Gor-Tex Surf Top - Third Season ... Now What?

[Steve K]

That 303 Protectant has a million uses too. Like preserving the black plastic exterior parts on your truck.

[Clogston29]

it lasted 2 years?? might be a record.

[DZ]

I have finally begun to realize that there is no perfect rain top that lasts as long as the old Grundens or Helly Hanson models I wore years ago. Sure they were uncomfortable in warm weather but they were water proof and lasted for many years of service. I commend the new wave companies such as AS, Simms, etc for there attempts to manufacture breathable splash tops - but I haven't had one that stayed water "proof" more than two seasons. Last season rather than take another chance at a high cost breathable I purchased another top and decided to go back to a Grundens for use during those times when I'd like to stay dry.

DZ

[Back Beach]

Originally Posted by DZ

I have finally begun to realize that there is no perfect rain top that lasts as long as the old Grundens or Helly Hanson models I wore years ago. Sure they were uncomfortable in warm weather but they were water proof and lasted for many years of service. I commend the new wave companies such as AS, Simms, etc for there attempts to manufacture breathable splash tops - but I haven't had one that stayed water "proof" more than two seasons. Last season rather than take another chance at a high cost breathable I purchased another top and decided to go back to a Grundens for use during those times when I'd like to stay dry.

DZ

Slightly different application when you compare the grundens to a "dry top" but I have to agree the grundens is absolutely bullet proof. My grundens gear was purchased back in 1995 and still looks as good as the day I purchased it. You just can't kill the stuff.

[numbskull]

Originally Posted by Back Beach

My grundens gear was purchased back in 1995 and still looks as good as the day I purchased it.

I wonder what the coat would say about you?

[Mr. Sandman]

I don't think they are gore tex but they may be a related breathable clone.

But I have used the 303 water repellent. You can get it at west marine. It is the same stuff you use on boat covers. It's not cheap 20 bucks for a spray bottle but it does help. I put two light coats on my jacket 2 or 3X per season and it helps noticeably.
I agree, I don't like the term "semi-dry" what the hell does that mean? You are dry or wet, there is no such thing as semi dry..that's like a little pregnant. The fabric should keep you dryer than it does IMO. I understand the neck leakage in the semi-dry products but that is not the problem. The fabric in the fully "dry" top is the same as the semi-"dry" top. It leaks after modest usage.

I have to tell you at this time of year I don't wear my AS top(s), I like to were this dingy racing jacket I got at west marine for 80 bucks. It is not as breathable but it keeps you dry in the rain, cuts the wind has adjustable neck and wrist cuffs, is NOT intended for full immersion but rain and spray are fine. Mine lasted...get this... 10 years with no maintenance. (that 8 bucks/year...not bad)It was made by GILL. It is finally tired and worn out and I plan to get another this week. Very light weight pullover but it keeps your dry. It has pockets and velcro adjustments but is not nearly as slick a product as the high end surf tops. However, for a light weight summer jacket that will keep you dry and warm, its great. I owned this before surf tops were the rage. went thru 3 AS tops over that time and still have the old dingy jacket. Granted the AS tops are heavier duty product and are very nice but you can't beat these light weight jobs for the summer. In fact before AS was even in business I fished with this all season . Now I only use it in milder conditions and I find by doing so it extends the life of my AS product by not beating on it all season long.
The grunden pull over with neo cuffs is very heavy duty. That was my Nov/ Dec top. Mine is sort of retired but looks new. You can't wear that on a July night, oh it will keep you dry from outside wetness but you will be soaked from your own sweat and probably loose 50# in the process.

Bottom line there is no perfect top. you need to own them all including a wetsuit.

I hear a lot of positve things on the AS rain pants though. I may try them out.