What is the finest women's rain gear that will not get me wet and is light weight and breathable?

Lisa

Expert Answer:

To"not get you wet" as you put it, the fabric must have waterproofness (ability to keep the rain out) and breathability (ability to let your body moisture out before it condenses and soaks you from the inside).

Unlike "waterproof," "breathable" is not an absolute, definable term. There is a wide range of "breathabilities," and even the best of the waterproof-breathable fabrics is only about half as breathable as an uncoated polyester microfiber shell.

I don't think you'll find anything that is as waterproof and, at the same time, as breathable in a variety of conditions, as Gore-Tex. The new, more breathable, Gore-Tex XCR is even more breathable than earlier versions. People who've not had success with Gore-Tex - - or any other waterproof-breathable fabric - - are usually folks who use it incorrectly or have unreasonable expectations of its breathability. Appropriate underlayers are essential for staying dry in wet weather, and they must work with the shell as a system. Also you must pay attention and remove some of these underlayers when necessary to stay cooler and avoid sweating. Most people over-dress and over-heat in wet weather. If you let yourself get significantly sweaty in any raingear, you'll eventually get wet with condensation.

To keep your skin comfortable without having to be too warm, DO NOT WEAR ANY COTTON AT ALL. Use bicomponent polyester underwear in which the face of the fabric is absorbent, and the side against your skin repels moisture. Examples are the various models and styles using fabrics such as Sierra Designs MC2, Marmot Dri Clime, Lowe Dry Flo, and TNF Micronamics. A thin layer of polyester fleece over the underwear may be needed in cooler weather.

Most major manufacturers are making lightweight garments in women's patterns, but without knowing details of your activity and needs, it's hard to make specific recommendations. However, be aware that the lightest models often tend to be short, and the lighter fabrics do not stand up to hard use such as bushwhacking.