silverorange stuff

The jacket is constructed of Gore-Tex XCR. The new three layer fabric from Gore that removes the need for a protective liner in the coat and is much more durable than previous two layer fabrics. XCR claims to be more breathable and lighter than previous fabrics. Having never previously owned a gore-text jacket I can neither confirm nor deny this.

The jacket has been remarkably durable. I have worn the jacket almost daily for over seven months (five of which were during a harsh Canadian winter) and it still looks and feels new.

Waterproof & Breathable
The jacket, like all Gore-Tex jackets, is 100% waterproof & windproof. This is true. I’ve been in incredible downpours, laid in wet snow, been pelted by sleet, and not once did I get wet. Like all waterproof breathable clothing the jacket works best when its water repellency solution is not worn off. I found the Targa (and probably all XCR jackets) lost its repellency quite quickly. While this doesn’t affect the waterproofness of the jacket, it does impede its breathability. You can wash the jacket to restore the repellency, and if that doesn’t work you can reapply a spray.

The jacket is extremely breathable. While hiking in rain, playing in snow, or doing anything that causes you to sweat you’ll notice a significant difference between this jacket and a non-breathable comparison. The only issue I’ve noticed, and it’s a known issue with all waterproof breathables, is that in extremely humid conditions the jacket is not breathable. Recently in Costa Rica condensation on the inside of the jacket was quite noticeable. This is due to the fact that for the jacket to be breathable the humidity on the outside must be less than that on the inside. In humid hot conditions this is not the case.

Pockets, Vents, & Misc
The jacket has a number of pockets of different shapes and sizes. It has two large outside pockets (where most pockets usually are), one large inside pocket, and a handy small pocket on the left arm. I use the arm pocket more than any other. It’s handy, out of the way and you get at it without taking off your seatbelt (I keep a small wallet in there). There are also two very large zippered vents in each armpit. This allows you to increase the breathability without getting wet (your arms cover the holes).

The hood is great. It has an enforced brim that drips the water off of your face, multiple adjustments for tightening the hood around your face, and it is also, completely waterproof. The only issue with the hood is that when it is stored in its pouch (in the neck) the neck tends to feel like a cervical collar. It’s manageable but annoying.

There area adjustments everywhere you would like on the jacket, without going overboard. All of the zippers are waterproof. The jacket is also relatively light, which makes for great packing.

Overall, a superb jacket for someone who needs a waterproof breathable shell for both the normal everyday use, plus hiking, backpacking, and outdoors use.