10:00 a.m. on September 21, 2007 (EDT)
Gore-Tex Paclite or Gore-Tex Performance Shell?
Hey Everyone,
I'm thinking about buying a Mountain Hardwear shell for backpacking/skiing. I had a question on the waterproofness between the two Gore-Tex Variations. Does the Paclite hold up better or worse than the Performance Shell? I was thinking between the MH Escape and the MH Crucial. If anyone has experience with these jackets, please leave a review.
Thanks
11:36 a.m. on September 21, 2007 (EDT)
Re: Gore-Tex Paclite or Gore-Tex Performance Shell?
It depends on how much you are going to be using it in rough conditions. Paclite is designed to be the lightest waterproof breathable material but I don't believe it would be the most durable in their line. Also if the extra money is worth the weight savings then the paclite might be the one to go with.
the Performance shell is most likely more durable. It sounds like it is the new XCR (xtended comfort range).
So I think for all mountain use I would pick the performance shell. If all I wanted was a relatively light waterproof jacket I would go with the paclite shell.
I have a TNF Mountain Light Jacket which is alright but its really heavy.
I am getting a Outdoor Research Zealot jacket for backpacking though.
6:38 p.m. on September 21, 2007 (EDT)
Bill S
OGBO
Joined: Mar 14, 2001
Posts: 2516
Re: Gore-Tex Paclite or Gore-Tex Performance Shell?
My experience with Paclite as used by 2 different manufacturers (2 different generations) was not very good. I found that the Paclite, contrary to Gore's statements, does not breathe very well. In each case I found my "regular" Gtx of the same generation actually breathed better. I also found that the Paclite delaminated fairly quickly around the neck area where it was picking up body oils (hey, you can't wash it every day - on multiday trips, sweat and body oils accumulate, plus probably the sunblock).
When eVent became available, I found they were a couple steps ahead of Gore in the breatheability area and just as waterproof. This has been true through this year's replacements of worn-out jackets as well.
12:29 p.m. on September 25, 2007 (EDT)
Re: Gore-Tex Paclite or Gore-Tex Performance Shell?
Thanks for all your help. Which eVent jackets would you recommend Bill?
