Hardshell for Guiding in Denali

[Miles Barger]

I'm going to be guiding hikes in Denali National Park all summer. This will be my first hiking season in interior Alaska as well as the first time my gear will be getting used every day, so I'm having to reevaluate much of my kit.

Most of my items are holding up well to scrutiny, but my rain gear is not. While I've used a Gatewood Cape for two seasons with great success, a silnylon poncho is simply not an acceptable option up here. My other raingear, Dri Ducks, won't be able to stand up to regular abuse.

Here's what I need:

Durable
All of my hiking will be off trail, and a good deal will be mild bushwhacking. I need something that can handle some abrasion and the occasional snag.

Stormproof
Weather in Denali in the summer can get nasty, and I'll be hiking rain or shine. I need something that keeps wet and cold out, dry and comfortable in.

Breathable
Again, I might have to hike for extended periods, so breathability will be important.

Light
Obviously, I want something that's as light as possible while fulfilling my other needs. However, I will be carrying pack that can handle a lot of weight, and I won't be trying to win any contests.

So far, I've narrowed my options down to three jackets. Some have already been ruled out (Patagonia offerings are heavy, the Isotope isn't breathable enough, Golite is either one or the other). These are what's left.

Weigh in, especially if you have experience in sub-arctic climates and/or guiding positions.

OR Zealot
Pros
Light (7.7 oz)

Cons
Less full featured
Significantly less breathable

Mont-Bell Peak Shell
Pros
Full featured (3-way hood, pit zips, hand pockets)
Very breathable

Cons
Heavy (11 oz)

Integral Designs eVENT Thru Hiker Jacket
Pros
Full featured
Extremely breathable

Cons
Expensive
Heavy (11.5 oz)

[Jonathan Ryan]

I don't have any experience guiding or in Alaska, but here in New England we have pretty cold and humid winters and I think if I were in your position I would go for the ID Thruhiker. The extra coverage and breathability will probably be worth the extra weight over the Zealot while you are standing around in freezing cold rain waiting for your clients.

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