Okay, I live in a very wet environment and much of my wilderness time is in a damp, wet, rain forest. Think of 55" of 60" of rain per year. Our forest is also loaded with things that poke and stick - Trailing and Himalaya Blackberries, Devil's Club, and the like. I have a lot of lightweight, breathable, rain gear which performs "okay" after extended periods of time- including GoreTex and similar knock off variations. But eventually they start soaking through.
I've tried the Marmot and other expensive REI gear with similar results. I also have a lot of Filson gear which again, works great when new, then even after copious amounts of re-greasing works okay. The Filson is by far the most effective but after a while the forearms and shoulders start getting wet. I try to regulate the heat factor so perspiration isn't causing or contributing to the problem.
I'm ready to try heavy-duty, non-breathable or semi-breathable gear and have been looking at Helly Hanson and Grundens. Ideally it would have pit zips but that isn't probably realistic unless I go back to REI gear. I have a Grundens Shackleton 120 Dry Bag and I'm VERY impressed with it. So who here has experience with the heavier nylon and/or PVC styles of rain gear and in particular the Grundens? Also if anyone has tried the KUIU rain gear. It is expensive but has impressive claims with one buddy saying it is the best. I'm not ready to spend $250 for just the jacket to find out, just yet. Please sound off. Much obliged!
I've tried the Marmot and other expensive REI gear with similar results. I also have a lot of Filson gear which again, works great when new, then even after copious amounts of re-greasing works okay. The Filson is by far the most effective but after a while the forearms and shoulders start getting wet. I try to regulate the heat factor so perspiration isn't causing or contributing to the problem.
I'm ready to try heavy-duty, non-breathable or semi-breathable gear and have been looking at Helly Hanson and Grundens. Ideally it would have pit zips but that isn't probably realistic unless I go back to REI gear. I have a Grundens Shackleton 120 Dry Bag and I'm VERY impressed with it. So who here has experience with the heavier nylon and/or PVC styles of rain gear and in particular the Grundens? Also if anyone has tried the KUIU rain gear. It is expensive but has impressive claims with one buddy saying it is the best. I'm not ready to spend $250 for just the jacket to find out, just yet. Please sound off. Much obliged!