Thanks Jarey.


There is no argument that there are better performing materials in the market than Gore. However again, it's not just the material, as construction and design also are key.

The best analogy I can think of at the moment is you can claim to build the most powerful engine, however unless the chassis is equal to match, it doesn't really mean a lot on the race track.


Now we are just talking garments, and in the real world of use, both are up to the task, and are better than a rubber suit, so really the choice will come down to fit, finish and your fashion choice. So how is it affirmed that a garment works for your situation? Well If I don't have to think about it, then that's good, however if I think about it and it's a positive thought like "man I sure like the way this feels" then that is good too. I have seldom wished for anything else in all my outdoor time. I'm warm, I'm dry and I'm comfortable.


Bekologist may well have good experience, and I don't disregard them, however to say his experiences and adventures all apply to mine and that I should have done and worn something else is silly. I have been outdoors too, I have been as comfortable as I have wanted to be using my "Old" equipment. What more is there really to say to that, when they work with out even having to think about it?

The Gorts he laughed about worked in my situation. If I would have listened to him before the trip and took the shortie gators, I could have been miserable, my feet would have been pruny like my buddies that was just wearing hiking socks only. Beathability was fine.

As to his chastising me for my tent, it was what I had at the time, so we used it. What's wrong with that? It was comfortable, kept us dry and was roomy for hanging our wet clothes each night when it was raining outside. Outdoor snobs think you have to have the ultimate in everything when really all you need is enthusiasm and a bit of common sense. People have been doing this for many years with lesser equipment like waxed wool coats and canvas tents, and lived to tell about it.

It's a slim chance a person is going to die in the back country because they chose Gortex instead of some other premier fabric shell. In fact I would bet when faced with that life threatening situation, it's because of other circumstances that have them in that trouble, and the choice of material will not be the pivotal point.

That said I have what I need to be happy, but I'm always looking for something else. I'm going to try a Event jacket for cycling. However I would be hard pressed to give up my XCR shell because it makes me feel good when ever I wear it. I love the feel and fit of it more than anything I have tried on regardless of what material. I prefer it to a soft shell because it packable and not as heavy, plus is better in a rain storm. I own a few soft shells and just don't feel as secure with them. I like the feel of a Gore shell as my only barrier against my tee shirt for it is lighter, thinner, and given the right application, breathable enough.


I trust what I have learned to use and deal with in the back country, and while I'm open to other's opinions, I find I don't listen to people that ram their opinions at you as the only way, and what you do outdoors is marginalized compared to them and their accomplishments. Yes I have not climbed Mt Rainer, however that does not lessen my experience with dealing with the outdoors and keeping myself comfortable while doing it. I know what works for me.