After getting soaked last season in what was supposedly "premium" rain gear, I'm reevaluating my options for this year's mountain hunts. I've been looking at Rivers West jackets - their stretch fabric and fully seam-sealed design seem promising for active hunting in variable conditions.

For those who've used their gear:
How does it handle sustained downpours compared to traditional 3-layer shells?
Is the fabric truly quiet enough for bowhunting or still prone to swishing?
Any long-term durability issues with the waterproof coating after multiple seasons?

I'm particularly interested in how it performs when layered over midweight insulation during temperature swings. Last year's setup left me either sweating or shivering - hoping to find that elusive balance this time around.

What gear failed you last season?

I have a Swazi Wapiti rain coat I've been using for a few years now. It's not the lightest, but it's quiet and keeps me dry. I know several guides on Kodiak who switched to Swazi.

For me, the only thing that handles downpours is Helly Hansen. However, it is hot as heck if you are hiking. If you are on a horse, perfect. Or sitting glassing - perfect.

I do not like gortex as I have NEVER had it keep me dry. In fact, it does not dry well so I stay wet.

First Lite has some new rain gear I may try, but at my stage of life, I try to hunt where it does not rain much - Africa!