[img]images/reviews/peak-uk-deluxe-drytop/front-th.jpg[/img]Playak Article Discussion: Review: PeakUK Deluxe Long-sleeve Drytop

Gear Review: PeakUK Deluxe Long-sleeve Drytop.

I think calling this semi-drytop \"least expensive drytop in its class\" and \"highest performance in terms of waterproofness and breathability\" is a bit of a stretch. I believe the more expensive drytops listed with it are in a different, upper class. For example I'd feel comfterable taking the Kokatat down anything, where there is no way in hell I'd be caught on a remote, freezing cold, V-V+ multi day with a semi dry top, regardless of the maker.

Comparing fabric specs in a labratory is quite different than use of a complete drytop, or semi drytop, in the field.


Also:
The Kokatat uses Gore-Tex XCR fabric which rates 45,000mm.

The Delux has a latex gasket around the neck though so it is a full dry cag. The freestyle jacket has no latex and an tightening strap, maybe the reviewer got confused by the two?

no that's my mistake as an editor. i had 2 reviews and mixed them up it seems. i'll correct that asap.

DarinM,

There is a bit of confusion on the chart and the headline to the article.

First the review by David Weber is for the Freestyle Top. Which is a semi drytop.

Second the Chart shows the Deluxe, and how it compares to the other companys. The Deluxe and the Freestyle both use the same fabric.

As for what you trust in Class V wilderness is really up to the user, there is a argument for both sides.

A semi drytop will keep you very dry, and you do not have to worry about your neck gasket tearing while out in the boonies. If that happens you really can be in trouble, most tops would be wide open in the event of a gasket breaking.

We choose to use a double neck seal on all our drytops with latex gaskets. In the event that your latex gaskets fails, you still have a neoprene neck gasket making your drytop now a semi drytop. Having the double redundancy sure is nice when your paddling far from home!

As for lab testing vs field testing I agree, you have to look at the specs, and then test the design in the field. We have been making paddling gear for 17 years, we have some of the worlds best expidition paddlers testing our gear in the most remote areas of the world!

Darin I hope this clears up some of the confusion you had on the review. I have really enjoyed some of the photos you sell to Kokatat you do great work!

Take care,

Ken Driscoll
PeakUK

Ken,


Thanks for the response, I'd still say on something like the Stikine I'd steer clear of a semi-drytop, but then again that's drysuit territory anyways.

I do agree on the neoprene covering for the neck gasket, glad to see most companies are headed that way. I dig it on the wrist too, although it tends to bunch up if the arms are cut too long (Mtn Surf tops)

Hopefully as PeakUK sells more in the states I'll get to do business with you guys too

Thanks,

Darin