Waterproof Shell for the North Pacific. |
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| Alaska... again. I know, I know, but if it works in Alaska, it'll work just about anywhere. I wore my Cloudveil Zorro on a catamaran in Resurrection Bay, Aialic Bay and the northern Pacific in September. Now, we're not talking Arctic conditions -- this is no Arctic winter jacket -- but it's an exceptionally well-made and waterproof shell that can take a beating. As we raced ahead of the remnants of a Pacific typhoon, crashing over incoming swells in driving rain and mist -- except for the beautiful Russian girl standing at my side -- I was the only person on the foredeck. Safely back in Seward, I unzipped the Zorro and the underlying fleece pullover was dry as a bone. Later, over a cappuccino in a watrerfront cafe, Svetlana commented on the stylish cut and color. And... well, the rest isn't for sharing. The Zorro has become my favorite rain shell. Excellent construction, styling, and fit. And when combined with adequate under-layers, it's warm and dry enough for the North Pacific in autumn. Oh, did I mention, you can stuff it in the side pocket of your duffel bag? Great jacket for the price! Ask Svetlana. |
| John at Sierra Trading Post on 12/07/2007 |
Looks good. |
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| Review is based on sight only. Jacket is still new and never worn. It replaces my 8 yo Red Ledge rain jacket, whose waterproofing is no longer serviceable or repairable. I bought it for general backpacking and three season camping and specifically for a planned end-to-end backpack of the JMT next summer. Looks like it will hold up well but only time will tell for sure. Not surprisingly, the Zorro is more impressive in styling, fit, color than the much less expensive Red Ledge. The only possible problem I see is the pockets also serve as pit zips, sort of. Breathability under true trail conditions would be a plus but I have yet to see any rain jacket perform as claimed. My main concern is hypothermia in wet conditions and this jacket should handle that issue just fine. The manufacturer's claim that it's waterproofing will survive 100 washings closed the deal. If only 50 washings, it would still be a good deal. |
| Bigfoot at Sierra Trading Post on 12/29/2008 |
Very Durable-Very Capable-Good Buy! |
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| I'm online right now looking to buy another CV Zorro jacket. These jackets perform well in rain, snow, and COLD conditions. A few days ago I wore this shell (with layers under it) in 10 degree weather. With the built in hood, and high-sinching neck, this jacket kept me warm and despite harsh winds and single digit temps. The durability is excellent, and I often use it while working (I own a custom furniture company), and it has gotten hung-up on nails and didn't rip. The fabric itself if resistant to all sorts of chemicals. While romping around the city, I once got epoxy-based paint on the jacket. I wrote the jacket off as DOA, but still decided to use a harsh paint remover just in case. I figured that if it works, it works. Long story short, the jacket wasn't affected by the harsh chemicals and looks as good as new. I do believe these jackets are near invincible. Get One! |
| Scrappy, Scrapples at Sierra Trading Post on 02/13/2008 |
Good waterproof shell |
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| I work outside in a dog pack in the Seattle area. I replace my rain gear every year, mostly due to tears from the dogs. So far, this jacket has withstood being jumped on by dogs and light rain. The other day, I wore this jacket when giving my dog a bath; I rinsed the suds off the sleeves with the hose and my long-sleeved shirt underneath did not get wet. It also seems pretty breathable and somewhat wind proof. I got a larger size so I can wear a hoodie underneath when it starts to get cold. This jacket has 2 very large pockets. Problem is, the zipper is vertical and pretty long, so if you zip up the zipper high enough for things to not fall out of the pocket, the zipper is too high to also put your hands in your pockets. |
| Everyday Doggie Wrangler at Sierra Trading Post on 11/23/2008 |
Good fabric, a little short on features |
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| Bought the jacket for flyfishing, backpacking, and all around wear. The jacket is very lightweight and is perfect for spring, summer, and fall wear. The material is a very and looks similar to Lowe Alpine Triplepoint. The seams look to be taped very well and overall the jacket is well constructed. However, it is a little short on features. I would have liked a Napoleon pocket and a little better lining in the main pockets. The hood needs and adjustment strap as it usually hangs a little low in the face. I would have also appreciated waterproof zippers instead of a flap and possibly pit zips. |
| Lars at Sierra Trading Post on 07/29/2009 |
good deal! |
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| Got 2 of these for backpacking with my son. [...] These seem to be really good quality; the material is tough and light. We haven't put them to the test on a backpack trip yet, but wore them in the rain on a scout camp-out while stiking camp. Kept us dry and seemed to beathe OK, but we weren't working up a sweat. Hood stows easily. Needs inside pockets or a chest pocket. Also need to wear a cap to keep the hood out of your eyes. |
| Dutchman at Sierra Trading Post on 03/29/2009 |
Lightweight, Looks Great |
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| Just got this in the mail right before a weekend of camping in the Texas Hill Country. The weather was dry, but the jacket made an excellent outer layer while hiking and camping in some really cold weather; it blocked the wind well, layered well over fleece (I'm 6'4" 200 lbs and the XL fit easily over 3 layers without being too bulky), and packed down super light and small! Plus, my girlfriend liked the way it looked. |
| Nic at Sierra Trading Post on 01/21/2008 |
Versatile and Practical |
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| The Zorro jacket is perfect as a lightweight outer layer for just about anything. Where I live, it rains but doesn't get that cold. This jacket is perfect for throwing on over your shirt. You will be kept dry but not get hot. Also, I've also used the Zorro snowboarding in the Rockies with simply a soft shell and turtleneck underneath. It sheds water/moisture but still breaths. I LOVE THIS JACKET!! |
| DryFly7x at Sierra Trading Post on 03/29/2008 |
One 'shell' of a jacket! |
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| This jacket is basically a shell with two pockets and a hood. It is wind and waterproof, cinches tight at the waist, wrists, and hood. I'd like an inside pocket or two. Great for a spring/fall windbreaker or for summer rainy days. I was out in 20F weather with just a fleece under it and was pretty comfortable. Of course, it weighs nothing and looks great! I really like it. |
| Some guy at Sierra Trading Post on 03/03/2008 |
Cloudveil Zorro a nice find |
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| Cloudveil quality is apparent in this jacket. My only suggestion would be to add pit zips and at least one interior pocket or perhaps a Neapolian pocket. For the price, the jacket is a great "go to" in a pinch or when bomber Gore-Tex is not needed. |
| Portland Vagabond at Sierra Trading Post on 11/07/2008 |