User Review: Lowe Alpine Elite Jacket

Lowe Alpine Elite Jacket
Above: The current Elite Jacket, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed March 1, 2006 by FLyfishermanMike

Rating:
Fabric: eVENT
Price Paid: $89

I bought this jacket when it was on closeout. It was an amazing, once in a lifetime deal that I couldn't pass up. I thought I already had the raingear I wanted/needed but I was wrong.

This jacket sits atop the Lowe Alpine rainwear pedestal. Retailing at over $400 it is more an investment that a purchase. Its primary feature is the eVENT fabric which it is made from. It’s claimed to be the most breathable fabric in existence. That’s quite a lofty claim! I was impressed by what I had read about the jacket and its fabric.

The jacket’s appearance is top notch. Unlike other waterproof jackets it isn’t shiny or slick. It felt good and looked even better. Back stretch panels along with two-toned panels make for a sleek and stylish look. It fits well, in between a tight alpine fit and poncho. I have long arms and the sleeves are perfect when I reach. I love the wrist closures, they are easily adjusted, even with cold hands. The main zipper is protected with a double flap, secured with Velcro. The hood fits well and is adjusted with a toggle in the rear and sides.

The most amazing time is when it rains. This far outdoes anything I’ve worn before. It beads water like nothing I’ve ever witnessed and continues to, still to this day. Think of rain of glass. It had never wetted out or shown any signs of absorbing water, even in long, heavy downpours.

It has ample pockets. The two large chest pockets double as vents and has smaller pockets built into them. It breathes so well, better than any Gore-tex products I’ve tried from different companies. I would say that it lives up to their claims. I’m completely sold on eVENT and now buy anything I can with its fabric. (I love my eVENT tent too!)It’s heavier than other jackets. My XL weigh 25 oz. about twice as heavy as a Marmot PreCip, marketed as an ultra-light jacket. Its breathability and weatherproofness easily pay for that extra weight. It packs to a very small size considering its weight. I can pack it to the same size as my PreCip.

This jacket was well thought out, well made and a delight to wear. When camping, I pray that it will rain so I can bust out my jacket. This jacket is made by the eVENT fabric. I would recommend it to anyone and Lowe Alpine as a company and eVENT as a fabric, suitable for all outdoor needs.

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