User Review: REI Switchback Parka

REI Switchback Parka
Above: The current Switchback Parka, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed November 30, 1998 by P Scanlon

Rating: rated 1 of 5 stars
Fabric: Gore/Tex
Price Paid: -$300

Well this is a replacement jacket for the 'original' switchback that was an 'REI' fabric that went bad. My original switchback was a total loss. After a week in the WET Scotish Higlands I was a sopping mess. REI was EXCELLENT about stepping up to the plate and replacing the jacket, BUT my GoreTex replacment is no better after a year and a half. I have tried light heat on the thing to bring the fabric back, as well as Textron spray. NO LUCK. Any real amount of rain will soak the fabric. Any amount of sweat from the inside out (cuffs and at my pack) will soak it through. If your spending a few nights in a tent with no real way to dry it out your in trouble.

Hats off to REI... they're great. BUT the switchback scores VERY LOW in my opiniom. Hiking partners with Marmots have MUCH better results... I'm off in serach of a Marmot Thunderlight or Alpinist

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