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Rain gear

 
gardener
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Location: Midcoast Maine, Zone 5b
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Anyone have recommendations for rain gear sturdy enough for working outside?
 
pollinator
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I use Paramo waterproofs - they are technical walking gear, but great for working in. They don't rely on a waterproof membrane, so last much much longer than an equivalent coat in goretex etc... Machine washable too.

They use directional wicking - basically if moisture ever does reach your skin it is forced outwards through the fabric. I've been through deep water in them, 8 hour heavy rain storms etc... and never had any complaints. They are also soft and comfortable to wear.
 
rocket scientist
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Hi Ben; Many choices to be had. I have used heeley hensen in constuction for many years , but it is heavy and does not breathe. Carhart is also very popular and i'm told they are not as sweaty as heeleys. Now i have just gotten a pair of Frog Togs, I haven't had them long enough to say about how durable they are, but you can't beat them for being lite & dry! The material resembles tyvec house covering and may be a very similar product. Good luck Tom
 
pollinator
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Heavy rubber/plastic like the fishermen wear--Helly Hanson, etc. Good, tough, but plastic.

Waxed cotton like the Aussie and Brits make--Berber, Outback, etc. The ones with rain capes work, although most are lined with plain cotton that will hold water.

Ventile cotton--cotton so tight it swells solid when wet. $$$ but works like miracle fabrics claim to work.

Look at sierratradingpost.com for deals on ventile and waxed cotton.

Or you can DIY--pick a coat you like and add this: http://gizmodo.com/neverwet-review-the-magical-water-repelling-spray-is-812797429

 
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Location: Central NY
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I got a old army surplus M55 coat (with button in liner), replaced the cotton drawcords with shock cords and barrel plungers, and tossed the whole thing into the washer with Cotton Nikwax.
Did the same with a old boonie hat. only in the heaviest downpour does it become saturated. But I would not be working out there unless I had too.
 
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Ben,
Go on down to Hamilton Marine and get some Grundens. I've been doing vegetable farming in a pair of their overalls and brigg jacket since 2008 with no issues. I like their sou-wester hat too for when it's really coming down.

Justin
 
steward
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One other thing to consider is the size of the gear. I got mine one size larger so that I could use them in the winter when it's rainy snow mix. Layers. Also, plastic or rubber can get stiff in cold weather. Just my two cents
 
R Scott
pollinator
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I always wondered what the Amish do. Well, I visited the Amish right after a rainstorm last week.

UMBRELLAS!!! Handle down the back of the jacket or under the suspenders with the end stuck in the back pocket or under belt if they needed both hands.

And their wide brim winter hats.
 
Michael Cox
pollinator
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+1 on the broad brimmed hat!
 
She said size doesn't matter, so I showed her this tiny ad:
2024 Permaculture Adventure Bundle
https://permies.com/w/bundle
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