Black Diamond Crag Softshell

[Nate Boyer]

So I ran across this jacket at my local store for $80.

http://www.backcountry.com/black-diamond-crag-softshell-hooded-jacket-mens?CMP_SKU=BLD3475&MER=0406&skid=BLD3475-JAS-XL&CMP_ID=SH_SHP001&mv_pc=r110&003=7163546&010=BLD3475-JAS-XL&mr:referralID=9f983d4b-92b6-11e3-9f1f-001b2166becc

I purchased it and I'm wondering if this would be ideal for hiking in the winter (below 10 degrees F).

It is a soft-shell jacket with a fleece backing. I'm looking for something that will let the water escape. I want the opposite of a hard shell.

Thoughts on this?

[Rick M]

del

[Dustin Short]

That jacket using Polartec Windbloc which has a polyurethane laminate in it. Basically it'll have the same low breathability as a cheap PU rain jacket but isn't "waterproof" because the seams are untaped. So definitely not what you're looking for in terms of "water escape."

Rick is spot on. You're better off with a fleece and standard wind jacket. If you just want something for single day trips where water retention isn't a huge priority than look for a non-laminate softshell (not consistent but something that is wind "resistant" rather than wind proof).

[Nate Boyer]

Tried a fleece and Houdini last night and I was warmer and more dry.
Thanks.

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