I'm looking for a replacement for an old Lowe Alpine triple point ceramic. I still love it and it's as waterproof as I need, but I've lost a fair bit of weight so the fits a bit off and it is a little garish style wise.
So anyway, I'm looking for somethings which should last as long as this one, no heavy climbing needed, walks and camping are more likely activities with the possibility of an emergency bike jacket.
Should I go for something basic like one of the aquadry jackets in craghoppers sale or is it worth splashing out for something a bit nicer like the Rab Bergen? I do like the idea of having the latest kit, but is it overkill?
There are a few reasonable jackets available at lower prices, but not that many. A good proportion of them have duff hoods, poor storm flaps and other dubious design features. And even at best they won't be as breathable as your old Triplepoint Ceramic one, which probably wasn't particularly cheap when you got it -- I had one made from that material and it was nearly as expensive as a Goretex one at that time. The fact it's lasted this long shows that you do get what you pay for.
So I know it's easy to write, but I'd pay a bit more and get something better. You can often pick up Gore or eVent ones for £100 or less.
the Lowe TPC jackets were some of the best of their kind and it doesn't surprise me that yours has lasted you well. Don't forget the true cost of a garment has to be price per year of use rather than the initial purchase price.
I think you can have your cake and eat it, however, by watching out for sales and heading to the discount outlets (either brand-specific or the likes of TKMaxx). You can usually find high quality stuff from last season that has been heavily reduced. I have seen plenty of Lowe TPC pass through there in the past...
Otherwise, for longevity, I suspect you might be a candidate for Paramo or Cioch. The initial outlay will be expensive, but I doubt you'd find many things on the market that would outlast them. And if you're really feeling flush, take a look at Klattermusen. Their stuff is really made to last... albeit on the heavy side for a shell.
Depends how much time you spend wearing it, and what are the consequences of poorer kit.
Despite the amount of rain I tend to go out in the dry, or at least no more than drizzle where usually a soft shell is perfectly adequate and i don't really need a serious waterproof. I'd probably go for the more expensive one myslef, but that's because I'm a terminally sad gear junkie than it represents good value for money... My overtrousers are selected for lightness and full zips rather than fancy fabrics, avtually a rather more practical decision for those.
I have found it worth spending on a good soft shell though.
