Sierra Designs Redefines Rainwear for the Backcountry
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No membrane breathes well enough to keep up with the body’s heat and sweat. That is why Sierra Designs goes beyond using breathable fabrics and utilizes longer cuts and unique physical venting that stays cooler and dissipates moisture better than traditional rainwear.
“The industry standard for rainwear relies on the fabrics to breathe far better than they actually can,” notes Michael Glavin, VP and Brand Manager for Sierra Designs. “The resulting experience is hot and soggy, particularly in the crucial ‘lap zone.’ By lowering the jacket drip line and integrating the backpack straps, the entire front of the jacket becomes a large downward facing vent. Then, because the lap is protected by the jacket, full coverage can be achieved with chaps instead of pants, providing even more venting in the lap-zone, and saving significant weight.”
Airflow Rainwear is both significantly lighter and significantly dryer than a system that relies on membrane breathability alone.
New for Spring ’16, Sierra Designs rainwear collection will include 16 styles each offering unique pack-compatible venting, longer lengths, and technical functionality that truly meet the needs for anyone venturing into the backcountry.
With classic trench-styled cues and sleek modern aesthetics, the completely redesigned, Pack Trench is the most fully-featured and stylish embodiment of the long rainwear story. The 3-layer Pack Trench, with a PU laminate and DWR finish, offers protection in the wettest of storm conditions. The unique Hip Belt Vent and Awning Vents provide ventilation while wearing a backpack and allow airflow under the arms without the bulk and hassle of pit zips. The 15D tricot backer is comfortable against bare arms, while the heathered fabric transitions effortlessly to town. Available in both men’s and women’s specific sizes and colorways. MSRP $250
Intended for thru-hikers, the simple designs and minimal trims make the Elite Cagoule the lightest weight and most compact embodiment of Sierra Designs’ long rainwear story. Now in a 3-layer fabric providing a 50% higher waterproof rating than the previous version, the Elite Cagoule at 8oz for women and 9oz for men, paired with the Elite Rain Chaps, is the best ultralight answer for prolonged backpacking in wet weather. Increased airflow is provided by the unique Hip Belt Vent and Awning Vents. Available in both men’s and women’s styles and colorways. $175
The shortest jacket in the vented rainwear collection, the easy, go-to Pack Anorak provides real wet weather protection and is perfect for those wanting a simple, yet effective design. With a DWR finish, hat compatible hood with stiffened brim, and pass-through handwarmer pockets that are situated above the hip belt with mesh pocketing for ventilation, the Pack Anorack protects from both wind and rain. The jacket, competitively priced at $100, includes a Hip Belt Vent to provide venting at the torso. Available in men’s and women’s.
The entire collection will be on display at the upcoming Summer Outdoor Retailer trade show at booth 28017. For more information or to schedule an appointment to see the full offering from Sierra Designs, contact Mandy Giles at mandy@darbycommunications.com
About Sierra Designs
Sierra Designs was born in 1965, at the beginning of the golden age of backpacking and climbing. Today, our rebellious crew of industry vets and young innovators is on a mission to fundamentally redefine how we live in the backcountry. We create outdoor solutions from equal parts common sense and uncommon thinking. Our outdoor products are all specifically designed for backpacking, not for hype or excess. www.SierraDesigns.com
