There’s often deals to be had, hence why I deal with MAP/SRP pricing in articles to try and have some level of apples vs apples pricing comparable.
I’m very particular about jackets. The Race Face Conspiracy was a surprise hit I wear all the time but usually, for how much I ride in adverse weather, a jacket is a product I’m willing to invest more in to get the right material. For comfort, I’m a huge believer in Polartec Neoshell for its unparalleled breathability but it’s nowhere near as resilient as GoreTex.
Generally when I’m talking jackets with friends, if they can stretch the budget, I suggest finding a GoreTex Active jacket that fits well (whatever brand) and never looking back. Same goes for sale-season hunting. I know a couple people who picked up gen-1 7Mesh Guardians for a song and that’s a great piece of kit - just not relative comparing MAP to MAP.
My Gore vest started life as a Gore jacket (early gen of Gore Active material) and has been washed hundreds of times over 10+ years and it’s still awesome. That’s the gold standard.
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Also, that Dainese jacket scores an instant fail for the under-helmet hood.
Jan. 11, 2020, 10:20 a.m. - Andrew Major
There’s often deals to be had, hence why I deal with MAP/SRP pricing in articles to try and have some level of apples vs apples pricing comparable. I’m very particular about jackets. The Race Face Conspiracy was a surprise hit I wear all the time but usually, for how much I ride in adverse weather, a jacket is a product I’m willing to invest more in to get the right material. For comfort, I’m a huge believer in Polartec Neoshell for its unparalleled breathability but it’s nowhere near as resilient as GoreTex. Generally when I’m talking jackets with friends, if they can stretch the budget, I suggest finding a GoreTex Active jacket that fits well (whatever brand) and never looking back. Same goes for sale-season hunting. I know a couple people who picked up gen-1 7Mesh Guardians for a song and that’s a great piece of kit - just not relative comparing MAP to MAP. My Gore vest started life as a Gore jacket (early gen of Gore Active material) and has been washed hundreds of times over 10+ years and it’s still awesome. That’s the gold standard. ... Also, that Dainese jacket scores an instant fail for the under-helmet hood.