Testing: SITKA 2021 Dew Point rain gear

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Josh Boyd

Josh Boyd

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If you have tried a Timberline Jacket, how would you compare the durability? I could definitely see replacing my Timberline with this jacket if it will hold up as a general purpose outer layer like I use my TL for.
This jacket is a 3 layer Gore-tex shell designed as an outer layer for rain and heavy wind. It's not a general all purpose piece of clothing. But it should be plenty durable for most hunting situations.
 
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Josh Boyd

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Are you guys using goretex shells for rain, or do you use it for everyday hunting as well? Like days when there is wind or a chill in the air.

I use hardshells for skiing. I use it during warm days and cold. Windy and or wet. I just layer differently underneath.

I would think hardshells could be used fairly effectively in the mountains for all sort of conditions, but get the feeling that most people have these stuffed in their packs just in case they get caught in the rain.

Thanks Pete
I use mine mostly for rain but I will also use it to cut heavy wind when needed. If I am stationary or moving really slow, I will layer over some insulation like a puffy or softshell jacket. If I am covering ground and generating heat I will sometimes wear it over a light base layer. It's always good to find more than one use for gear in your pack.
 

peterk123

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Found a leftover dewpoint jacket for 160 bucks and cloudburst pants for 130. No idea what pattern but after reading this thread i couldnt resist :)
 
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I was in the store comparing the cloudburst, SG m5, and new dew point all side by side. I think the cloudburst and m5 are probably neck and neck for how durable they look and feel, with m5 maybe being slightly ahead. The dew point is just so paper thin.

I couldn't do it. If I spend 329 on a rain jacket, I want that sucker to last as last ng as possible, and I don't feel like I could bushwack much in the DP without tearing it.
 
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I was in the store comparing the cloudburst, SG m5, and new dew point all side by side. I think the cloudburst and m5 are probably neck and neck for how durable they look and feel, with m5 maybe being slightly ahead. The dew point is just so paper thin.

I couldn't do it. If I spend 329 on a rain jacket, I want that sucker to last as last ng as possible, and I don't feel like I could bushwack much in the DP without tearing it.
What store had all three in stock?
 
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What store had all three in stock?

Scheels in UT. They had JUST put the few point out on the floor. They had the set, not sure if both camos, no colid colors. The camo I looked at was the open country one, or whatever it's called.

It did seem like a super nice rain set, but it didn't feel as durable as I'd want. It's possible it's a new magic 20d shell that's more durable than it feels, but I'm pretty sure it's the same as the shell material I tore when skiing and brushing against a dead pine on the way down.... I did clip it pretty hard though.

I'm sure if people test it to it's limit and prove me wrong, I'll be disappointed in my decision!
 
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Josh Boyd

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How loud is the face fabric?
It has a slight crinkle to it and will make noise when rubbed against objects. Its not any louder than most quality rain gear. If it had a soft brushed face like the Thunderhead system it would weigh more and wouldn't compress as well as it does. There are always tradeoffs....
 
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Curious to see the DP on person. I just got a cloudburst set in the mail, and I'm pretty underwhelmed. With how loud, stiff, and unbreathable it feels, I think I'd be better off just getting the light weight deposit.

I wouldn't want to wear either of these shells while active, I'd soak from the inside out. Might as well get the DP and keep the weight down.
 

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The fact of the matter here is that IT IS RAIN GEAR! It is not a soft shell, it is not made for a ton of active wear. If it was, it wouldn’t work as rain gear. There’s no perfect piece of rain gear that will double as a softshell, breath and keep you dry. That piece does not yet exist.

This set is made to be packable. If you want something super durable, you have to go heavier. The old Dewpoint is a mountain hunters dream set. I anticipate the new stuff will even be better. Mine showed up today.
 
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