"luv2bafield" wrote in message
ink.net...
"Charles Summers" wrote in message
...
I was doubtful too about buying the FT's, but I have not gotten wet yet
in
the two years that I've had them! My first true test was fishing Center
Hill
with Warren in a blinding rainstorm. Of course, his 70mph driving wasn't
helping the situation, but everywhere I was covered with the FT's, I was
dry.

How breathable are they? How do they compare to Gore-Tex? I've been
watching those commercials too.

Thanks,
Keith



I am also considering FTs as:

1) I've used and even sold Gore Tex (Performance Bicycle Shop in Carrboro
NC) clothing in the past and while *ok* IMO, it doesn't hold up to years of
repeated use. IIRC, Gore Tex had as much to do with a special Dupont coating
as it did a fabric material istself, making it vulnerable to failing (stops
breathing and repelling water) after only a cleaning or two.

2) I am still waiting for the *new* Gore Tex, and that is going to be some
sort of micro-fiber material. You know, the stuff in the "Nice Pants"
commericals where nothing liquid sticks or stains, simply runs off, and yet
is breathable from the inside. I read a piece last year on it and they
touted it as the end-all be-all replacement for Gore Tex if and when it
could be made into outer/rainwear. I believe the name I heard mentioned in
connection with it was Nano-Tex (for the nano fibers that are the
*micro-fiber* components). I think this will be the ticket as all the
functionality is from the permanent fibers and not a vulnerable coating.
Again, IIRC.

So until Nano-Tex (or whatever its final production name will be) comes out,
FTs have been what I've been eyeballing myself. I personally have quit
spending on Gore Tex as no matter how well I cared for it, it always just
seems to *quit working* after too short a time considering its price IMO.