by Tom Mangan
Light and fast are the operative terms for Gore-Tex's new Active Shell fabric, built as the competition between waterproof-breathable fabrics heats up.
Gore-Tex claims the new three-layer fabric manages perspiration more effectively by integrating a lighter, thinner, more breathable Gore-Tex membrane with a moisture-wicking backing material. The result is a combination of high breathability with waterproofness, in a lightweight, soft, quiet fabric.
Active Shell already has believers in Arc'teryx, Mammut, and Adidas, all of which were showing Active Shell products for the first time at Outdoor Retailer.
Gore-Tex's drive to reduce weight was obvious from the moment I picked up Mammut's Felsturm Half-Zip Jacket at the Gore-Tex booth. It looks stylish and functional, as expected in a premium jacket, but it is surprisingly light.
Here are quick looks at three Active Shell jackets:
Arc'teryx Alpha FL Jacket
Weight: 1.8 oz / 308 g (size M)- MSRP: $399
- Release: Fall 2011
- Sizes: S-XXL (men's)
Features:
- Minimalist alpine shell for climbers and serious alpinists who travel fast and light (that's what Arc'teryx's new FL designation stands for)
- Quiet, lightweight nylon Gore-Tex Active Shell face fabric to shed precipitation and provide durable waterproof and windproof protection while on the move
- Reinforced hips and shoulders
- Single chest pocket opens with a laminated WaterTight zipper
- Helmet-compatible Storm Hood
- E3D anatomical fit and articulation facilitates reaching for holds and other climbing-specific moves
- Packs in its own stuff sack
Active Shell is also available in Arc'teryx's Beta FL Jacket for backcountry skiing and light and fast ascents: 11.9 oz / 338 g (men's M), $450
Mammut Felsturm Half-Zip Jacket
- Weight: 10.5 oz / 290 g
- MSRP: $390
- Release: Fall 2011
Features:
- Gore-Tex Active shell promises maximum breathability and reliable weather protection
- Innovative zip: spiral is placed directly on the outer material in order to reduce weight and avoid sewing puncture holes. Designed to be extremely easy to open and close
- Three-point hood adjustment system with horizontal and vertical drawstring
- Hood rolls up to protect the neck
- Reinforced hood shield to withstand strong gusts of wind
- Frontreach sleeves, ergonomically tailored to climbing movements
- Front access pit zip for optimized thermal regulation
- Front pockets positioned to allow easy access even when wearing a backpack or climbing harness
- Elastic at the hem and sleeve hem
Adidas Terrex Gore-Tex Active Shell Jacket
Weight: 13.1 oz / 370 g (size M)- MSRP: $395
- Release: Fall 2011
- Sizes: S-XL (men's); XS- L (women's)
Features:
- Gore-Tex Active Shell for high-pulse activities with next-to-skin comfort, easily packable
- Convertible jacket with detachable sleeves
- FORMOTION design for performance and comfort while in motion.
- Adjustable helmet-compatible hood
