Outdoor Fabric Guide 3: Gore-Tex Paclite Shell
Posted by Neil | April 04, 2011
In the latest instalment of our regular Gear-Zone clothing guide, we continue to look at the huge choice available to outdoor enthusiasts. This week we investigate Paclite Shells.
Fabric Guide: Gore-Tex Paclite Shell
Gore-Tex Paclite Shells are not only durable, wind-proof and 100% waterproof, they are ideal when weight and space are critical.
Paclites feature some of the most packable, breathable and lightest of materials on the planet, designed to minimise not only weight, but volume too.
Gore-Tex Paclite is the industry standard’s 2.5 layer fabric, with no mesh or fabric lining but with a separate coating over the membrane instead. This layer of carbonised polyurethane forms a protective barrier, and saves on the need for an internal lining.
This allows it to be highly breathable and pack into a small space, making it the ideal weight-saver.
Paclites aren’t limited to jackets either – there are many lightweight Paclite trousers out there too, including a range from Berghaus, the first European outdoor company to introduce Gore-Tex fabrics into their clothing line in 1977.
Paclites are perfect for all-round hill walking, lightweight trekking, travel, cycling, rock-climbing and alpinism – just about anything where protection and weight are paramount.
It’s all in the name – Paclites are packable and lightweight, and are all about extreme breathability, durability and wind-and water proofness…not to mention versatility.
Paclite is a generic term used universally for any ‘packable shell’ – but only those with Gore-Tex can be classed as genuine Paclites.
Look out for Craghoppers, Mammut and Berghaus Gore-Tex Paclites.
Posted in Clothing Guide, Gore Tex Fabrics, Outdoor clothing, Waterproofs
