I'm in the market for a new shell and would like some input from the experts. I'm looking for something lightweight, say 16oz or less, that I can use for backpacking. I would be willing to carry a few extra ounces to know that it will be bomber and I won't be getting soaked if heavy rain should arise. I already have a Red Ledge jacket and Marmot Precip, but neither has proven to be reliable in nasty conditions. I have an older REI jacket with Gore Tex XCR that is great for skiing, but it is too heavy for backpacking at 32oz. I don't know much about eVent so if anybody out there has any experience with it and can compare and contrast with Gore Tex paclite it would really help me out. Thanks.
Clivus

While paclite appears to be better than XCR, I don't think it comes close to eVent. Here is a chart with eVent and other materials for you to review:

www.verber.com/mark/outdoors/gear/breathability.pdf

And here is further info:

http://www.verber.com/mark/outdoors/gear/clothing.html#rainshell

http://www.outdoorresearch.com/site/m_s_zealot_jacket.html

Can't get much lighter.

Clivus you old poop composter you, OF COURSE eVent is the most breathable, most expensive and most sought-after breathable/waterproof membrane on the planet. Just wearing an eVent garment gives you instant gear status among the cognizanti of the backpacking world. Buy one and BE somebody!

(Didn't think anyone knew that Clivus Multrum is a human waste composter did you? Heck, I was weaned on Mother Earth News and The Whole Earth Catalog.)

Eric

"K",
I'm guessing that parka in your link is a PacLite version of Gore-Tex.

For almost $200. it better be good! My Cabela's PacLite parka cost $89. and it too came in "Wasabi Green" ( think they called it "Sage"), though I'd have preferred "Double Mocha Latte Brown", being the liberal, latte-sipping, Gore-Tex-wearing oppie* that I am.

Eric
*Older Professional Pantywaste

Looks like a good product, according to reviews. It's also on sale right now at Prolite Gear. Pity about the $75 in shipping, taxes and duty for us poor Canucks <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

I have been looking at this shell, but, as it is very new, can find very little in the way of reviews.
http://www.mountainhardwear.com/Product....p;viewAll=False

Yep, its paclite. I have yet to actually wear it in the field. Just carried it a few times. Packs down to almost nothing.
I found mine on sale (don't remember where) for around $170.