Hiking in the rain or snow.

There are few things worse than hiking with wet clothes.  Having quality waterproof yet breathable outwear is a top priority for me.  I don't won't to be caught in a precipitation without my ARC'TERYX Theta SV bib pants made with GORE-TEX.

The Theta SV pants have a high waist and a stretch back pannel that provides a snug, but comfortable fit.  It took me a couple of times of wearing them to get use to the high waist.  The waist band is adjustable which is really nice and the adjustable suspenders makes custom fitting easy.  The zippers on the pant legs zip about 3/4 of the way up making getting them on and off easily with hiking boats on.

The pants are made from what GORE-TEX calls Pro Shell fabric.  It is the same fabric used in their Pro Shell Men's jacket.  The fabric is stiffer than what I am accustomed to and it makes more noise than most fabrics, but the upside is worth it.

The pants are reinforced in strategic areas so that they will last longer.  The knees are cut and sewn in a way that makes the bending of the knees smooth and comfortable.  The fly zipper, the leg zippers, and the pocket zippers are all water-proof.  You can more info from the ARC'TERYX site.

I have actually worn the pants while riding my motorcycle in the rain and they are, as ARC'TERYX claims, waterproof as well as being great at cutting the wind!

Hiking or riding the Theta SV bib pants are comfortable and they will keep you dry while being breathable.  This is only the second outwear garment I have made from GORE-TEX, but it will not be my last.

I am also impressed with ARC'TERYX.  The pants are my only product from ARC'TERYX, but I will look at their products when I am shopping in the future.

Staying dry

Staying dry while outside is usually important unless you are involved in a water sport/activity. There are many options on the market today so finding the right waterproof jacket can take time.

I wanted a light waterproof (not water-resistant) and breathable shell so that I could layer up as needed.  After some research I chose the GORE-TEX Men's Pro Shell.

This jacket weights about 17 oz.  The cuffs are adjustable using the hook and loop fastener to allow maximum customization.  Once tight the cuffs keep rain and wind off of the arms.  The hood has a small "lip" under the bill so that you can hook it over your cap and it will not slide forward or backwards and it keeps the bill of the jacket ridged and shielding the face.

There are two zippered chest pockets on the outside, one inside zippered pocket on the left side, and zippered venting under the arms.  All six zippers work smoothly and easily.  The waist and the hood have drawstrings to allow customized fitting.

The jacket is a great protector against the wind and provides exceptional protection against rain.   I have found it easy to add layers under the shell when needed.

The fabric has been durable and comfortable although it makes a slight rubbing sound. Water beads up and rolls off the fabric.   The tight weave of the fabric makes it very snag-resistant.

I have worn the jacket in heavy and light rain, in calm weather and in windy conditions.  I love it.  It is a great jacket and I highly recommend this high quality jacket.  It will keep you dry while not adding a lot of weight or bulk.  Give it a try.

Disclosure: I test some products for Gore