World-Leading Brand Berghaus Introduces Innovative 2.5L Pertex Shield Pro Waterproof Fabric in Rain Pants for First Time Globally
British outdoor apparel brand Berghaus has unveiled its groundbreaking use of the new Pertex Shield Pro 2.5L fabric in their latest product, the Berghaus Pacsmart Pants. This innovative fabric, a collaboration between Berghaus and Pertex, is the world's first of its kind and promises to revolutionize the outdoor industry.
The Berghaus Pacsmart Pants are designed as lightweight rain pants, providing optimal comfort during high-output activities in wet conditions. The brand highlights the PFAS-free Pertex Shield Pro 2.5L as the core component, a microporous membrane that represents the next stage in this Gore-Tex alternative's evolution. Originating as a moisture-wicking, breathable fabric, it has since been developed to also provide waterproof capabilities.
The Pertex Shield Pro 2.5L boasts a hydrostatic head (HH) of 30,000mm, indicative of its intended use in particularly challenging environments. While jackets with such a high HH rating usually sacrifice breathability, exceptions do exist – such as those utilizing Gore-Tex Pro technology, like the Berghaus MTN Guide GTX Pro Jacket. The new fabric, however, offers a moisture transfer vapour rate (MVTR) of 13,000g/m2/24hrs, ensuring improved breathability for more active uses in hiking, ski touring, and mountaineering. Although it does not boast the highest breathability rating for clothing, it is more than sufficient for everything but warm-weather activities.
The fabric's 40D ripstop nylon face is intended to provide exceptional durability, but one might question its effect on the Pacsmart Pants' packability given the usual trade-off between protection and weight. According to Berghaus, the women's size 12 Pacsmart Pants weigh just 8.3oz (227g), setting a lightweight standard for rain pants, and the men's size is only 10g more for a large. This remarkable lightness raises the question of their potential doubling up as trail-running protection.
While further testing is required to confirm these claims, the Pacsmart Pants feature design elements that prioritize ease of movement and ventilation. They offer three-quarter-length side zips for quick on/off over bulky hiking boots, double press studs for enhanced ventilation, and an elasticated waistband for freedom of movement. The pants also come with a small stuff sack for easy storage and are available in both men's and women's sizing for £129.95 from Absolute Snow.
Incorporating the newly developed and innovative Pertex Shield Pro 2.5L fabric, the Berghaus Pacsmart Pants aim to set a new standard for rain pants in the outdoor industry.
Relevant Background
- Breathability: Crucial for preventing moisture buildup inside garments, leading to discomfort and chilling. Enhanced breathability, as found in materials like Gore-Tex or similar technologies, helps maintain water resistance.
- Waterproofing: Essential for keeping the wearer dry in wet conditions, typically achieved through waterproof membranes or treatments like DWR (Durable Water Repellent).
- Design and Weight: For high-output activities in wet weather, a garment's design should prioritize ease of movement and ventilation, while a lightweight garment reduces fatigue and enhances mobility.
The Berghaus Pacsmart Pants, made with the innovative Pertex Shield Pro 2.5L fabric, offer a breathable and lightweight solution for outdoor enthusiasts, setting a new standard among smart-home-devices in the realm of gadgets that cater to the technology-driven outdoor industry.
This groundbreaking fabric, with superior waterproof capabilities and improved breathability, promises to enhance comfort during hiking, ski touring, and mountaineering, while maintaining its lightweight appeal.
