Denier values in hardshells

Higher denier doesn't linearly translate to more durability. The type and quality of weave makes a big difference when it comes to brush durability. No reason an above-average 20-30D hardshell shouldn't stand up to quite a lot of abuse, just about anything short of regular chimneying.

Thanks David, that makes a lot of sense. Where would you place 15D and 7D fabrics in this regard?

I'd never go with anything less than 30d.
You never know when you might end up in an emergency situation.

There's a number of scenarios where a hiker may find themselves having to bushwhack. The 15d and 7d nylons shred too easy (especially in AZ).

Hypothermia #1 killer of backpackers. Raingear might just be the most important thing in your pack.

"Hypothermia: number 1 killer of backpackers. Raingear might just be the most important thing in your pack."

Of course, but we still do have lots gear in our pack whcih serves well in emergency, amongst others a tarp/tent, a sleeping bag and probably a trash compactor bag ;-)

Several years ago when I did a State of the Market series on sub-8 oz WPB jackets most (all?) were in the 15-10D range, and there was massive variability in how the shell fabrics held up. If memory is correct my much-abused Haglofs Ozo (2011) is 15D, and it has held up splendidly to a lot of rough use. It's shell fabric is a very tightly woven micro-ripstop with a rather stiff hand. These kinds of fabrics seem to make a big difference when it comes to resisting snags from branches and the like.

In theory, I don't see why a sub 10D fabric couldn't do very well for trail hiking, i.e. over multiple years of fairly frequent use. The 3 layer Rab Flashpoint is especially intriguing in this regard, as the sub-soft and gossamer 2.5 layer PU shells which have since become ubiquitous are the consistent underperformers with regards to durability.

Yea, but when you have to make your way through thick brush, those other options don't work so well. Besides, a 30d shell like the OR Helium II is only 2 or 3 oz heavier than a 15d anyway.

smaller D fabric is less stiff so tends to snag on branches, and then rip

probably not so much a survival thing, as you have to fix or replace

it depends on where you hike and how careful you are

Quoting: "smaller D fabric is less stiff so tends to snag on branches, and then rip"

Does this hold true when comparing for example a 2.5 layer 30D, such as the Helium, with a 3 layer 15D, such as the Haglofs Gram Comp Pull II (which has 15D both inside and outside, so actually the sum regarding stiffiness is 30D as well: 15D+15D = 30D )

Good question. Yeah, probably having a laminate adhered to the fabric makes it stiffer and more snag resistant.

Try thinner lighter. If it's too fragile for you, then next time get something heavier.

Quoting David Chenault: "These kinds of fabrics seem to make a big difference when it comes to resisting snags from branches and the like."

What about the friction between the shoulder straps of a 20 lbs pack and the jacket? This friction is probably increased when hiking with poles. Is this friction a factor too, or is this too minimal compared to what was discussed above?

When can we expect a new state of the market report? The OZO unfortunately is not on the market anymore, nor is the Rab Demand Pull On… Sigh.

I expect the Ozo to wear out via strap abrasion on the shoulder-tops, but it has not happened yet.