Breathable windshirts?

I have a Marmot Ion, which is noticeably more breathable and less wind resistant than my non-breathable old model Golite Helios.

A friend who owns both Marmot Ion and Patagonia Houdini commented that the Houdini was even more breathable and less wind resistant than the Ion.

Going with that plus reading other feedback seem to indicate that the Patagonia Houdini will suit you better.

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Anyone making the 1.1 ounce DWR into windshirts these days?

I had one made out of Momentum and I like it much better than the Ion or Houdini

I used several Pertex Microlight products (VAUDE Laser Jacket, Haglöfs Zeal, Haglöfs something, Montane) and one Pertex Quantum product (Mont-Bell UL Wind Jacket).

Sweating was never a problem with both fabrics.

I liked the design of the Zeal and might get one again some day.

The most breathable windshirt I've used that's commercially available is the good ol' Montane Lite-speed, Pertex Microlight. I find it more breathable than the Houdini or the GoLite – as well as better designed (another matter). As per the fabric specs, Microlight is more breathable than Quantum as well. In drier weather I also allow the DWR to wash/wear out somewhat, esp. under the arms and along the back. That helps noticeably. I haven't noticed a significant difference in windproofness.

Momentum 90 vs. Microlight: Interesting. I have a lot of Momentum 90 fabric for MYOG quilts & bivies. I'd like to make a windshirt out of it. I have my doubts it would be much more breathable than Microlight (given fresh DWR's on both). That's just based on my experiences with both fabrics in quilts and bivy's though.

Thanks for all the information!

…

I sweat at the drop of a hat (or the effort to bend down and pick it up at any rate) and I rate the Montane Lite-speed (Pertex Microlight) for it's breathability which is the most important consideration for me when buying clothing. The only time it gets moist inside is when I'm trail running, uphill, and venting the full length zip quickly sorts that out. When it's time to come back down the hill, just zip it up, pull up the hood and it'll keep you snug until you get home. Hiking here in Norway in the winter I rarely wear more than a base layer and the Lite-speed with a powerstretch fleece in the sack in case it gets really cold and a Primaloft jacket for when I stop.

For those of you recommending the Montane Litespeed, the Jackson site lists it at 6oz… is this correct? Seems a bit heavy.

Is the Litespeed and Feather smock made of both the same material? Are they truly as breathable as the Houdini?

Thanks!

Thru-Hiker sells a kit for a windshirt that is made out of Momentum.

http://thru-hiker.com/kits/

Yep – 6 oz in M should be correct. I saved a 1/2 oz by: removing the hem drawcord (I don’t like the bulk), and cutting out the zipper backing (had a tendency to catch if careless). The hood toggles/cord could be lightened too.

The Lite-Speed is heavier than some but I think it’s worth every oz (all 2 of them). More durable fabric for such a high use item, and a double-layer hood which is warmer. My 2003+/- model has seen a TON of off-trail forest use and it’s still going strong. Will buy a new one soon though.

Lite-Speed & Featherlite are both Pertex Microlight 52g/m2 (1.3oz/yd2 I think). See the Montane Product Menu. Hike-Lite UK was a good retailer IME. But a guy on eBay.uk.co has blue Lite-Speeds for ~$50usd + s/h.

Are they truly as breathable as the Houdini?
In a lab, I don't know. In use, definitely. I don't get the Houdini accolades out there. I think the Houdini blows. Too short in the torso/tail (I'm only 5'9"), bad hood design, and overpriced. YMMV.

Edit: No Montane or retailer affiliation. I do have a houdini I'd like to sell tho… sweet shirt! :)

Another + for the Montane Featherlite. I sweat like a pig and barely notice I have it on, water resistance is good too. Montane do cut their clothes slim and long in the arm, which may or may not suit you.

Hey Chad,

I have to agree with Jason on this one. The most breathable ultralight-windshirt I’ve used is the Montane Lite-speed. Better than the Houdini that I currently use.

The best material for a balance of comfort, breathability and windproof-ness is Pertex Equilibrium. However, the jacket I have is a hefty 11 oz. If you can find the fabric in a lighter weight and omit any pockets/features I bet you could get it down to the 4-6 oz range.

Best of Luck,

Roy

Montane Featherlite or MYOG equivalent from Thru Hiker get my vote to.

The best windshirt is the Paramo Fuera Smock. Once you use a wired, roll-away hood, you will never buy a shell without it. The high collar that can zip up over your chin is great.

The fabric, unlike similar Patagonia, Marmot, etc., is not calendered and does not have any coating. It is a simple, tight weave. It has the best drape of any of the fabrics used in windshirts as well and minimizes noise.

The Fuera may be a great windshirt, but at 300g it is in a different league all together from the shirts we are discussing. Plus I do not want a hood on my windshirt….

I'll throw in still another vote for Montail Litespeed windshirt, actually two votes, my wife loves here's too.

Yes, it is a tad bit heavier than some of the competition, but IMHO well worth it for such a full featured, highly breathable and important piece of gear.

Does anyone know if Montane plans to start selling in the US again? They don't have any dealers listed on their website and it looks like prolite gear doesn't sell their stuff anymore.