Serendipity or Gamma SV ?

Hi.

I just wanted to get some opinions regarding the Cloudveil Serendipity and Arc'Teryx Gamma SV - one of which will replace my aging MH Windstopper tech jacket.

They're both within $50 of each other and they both have a similar design and fit. The main difference is the material; the Serendipity is made from Dryskin extreme while the Gamma SV is made from Powershield.

I've had great results with my MEC Ferrata pants (which are made from Schoeller dryskin) but have no experience with Powershield. Is one better than the other ?

Thanks in advance !

I don't have either of these, and am passing on opinion from a guy who does. Take it for what it's worth. Bear in mind that this guy is manager of a large outdoor store, and has done quite a bit of climbing in both.

Dryskin Extreme is basically a "soft shell", and has little intrinsic insulation. Powershield has at least some fuzz on the inside, rather like Powerstretch. Both are stretchy, with maybe a small nod to Powershield. My consultant felt that Powershield was warmer, perhaps a bit more wind-stopping, but less versatile. He said he could wear his Serendipity as a sturdy shell layer for cool summer days, or with more layers underneath for winter ice and snow. The Gamma might be better for the ice and snow days, but he would start to overheat sooner in it.

Hope this helps. Tough choice there - one great product or another great product.

I have the Serendipity and Dennis is pretty much right in his eval. It is tough, stops wind fairly well, breathes very well, stretches okay, and it's insulating properties are so-so. You'll find it thicker than the Feratta, and everything that was, and more.

I can't compare it to the Powershield, but compared to Windstopper, it's more versitle, for the reasons listed above. It breathes a hell of a lot better, but is not as warm (and thus doesn't overheat as much). Also know about the Serendipity that it has two "Napolean" pockets that work a bit as core vents, are good for storing stuff (gloves, small camera, GPS, etc.) but not good for trying to warm your hands.