I'm interested in using the shell as a rain coat for hiking in mild weather. Think it's suitable for this? Compact enough to pack into a backpack?
11745
It wouldn't be the best, but it might work. Its not very packable. I have a Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket for a windbreaker/light rain when I go fishing and think it would probably be better for you. Its VERY packable, actually has a pocket you can shove the whole jacket in to. Plus is has Omni-shield too.
11746
I'd only use the shell as a rain jacket in colder weather. Since it has a full liner it's a bit heavy, would be overly warm, and more bulky than a normal rain shell for backpacking.
977695
It should withstand a short time in the rain. The outer fabric is some sort of plastic weave and there's probably some structural cardboard in between that and the inner padding. I doubt the rain would make it much past the outer layer very quickly. The weak point is the zipper since it's not a waterproof or even water-resistant design, which significantly reduces the amount of time it's likely to protect its contents. Personally, I'd consider it acceptable for emergency light water protection, but not much more than that.
700984
I found that it actually ran a bit big in the chest and belly area, I would imagine it would accommodate body armor without much issue. I wouldn't recommend it for hot weather use though! the vents that are on it don't work all that well but for a basic budget jacket it is pretty good
183490
I have walked from a commuter parking lot to the buildings where my class is held and had no problem with anything getting wet. The rain drops bead up and roll off. but the distance I walk is not as far as you would probably be going on your bike, so I would say you can double check on the Timbuk2 web site - see the details on the description of the pack you want. I would also send them your question - they are great about responding via email or telephone.
1622117
It is constructed of a hard plastic - so rain would not be problem except for the non-slip padding on the top. It would probably wear more quickly in the sun/rain, etc.. Unsure about stability in strong wind.
1868467
Although I wouldn't pour water on it directly, it is pretty resistant towards rain and sweat - and I ran a 10K race with this on a trail course during slightly muggy conditions. Just remember to dry it out once you're done running with it! For casual use there are no problems at all.
332541
I have used it for hiking only, but I think it would be fine for biking. The water bottle holders are small, however, and it would be best to carry water some other way.
2085612
I would say yes. But, if you are doing intense outdoor backpacking, probably not. When you first see it, it wont look that big but it expands and flattens nicely. I've gotten caught in the rain a couple of times and my electronical devices were fine. Hope this helps.
1542526
I haven't used it with rain, I use it as a sun protection, I'm sorry! But I think it should not be good for heavy rain since it is not plastic. ..
1155449
That pack is not fully water proof, but for short walks in the rain it should be able to keep your laptop dry. If you want a pack that is totally waterproof look into Swiss Gear model TG14HS or brands like: Orca, The North Face, and OverBoard.
405598
It provides a respectable amount of warmth for what it is (a rain jacket, not a coat). Throw on a couple layers under this jacket and you're good to go. I've worn this in non-rain, less than 40 degree (F) conditions and it's kept me warm with some layering.
1364665
I've used it as a front pack for backpacking and found it to breath well and have no heat related complaints. Its very well made.
211686
It's highly water resistant, if you are in a windy down pour things may get a little damp, if your looking for water proof day pack check out the Osprey Stratos it has a built-in rain cover that stows away in a little zipper compartment, Amazon sells the pack at a excellent price, I highly recommend it for wet conditions.
1646462
This is a 1st, someone asking me if a Rain Jacket is water proof, I would have to say yes, I've worn it out in 1 storm, & 1 heavy rain, but I would say that it's meant to get you to cover, not to stay out in the rain for an extended time, for working out in a heavier rain or doing something extended as far as time wise goes, you would have to get something much heavier and more expensive, but it's good for hiking, hunting, camping, and some survival situations.
1817515
Yes you can still wear it with the rain cover on. I have done this and it works. The rain cover only goes around the back pack part though. Think of it as a turtle shell, it only covers the parts that are not touchig our back.
25195
By itself, probably not very well. Outer shell is a canvas material and not waterproof, so a bivy sac (I don't think you can find one that large) or a tarp would be required.
1656655
Have not used in rain. Just looked and most of the outside shell is lined with a plastic/vinyl layer which should offer some protection. Most of my items are in zip lock bags, tins or pill type bottles. The other items are water resistant. Able to carry my IPad 3 and Kindle in the main compartment with chargers and several other items. Like this bag and do not regret the purchase. Got The green color for what I hope is a "lower profile" bag to carry"