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Also, is there a lower cost (than Gore or eVent) laminate that has proven to be durable and effective?


The Frogg Toggs/Dri Ducks fabrics are very effective, probably by far the most breathable laminates out there and really cheap. Neither are they elegant. One could almost say crude. However, I have kept dry in all day rains.

They are not heavy-duty, either. However, they are adequate for on-trail hiking. And, you can just patch a rip with duct tape.

In summary,if you need features like pockets, anatomic hoods,or bushwhacking durability, these aren't for you. Also if you want a garment that can do double duty between trail hiking and trips to the mall, these won't make the fashion statement you want to make.

But if you want something that is highly breathable, waterproof for trail hiking and perhaps emergency tire-changing in the rain, these products will do quite nicely at a price that can't be approached by a wide margin by any other WPB laminate.
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Human Resources Memo: Floggings will continue until morale improves.