Just remember that water repellent is not the same as waterproof! DWR (durable water repellent) material resists minor drizzle and drip, but definitely not heavy rain.
That being said, I've found that in a drizzle or in warm rain, I'm better off either to wear a wind shirt or just get wet. Lightweight nylon or a wicking baselayer top dries really fast from your body heat, unless it's too cold. Under these circumstances I get wetter sweating inside so-called "breathable" rain gear. Of course I put on an insulating layer under rain gear when I stop hiking, either to rest or make camp.
As Phat says, you need to renew DWR with spray (or a variety of wash-in or rinse-in products) after washing. This includes "breeathable" rain gear, wind shirts and the outer shell of your sleeping bag.
Edited by OregonMouse (05/14/09 01:45 AM)
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May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view--E. Abbey