features an adjustable hood that fits over low-volume climbing helmets, dual single-hand adjustable draw cords for the hood aperture, and a rear Velcro adjustment for hood volume and brim height. With the rear Velcro adjustment properly set for volume as well brim height, the hood provided excellent protection from precipitation. The hood’s brim has a wire stiffener (a boon for eyeglasses wearers in the rain). A fleece lined collar provides some ability to seal the neck. The hood stows neatly into a Velcro flap on the back of the collar. The Montane Hydra-Lite has a single napoleon pocket with a polyurethane-coated water-resistant zipper. The half-length, 13.5 in (34 cm), water resistant front zipper is backed by a single interior storm flap. There are no snaps or Velcro to secure the front opening. There are safety reflective patches on the ends of the sleeves. The hem has an elastic drawcord with one single hand cordlock. The anorak design limits usability, which could have been markedly improved with a slightly longer zipper.

Sizing (4.5)

The Montane Hydra-Lite is cut generously in both body volume and length. It layers easily over a base layer and/or a mid-weight fleece (or thinner high-loft insulating layer) without restricting mobility or compressing loft. The hem is cut long and provides a surprising amount of coverage for such a light rain shell. In the front, it came down to just below the crotch of our 5’8” reviewer and in the rear, its drop tail extended to mid-thigh.

Fit (4.0)

With the hood up, the Montane Hydra-Lite Smock offers head-turning mobility while wearing a pack. The wire stiffened brim works well for peripheral vision as well as providing rain protection for eyeglass-wearers. The anorak could benefit from one more inch of sleeve length, as most of us can’t quite withdraw our hands into the sleeves to preserve ventilation while keeping our gloves dry. The elastic cuffs are not adjustable but we found their fit acceptable.

Field Performance

Storm Resistance (5.0)

The Montane Hydra-Lite Smock provides complete storm protection with fully taped seams and a storm flap over the front zipper. The wire stiffened brim provided excellent protection from wind and strong rain, even for eyeglasses wearers. No leakage was observed, and lack of ventilation zippers means that this is one of the "tightest" rain shells on the market.

Breathability (3.5)

The Montane Hydra-Lite Smock did not seem as breathable as eVENT, Gore-Tex XCR, or Gore-Tex Pac-Lite, but we observed it to be more breathable than many of the PU-coated fabrics we’ve tested, including all of the PU-coated fabric technologies examined in our last comprehensive round of rainwear reviews in 2001.

Ventilation (2.0)

Lack of ventilation – pit zips, torso-backed pockets, full length front zipper, and adjustable cuff closures – severely limits the Montane Hydra-Lite Smock’s ventilation options in strong precipitation. There is virtually no way to vent the garment when moving fast in stormy conditions.

Durability (4.5)

The ultralight fabric used in the Montane Hydra-Lite Smock is quite durable for its weight. Third class scrambling that exposed the smock to frequent abrasion against rock did not appreciably wear the fabric. Although we noticed some surface abrasion marks on the fabric from our scrapes with rocks and shrubs, it did not result in any leakage in the shell. We were concerned about the ability of the light fabric and PU coating to withstand abrasion from pack straps and remain waterproof. Our jacket shoulders have remained waterproof after several long backpacking trips wearing lightweight packs. At the end of our several-month testing period, we have not detected any damage – or leakage – on the interior (PU) face of the fabric. We expect the Montane Hydra-Lite Smock to be durable enough for any lightweight backpacker accustomed to carefully caring for their gear.

Value (4.0)

The Montane Hydra-Lite Smock excels as a bare-bones, durable, leakproof rain shell. If you’re one of those hikers that carries a rain shell as a last resort, contingency backup (and we’d certainly count ourselves among that crowd), it is a super value for complete storm protection at less than 8 oz (225 g)! At $148.00, the Hydra-Lite Smock is within the reach of many backpackers and hikers. It is lighter and cheaper than Gore-Tex PacLite, Gore-Tex XCR and eVENT-branded products. It is more expensive than many heavier products with less breathable fabrics. Due to its limited ventilation, if you need a well vented jacket for high levels of activity in longer periods of precipitation you may want to look elsewhere.

Recommendations for Improvement

Upgrade the shell in its same design as fabrics became lighter! The Montane Hydra-Lite Smock is one of the best overall anorak designs on the market.

Introduction

The MEC Aquanator Jacket is a lightweight waterproof breathable jacket suitable for hiking and mountaineering. Its baggy cut accommodates larger builds as well as allows for layering over insulating jackets. It has a long hem to keep your bum dry, and an excellent hood with a wide brim that works as well with a climbing helmet as it does without a hat. All of the jacket’s drawcords have one-handed cord locks. The jacket ventilates with full-length pit zips.

At 13.2 oz (375 g) for a men’s large, the MEC Aquanator comes in at a weight typical of other lightweight rain jackets with similar features. We found the polyurethane fabric of the Aquanator not quite as breathable as the best polyurethane and PTFE (e.g., Gore-Tex) fabrics on the market.

Specifications

Features

The MEC Aquanator Jacket has a full front zipper and 15 in (38 cm) pit zips (see photo) for ventilation. It also has a waist drawcord and Velcro cuffs that can be adjusted for increased ventilation. This jacket does not feature front ventilation (mesh pockets or core vents) of any kind.

The Aquanator jacket features two chest pockets that fit right in-between the waist and sternum straps of a pack leaving them accessible while wearing a pack. It has no inner pockets. The Aquanator’s hood is large, adjustable and can easily cover a small climbing helmet. The hood also features functional one-handed draw cords that cinch both the front and back of the hood, making the hood just as usable and comfortable over a bare head as with a helmet. The jacket has Velcro closures at the cuffs and a one-handed draw cord on each side of the waist. It uses 2-way YKK zippers at both the pit zips and the front zipper. While waterproof zippers are used at the pit zips, a waterproof flap covers the front zipper.

This jacket is sized large (very roomy) and it easily layered over an Integral Designs Dolomitti jacket and a down vest without compressing the insulation in the body of the insulating garments (see top photo). The jacket is also cut long to cover the butt/lower torso. While this sizing is useful for layering over winter insulation, the extra fabric is unwieldy over trimmer layering systems (see photo of pit zip detail) more popular among 3-season lightweight backpackers.

The Aquanator’s hood offers excellent head-tuning mobility by adjusting its rear cinch cord. The jacket allows for good articulation when stretching, crossing arms, or lifting hands above your head. Its sleeves are long enough to withdraw your hands in a downpour. Our review staff felt that the jacket was larger than it needed to be for backpackers. The extra fabric flapped in winds, and interferes with the ability to see your feet while climbing.

Field Performance

The MEC Aquanator was tested in a wide variety of conditions. It was first tested during a series of hikes in the Cascades (Washington State) through drizzle, rain, and wet snow conditions in a temperature range of 28 deg F (2 deg C) to 55 deg F (13 deg C). These hikes were performed at a variety of exertion levels ranging from hiking 2-3 mph without a pack on flat ground to higher exertion levels while carrying a 20 pound pack on rolling terrain. This garment was also field tested over a 3 day period in the Cascades on a high-intensity winter climbing/snowshoeing trip that included pouring rain, slush, and hard snowing conditions as well as below-freezing temperatures. Pack weight during that trip was approximately 20 pounds as well. In addition, we subjected the MEC Aquanator to our standard cold shower tests to assess waterproofness.

Storm Resistance (4.0)

The MEC Aquanator certainly keeps the weather out. It features taped seams, a front zipper with a storm flap and Velcro closures, waterproof pit zippers and a full coverage hood with a large brim.

One reviewer noticed that this is one of the few jacket hoods on the market that is able to keep a hard driving rain from hitting his nose! The MEC Aquanator does not offer a method to tighten the collar around the neck or under the chin, and thus, it offers a poor seal, especially when the hood is down. This was a problem, especially when hiking with minimal base layers, as there was no effective way to stop water from going down the large neck opening or to seal drafts from letting heat out. See photo for the hood detail.

The pockets are waterproof on both sides and easily kept items dry from both external and internal moisture. After a downpour, the MEC Aquanator dried quickly (it has an excellent DWR finish) and gained very little water weight relative to some other jackets in our review.

Breathability (2.0)

Our reviewers observed that the MEC Aquanator was on the lower end of breathability performance for polyurethane technology, and it was unofficially dubbed the “sauna” jacket of our review. While the material did breathe sufficiently at low exertion levels (relative to non-breathable technologies), all ventilation options needed to be used to slow moisture accumulation in even mildly aerobic activities. When hiking without a pack on flat ground, the Aquanator is breathable enough to not require ventilation. In the same terrain, hiking with a 20 pound pack overwhelmed the jacket fabric’s breathability. In this case, the inside face of the coated fabric felt quite damp and resulted in a significant feeling of clamminess. When hiking uphill with the pack, it’s all over – the jacket can get very wet inside. This was especially true during a drizzly 40 degree day in the Cascades; with the jacket sealed up it would have been more comfortable with no jacket at all. That said, the Aquanator is equipped with several ventilation options that make the jacket much more versatile in these conditions. However, its breathability is noticeably less than other polyurethane and PTFE jackets in our review.

When the pit zips unzipped, the cuffs open, and the waist draw string loose (but the front zipper closed) the Aquanator performs better during high-exertion activities. When hiking on flat ground the vents were not really needed. With a 20 pound pack, however, the vents came in very handy and our reviewer was able to keep the interior of the jacket relatively dry. When working hard and going uphill with the same pack, however, the vents had a hard time transporting all of the moisture and the interior was still quite wet – conditions that resulted in less moisture accumulation in other jackets we reviewed that offered better torso ventilation. Because the jacket offers no front or back ventilation options, this moisture really built up in the torso. This jacket is far more comfortable over a thin base layer in conditions that result in moisture accumulation. Unlike 3-layer PTFE technologies, bare skin will be uncomfortable against the rubbery interior fabric coating when it gets damp.

The MEC Aquanator Jacket offers reasonably durability for its weight, but nothing unusual or spectacular. While it utilized a lightweight fabric that isn’t designed for high-abrasion activities, its ripstop fabric, medium-sized metal YKK zippers, and quality construction lead our reviewer to believe that this is a lightweight garment that can withstand some abuse – if treated appropriately.

Recommendations for Improvement

While we appreciated the large cut of this jacket in certain situations (e.g., wearing an insulative layer underneath to keep it dry during while watzing around camp during a wet snowfall), it is too baggy for the average backpacker. A trimmer cut would have allowed for layering over thinner insulating garments and would have been more comfortable while bushwacking, climbing, or simply performing camp chores. This jacket would have benefited from torso ventilation such as mesh lined pockets – which are necessary given the fabric’s limited breathability.

We were also disappointed with the jacket’s poor neck seal against downward trickling precipitation and cold air drafts. While some benefit is realized by sizing the jacket to fit over a lot of insulation, the oversized fit results in a poor neck seal, which has a great impact on your ability to stay warm in colder conditions. The MEC Aquanator Jacket has serious potential as a shell for the sloppy conditions of Pacific Northwest mountaineering, but it lacks utility for more general use. The simple modification of adding a small second slider at the base of each hood drawcord system (the cord travels through 2 grommets and a fabric tab) allowed our reviewer to close up the neck area to make a decent seal. Although not perfect, this is an easy change for the consumer that would extend the usability of the garment some by providing additional adjustability at the neck.

Introduction

At 11.4 oz (320 g), the Mont-bell Versalite Jacket is lightweight and full-featured waterproof/breathable rainwear. The jacket includes some very long (18 in, 45 cm) pit zips, two pack friendly chest pockets, and a great fit. Mont-bell’s Dry Light Tec fabric proved breathable, waterproof, durable, and highly packable. The garment design allowed little moisture to penetrate during very heavy rain.

Specifications

• Garment Style – hooded jacket and pants
• Fabric Class – Waterproof-breathable.
• Fabric Description – Mont-bell’s proprietary 30-denier Dry Light Tec fabric. This fabric weighs 2.4 oz/yd² (81 g/m²). The inner surface of the 30-denier shell is coated with a very thin (40 to 50 micron) layer of polyurethane. In addition, a textured pattern of microscopic dots is added to the surface of the polyurethane, which gives the coating a dryer feel. The fabric also contains Mont-bell’s Polkatex DWR treatment. Polkatex is a durable DWR treatment (according to Mont-bell), able to retain 90% of its water repellency after 100 washings or after abrasion. Polkatex consists of a water-based fluorine finish that better adheres to the fabric fibers and a cushioning agent that provides some elasticity to the molecular bonds of the Polkatex, allowing it to resist degradation from oils and detergents.
• Waterproofness Specification – 28 PSI (14 PSI guaranteed after 20 washings), using the JIS L-1099 B-1 test method.
• Breathability Specification – 12,000 g/m²/24h using the JIS L-1099 test method.
• Weight – Versalite jacket = 11.4 oz (320 g). (12.0 oz. with included stuff sack). The Mont-bell catalog and web page both contain a weight error for this jacket of 9.2 oz. According to Mont-bell, this mistype has perpetuated through recurrent editions of the catalog. They concur that the jacket weight should be about 12 oz. – Versalite pants = 7.0 oz (200 g). (7.6 oz. with included stuff sack).
• MSRP – $149 for the Versalite jacket. $89 for the pants.

Features

Ventilation (4.0)

The Mont-bell Versalite Jacket has two enormous pit zips, each measuring 18 inches (45 cm) long. The pit zips are the primary mechanism of ventilation. Additional ventilation can be achieved by loosening the hem and cuffs. The elastic shock cord hem is adjustable via two one-handed cordlocks whose adjustment is accessed through the two chest pockets. The cuffs are elastic and adjusted with Velcro closures. Torso vents are not present on this jacket.

Usability (4.5)

The Mont-bell Versalite Jacket has two large torso pockets. The pockets are positioned to retain full functionality while wearing a pack and are protected with #5 YKK Aquatect zippers.

The Mont-bell Versalite has a hood offering plenty of adjustability. It offers separate adjustments for opening size, height, and peripheral width. The opening or perimeter is adjusted via two elastic shock cords and two cordlocks. The small cordlocks are located (oddly enough) inside the front of the jacket hood and covered with fabric flaps to prevent direct contact with the user’s chin. The hood height is adjusted using a Velcro tab at the back of the hood. Likewise, the peripheral width is adjusted at the back, via an adjustable elastic shock cord. The hood is completed with a stiffened brim.

There are a total of five weatherproof #5 YKK Aquatect zippers on the jacket – a full front zipper, two pit zips, and two pocket zippers. The #5 size is slightly larger than many ultralight jackets, which are using #3 zippers. The zippers work relatively smoothly despite the polyurethane weatherproof coating. Only the main front zipper is protected by a storm flap on the inside of the jacket.

The jacket features adjustable cuffs (Velcro tabs) and hem (elastic shock cord and two one hand adjustable cordlocks that can be tightened by pulling the shock cord from inside the pockets). To loosen the hem, the cordlocks must be released from their location along the hem on the inside front.

Sizing (5.0)

The "average" size of the Mont-bell Versalite jacket is suitable for layering over medium to heavy weight fleece. Although a high loft insulation layer can be worn, significant loft compression results (especially in the sleeves) if the insulating layer has a loft exceeding one inch. The jacket’s hem will range 7 to 9 inches longer than the beltline for most useres. When bending or raising arms, the hem does not rise enough to expose the waistline of the pants. The overlap while bending forward was about 4 in (10 cm).

Fit (5.0)

With the hood up and wearing a pack with all of the jacket’s zippers closed, the user retains good head turning mobility. The hood did not shift or cover our face. The sleeves are long enough to allow the hands to be withdrawn into them. The cut of the jacket allows free movement of the arms. The arms can be lifted and crossed without exposing the wrists or binding in the shoulders. When raising the arms, the hem rises approximately 1 in (2.5 cm).

Field Performance

Storm Resistance (4.0)

The Mont-bell Versalite jacket has fully taped seams. All of the zippers (main front zipper, two pit zips, and two pocket zippers) are #5 YKK Aquatect weatherproof zippers. Only the main front zipper has a storm flap, on the inside, which lacks a gutter. Storm resistance was tested in both steady rain and heavy (thunderstorm-class) downpour conditions.

In a downpour, we found the jacket’s pit zips too long to want to open them fully – when fully open, the openings leak near the bottom and soak the lower torso. This is easily fixed by closing the pit zips slightly (pit zips close from the bottom of the torso up to the arms and are not 2-way zippers). We observed no leakage at the elbows, despite the length of the zippers. Downpour conditions also caused very slight leakage along the front zipper. This could not be corrected and is likely the result of the jacket lacking a gutter on the storm flap.

Breathability (4.0)

Breathability was tested at temperatures varying from 32 deg F (0 deg C) to 52 deg F (11 deg C) in wind conditions ranging from 0 to 10 mph (0 to 16 kph). Breathability was tested while wearing a light backpack (weighing approximately 20 lbs. (9 kg)) and hiking on level terrain at 2-3 mph (3.2 to 4.8 kph) and on steep terrain at 1-2 mph (1.6 to 3.2 kph). The humidity was between 40% and 50%. During this test, all zippers were closed, hem and cuffs were tightened, and the hood adjusted to a snug fit.

On level terrain, the jacket was highly breathable at lower temperatures (32 deg F to 40 deg F). As temperatures rose (approaching 50 deg F), internal thermal discomfort and moisture was noticeable but not intolerable. Excessive thermal discomfort did occur at the higher temperatures while hiking up steep terrain. Excluding the portion of jacket beneath the pack (an area that could not breathe due to the pack) the jacket interior in the vicinity of our tester’s armpits had the greatest amount of thermal and moisture buildup. Although there was noticeable humidity and the interior fabric felt moist to the touch, no visible moisture was observed. The area behind the head and the area in front of the chest also had thermal and moisture buildup, though to a lesser extent.

Ventilation (4.0)

Jacket ventilation was tested at temperatures varying from 32 deg F (0 deg C) to 52 deg F (11 deg C) in wind conditions ranging from 0 to 10 mph (0 to 16 kph). Ventilation was tested while wearing a light backpack (weighing approximately 20 lbs. (9 kg)) and hiking on level terrain at 2-3 mph (3.2 to 4.8 kph) and on steep terrain at 1-2 mph (1.6 to 3.2 kph). The humidity was between 40% and 50%. During this test, the pit zips were opened and hem and cuffs were loosened on the jacket. The hood was left snug and the main front zipper was left up in order to study the jackets ventilation without compromising weatherproofness.

Since breathability problems mainly occurred while hiking steep terrain at temperatures approaching 52 deg F (11 deg C), we only note the ventilation results observed during those conditions. Not surprisingly, the jacket’s long pit zips alleviated the moisture buildup under our arms. The other areas where thermal and moisture buildup occurred (behind head and front of chest) were less relieved by opening the pit zips. We believe this is due to the backpack’s straps insolating these areas from the pit zips ventilation, and is not necessarily an observation unique to the Mont-bell Versalite Jacket.

Ventilation would have been approved with mesh-backed torso pockets.

Durability (4.5)

The Dry Light Tec fabric used in the Mont-bell Versalite Jacket has a durable feel. Mont-bell’s stitching, and overall manufacturing quality, is excellent. Used during a 4-day backpacking trip through a heavily vegetated stream corridor, the Mont-bell Versalite Jacket proved durable against frequent encounters with tree branches and rock outcrops. The zippers ran smooth throughout the entire trip, and were more resistant to sand and grit than other zippers we’ve tried. We did notice degradation of the DWR finish following use and washing.

Value (3.5)

The manufacturing quality, good fit, and functional design earn high performance marks for the Versalite Jacket. However, relative to other non-PTFE rainwear from other manufacturers, the Mont-bell Versalite is priced on the high end.

Recommendations for Improvement

Our main concern for the Mont-bell Versalite jacket is the minor leaking along the main front zipper (during downpour conditions). In addition, Mont-bell could save weight by replacing the #5 YKK Aquatect zippers with #3 zippers of the same type where applicable. Note: Since YKK is not currently making a separating #3 Aquatect, a #5 would be necessary for the main front zipper. The others (pit zip and pocket zippers) could be handled with #3 zippers.

Introduction

At 8.8 oz (247 g) the Haglöfs LIM Ultimate Jacket shatters the Gore-Tex weight barrier. It was the lightest Gore-Tex jacket tested by 4 oz (114 g). If fact, it came within a smidge of being the lightest full-zip jacket tested, weighing only 0.2 oz (6g) more than the polyurethane-coated Montane Superfly.

At that weight you can pair the Haglöfs LIM and a highly breathable windshirt like a Marmot Chinook or Montane Aero – even a light woven soft shell like a Marmot Sirocco or Cloudveil Prospector – and still come in at a total weight less than that of many ultralight polyurethane shells by themselves. With the Haglöfs LIM and an ultralight soft shell jacket, you get what may be the ultimate in a flexible shell system – a comfortable soft shell for most conditions and a highly breathable, fully waterproof, rain shell as a backup when the heavens open up.

Why “LIM?” Less Is More.

Overview

Martin Kossler of Haglöfs’ says “It was our intention to make the lightest Gore-Tex jacket available without sacrificing function or fit.” The LIM Ultimate Jacket offers a number of functional niceties for a sub-250 g jacket. It has a roomy fit, articulated elbows, a stiffened brim on a roomy hood with front and rear adjustments, a dual toggle elastic drawcord hem, a full length #5 (6 mm) front zipper with a hem snap, and durable 2.3 oz/yd2 (78 g/m2) fabric. The only concessions to weight savings: the Haglöfs LIM has only single napoleon pocket, elastic (non-adjustable) wrist cuffs, no pit-zips and a short front hem.

The Haglöfs LIM Ultimate Jacket uses a new version of 2-layer Gore-Tex PacLite fabric called Matrix. As far as we can tell, it is sourced out of Europe and not available in US garments. At 2.3 oz (78 g/m2) it’s about 13% lighter than the 2.6 oz (88 g/m2) PacLite III used in the US. The Haglöfs LIM has a well-fitting hood equally suited for backpacking and sheltering a climbing helmet. With a short (harness-friendly) hem, the Haglöfs LIM Ultimate Jacket may find favor among backpackers or climbers looking for the lightest and most breathable rain shell.

The £170.00 (approx $305) price tag is a bit steep but you get a combination of weight, breathability, features, durability and low pack volume that is hard to find in other garments.  The LIM is not distributed in the US so you’ll have to order it from a UK stockist (stockist = Brit for retailer).

Specifications

• Style – Hooded Jacket
• Fabric Class – Waterproof breathable – polyurethane laminated PTFE
• Fabric Description – Gore-Tex PacLite Matrix 2.3 oz/yd2 (78 g/m2)
• Breathability Specification – Maximum Ret of 60, ISO 11092 Test
• Claimed Weight – 9.5 oz (270 g)  Men’s medium
• Actual Weight – 8.8  oz (366 g) (Men’s Size M as validated on BackpackingLight.com scales)
• MSRP – £170.00 (approx $305) available from UK stockists

Features

Graded subjectively on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

Ventilation Options (3.5)

The Haglöfs LIM Jacket has a full zipper, a roomy fit, a large hood with a wide range of adjustability, and a drawcord hem. The roominess and adjustability of the fit allows for a bellows and chimney ventilation if you are active. Mesh-backed torso pockets and pit zips would have made the Haglöfs LIM Ultimate Jacket the cream of the crop in lightweight ventilated rainwear.

Usability (4.5)

The Haglöfs LIM’s large-volume hood has a foam stiffened brim, front aperture draw cord with dual single hand cord locks (with a unique oval shape that was easy to use with gloved hands), and a unique circular draw cord at the back of the hood (similar to a pack’s lashing bungee) that adjusts with a single cord lock. The LIM’s hood adjusts to a wide range of volumes, balancing storm protection and ventilation. The hood easily snugs down to a bare head or adjusts all the way up for added ventilation or to accommodate a full-sized climbing helmet. The LIM is certainly one of the lightest waterproof breathable jackets on the market that can accept a full-sized climbing helmet.

The water resistant, single slider, full-length front zipper provides ventilation, is backed by a storm flap for additional moisture protection, and has a “slider garage” at the top. The #5 (6 mm) zipper is larger than the #3 used most sub-250 g shells. We found it easier (smoother) to operate than many other water resistant zippers. The bottom hem opening secures with an additional snap. 

The jacket has a single un-vented napoleon pocket. It’s strategically located to miss both shoulder straps and hipbelts. The pocket is suitable for a small camera, GPS unit, a map, or a couple of energy bars. Haglöfs takes a different approach to the front pocket, using a storm flap over a conventional zipper. Since some water may enter the pocket when you open and close it (or if you put wet gear inside) they added a small drain at the bottom. The conventional zipper is certainly easier to operate than a water-resistant zipper, and is a very smart choice of materials for a pocket, which one often accesses with only one hand! (2005 models will change to a #3 water resistant zipper for the pocket.) We would have preferred twin chest/handwarmer (mesh backed!) pockets above the belt line. They would have provided more storage and hand protection and increased ventilation for only a bit more weight and cost.

A unique feature of the Haglöfs LIM is the use of thumb loop openings at the wrist closure. We assume that that they are there for temporary rain and wind protection for ungloved hands. The end of the cuffs do provide reasonable protection for your hands but still leave the thumb and fingers available for things like trekking poles or handling a GPS unit. They also help the sleeves create a seal when used in combination with a pair of rain gloves or mitts.

Sizing (4.5)

The Haglöfs LIM Ultimate Jacket offers a roomy fit that is comfortable when worn over only a base layer, but still has enough volume to layer over a fleece jacket or even a light synthetic filled jacket. The hood is large enough for a full sized climbing helmet but can be adjusted down to a low volume for maximum storm protection – even over a bare head.

The jacket is cut a bit short – great for climbing since it doesn’t interfere with a harness or pack waistbelt. The hem comes down to just below the belt front. It is cut lower in the back and provides complete protection for the butt. Another inch or two of hem length in the front and rear would have offered significantly more rain protection for lightweight backpackers who often leave rain pants at home.

Fit (5.0)

The Haglöfs LIM Ultimate Jacket offers excellent articulation in the hood, shoulders, and elbows. The “hands up” sleeve articulation, pre-bent elbows and long sleeve length resulted in no wrist exposure or rising of the hem when reaching overhead (alleviating our concerns about the short hem riding too high). The LIM’s generously sized hood provides excellent head-turning mobility while wearing a pack. While wearing a fleece jacket and a base layer underneath the shell, there was no binding in the shoulders when crossing arms across the chest. The jacket even worked well layered over a light synthetic fill garment (e.g. Patagonia Puffball).

Field Performance

Graded subjectively on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

Storm Resistance (5.0)

The Haglöfs LIM Ultimate Jacket kept us nice and dry in heavy rain. The front zipper is the only place for potential leakage. The water resistant front zipper, which is backed by a very small storm flap, successfully kept heavy rain out, but we haven’t yet evaluated the performance of the system over time (we have been finding that long term performance of some waterproof zippers results in “aging” of the zipper that leads to leakage).

The deep hood with its generous brim and excellent adjustability provided good face protection from driving rain. The arms are very long and have plenty of room to withdraw hands into the sleeves to keep them dry. In addition, we liked the thumb loops at the wrist cuffs for providing some protection to ungloved hands while leaving fingers clear to manipulate gear.

The single napoleon pocket uses a storm flap over a standard (non-water resistant) zipper. The pocket is backed by PacLite Matrix fabric. We found that very little rain manages to get into the pocket, but Haglöfs provides a drain vent at the bottom in case it does.

Our only complaint is that for backpackers leaving rain pants at home, the hem is a bit too short in front. The jacket’s hem is longer in the rear, and while not providing extensive coverage it comes just below the butt and will be adequate for most backpackers.

Breathability (4.0)

With all zippers and vents closed, the Haglöfs LIM Ultimate Jacket was among the more breathable jackets our reviewers have tested. This is mostly due to the high breathability of the PacLite Matrix fabric used in the body. The only jackets that breathed better were eVENT based jackets at almost twice the weight of the Haglöfs LIM.

We hiked uphill at a brisk pace while wearing a pack for an hour at 40 °F (4 °C). By the end of the hike, our base layer was mostly damp (even wet in a few places), but it remained drier than tests performed while wearing other sub-300 g jackets made with polyurethane-based waterproof-breathable technologies. At moderate exertion levels, hiking with a 20 lb pack on level ground at 3 mph at 40 °F (4 °C), we stayed comfortable, with moisture only building up underneath the pack and its shoulder straps.

Ventilation (4.0)

The Haglöfs LIM Ultimate Jacket performed well in high aerobic activity. We hiked uphill with a pack on for an hour at 40 °F (5 °C). We were breathing hard for much of the hike. At the end, our base layer was damp, but drier than with other sub-300 g polyurethane WP/B jackets we’ve tested. We did feel the lack of ventilation from meshed backed pockets or pit-zips. As mentioned earlier, the roominess of the fit and large hood allows for some bellows and chimney ventilation if you are active. At moderate exertion levels, hiking with a 20 lb pack on level ground at 3 mph at 35 °F (3 °C), we stayed comfortable, with minimal moisture buildup.

Durability (4.5)

Although PacLite Matrix is not the most durable fabric available, it certainly has one of the higest durability:weight ratios of any waterproof-breathable fabric on the market. The Haglöfs LIM is tougher than most jackets we’ve tested in the sub-250 g (most of which use fabrics between 1.3 and 1.6 oz/yd2). The Haglöfs LIM held up fine when we subjected it to scraping against occasional rocks, bushwacking, and other normal abuses of backpacking. Our only concern: exposed Lycra-hemmed sleeves, which we expect to fray and wear as the jacket ages. A hem rolled over elastic might prove more durable.

Value (3.5)

The £170.00 (approx $305) price tag is a bit steep but you get a combination of weight, breathability, features, durability and packability that cannot be found in another garment. As mentioned earlier, paired with a light wind shirt of soft shell the Haglöfs LIM Ultimate jacket may provide the cornerstone of one of the most functional ultralight shell systems available.

Recommendations for Improvement

Given the weight of the Haglöfs LIM Ultimate Jacket, it’s hard to find many faults. It has a reasonable feature set, good breathability, and is surprisingly tough. As with any un-vented garment you will overheat and begin accumulating moisture in your clothing system at higher exertion levels.

If we had everything we wanted, we’d love to see dual, mesh-backed, torso pockets and pit-zips to increase ventilation on the LIM. We think Haglöfs could do this and still bring the jacket in under 10 oz (285 g).

Introduction

There are two schools of thought for making apparel lighter.

The first one, employed by the majority of manufacturers, is to decrease the weight of materials used in the apparel, without sacrificing features. The usual result: a sacrifice in durability (commonly, abrasion and tear resistance) over their more burly older brothers.

The second one, used by far fewer manufacturers, is to decrease features and preserve durability in a very simple garment design. Such is the design philosophy of the Arc’Teryx Sirrus SL jacket.

Overview

The Arc’Teryx Sirrus uses a 70 denier, 4.9oz/yd² (168g/m²), 3-layer Gore-Tex XCR fabric in the high-wear yoke and shoulder areas, and lighter Gore-Tex PacLite III fabric in the rest of the jacket. Even so, the Sirrus weighs only 12.9 oz (366 g), typically about 1 oz (28 g) heavier than the lightest Gore-Tex jackets available today (e.g., GoLite Phantom and Mont-Bell Torrent Flier).

The jacket’s real strength is its durability:weight ratio. It offers a roomy, well-fitting hood equally suited for backpacking and sheltering a small climbing helmet. With a short (harness-friendly) hem, the Arc’Teryx Sirrus SL will find appeal among alpine climbers.

The Arc’Teryx Sirrus SL offers few features: front and rear drawcord adjustments and a stiffened brim on the hood, pit zips, one non-vented napoleon pocket with a water resistant zipper, and a drawcord hem. Lack of other pockets, combined with its trim fit and short cut save significant weight by minimizing fabric used. Further weight is saved through laminated seams with small seam allowances, a narrow storm flap backing the front zipper, narrow die cut hook-and-loop cuff closures, miniature cord locks and fine diameter drawcord. Some weight is gained in the articulated collar design – which allows the hood to function independently of the collar – a nice comfort feature when you have the jacket zipped up and the hood is down.

The $300 price tag isn’t going to win any performance:price contests, especially when compared to more functional (feature-rich), lighter, and less expensive competition from the likes of GoLite and Mont-Bell.

Specifications

• Style – Hooded Jacket
• Fabric Class – Waterproof breathable – polyurethane laminated PTFE
• Fabric Description – 40 denier 2.5-layer Gore-Tex PacLite III 2.6 oz/yd² (88 g/m²) and 70 denier 3-layer Gore-Tex 530N XCR 4.9oz/yd² (168g/m²)
• Breathability Specification – Maximum Ret of 60, ISO 11092 Test
• Claimed Weight – 12.3 oz (349 g)
• Actual Weight – 12.9 oz (366 g) (Men’s Size M as validated on BackpackingLight.com scales)
• MSRP – $300

Features

Graded subjectively on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

Ventilation Options (3.5)

The Arc’Teryx Sirrus SL provides most of its ventilation via two 16 inch (41 cm) pit-zips, some of the longest we tested. The full front zipper’s dual sliders provide ventilation when a pack belt is worn. Adjustable cuffs and hem round things out, but the trim fit and lack of core vents limits bellows- and chimney venting when the jacket is fully zipped.

The jacket has an articulated collar (a tall, stiffened collar with the hood attached to on the outside of the collar, below its crest). The advantages of such a collar include an better neck seal to retain warmth and more comfort with the hood out of the way when the jacket is zipped up.

Usability (4.0)

A mid-volume hood has a stiffened brim, aperture draw cord with dual single hand cord locks, and a crown draw cord adjusted with a single cord lock at the rear. Hood adjustment allows for a wide range of volume sizing to balance storm protection and ventilation.

Pit zips and the front zipper provide ventilation adjustment with with water-resistant (urethane-coated) zippers and dual sliders. An unvented napoleon pocket with a water resistant zipper is easily accessible by right-handers, but twin torso handwarmer pockets above the belt line would have provided far more utility with little added weight. As is typical with water resistant, non-separating zippers, some effort is required to move the zippers, and one handed operation is not trivial when trying to unzip the jacket from the top.

Sizing (3.5)

The hood is large enough for a small climbing helmet but can be adjusted to a well-fitting, low volume hood for maximum storm protection.

The Arc’Teryx Sirrus SL has a trim fit that is very comfortable worn over only a base layer, but enough volume in the sleeves to layer over a fleece jacket. It is inappropriate for layering over anything but the thinnest (e.g., 60g Primaloft PL1) high-loft synthetic jackets or pullovers, because compression of the insulation and binding will occur in the sleeves and shoulders. High loft synthetic vests can be layered under the Sirrus SL successfully.

The jacket is cut a bit short, and thanks to a two-way zipper, does not interfere with a climbing harness or pack waistbelt. The hem comes down to just below the belt in both the front and back. Another inch of hem length would have offered significantly more utility for using the Sirrus SL as a backpacking jacket.

Fit (5.0)

The Arc’Teryx Sirrus SL offers outstanding articulation in the hood and shoulders. More than any jacket we tried, we found the Sirrus SL to move with the body. The hood turned well without binding, even while wearing a pack, and long sleeves and underarm articulation resulted in no wrist exposure or rising of the hem when reaching overhead (alleviating our concerns about the short hem riding too high). The Sirrus’ generously size hood provided has excellent head-turning mobility while wearing a pack. While wearing a fleece jacket underneath the shell, there was no binding in the shoulders when crossing arms across the chest.

Field Performance

Graded subjectively on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

Storm Resistance (4.0)

The Arc’Teryx Sirrus SL jacket kept us dry in heavy rain. The front zipper is the only place for potential leakage. A water resistant zipper backed by a very small storm flap successfully kept heavy rain out. The single napoleon pocket uses a water resistant zipper, and the pocket is backed by PacLite III fabric. The deep hood with its generous brim and excellent adjustability provided the best precipitation protection of any jacket we tested. It actually kept precipitation, including some wind blown rain, off of our reviewer’s glasses in heavy rain. If you fully open the pit-zips to vent you’re liable to get some water in at your elbows and along your sides – because the pit zips are long! The dual sliders on the pit-zips allow one to partially close them and still vent during heavy rain. The only weakness: the hem is just a hair too short – and bending over will expose a pants hem to rain.

Breathability (4.0)

With all zippers and vents closed, the Arc’Teryx Sirrus SL was among the more breathable jackets our reviewers has tested. This is due to the high breathability of the PacLite III fabric used in the body. We hiked uphill at a brisk pace while wearing a pack for an hour at 35 °F (3 °C). By the end, our base layer was fairly damp, but it remained drier than most tests performed while wearing jackets made with polyurethane-based WP/B technologies. At moderate exertion levels, hiking with a 20 lb pack on level ground at 3 mph at 30 °F (-1 °C), we stayed comfortable, with moisture only building up underneath the pack and its shoulder straps.

Ventilation (4.0)

With its long pit-zips fully open, the Arc’Teryx Sirrus SL performed well in high aerobic activity. We hiked uphill with a pack on for an hour at 40 °F (5 °C). We were breathing hard for much of the hike. At the end, our base layer was damp – but drier than with most polyurethane WP/B jackets we’ve tested. Our reviewer felt the pit-zips cooling and transporting moisture from under the arms and sides. On examining our base layer, we could see the drying effect of the pit-zips. Our front was fairly wet since the pack’s shoulder straps cut off ventilation to the front of the jacket. This is a reason we like vented front pockets in addition to pit zips. At moderate exertion levels, hiking with a 20 lb pack on level ground at 3 mph at 35 °F (3 °C), we stayed very comfortable, with minimal moisture buildup.

Durability (5.0)

With its 4.9oz/yd² (168g/m²) 3-layer Gore-Tex XCR fabric in the joke and shoulders and 2.6 oz/yd² (88 g/m²) PacLite III fabric in the rest of the jacket, the Arc’Teryx Sirrus SL is tougher than most jackets we test in this weight range. We subjected the jacket to scraping against rock and bushwacking in thick brush, using it as a sit pad for wet rocks and logs, and the other normal abuses of backpacking and climbing over a several month period. If you need a lightweight shell where durability is the most important feature, you’d be hard pressed to beat the Arc’Teryx Sirrus SL. We gave it this durability grade based on its durability:weight ratio – obviously, there are heavier, more durable jackets out there.

Value (3.0)

The $300 Arc’Teryx Sirrus SL isn’t going to win any price:performance awards. Although it’s a well-designed jacket, there are lighter, more feature-rich shells out there for a lot less money. Gore branding, the pterodactl logo, and sexy styling is going make the Sirrus SL a winner for some. However, if you climb, or do a lot of bushwacking in foul conditions and need a durable shell, the Sirrus SL gives you the ventilation and durability you need as great weight.

Recommendations for Improvement

We’d love to see dual, mesh-backed torso pockets on the Arc’Teryx Sirrus SL. It would put the jacket’s ventilation and breathability performance among the top of its class.

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Overview

The Montane Superfly Jacket uses a two-layer polyurethane-coated ripstop nylon (30 denier) face fabric in what is one of the lightest fully waterproof rain shells on the market: our sample (size L) was 8.6 oz (243 g). The hood fits well over a small volume climbing helmet like the Kong Scarab or Every Sky Helmet, but the fit will be tight with standard helmets like the Petzl Elderid. The brim is not stiffened and the hood has no rear “volume adjustment drawcord” but it fits well and remains “moldable” around the face when cinched tight, providing excellent protection in heavy rain. Torso articulation is sufficient for climbing, and the cut is suitable for layering over a reasonable amount of insulation, making it an ideal backpacking jacket. A mid-length hem covers the waistline and provides partial-to-total butt protection. Large torso pockets ride above the hip belt and are backed with waterproof fabric. Lack of pit zips or pocket ventilation mean that the jacket is best suited for storm protection rather than sustained active use. However, remarkably light weight, good breathability, room for layering, and outstanding storm protection make the Montane Superfly Jacket a terrific choice for stuffing in your pack and forgetting about it until a squall comes along – and then – its performance is superb.

Graded subjectively on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

The Montane Superfly Jacket has a full zipper, Velcro cuffs, a medium-sized hood, and a drawcord hem. Mesh-backed torso pockets would have added no weight, and would have improved ventilation some. Pit zips using small zippers would have made the Montane Superfly Jacket the lightest full-featured backpacking parka on the market.

The Montane Superfly jacket features an adjustable hood that fits over low-volume climbing helmets, dual single-hand adjustable draw cords for both the hood and hem, harness- and hip-belt compatible torso pockets (with polyurethane-coated water-resistant zippers), and a front zipper flap. Tiny zippers are only a minor downside – don’t cut off the pull tabs!

The Montane Superfly is generously cut in both body volume and length. It layers easily over base layer and/or a mid-weight fleece (or thinner high-loft insulating layer) without restricting mobility. Unsuitable for the climber looking for a trim climbing layer, the sizing is ideal for general backpacking.

The Montane Superfly Jacket offers head-turning mobility enabling free movement without binding both with the hood on and off and with or without a pack – however, lack of a stiffened brim makes it a little floppy, requiring some fiddling to get it right. The jacket could benefit from one more inch of sleeve length, as most of us can’t quite withdraw our hands into the sleeves to preserve ventilation while keeping our gloves dry.

Graded subjectively on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

The Montane Superfly jacket provides total storm resistance with fully taped seams and a front storm flap, with some wind and overhead downpour resistance sacrificed in its unstiffened hood brim.

The Montane Superfly jacket did not seem as breathable as eVENT, Gore-Tex XCR, or Gore-Tex Pac-Lite III, but it’s a far cry better than two-layer PU-coated nylons of only a few years ago.

Lack of ventilation – pit zips and torso-backed pockets – combined with an unstiffened hood brim – make the Montane Superfly jacket somewhat ‘thin’ in its ability to ventilation during stormy conditions. However, leaving the zipper unzipped and the storm flap closed (Velcro) worked well enough to spill excess heat while moving fast.

The ultralight fabric used in the Montane Superfly jacket is surprisingly durable. We bushwacked through willows and climbed granite peaks where the jacket was subjected to a fair bit of abrasion. And while the fabric is suffering its abrasion marks from the granite, we didn’t notice any sacrifices in waterproofness as a result. As is common with any two-layer coated nylon, we were concerned about the ability of the PU coating to withstand abrasion from pack straps while still preserving its waterproofness. Our jacket shoulders remain waterproof after quite a lot of pack use, and we have not yet noticed any damage to the interior (PU) face of the fabric. We expect the Montane Superfly jacket to be plenty durable enough for any lightweight backpacker accustomed to carefully caring for their gear.

At $179, the Montane Superfly Jacket hits the right price point between performance and cost. Cheaper than most Gore- and eVENT-branded products, while more expensive than lower-quality goods, the Montane Superfly Jacket offers a features-to-weight ratio that cannot be found at this price elsewhere. So, considering that it weighs only half a pound, it’s a great value.

Add pit zips and mesh-backed torso pockets. This will keep the jacket weight under 10 ounces and still offer the lightest fully-featured jacket on the market.

Overview

Patagonia promises simplicity and ultralight durability with their new generation of rainwear for lightweight aficianados, and they appear to deliver with the Patagonia Specter Pullover. Patagonia has stripped away all essentials – the Specter Pullover has only one small inside mesh pocket, non-adjustable cuffs, and a single drawcord hem. A volume–adjustable hood and a durable, 2.5 oz (71 g/m²) 2.5-layer waterproof-breathable fabric are the pullover’s only luxuries. The result: a supremely stuffable eight-ounce marvel of simplicity.

Specifications

• Garment Style – hooded pullover.
• Fabric Class – Waterproof-breathable (polyurethane-coated nylon)
• Fabric Description – 2.5 oz/yd² (71 g/m²) 2.5-layer 30d ripstop nylon with a polyurethane waterproof/breathable barrier (Patagonia’s “H2NO HB” branded technology).
• Waterproofness Specification – n/a.
• Breathability Specification – n/a.
• Weight – 8.0 oz. (227 g) in men’s size medium, as verified on a BackpackingLight.com scale. 9.0 oz. (255 g) manufacturer’s spec.
• MSRP – $165.00.

Features

Graded subjectively on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

Ventilation (3.5)

The Patagonia Specter is not built for the backpacker who lives in her rainwear. It has a brutally simple mission: keep you dry in a deluge and stuff away unnoticed when it’s not needed. To this end, the only meaningful ventilation options are a very roomy hood and the half front zipper. A roomy cut helps a lot, and we found this to be one of the best-ventilated (if not a little blousy) pullovers we’ve tried. Elastic cuffs are not adjustable, but they aren’t so tight to be noticeable when worn over gloves.

Usability (3.0)

How hard is it to “use” a pullover? The Patagonia Specter is light on features, so it’s sort of hard to evaluate “usability!” It may have the fewest features of any jacket we’ve reviewed. Some may see this as its greatest strength. The waterproof front zipper comes with a fancy decorative slider that’s not so easy to use with gloves or mittens, and there’s no hole in the end of the slider for adding your own zipper pull. The inside stash pocket is made with mesh, and it doesn’t close save for a single dot Velcro tab – don’t stow your car keys in it if you’re climbing the Grand Teton. The drawcord on the hem is “not exactly” one-handed, but the hood and its three-point volume adjustment works superbly, and allows you to dial in hood fit to give you comfortable ventilation or excellent articulation when closed. Cuffs are not adjustable, and are simple elastic.

Sizing (4.0)

The Patagonia Specter pullover is sized appropriately for its intended design purpose, and is roomy enough to layer over everything when a storm beckons. We’d love to see a trimmer fit, to save weight and make it an even better ’emergency’ piece for alpine climbing.

Fit (4.5)

Fit in the arms and torso is roomy enough to accommodate a high loft insulating layer (we tried the Specter over Patagonia’s new Micro Puff pullover) without compressing loft or restricting mobility. The hem is long enough to keep most of your butt dry – but we would have loved another inch of length – so we could leave our rain pants home!

Field Performance

Graded subjectively on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

Storm Resistance (4.0 )

The only way water can get into the Patagonia Specter is via the hood opening and front waterproof zipper, no easy feat. Worn in a sustained downpour, the zipper did not leak. The hood secures well around the face with a perimeter drawcord, but we did wish for a slightly larger brim to shield our eyes better. Some sort of brim stiffener would be a help to eyeglasses wearers.

Breathability (3.0)

The Patagonia Specter uses a polyurethane technology to achieve waterproof breathability. With the pullover zipped and the hood secured over a Capilene base layer, we took the Specter into the mountains to test breathability. We experienced temperatures varying from 24 °F to 44 °F in wind conditions ranging from 0 to 30 mph (0 to 32 kph). Breathability was tested while wearing a 15 lb pack and hiking uphill (rate of 500 feet of elevation gain per hour) terrain at 1.5 to 2.0 mph. Ambient humidity was between 60% and 80%. During these tests, we didn’t find the polyurethane technology employed in the Patagonia Specter to be exceptional, and moisture accumulation during exercise was certainly more significant than Frogg Toggs, eVENT, and Gore-Tex PackLite and XCR garments tested under similar conditions.

Ventilation (3.0 )

Ventilation was tested in the same conditions and the Patagonia Specter is a solid performer considering its pullover design. This is owed in large part to its roomy fit and wide waist hem, which promotes a chimney-like ventilation effect while moving, effectively venting moisture out the half zipper. Replacing the zipper flap with a waterproof zipper means that you can’t keep the neck area protected from rain without severely compromising ventilation (one nice feature of zipper flaps with Velcro closures). Rab Carrington of the UK puts two-way zips on their pullovers to alleviate this problem. Why don’t we see this neat little usability features on Yankee garments? A Velcro dot near the top of the zipper is a simple solution. Of course, wearing a hip belt completely compromises the effective ventilation of the pullover, so it’s wise to un-tuck the front of the hem from the hip belt if wearing the jacket while hiking.

Durability (5.0)

Patagonia opts for a fabric that is one step up in weight and durability from the lightest polyurethane coated nylons – now sub-2-oz/yd² (57 g/m²). The face fabric is entirely suitable for bushwacking and occasional abrasion against rock while climbing. The interior polyurethane coating is durable, but it won’t withstand years of use under pack straps. We did notice some wear areas in the membrane (but no apparent loss of water proofness) in the areas where the hip belt was cinched over it. This is certainly not a unique feature to Patagonia’s fabric, and is common with most polyurethane 2- and 2.5-layer technologies. Overall, for a "lightweight" garment, we found the durability:weight ratio of the garment to be outstanding.

Value (3.5)

The Patagonia Specter pullover offers durability, great storm protection, and a roomy cut for eight ounces. At $165.00, it’s no bargain, but the price may be justified for some: it buys you design simplicity that most manufacturers simply ignore. If you want light minimalist rain protection with good durability this may be your jacket.

Recommendations for Improvement

Little weight would be added by improving the interior pocket so you could actually store something valuable in it. The pocket is too small for most wallets and it’s a risky storage spot for a set of car keys. Or, simply eliminate the pocket – that would be the icing on the cake of design simplicity. A one-handed drawcord pull that actually worked with one hand would be nice, and the fancy zipper tab has got to go – we need zipper pulls! And, have a look at the new generation of sub-2-ounce/yd² (57 g/m2) polyurethane-coated nylons – a waterproof-breathable pullover that weighed less than 6 oz (170 g) would be something to get really excited about. Finally, a wider brim with a stiffener would have provided better face protection.

Overview

Slipping into Mont-bell’s Torrent Flier jacket is like going to a concept car show and having one of the dealers hand over the keys. This jacket is loaded with new fabric and fastener technologies. At the heart of the jacket is a highly breathable 3-layer Gore-Tex XCR fabric that weighs about the same as the lightest 2.5 layer Gore-Tex PacLite III, which brings the jacket weight down to around 12 ounces (our pre-production version weighed 11.8 oz). The Torrent Flier is outfitted with YKK AquaTech weatherproof zippers throughout, is made with meticulous stitching and manufacturing quality, and offers a well-contoured fit. A Napoleon chest pocket rounds out a great-fitting and functional jacket for lightweight backpackers. The catch? Technology comes at a price and your pocketbook will pay.

Specifications

• Style – hooded jacket.
• Fabric Class – Waterproof-breathable (polyurethane laminated PTFE )
• Fabric Description – Gore-Tex XCR 2.5 oz/yd² (85 gm/m²). This tricot-lined 3-layer fabric is lighter than the lightest 2.5-layer Gore-Tex PacLite III. The outer shell is 15-denier ballistic nylon. The prototype tested has a 25-denier tricot lining (Most flavors of XCR use a 30-denier tricot lining). Mont-Bell tells us they are moving to a 15-denier tricot lining in the final production version.
• Waterproofness Specification – 64 PSI, JIS L-1099 B-1 test
• Breathability Specification – 13,500 gm/m²/24h, JIS L-1099 test
• Actual Weight – 11.8 oz. (335 g) (Men’s M as verified on a BackpackingLight.com scale). Production models appear to be coming in about 0.5 oz heavier.
• MSRP – $289.00.

Features

Graded subjectively on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

Ventilation Options (4.0)

Although the Mont-Bell Torrent Flier lacks mesh-backed pockets or other torso vents, the pit zips are a whopping 19-inches in length – imagine the ability to vent from the elbows to your waistline! #3 pit zippers with double sliders make it possible to isolate venting to the lower torso, the pits, the upper arms, or combination of the three. The one-way separating front zipper lacks a double slider (does it really save that much weight?) which eliminates the option to vent only the lower torso using a bottom zipper. Some ventilation can be achieved at the cuffs (which are elastic with Velcro adjustments) and at the hood and hem (adjusted by elastic shock cord and small cordlocks).

Usability (4.0)

The Mont-Bell Torrent Flier is equipped with a single Napoleon style chest pocket on the left side, access to which was difficult while wearing a pack. The pocket’s small volume make it impractical for stowing bulkier items such as gloves, a ski hat, or sunglasses.

The hood is well-shaped adjusts easily. 3-way adjustability includes a shock cord to adjust the hood perimeter, another to adjust the width of the opening (peripheral vision), and a Velcro tab to adjust the height. Using the adjustments is intuitive and a good fit is quickly achieved. The hood has a stiffened brim to direct rainfall away from the face.

YKK AquaTech zippers are used throughout. Most of these zippers are #3s, with the front zipper (#5) being the only exception (note: YKK is not manufacturing a #3 separating AquaTech zipper). In general, we fine the stiffness of polyurethane-coated zippers to be usable for front zips and pockets, but too stiff to make pit zips easily functional.

The hem uses a one-hand adjustable elastic shock cord that is adjusted with two cordlocks on either side of the front zipper. The elastic cuffs are adjusted with Velcro tabs.

Sizing (4.0)

The Mont-Bell Torrent Flier layers well over a 200 or 300 weight fleece layer. Don’t expect to stuff a thick down sweater under it without compressing loft.

The fit in the hood area is somewhat trim (a polypropylene or Powerstretch balaclava layers well, but a 200-weight fleece balaclava will be tight). The tight fit of the hood puts the tricot lining of the shell against the chin skin, which some may find a bit scratchy.

The jacket hem overlaps the waistline to provide adequate protection from the elements (8 inches or so for our 5’6” reviewer, reduced to 5” while bending forward).

Fit (4.0)

Our size medium tester found the Torrent Flier to be a good fit. The arms are sufficiently long to provide a refuge for cold hands (when balled as fists, at least). Arms can be lifted or crossed, while wearing a pack, without the sleeves creeping up the wristline or binding at the shoulders. There is only a slight lifting of the jacket hem when raising the arms above the head, but the generous length compensates for any hem lift.

Hood articulation is poor. With or without a backpack, the hood does not permit full rotation of the head from side to side without exposing areas of the face that are normally covered by a jacket hood. In addition, the rough texture of the tricot lining does not allow the hood to move as freely as the 2-layer jackets we tested. The Mont-Bell Versalite Jacket (which has an identical hood construction, but is made with a 2-layer fabric), allows for full rotation of the head with little to no movement of the hood relative to the face. We expect the softer 15-denier tricot lining in the production model to improve hood movement significantly.

Field Performance

Graded subjectively on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

Storm Resistance (4.5)

In addition to the fully seam sealed Gore-Tex XCR fabric, the Mont-Bell Torrent Flier uses a proprietary Polkatex finish. Polkatex, named by the Bohemian Institute of Brand Marketing (we’re kidding), is a (claimed) 100/10 DWR finish (less than 10% of fabric water repellency is lost after 100 washings).

YKK AquaTech weatherproof zippers eliminate the need for storm flaps (however, the front zipper still offers an inside storm flap and rain gutter). No leakage was observed through any zippers during downpour conditions.

In severely wet conditions, we observed leakage on either side of the hood when rotating the head from side to side. The leakage was not excessive and is only a minor concern. We did not observe this leakage in the similarly designed Mont-Bell Versalite Jacket, and we suspect that it’s related to the hood fit issues discussed above. Further, we expect this to improve in the production model.

Fully-opened pit zips will result in leakage at the elbow and lower torso in a downpour – exercise restraint when opening the long pit zips in foul conditions. Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should! Use the double sliders on the pit zips to adjust the opening appropriately.

Breathability (4.5)

Breathability was tested at temperatures varying from 32°F (0°C) to 52°F (11°C) with winds ranging from 0 to 10 mph (0 to 16 kph). Breathability was tested while wearing a light backpack (weighing approximately 20 lbs. (9 kg)) and hiking on level terrain at 2-3 mph (3.2 to 4.8 kph) and on steep terrain at 1-2 mph (1.6 to 3.2 khp). The humidity was between 40% and 50%. During this test, all zippers were closed, hem and cuffs were tightened, and the hood adjusted to a snug fit.

The Gore-Tex XCR fabric used in the Mont-Bell Torrent Flier was found to be quite breathable. It was difficult to notice much thermal and moisture buildup while hiking on level terrain. Under more demanding conditions (hiking steep terrain at 52°F (11°C)), some moisture (humidity) buildup was observed (felt) but visible condensation of water droplets inside the jacket was not observed.

Ventilation (4.0)

Jacket ventilation was tested at temperatures varying from 32°F (0°C) to 52°F (11°C) in winds ranging from 0 to 10 mph (0 to 16 kph). Ventilation was tested while wearing a light backpack (weighing approximately 20 lbs. (9 kg)) and hiking on level terrain at 2-3 mph (3.2 to 4.8 kph) and on steep terrain at 1-2 mph (1.6 to 3.2 khp). The humidity was between 40% and 50%. During this test, all ventilation zippers were opened and hem and cuffs were loosened. The hood was left snug and the main front zipper was completely zipped up.

The long pit zips made venting the Torrent Flier a breeze (pun intended). Opening the pit zips alleviated any moisture buildup around the armpits even under the demanding exertion required when hiking steep terrain at 52°F (11°C). Backpack straps effectively (but unfortunately) isolate much of the torso from the pit zips. Lack of ventilating torso pockets prevents air circulation in the main body of the jacket.

Durability (4.5)

The fabric in the Torrent Flier feels very thin, although user perception of durability is significant – perhaps a byproduct of Mont-Bell’s choice to use a ballistic nylon face fabric. Ballistic nylon fibers are made by heating and stretching nylon, which aligns the nylon molecules in each fiber, a process similar to that of tensilizing steel. Ballistic nylons are reported to be 1-1/2 times more abrasion resistant and have three times more tear strength than conventional woven nylons of the same fabric weight. Consequently, the 15×15 denier ballistic face fabric used in the Torrent Flier may be as durable as heavier face fabrics used in other waterproof-breathable constructions.

The Torrent Flier uses the same fabric throughout the shell and lacks excessive reinforcements or doubled layers of fabric. Thus, the Torrent Flier has not been designed with heavy abrasion in mind. Mont-Bell’s stitching quality is excellent and don’t expect manufacturing quality to limit its durability.

We took the Mont-Bell Torrent Flier through a heavily vegetated canyon bottom on one four-day backpacking trip. Contact with cactus (we even sat on our jacket – on top of cactus once), tree branches, and sandstone had no short-term impact on the condition of the fabric. Seam tape and stitching have remained intact throughout our testing period.

Value (3.5)

The Mont-Bell Torrent Flier is a feature-worthy jacket that weighs 12 oz and uses exceptional fabric. The amount of high tech materials and excellent workmanship is reflected in the price, however: $289.00 makes this one of the highest cost-per-ounce pieces of rainwear you’ll find anywhere!

Recommendations for Improvement

The chest pocket loses much of its volume while wearing a pack. We would rather see the Torrent Flier designed with torso pockets (ventilated) that are compatible with backpack harnesses. Lining the front of the hood with a softer fabric would eliminate the scratchiness of the tricot lining against the face. Finally, the two cordlocks that adjust the waist hem could be reduced to one without loosing any functionality. (For those who don’t think twice about altering a $289 jacket to save a few grams, the hem shock cord is anchored on both ends. One of the cordlocks could be destructively removed without damaging the jacket.)