Columbia’s new OutDry Extreme is the most disruptive advancement in waterproof technology in years. It’s the first time we’ve seen a waterproof barrier on the extreme exterior of a jacket—unlike most other waterproofing which sandwiches a waterproof membraned between two sheets of fabric. By putting the waterproof material on the exterior of the jacket, it prevents the face fabric from wetting out during sustained storms or after the DWR coating has worn off. This should also result in a much higher level of durability than we’ve seen in the past. We had an early peak at the jacket in Colombia’s rain forests—check out our early report here. Available in the spring of 2016, Columbia will offer 19 different styles of jackets and pants that will use the OutDry Extreme fabrics. Prices will range from $150 to $400.
