Umbrella, yes! Can't recommend it enough, too. I also use a rain skirt sometimes: I just cut open a trash bag at its bottom and done. It works very well for several days.
Yup, bought a ULA Equipment rain kilt for a fall pct section hike. Used it two days while wearing shorts underneath. One of the best pieces of gear I now own. Works as advertised!
Another great video. Don't think I'm man enough for the rain skirt and umbrella, but more and more hikers are using them. PS - I like how you used a cat to show scale.
+Loner2012AT I switched over to a rain kilt, and I will never go back to pants. The breathability can not me matched. Also, the weight savings is huge...
Thank you! Another product I thought looks clever is its like a hood for the head with a sorta poncho attached to it that only covers the pack. For keeping pack and optionally head dry. Though as I think about thst now, I bet that could blow up in wind. Unless it can be clipped onto the bottom of pack.
You can find a little more info and links to the products I mention on my website here: backcountrybanter.com/2016/02/11/how-to-layer-rain-gear-like-a-thru-hiker/ Did you like the info presented in this video? If yes, consider supporting my content through Patreon, where people like you can help people like me to continue producing content. Pledge as little or as much as you are comfortable with: www.patreon.com/JoeBrewer
Nice informative video - thanks. I am planning a 2 week hike, having never walked for more than two days in the past - and I was conscious that I was planning to take far too many clothes, so this and your earlier video have really helped me ditch a few items. Not sure I can see myself arriving at a camp site in a kilt and carrying an umbrella, but maybe ...
This is a really useful video man! I am really working on this area right now actually. Thanks for the idea's. I gotta make a rain skirt. I also would really like to experiment with a umbrella. Thanks man!
mountainhardwear finder shells are about the same weight at 13 oz and shed water im sure as well as the goretex. they run about $50-80 also serves as a great wind shell but again it is heavier
Please do an instructional video on the skirt, I need to make 5 for each of my kids. I bought mine but I think it would be a fun project for me and my kids. Thanks for the great videos.
I noticed that the Outdry Extreme is now available, which is supposed to never wet out or clam up like all rain gear up to now. I believe the weight of the Gold@12oz would be similar to weight of your Arcteryx. Been thinking of getting one but just wondering if any one has taken the plunge yet and can throw in an opinion as to how much if any they really can do what they promise.
+Austin Dory every few years there is a new fabric that is supposed to be the best ever...and it never is. Dont get me started on Gore-tex! They take a great idea for a breathable fabric and then bond it to normal soggy nylon. Brilliant! I vote for waterproof fabric with huge pit zips, or a cagoule that allows lotsa air in underneath.
+G “Jerry” Henrickson Having now used both the Outdry Extreme and the Marmot Essence as running jackets for a week and standing with them in the shower for a couple of long sessions I decided to revert back to my Helium 2. I was temped to keep the Marmot Essence though. But it does seem that there's always something better. I agree with you completely.
I've really enjoyed your gear vids -- every time I watch one, I find that you are using a lot of the stuff that I've arrived at also. I must be doing something right ;-). I have 2 very similar systems, except I have the OR Helium HD jacket (kind of hard to find, basically a Helium jacket with pit zips and pockets. A few ounces more, and a bit more expensive, but more functional IMHO). I haven't made a rain skirt yet, but thinking about it -- usually forego pants in warm weather. My heavier jacket is an OR Foray jacket, which I really like -- GoreTex, cut roomier than the Helium so you can layer under it as a light snow shell, nice hood adjustments, and the best is pit zips which open all the way down to the lower hem, so you can open it up kind of like a poncho. Not priced too ridiculously. And I have Helium pants, which I would recommend for nice, lightweight, pretty functional pants. I have worn them for light snowshoeing, and they held up OK, a good mix between weight and functionality. Oh, and I have a GoreTex ballcap made by OR that I wear under my hood with the heavier setup. I haven't weighed it, but it's pretty light and basically lives in the pocket of the Foray jacket. That combo really gets the water out away from the hood without getting in the way and keeps it from running down into the jacket. Cheers, man, and keep the vids coming.
BTW, I just finished a week on the North Country Trail, and given a crappy forecast I made a quick and dirty rain skirt out of some Frog Togg UL pants cut off at the knee with the inseam cut out and I'm a total convert. My hiking partners made a lot of jokes until it rained for a whole day, then they were jealous. Cheers.
+ChrisfromFL Hmm... Ponchos are very effective in some circumstances but not all. They tend to be a little cooler and more breathable, but this can be an issue on windy ridges where they blow and flap in the wind like crazy. It's not a bad choice, but not quite as versatile as a jacket setup. They can also catch on thorns and sticks which can be a hassle. It's something that you just have to try and see if it works for you.
Joe, go on more backpacking trips through California's Sierra Nevadas. A playlist there, like the one you did on the CDT, would be much better in my opinion
I just like to have my feet free and breathing. My shoes are basically netting, so gaiters only serve the purpose of keeping debris out of my shoes (not water). Debris has never been an issue for me, so I don't wear gaiters.
+ElementalExplorerz I agree with that. You can't eat your gear... There are a few companies that carry rain skirts, here's one from MLD: www.mountainlaureldesigns.com/shop/product_info.php?products_id=221
I found the answer, in a poncho......case in point.....four hour hike, in moderate rain, ended up completely soaked.....vs ten hour hike, in heavy downpour, with a poncho, ended up dry.....and it covered my backpack, competely.....if it is cold.....protect your head, a little better....and may be a wind breaker, or lightweight rain jacket....pretty much covers this subject....
Marmot full zip rain pants ventilate from the top Sierra Design or Exped Rain Chaps pair well with ponchos Poncho work well in high winds all you need is a cord to tie the poncho close Use them in the British Hills all the time
what kind of low temps did you see? just wanting to know what kind of low temps I should prepare for. over the next 6 or so years im shooting for the triple crown. the lowest temp ive experienced camping was 20 degrees Fahrenheit with about a 30+ mph wind. I didn't think that 20 was too bad
oh I can handle that. do you know about how fast your feet dry out after forging a river in the La Sportiva Core GTX shoe (im assuming that's the shoe your using). also thanks for letting me pick your brain.
does any companies use goretex paclight? i used to have some rain pants that were made from that and they were very light. i using a marmot rain jacket..not the cheapo one..and after 2 years i was on the kenai last summer fishing in a monsoon and it wetted out bad.. do you think DWR will help this? and should i wash it in some nikwax then DWR it again ? or is it just better to buy a new one?
+matanuska high The arcteryx jacket in the video is goretex pac light, but I'm not sure of any others that use it. I assume it's fairly expensive, so it will probably only be top end jackets/pants using it. DWR should help this. Normally jackets begin to wet out when their DWR fails. Now if water is getting completely through that jacket (not just wetting the outer fabric out) then it may be time for a new jacket. I would think a nikwax/DWR coating would be a good choice. Best to try and reuse before buying new in my eyes, if you like the jacket that is.
+Joe Brewer oh i didnt know the arcteryx was paclight..it looked like the heavier 3 layer goretex..paclight is a 2 layer..they must have laminated a heavier denier on the outside. im thruhiking the AT in 2017 so ill try to fix the marmot as it was a 350$ coat when new and was great up untill that crazy alaska monsoon.. ill use that coat early in the hike when its cold and switch out to the OR jacket or zpacks when it warms up...although im still thinking of a poncho and ditch the rain coat and pack cover..what are your thoughts on ponchos? i notice you dont use them..
i have question regarding what size should i order online... my size is medium on my base layer, down jacket and my pants.. planning on getting OR helium II.. should i get large to accommodate for my down jacket? thank you in andvance..
Hmm... It's hard to say without actually trying them on. I've been happy with my medium and can layer under it sufficiently, but I'm not sure how my body size compares to yours.
Trying them on is the best. But REI and other outdoor sporting stores are always out of stock of OR helium II here in my area 92805... what is the measurements of your waistline and chest. If you dont mind sharing so i have an idea..
hmmm, I'm a bit concerned for wind. I'm planning a hiking trip to Torres del Paine in the Chilean Patagonia. Veeery windy. So an umbrella is out of the question, and the skirt thing :-/ I don't know if it would work. Any advice for windy rainy days? :-)
Really windy/rainy days are when rain pants shine unfortunately. Skirts and ponchos will likely blow around too much. The OR helium pants are the best I know of and not too heavy: amzn.to/2EVt3ym
Hi Joe. Great video. I have been looking at puffy jackets that are on sale at the moment. I have been hiking in the cold this winter and would like to lighten up things a bit. But I have a concern when it comes to rain. If I am wearing a puffy and the weather turns to sleet, snow, or rain can you wear a rain jacket. Did you ever wear your puffy under your OR Helium? Did this work? Or do you have a better solution? Thanks as always. Ian
+Ian Bolden I very rarely wear my puffy while hiking. Only on the coldest mornings or after lunch do I put it on, and I'll end up taking it off within about 20 minutes anyways. If I'm wearing it under my helium, it's probably as I'm sitting around camp, just to add some extra warmth. Puffy jackets just tend to be a little too warm to hike in, and getting them sweaty will reduce their warmth greatly. In the situation you describe, I'd stuff the puffy in my pack and throw my rain jacket on. Unless it is really cold out, my rain jacket will be more than enough to keep me warm while hiking.
Why not a rain poncho like the GoLite? It’s 7 or 8oz and would replace your jacket, kilt, and pack cover which probably saves you around 8oz. Also serves as an emergency tarp shelter.
Ponchos work well in sheltered terrain, but are a nightmare in the wind. You won't find people wearing them in the Scottish or Swedish hills... Same goes for umbrellas - not used much in Europe because of wind.
Question. Using a painters suit (hoodie or non-hoodie) moisture resistant, quasi GoreTex moisture breathable outward. Some are tyvek polyethylene fiberweave. Bare ounces of weight, no real need for extra layering. Can go "commando" underneath, then when done with the weather, redress into dry clothes, and the product can be hung for air drying. Home Depot (or Lowes, etc.) Cordova product appears to be the least expensive. Ultra light weight. www.homedepot.com/s/painters%2520suit?NCNI-5 An option?
+John Lord In my opinion no. I haven't tried these options personally, but I remember a time when ultra lighters were all looking for the next best thing and people tried taking tyvek suits and other painters suits into the field. Most of them don't actually keep rain off and end up getting soaked. Tyvek is a definite no. I would think anything else would just be miserable as far as condensation, sweating, and heat retention goes. These would look really cool on trail though. I like the idea of a bunch of space men hiking down trail with packs. I can't say for sure, having never tried these, but I would think that they aren't a great choice.
+Joe Brewer Thanks for info on Tyvek suit. How about Frogg Toggs/Dri Ducks for a coat to ride in the pack 90% of the time? I know they are fragile and vegetation would tear them up, but easy to patch with duck tape.
+Gene Lucky Yeah, this isn't the worst idea. They are really light. Obviously, when it comes to cold weather, Frogg Toggs have little to offer for warmth, but they are mostly sufficient as emergency/low use rain gear. You'll definitely see thru hikers out there carrying them, though they'll often have to replace the set at least once.
I use a pack cover and a trash compactor bag to keep my gear 100% dry. I've used ponchos in the past, but only briefly. I do like them, but I find that I don't prefer them. Thanks!
my REi eVENT rain pants are nice..keep me dry..but they arent very light imo.. living in AK they work great..but if it was any warmer they make your balls sweat bad..lol so unless you in under 45 degrees and rain they would be too warm and heavy for UL hiking..
Breathability is key to comfort. Fulsus makes the most breathable rain jacket right now. eVent is twice as breathable as GoreTex. Body heat converts water to vapor. Vapor exits through eVent material. Start off soaked in a Fulsus jacket and even in pouring rain, you'll soon be dry.
+kenny cadarett Umm...please dial it back a little tough guy. Lotsa kids on youtube. Also, try a tarp for 5 days straight in even mild wind. Report back. Thanks
Biggest problem with all of these outdoor brands that you review is they are only made for very small and short people. If you stand 6' tall over over (I am 6'4") none of these companies make any specialized gear for you and quite frankly they do not care about the vast segment of the population that is taller, and I suspect bigger. Since basically NONE of these companies offer a TALL in any of their sizes, if you stand 6' or higher, these things show off your belly. The helium 2 comes down to my belly button and that's it. That's as long as they make them and other brands are the same way. I suspect it's just as bad if you are a larger width size person as well, though enough trail time should remedy that part. It's just very frustrating trying to find any of these specialized clothing items when the maximum inseam length they will give is 32 or if they do offer a 34, they consider that to be sasquatch size instead of what 34 is, the most common men's inseam size in the USA. Shirts are bad but when it comes to jackets/rain gear, forget it. Nobody out there makes a tall section in any of these types of clothes. Thanks for the video all the same.
Arcteryx does a very generous (long) cut on many of their rain jackets. I'm not sure if is enough to make sense for a taller person, but it may be worth looking into. Of course there is the price point issue with them, which is tough to swallow. But yeah, the Helium does have a very tight/short cut, even for someone my height.
Not even just the outer jacket. I've been looking to get a puffy jacket like your orange one for a while and just cannot find any that wouldn't stop at my belly button. Even regular shirts have a VERY limited selection when it comes to tall sizes as 90-95% of those made do not come for people that stand taller, and I suppose wider as well. Heck, it's even hard if you are looking for a fully enclosed tent as you generally have to find a long version of the tent unless you want to be balled up. Don't even get me started on the sizes for sleeping bags wherein 99% are not sized for someone like myself. The same issue exists with most outdoor sports when it comes to high end clothing. Most dive gear at least is able to be ordered specially made or tailored fit such as dry suits and many brands of wet suits. One of the few recreation activities where I've noted they cater to anyone's shape or size. We do a heck of a lot of that up here in North Florida, but it's still nice to get out and hike every chance I may get. Just frustrating if I'd like to do it more seriously and for a longer duration hike than just a few days.
As you note though, Arcteryx does make several different lines of basically the same item, the only difference being that they are a different cut. Some are longer, some are athletic, and so on. Of course price is an issue with them, but no more so than 1500$ for a dive watch. They just don't offer the full range of gear you would need is the issue at hand. Great products though.
I'm an intern at an adventure leadership company on the east coast. My boss is 6'4" and all of his hiking/climbing clothes are ArcTeryx or Black Diamond because they fit. Granted, he pays blasted way too much for his clothes, but he loves them, they last forever, and they work REALLY well.
"Like a thru-hiker". I hate to say it but most thru-hikers do so on a whim. They have poor skills, poor lead up prep, are not regular hikers, have little experience and generally sub-standard gear. There are some excellent thru-hikers with very good knowledge and skills relating to hiking, the outdoors etc. Most are not....
Problem with the Arc teryx jackets (although nice designs and excellent materials) is that the seams are ONLY welded (glue), no sewing at all. So they always fail... have had at least half dozen arc teryx jackets come apart literally at the welds the glue just gives way. Therefore, I think the arc teryx are wildly overrated and do not recommend them becuase they are NOT durable nor long lasting.
People should learn more about Dyneema (Cuben fiber) for wet weather. Just collect the following items and then wear whatever clothes you are most comfortable in: a poncho w/hood, mitten covers, chaps, kilt, and gators. It's not that hard but it's still not cheap either, prices will drop when the big boys wade in or China just floods the market. Keep the surface of your skin "relatively" dry and don't let water absorb into your clothing as much as possible. A well-designed poncho is a better choice than a jacket for most people and most activities, plus ventilation is no problem at all. I understand that some of you supermen and superwomen need your arms fully mobile when you are risking your lives for something "important" like a youtube video. but when the camera is off and you aren't playing for the idiot camera anymore a poncho is more easily adaptable to climatic conditions at any altitude. I wouldn't take one to the top of Everest but I'm not a new-age privileged prick that's willing to endanger the lives of Sherpas to prove something to myself. My penis is big enough thank you. Humans are a funny species, but it's not that hard to keep them dry in wet conditions.
First he says he can't recommend the jacket (beta SL) because it is too expensive, and then he says he lucked out because it is a really great jacket...followed up with the statement that the alternatives to goretex should be avoided. Talk about contradicting expectations! Don't be so cheap! Pay up for the right piece of gear, choose stuff that you actually need and that you will actually use, and be happy with it for years to come. Here is a tip--get 1 rain set-up, because buying 1 jacket is cheaper than buying two!
Arcteryx is really effin' expensive. he said he lucked out and got it for cheap at a REI garage sale. Price doesn't always mean quality. Arcteryx is good, but way over priced as they're the Gucci shit. Best only to be bought on sale/garage sales/etc unless money isn't an issue. For example I got a pair of Solomons' for cheap at REI garage sale as well, which retailed for almost $300. I wouldn't have bought them normally as I can get something comparable for under $200.
JB's videos are some of the best gear summaries I have seen, paralleling much of what I learned over my two year, 4 section hike of the AT.
Umbrella, yes! Can't recommend it enough, too.
I also use a rain skirt sometimes: I just cut open a trash bag at its bottom and done. It works very well for several days.
Yup, bought a ULA Equipment rain kilt for a fall pct section hike. Used it two days while wearing shorts underneath. One of the best pieces of gear I now own. Works as advertised!
Another great video. Don't think I'm man enough for the rain skirt and umbrella, but more and more hikers are using them. PS - I like how you used a cat to show scale.
+Loner2012AT I switched over to a rain kilt, and I will never go back to pants. The breathability can not me matched. Also, the weight savings is huge...
Thank you! Another product I thought looks clever is its like a hood for the head with a sorta poncho attached to it that only covers the pack. For keeping pack and optionally head dry. Though as I think about thst now, I bet that could blow up in wind. Unless it can be clipped onto the bottom of pack.
You can find a little more info and links to the products I mention on my website here: backcountrybanter.com/2016/02/11/how-to-layer-rain-gear-like-a-thru-hiker/
Did you like the info presented in this video? If yes, consider supporting my content through Patreon, where people like you can help people like me to continue producing content. Pledge as little or as much as you are comfortable with: www.patreon.com/JoeBrewer
Great video! I just wanted to say thank you for all the videos you've made. You have inspired me to attempt the PCT this summer (2016).
+Justin Welch Thanks. And have fun out there, The PCT is incredible.
Nice informative video - thanks. I am planning a 2 week hike, having never walked for more than two days in the past - and I was conscious that I was planning to take far too many clothes, so this and your earlier video have really helped me ditch a few items. Not sure I can see myself arriving at a camp site in a kilt and carrying an umbrella, but maybe ...
This is a really useful video man! I am really working on this area right now actually. Thanks for the idea's. I gotta make a rain skirt. I also would really like to experiment with a umbrella. Thanks man!
mountainhardwear finder shells are about the same weight at 13 oz and shed water im sure as well as the goretex. they run about $50-80 also serves as a great wind shell but again it is heavier
Great, video. Thanks for emphasizing proper hood fit, that's huge. On a side note, you have great taste in board games. :)
+Jose Pacheco Thanks. I didn't even notice that some of my games were in this video :)
Please do an instructional video on the skirt, I need to make 5 for each of my kids. I bought mine but I think it would be a fun project for me and my kids. Thanks for the great videos.
+Foster “Wandering Canuck” Heninger It's likely that this will be one of my next videos, As soon as I get set up here in Colorado.
Great information as usual, thanks for doing this series!!
I noticed that the Outdry Extreme is now available, which is supposed to never wet out or clam up like all rain gear up to now. I believe the weight of the Gold@12oz would be similar to weight of your Arcteryx. Been thinking of getting one but just wondering if any one has taken the plunge yet and can throw in an opinion as to how much if any they really can do what they promise.
+Austin Dory every few years there is a new fabric that is supposed to be the best ever...and it never is. Dont get me started on Gore-tex! They take a great idea for a breathable fabric and then bond it to normal soggy nylon. Brilliant! I vote for waterproof fabric with huge pit zips, or a cagoule that allows lotsa air in underneath.
+G “Jerry” Henrickson Having now used both the Outdry Extreme and the Marmot Essence as running jackets for a week and standing with them in the shower for a couple of long sessions I decided to revert back to my Helium 2. I was temped to keep the Marmot Essence though. But it does seem that there's always something better. I agree with you completely.
I've really enjoyed your gear vids -- every time I watch one, I find that you are using a lot of the stuff that I've arrived at also. I must be doing something right ;-). I have 2 very similar systems, except I have the OR Helium HD jacket (kind of hard to find, basically a Helium jacket with pit zips and pockets. A few ounces more, and a bit more expensive, but more functional IMHO). I haven't made a rain skirt yet, but thinking about it -- usually forego pants in warm weather. My heavier jacket is an OR Foray jacket, which I really like -- GoreTex, cut roomier than the Helium so you can layer under it as a light snow shell, nice hood adjustments, and the best is pit zips which open all the way down to the lower hem, so you can open it up kind of like a poncho. Not priced too ridiculously. And I have Helium pants, which I would recommend for nice, lightweight, pretty functional pants. I have worn them for light snowshoeing, and they held up OK, a good mix between weight and functionality. Oh, and I have a GoreTex ballcap made by OR that I wear under my hood with the heavier setup. I haven't weighed it, but it's pretty light and basically lives in the pocket of the Foray jacket. That combo really gets the water out away from the hood without getting in the way and keeps it from running down into the jacket.
Cheers, man, and keep the vids coming.
Nice, seems like a great setup!
BTW, I just finished a week on the North Country Trail, and given a crappy forecast I made a quick and dirty rain skirt out of some Frog Togg UL pants cut off at the knee with the inseam cut out and I'm a total convert. My hiking partners made a lot of jokes until it rained for a whole day, then they were jealous. Cheers.
Haha. Everyone bashes the skirt 'til they try it.
No mention of ponchos, your thoughts!
+ChrisfromFL Hmm... Ponchos are very effective in some circumstances but not all. They tend to be a little cooler and more breathable, but this can be an issue on windy ridges where they blow and flap in the wind like crazy. It's not a bad choice, but not quite as versatile as a jacket setup. They can also catch on thorns and sticks which can be a hassle. It's something that you just have to try and see if it works for you.
Joe, go on more backpacking trips through California's Sierra Nevadas. A playlist there, like the one you did on the CDT, would be much better in my opinion
frogg toggs is a popular choice for a thru hike
whats your opinion on using a poncho
Yes, breathability is a joke! In a cold rain, a $300 Goretex jacket isn’t really any better than a $45 coated nylon jacket. Good info. Thanks.
Thanks Joe! Very helpful. Weird question: does everyone in the US say UM-brella like you do, or is a southern thang?
+Mountain Springs There are a few pronunciations you'll find. I wouldn't say mine is specifically a southern thing, but it could be.
+Joe Brewer No worries. Thanks for the videos!
Thanks Joe, very helpful stuff!
How about gaiters rather than rain pants? That's what I prefer as long as it's not snow just rain. Can you comment on why you don't use gaiters.
I just like to have my feet free and breathing. My shoes are basically netting, so gaiters only serve the purpose of keeping debris out of my shoes (not water). Debris has never been an issue for me, so I don't wear gaiters.
Great tips Joe!
Nice vid. I like the way you laid each set out like you would actually ware it and covered all situations you may want to dress for. New sub.
+Oldcoinsandstuff1 Thanks!
What was the website for the skirt. Enjoyed the video. I prefer going lite n carry food more
+ElementalExplorerz I agree with that. You can't eat your gear... There are a few companies that carry rain skirts, here's one from MLD: www.mountainlaureldesigns.com/shop/product_info.php?products_id=221
+ElementalExplorerz Zpacks has a cuben fiber rain kilt for sale also. MLD is another company.
I found the answer, in a poncho......case in point.....four hour hike, in moderate rain, ended up completely soaked.....vs ten hour hike, in heavy downpour, with a poncho, ended up dry.....and it covered my backpack, competely.....if it is cold.....protect your head, a little better....and may be a wind breaker, or lightweight rain jacket....pretty much covers this subject....
Yes I think what was on the left was good but do you think the jacket was breathable I feel like you were sweat more
Marmot full zip rain pants ventilate from the top
Sierra Design or Exped Rain Chaps pair well with ponchos
Poncho work well in high winds all you need is a cord to tie the poncho close
Use them in the British Hills all the time
Thats the Way to go
good info, but the best part of the video was the cute kitty. i just want to cuddle with em, its so fluffy! very pretty siamese.
would like to see the video on how to do your rain skirt
+Chris Mccarthy I'm working on it.
Thanks for sharing Joe!
Very helpful. Thank you !
what kind of low temps did you see? just wanting to know what kind of low temps I should prepare for. over the next 6 or so years im shooting for the triple crown. the lowest temp ive experienced camping was 20 degrees Fahrenheit with about a 30+ mph wind. I didn't think that 20 was too bad
+XArmyMP Anywhere from low teens all the way up to over 100 degrees in the deserts. Teens is pretty rare though. Mid 20's is more common for a low.
oh I can handle that. do you know about how fast your feet dry out after forging a river in the La Sportiva Core GTX shoe (im assuming that's the shoe your using). also thanks for letting me pick your brain.
Question:
Do you size up on rain jacket?
does any companies use goretex paclight? i used to have some rain pants that were made from that and they were very light. i using a marmot rain jacket..not the cheapo one..and after 2 years i was on the kenai last summer fishing in a monsoon and it wetted out bad.. do you think DWR will help this? and should i wash it in some nikwax then DWR it again ? or is it just better to buy a new one?
+matanuska high The arcteryx jacket in the video is goretex pac light, but I'm not sure of any others that use it. I assume it's fairly expensive, so it will probably only be top end jackets/pants using it. DWR should help this. Normally jackets begin to wet out when their DWR fails. Now if water is getting completely through that jacket (not just wetting the outer fabric out) then it may be time for a new jacket. I would think a nikwax/DWR coating would be a good choice. Best to try and reuse before buying new in my eyes, if you like the jacket that is.
+Joe Brewer oh i didnt know the arcteryx was paclight..it looked like the heavier 3 layer goretex..paclight is a 2 layer..they must have laminated a heavier denier on the outside. im thruhiking the AT in 2017 so ill try to fix the marmot as it was a 350$ coat when new and was great up untill that crazy alaska monsoon.. ill use that coat early in the hike when its cold and switch out to the OR jacket or zpacks when it warms up...although im still thinking of a poncho and ditch the rain coat and pack cover..what are your thoughts on ponchos? i notice you dont use them..
i have question regarding what size should i order online... my size is medium on my base layer, down jacket and my pants.. planning on getting OR helium II.. should i get large to accommodate for my down jacket? thank you in andvance..
Hmm... It's hard to say without actually trying them on. I've been happy with my medium and can layer under it sufficiently, but I'm not sure how my body size compares to yours.
Trying them on is the best. But REI and other outdoor sporting stores are always out of stock of OR helium II here in my area 92805... what is the measurements of your waistline and chest. If you dont mind sharing so i have an idea..
My waist is 30", Not sure on the chest.
hmmm, I'm a bit concerned for wind. I'm planning a hiking trip to Torres del Paine in the Chilean Patagonia. Veeery windy. So an umbrella is out of the question, and the skirt thing :-/ I don't know if it would work. Any advice for windy rainy days? :-)
Really windy/rainy days are when rain pants shine unfortunately. Skirts and ponchos will likely blow around too much. The OR helium pants are the best I know of and not too heavy: amzn.to/2EVt3ym
Hi Joe. Great video. I have been looking at puffy jackets that are on sale at the moment. I have been hiking in the cold this winter and would like to lighten up things a bit. But I have a concern when it comes to rain. If I am wearing a puffy and the weather turns to sleet, snow, or rain can you wear a rain jacket. Did you ever wear your puffy under your OR Helium? Did this work? Or do you have a better solution?
Thanks as always.
Ian
+Ian Bolden I very rarely wear my puffy while hiking. Only on the coldest mornings or after lunch do I put it on, and I'll end up taking it off within about 20 minutes anyways. If I'm wearing it under my helium, it's probably as I'm sitting around camp, just to add some extra warmth. Puffy jackets just tend to be a little too warm to hike in, and getting them sweaty will reduce their warmth greatly. In the situation you describe, I'd stuff the puffy in my pack and throw my rain jacket on. Unless it is really cold out, my rain jacket will be more than enough to keep me warm while hiking.
+Joe Brewer Thanks Joe for the information.
Why not a rain poncho like the GoLite? It’s 7 or 8oz and would replace your jacket, kilt, and pack cover which probably saves you around 8oz. Also serves as an emergency tarp shelter.
Ponchos work well in sheltered terrain, but are a nightmare in the wind. You won't find people wearing them in the Scottish or Swedish hills... Same goes for umbrellas - not used much in Europe because of wind.
There IS such a thing as a rain kilt? Ha. I was just considering making something similar to this. That's great.
www.zpacks.com/accessories/cloudkilt.shtml
Question. Using a painters suit (hoodie or non-hoodie) moisture resistant, quasi GoreTex moisture breathable outward. Some are tyvek polyethylene fiberweave. Bare ounces of weight, no real need for extra layering. Can go "commando" underneath, then when done with the weather, redress into dry clothes, and the product can be hung for air drying.
Home Depot (or Lowes, etc.) Cordova product appears to be the least expensive. Ultra light weight.
www.homedepot.com/s/painters%2520suit?NCNI-5
An option?
+John Lord In my opinion no. I haven't tried these options personally, but I remember a time when ultra lighters were all looking for the next best thing and people tried taking tyvek suits and other painters suits into the field. Most of them don't actually keep rain off and end up getting soaked. Tyvek is a definite no. I would think anything else would just be miserable as far as condensation, sweating, and heat retention goes. These would look really cool on trail though. I like the idea of a bunch of space men hiking down trail with packs. I can't say for sure, having never tried these, but I would think that they aren't a great choice.
+Joe Brewer Thanks for info on Tyvek suit. How about Frogg Toggs/Dri Ducks for a coat to ride in the pack 90% of the time? I know they are fragile and vegetation would tear them up, but easy to patch with duck tape.
+Gene Lucky Yeah, this isn't the worst idea. They are really light. Obviously, when it comes to cold weather, Frogg Toggs have little to offer for warmth, but they are mostly sufficient as emergency/low use rain gear. You'll definitely see thru hikers out there carrying them, though they'll often have to replace the set at least once.
I think the rain quote was good I feel like Z packs makes a good rain quote
Do you use a pack cover in the rain? Have you ever used a poncho-type rain gear? Thanks for a very informative video!
I use a pack cover and a trash compactor bag to keep my gear 100% dry. I've used ponchos in the past, but only briefly. I do like them, but I find that I don't prefer them. Thanks!
I have those white sierra rain pants, yeah man, you sweat like crazy in them plus they're not very durable.
What do you think about waterproofing zip off convertible pants?
That'd be a lot of work (even with the spray on stuff.) I can't imagine it would stay effective for too long, given the wear that hiking pants see.
my REi eVENT rain pants are nice..keep me dry..but they arent very light imo.. living in AK they work great..but if it was any warmer they make your balls sweat bad..lol so unless you in under 45 degrees and rain they would be too warm and heavy for UL hiking..
+matanuska high Haha, yup.
Breathability is key to comfort. Fulsus makes the most breathable rain jacket right now. eVent is twice as breathable as GoreTex. Body heat converts water to vapor. Vapor exits through eVent material. Start off soaked in a Fulsus jacket and even in pouring rain, you'll soon be dry.
I just stick with my rain kilt and gaiters....They haven't let me down yet.
what's wrong with a plastic tarp for $2 at the home depot fuck the rain gear it takes up space and weight
+kenny cadarett Umm...please dial it back a little tough guy. Lotsa kids on youtube. Also, try a tarp for 5 days straight in even mild wind. Report back. Thanks
have you thru-hiked the PCT or AT using a tarp when it rains as you walk the trail?
Dont you ever hike with your cat ?
Biggest problem with all of these outdoor brands that you review is they are only made for very small and short people. If you stand 6' tall over over (I am 6'4") none of these companies make any specialized gear for you and quite frankly they do not care about the vast segment of the population that is taller, and I suspect bigger. Since basically NONE of these companies offer a TALL in any of their sizes, if you stand 6' or higher, these things show off your belly. The helium 2 comes down to my belly button and that's it. That's as long as they make them and other brands are the same way. I suspect it's just as bad if you are a larger width size person as well, though enough trail time should remedy that part. It's just very frustrating trying to find any of these specialized clothing items when the maximum inseam length they will give is 32 or if they do offer a 34, they consider that to be sasquatch size instead of what 34 is, the most common men's inseam size in the USA. Shirts are bad but when it comes to jackets/rain gear, forget it. Nobody out there makes a tall section in any of these types of clothes.
Thanks for the video all the same.
Arcteryx does a very generous (long) cut on many of their rain jackets. I'm not sure if is enough to make sense for a taller person, but it may be worth looking into. Of course there is the price point issue with them, which is tough to swallow. But yeah, the Helium does have a very tight/short cut, even for someone my height.
Not even just the outer jacket. I've been looking to get a puffy jacket like your orange one for a while and just cannot find any that wouldn't stop at my belly button. Even regular shirts have a VERY limited selection when it comes to tall sizes as 90-95% of those made do not come for people that stand taller, and I suppose wider as well. Heck, it's even hard if you are looking for a fully enclosed tent as you generally have to find a long version of the tent unless you want to be balled up. Don't even get me started on the sizes for sleeping bags wherein 99% are not sized for someone like myself.
The same issue exists with most outdoor sports when it comes to high end clothing.
Most dive gear at least is able to be ordered specially made or tailored fit such as dry suits and many brands of wet suits. One of the few recreation activities where I've noted they cater to anyone's shape or size. We do a heck of a lot of that up here in North Florida, but it's still nice to get out and hike every chance I may get. Just frustrating if I'd like to do it more seriously and for a longer duration hike than just a few days.
As you note though, Arcteryx does make several different lines of basically the same item, the only difference being that they are a different cut. Some are longer, some are athletic, and so on. Of course price is an issue with them, but no more so than 1500$ for a dive watch. They just don't offer the full range of gear you would need is the issue at hand. Great products though.
I'm an intern at an adventure leadership company on the east coast. My boss is 6'4" and all of his hiking/climbing clothes are ArcTeryx or Black Diamond because they fit. Granted, he pays blasted way too much for his clothes, but he loves them, they last forever, and they work REALLY well.
"Like a thru-hiker". I hate to say it but most thru-hikers do so on a whim. They have poor skills, poor lead up prep, are not regular hikers, have little experience and generally sub-standard gear. There are some excellent thru-hikers with very good knowledge and skills relating to hiking, the outdoors etc. Most are not....
You might mean AT thru hikers heheh.
Problem with the Arc teryx jackets (although nice designs and excellent materials) is that the seams are ONLY welded (glue), no sewing at all. So they always fail... have had at least half dozen arc teryx jackets come apart literally at the welds the glue just gives way. Therefore, I think the arc teryx are wildly overrated and do not recommend them becuase they are NOT durable nor long lasting.
People should learn more about Dyneema (Cuben fiber) for wet weather. Just collect the following items and then wear whatever clothes you are most comfortable in: a poncho w/hood, mitten covers, chaps, kilt, and gators. It's not that hard but it's still not cheap either, prices will drop when the big boys wade in or China just floods the market. Keep the surface of your skin "relatively" dry and don't let water absorb into your clothing as much as possible. A well-designed poncho is a better choice than a jacket for most people and most activities, plus ventilation is no problem at all. I understand that some of you supermen and superwomen need your arms fully mobile when you are risking your lives for something "important" like a youtube video. but when the camera is off and you aren't playing for the idiot camera anymore a poncho is more easily adaptable to climatic conditions at any altitude. I wouldn't take one to the top of Everest but I'm not a new-age privileged prick that's willing to endanger the lives of Sherpas to prove something to myself. My penis is big enough thank you. Humans are a funny species, but it's not that hard to keep them dry in wet conditions.
lol nice skirt bro
First he says he can't recommend the jacket (beta SL) because it is too expensive, and then he says he lucked out because it is a really great jacket...followed up with the statement that the alternatives to goretex should be avoided. Talk about contradicting expectations! Don't be so cheap! Pay up for the right piece of gear, choose stuff that you actually need and that you will actually use, and be happy with it for years to come. Here is a tip--get 1 rain set-up, because buying 1 jacket is cheaper than buying two!
Arcteryx is really effin' expensive. he said he lucked out and got it for cheap at a REI garage sale. Price doesn't always mean quality. Arcteryx is good, but way over priced as they're the Gucci shit. Best only to be bought on sale/garage sales/etc unless money isn't an issue.
For example I got a pair of Solomons' for cheap at REI garage sale as well, which retailed for almost $300. I wouldn't have bought them normally as I can get something comparable for under $200.