January 15, 2001


What's a good waterproof multi-purpose shell?

Dear Gear Sage, I need to buy a new shell, but I'm finding that there are now too many different products to choose from (PacLite, Gore-Tex XCR, Dryskin, Windstopper, Triplepoint Ceramic, EPIC, etc.). The main features I'm looking for are wind and snow resistance (doesn't rain much here in Colorado). Downhill and X-country skiing, snowshoeing, and biking will be my primary activities. Do I need a full-blown, $400 Gore-Tex parka? I'm also looking for something with a more tailored fit. Currently, I have my eye on the Cloudveil Snaz jacket, but would some sort of abrasion/wind resistant fleece serve my needs just as well? How about a lighter Activent shell or L.L. Bean's Ridge Runner EPIC shell? Do you think a hood is necessary? Life was so easy when Gore-Tex was my only option. Thanks for your help,

— Max Salier, Colorado

I think you're on the right track, Max. What you do NOT need is some heavy, expensive, three-ply Gore-Tex jacket. At the same time, I think you will want a light shell of some sort, not a wind-resistant fleece jacket. The reason: A light shell can go over, say, a polypropylene turtleneck on cool-not-cold days, or over a heavier fleece piece on a cooler day. So it's more versatile.

But what shell? The Snaz ($265) would be simply brilliant for you. It's very light, stretchable, breathable yet waterproof, and good-looking. People I know who have Snazs refuse to take them off. But it's also a little expensive, and may be more than you need. Given the description of your activities, a very light shell may be better. Bean's Ridge Runner ($79) would be just about right. It's made with Nextec's EPIC fabric; a polyester material with threads that have been individually coated with silicon to make a fabric that is water-resistant and breathable. Alas, I don't care for the stuff -— I just don't think it breaths that well. I've talked with the Nextec people about this, and they're convinced my one EPIC piece is defective. One of these days I need to send it to them for evaluation.

That said, I'd sniff around for a piece made with Activent, Gore's take on a highly breathable, water-resistant piece. Activent didn't make it in the market—it was just too expensive (most tops ran $150 to $200), and wasn't billed as waterproof. But in my view it was an absolutely fabulous product. Fortunately, closeouts currently abound. Hell, I just bought a Moonstone Activent pullover from REI-Outlet.com for $57 —- retail was $115.