Weatherproof zips

What are they and how do they work?
4 years ago, Arcteryx (the little know Canadian manufacturer of climbing harnesses and packs) produced a range of truly cutting edge Gore-Tex shell garments, with a range of features which left the rest of the world's shell manufacturer's standing. The most notable feature was the lack of bulky storm flaps over every pocket and pit zip (as found on all other high performance shells). The breakthrough came by coating the very porous web on the back of the zip with a waterproof PU which not only made the zip in itself very resistant to water ingress, but also allowed direct seam-sealing along the edge of the zips.

What are their benefits?

No need for bulky flaps and Velcro or press stud fastenings over external zips.
No flaps means that garments are lower weight, lower bulk, have a higher breathability, and that pockets and pit zips are much easier to access.
The zips remain light, flexible and relatively low cost, unlike the very stiff, bulky and very expensive fully waterproof zips found on diving dry-suits and immersion/survival suits.

What are their drawbacks?

They are not 100% waterproof (garments with exposed zips have sealed pockets to prevent water getting right into the garment, but the pockets can still fill with water).
Some manufacturers feel that lightweight flaps are still necessary to protect the zips from abrasion, and instances when zips are left open.
They are often stiffer to operate than ordinary zips.

What do they cost?
Garments utilizing weatherproof zips are really only found at the top end of the waterproof/breathable market (£250 to £350).

Recommended products
Marmot Glenmore Jacket (£299.95)
The North Face Mountain Jacket (£269.95)

How do I find out more?

escape2 on Freefone 0800 0286 836

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