Bomber waterproof shell?

Pieter, I would suggest you look at the Arcteryx Alpha SL at 12 oz or Arcteryx Alpha LT at 13 oz. These shells are waterproof, very tough, very well made and reasonably light.

The Alpha SL uses Paclite fabric and the Alpha LT uses the new 320 Pro fabric.

Maybe looks at something like Paramo or Buffalo?

The problem with abrasion is that it will wear off the DWR which will cause the face fabric to wet out and cause the thing to stop breathing.

Yep, if you want it bomber, it's not going to weigh 8 ounces. I've been pretty impressed with Gore-Tex Pro Shell. I'm not one to praise all things Arc'Teryx, but think you'd be pretty happy with a Beta AR or Theta AR. Beta is shorter jacket length. The ARs use ProShell; along with durability, I've been pretty impressed with its breathability. I'm sure other companies have similar lines.

(Edit for spellign ;)

Thanks guys. I had been looking at the Arcteryx jackets as well, but given that you can buy nearly four TNF DIADs on sale (if you're not picky about color) for the price of one high-end Arcteryx jacket, I hesitate.

Thom, good thought on the DWR wearing off.

I found some info on Paramo, but not Buffalo. Links?

Thanks again!

Pieter,

BPL just did an article on pertex/pile clothing which is what Buffalo and a few others make. From what I understand it's good for winter conditions. Paramo on the other hand is supposed to have a wider temp range. Note that I do not have any first hand experience with either of them so maybe some others can chime in here.

The reason I suggested these is because the integrity of the outer shell is not imperative. If you poke a hole or tear, a field patch will do.

Another suggestion might be to email some of the manufacturers and find out which of their shells have the heaviest/most durable face fabrics and present the list here to narrow down the options.

I have both an arteryx alpha lt in titanium and a theata ar in picasso red. PM me for more information. Size M

I have both an Integral Designs Thru Hiker and Pullover, the former replaces all my GT shells and is just a fine garment, for my needs, the latter is garbage bag green for backpack hunting.

I find the Pullover VERY comfy and can layer my Montbell TWrap UL under it, or even my ID Rundle jacket, plus some Icebreaker merino stuff. I prefer this as I hate hoods and only use one when I absolutely must in vile weather.

So, the ID Thru Hiker might suit you and Wildthings also makes a fine shell, based on the one product of theirs I now have. Hope these are light enough, I ain't a big "Dead Bird" fan.