Re: [at-l] Shell material for 'bags.

[HkrTrash@aol.com]

Redhead,
I have used a down bag with a microfiber shell for several years.  Most of my
hikes are on the AT or bushwhacks in several wilderness areas in the south.  I
used it on a thruhike of the Ozark Highlands Trail a couple of years ago where
it rained all day, every day for a week.  Never had any problems with the bag
getting wet.  Microfiber will keep condensation (such as fog, dew, etc.) from
wetting your bag.  Even got the foot of it rained on a little bit in a shelter
along the AT once, without the water penetrating the shell.  I would stay away
from taffeta, ripstop, or other nylon materials.  They will soak up water like
a sponge.  That said, if you can afford it, go with Dryloft or one of the
other PFTE laminates for the shell.  These will generally raise the cost of
the bag by around $100.00 over the other materials.  I am most likely going to
replace my bag (North Face Foxfire) with a Feathered Friends Hummingbird with
PFTE shell this spring.  This looks like the perfect bag to me.  20* rating,
only 1 lb. 13 oz. total weight, and waterproof too.  Shoot, if it were a
woman, I would probably marry it! ;)   Don't consider anything other than
microfiber or one of the waterproof, breathable shells.

Good Hiking,
Jim
"Earth gives life and seeks the man who walks gently upon it."
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