Hi Jeff:
My MVTR numbers are not comparable for vapor transmission. It is a different test methodology. As you know, there are numerous test methodologies, and, as discussed in my paper, they utilize different vapor pressure differences and different treatments of still or moving air layers. All of these things can dramatically impact the results. Higher vapor pressure differentials, faster moving or eliminated air layers will all increase the numbers and increase them substantially. A garment that produces 800 under ASTM E96 can produce 30000 under JIS L1099. What I do to try to deal with this is to compare with some known quantities. In this case, Neoshell and Windstopper. The results show all three are in the same ball park. They have small differences and I am not convinced you would notice the difference. My HH numbers are comparable to anybody’s.
You can see one of the original claims for Neoshell here: https://www.discoverytrekkingoutfitters.com/pdfs/neoshell.pdf
Look on the 2nd page and you will find a graph that shows good agreement with my measurement at around 13000mm. There is some interesting text about dry being dry and the lack of any need to go higher than 10000mm. That is wrong if pressure is involved that exceeds 10000. I discuss that in my posting and experienced the error of this thinking first hand with my Neoshell pants. I also discuss the 75000 claim for Futurelight. It would be very helpful if they listed what standard was used and any deviations from the standard in their test procedure. I give an example of why such a number is hard to believe and even fathom. Of course, these numbers will vary substantially as conditions vary. You can see this in my results where I test at three different vapor pressure differences. Under the right conditions, no vapor transfer will occur.
I agree with Dan, in general, that competition makes us better, but in the case of these garments, not necessarily. The consumer has no way of evaluating this stuff and on line reviews often seem to repeat the company line. I have been trying to add to the discussion with quantitative data that can characterize what can be expected. My review, I think, clearly shows this is not a breakthrough product. However, as Dan points out, it is a heavily marketed product and I am sure will be a successful product.
