Waterproof Jacket

Usjes

Hi,

I am looking for a new waterproof jacket and have a few technical questions. I cycle everywhere so I will be carrying this jacket in my backpack every day so it needs to be:

1. 100% waterproof and breathable.
2. As light and packable as possible, therefore I am looking for just an outer shell weighing < 500g

I am wondering about GoreTex vs. other proprietry materials. Basically, I have a feeling that there is a trade-off here:
- GoreTex = permanently waterproof with minimal (or no?) maintenence but stiffer/heavier
- Lowe A. TriplePoint/Sprayway HydroDry/NorthFace HyVent = become less waterproof over time and therfore require respraying (eg with Granger's Extreme) but are less stiff, lighter and more packable.

Is this true? Or will a GoreTex jacket need to be resprayed just as often as these other fabrics, and is GoreTex neccessarily stiffer/heavier than other fabrics?

For reference the kind of things I am considering are:
http://www.sprayway.com/products.php?product=226&cID=145
or the insanely light (290g) Salomon:
http://www.outdoorsmagic.com/gear-news/just-in---salomon-mountain-crossing-jacket/8157.html
Can something this light really be waterproof?

Thanks,

Usjes

Git101

I wanted a waterproof jacket that would take abuse from a backpack, pack away easily and had a quality hood.
I got a Mountain Equipment jacket that I'm delighted with. It's light enough to throw into the backpack without taking up all the space. I haven't used it on the bike but I have used it for hiking and some running and I'm very happy with it.

The Dagda

Check out the Paramo range of water proofs. It's created by the creator of nikwax. They approach the whole waterproof/breathable issue from a different angle to all the other manufacturers.

I run extremely hot so I wanted the best breathablity and complete waterproofing and my research led to Paramo.

I've just bought the Alta Jacket and velez trousers and after my first outing up Galtymore last weekend I can honestly say that the way the move both water vapour and liquid water caused by sweat is amazing. After a full day in the mountains the inside of the jacket was dry and comfortable, when my previous gore tex clothing would've been cold and wet.

I haven't had a good downpour to test the proofing yet but the way the water beads off after testing in the shower at home inspires confidence.

If you do decide to follow the Paramo route make sure you read and understand the directions of use i.e. all you need is a wicking base layer and the Paramo top layer.

L31mr0d

Check out Arc'teryx. Pricey, but you get what you pay for imo. It is hands down the best jacket I've ever owned. Super light, breathable, never clammy and wind proof.

I've worn it on blustery 28'c days and days as cold as -20'c. If the weather outside looks even mildly inclement I put it on.

Beading of water will break down from use but is easily replenished with a spray on DWR. Even when beading breaks down though I've never had water penetrate through to my clothes or skin.

http://www.arcteryx.com/Product.aspx?EN/Mens/Jackets/Alpha-LT-Jacket#Waterproof_Shell