North face gonzo 2013 water proofing? K+ for answer

I had last years, and was not completely impressed with it's waterproofing, or breathability.
 
Your profile says you're from WA so I'm going to say that this jacket most likely will not meet your needs if you find yourself in a real PNW storm. You should look to something guaranteed to be waterproof.
 
I found ratings of around 20k waterproofing and 625 breathability. Even though these tests can be extremely subjective, that breathability rating is no good (Gore-tex/Gelanots/eVent are all at least 20k).

HyVent, the jacket material, is a PU-based material and the Gonzo jacket has the 2L flavour. My understanding from the TNF site is that there is no DWR coating on the 2L. This means that water won't really 'bead up' and run off like the three fabrics I mentioned earlier.

I have not used or even seen this jacket in person so I cannot comment on how it is, but I would generally recommend a jacket with fully taped (or welded) seams, a DWR, and 3L construction (shells only, not the insulated variety). The Gonzo only appears to have taped seams. I do have an older TNF rain jacket with HyVent and its pretty much rubbish in most harder/longer rain storms. Hence, I would look elsewhere for a jacket.
 
That's what I thought too and have read things that back that up, but TNF's HyVent tech page was not clear so I went off that in my answer. Here's what that page says about the 2L fabric used in the jacket OP asked about:

"HyVent ® 2-Layer

Utilizing a two-layer construction to stay simultaneously breathable and waterproof in extreme conditions, this fabric excels in any exploration. The durable woven outer layer repels wet weather and protects from abrasion, while the inner-layer utilizes a polyurethane coating and micro-pores to channel water vapor to the outer layer. The end result is a exceptional waterproof, breathable technology that stays dry inside and out.

Benefits

Two-Layer Protection in Rain and Snow

Repels Wet Weather

Redirects Water Vapor

Ideal for Climbing and Skiing"

So you might be right in that it's a coating, but it wasn't clear to me so I just assume it's the entire thing: fabric and DWR coating. The 3L and DT varieties appear to have a DWR coating though.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top