12:58 a.m. on January 23, 2010 (EST)
1:37 p.m. on January 25, 2010 (EST)
DrReaper
14 reviewer rep
318 forum posts
I can see it now. I am on a hike and pop my jacket.
8:30 a.m. on June 24, 2010 (EDT)
Nate
0 reviewer rep
1 forum posts
That is a very valid concern DrReaper. Fortunately we have actually never had a single puncture from any users thus far for a few reasons. One is because the fabric is actually much more durable than you would think, and it is also use primarily as a mid layer under an outer shell protecting it even more.
In the unlikely event that it does get a puncture, we supply each vest with a patch kit for easy and quick repair. There are some projects under way using cut, tare, and puncture proof fabrics for military use, where we have actually broken hypodermic needles trying to penetrate the fabric as well.
10:36 a.m. on June 24, 2010 (EDT)
yock
27 reviewer rep
200 forum posts
It's an interesting idea, but many hikers add and remove layers many times during a hike as they alternate between level hikes, steep inclines, and breaks. Even if one didn't mind continually adjusting the vest, how much extra gas must one carry to accomodate this practice?
5:09 p.m. on June 24, 2010 (EDT)
Two comments hit me about this concept:
1. The noble gas thing seems gimmicky. Since the gas reacting with other materials isn’t an issue, the cost and weight or this garment could be lowered simply by inflating it like a thermarest pad.
2. The non-breathable nature of this garment will endow it with vapor barrier-like qualities, thus any underlying layers of clothing are apt to become saturated with moisture.
Ed