Why We Chose It: lightweight, long-lasting, GTT protection
A clean design, low weight and all-weather protection – there’s a lot to like about this lightweight, yet durable, jacket from Black Diamond. And the Black Diamond Highline Stretch Shell is also carrying a trick up its sleeve in a longer-lasting waterproof coating.
Who Is The Black Diamond Highline Stretch Shell For?
Thanks to its light weight and durable build, we’d say this waterproof jacket is going to appeal to a wide range of people. First of all, it’s a jacket for those who prefer to go fast and light – long-distance fast packers, for instance. Then there are the alpinists and mountaineers out there who will love the technical features this boasts.
Materials and Construction
Produced by Green Theme Technologies, the ‘GTT Breathable Waterproof Protection’ is the big talking point of this waterproof jacket. First of all, this DWR (durable water repellency, the stuff that makes sure the outer fabric beads water away) treatment has done away with any of the eco-hazardous PFCs manufacturers frequently rely on for proofing. Second of all, they’ve made sure it’s super long lasting.
“The ‘GTT Breathable Waterproof Protection’ is the big talking point of this waterproof jacket.”
As traditional DWR treatments sit on top of the waterproof jacket face fabric (similar to how wax is applied to an apple for supermarket storage) and these treatments typically last for just a few weeks of consistent use in heavy showers before wearing away. By making use of a process called ‘covalent molecular bonding’, GTT claim they’ve managed to extend the lifespan of the DWR they’ve created. Covalent molecular bonding causes the polymers of the DWR to lock deep into the fibres of the face fabric and this application means that the treatment is much more durable and therefore longer lasting.
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This impressive DWR technology is then backed up with Black Diamond’s own BD.Dry waterproof membrane technology. This three-layer fabric boasts a waterproof rating of 20,000mm and breathability rating of 20,000g/m2. While this may not be groundbreaking stuff, it’s a great middle ground for a jacket that comes in at 360g, with a good deal of durability to boot.
