Looking for a rain shell to replace a really tough, feature laden Patagonia shell I'd had for many years. I'll probably look at ski-stuff (though I want un insulated for year round use) but it occurred to me that there MIGHT be a motorcycle gear maker who can fill the bill as some of the best-made apparel I've used is motorcycle gear . Aside from no armour, I have specific thoughts:
all season- shell only
mid-thigh length
pit zips
tough (ie not just waterproof nylon- maybe a 2 or 3 layer goretex or equivalent)
no large branding
more than 2 pockets
under $600 (preferably sub $500)
AND THE BIGGEST HURDLE:
NOT MADE IN CHINA.
my Roadcrafter shell is TOO tough and heavy (and unstylish) and the Olympia rain jacket (from the 3 in 1 is too short and light (and Chinese made)
I justify posting this in a motorcycle forum thinking that we spend a lot on good gear and just possibly there is stuff out there that can do double duty- especially for us northerner riders who have a shorter riding season. Anyway- it'll be interesting to hear what gear you wear not riding-even if it isn't a stylish goretex rain shell!
all season- shell only
mid-thigh length
pit zips
tough (ie not just waterproof nylon- maybe a 2 or 3 layer goretex or equivalent)
no large branding
more than 2 pockets
under $600 (preferably sub $500)
AND THE BIGGEST HURDLE:
NOT MADE IN CHINA.
my Roadcrafter shell is TOO tough and heavy (and unstylish) and the Olympia rain jacket (from the 3 in 1 is too short and light (and Chinese made)
I justify posting this in a motorcycle forum thinking that we spend a lot on good gear and just possibly there is stuff out there that can do double duty- especially for us northerner riders who have a shorter riding season. Anyway- it'll be interesting to hear what gear you wear not riding-even if it isn't a stylish goretex rain shell!