Choosing the Right Rain Gear
I'm a novice who's weary of spending his cash in the wrong places. Should I go with a softshell jacket or something with a sturdier outer shell?
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Question:
What’s the low-down on rain gear? I’m a novice who’s weary of spending his cash in the wrong places. Should I go with a softshell jacket or something with a sturdier outer shell?
Submitted by – Denton, TX
Answer:
My frugal friend, you don’t need to dump loads of cash to get good protection from the rain. In our recent Apparel Guide, we reviewed six great hardshells for under $100. You won’t find loads of features like pit zips (see exception, below) and dozens of pockets, and you might sacrifice a bit in the way of breathability, but protection from the rain…absolutely! The best of the bunch was Marmot’s Precip, which offered the best breathability (and pitzips!) all for 99 bucks. As for softshells, if it’s truly a rainshell you’re looking for, I’d steer clear. Hard shells—with their taped seams and long-lasting DWR treatments—are a better way to go. Plus, you’ll get more protection for the weight and money.