Weathershedding
Ucluelet, British Columbia receives about 10-feet of rain a year. This jacket deflected about a foot of it without wetting out. Pertex, best known for their wind shells, upped the anti for the Shield material, which has proven itself very waterproof. The helmet compatible hood is easy to adjust to up the weather shedding another notch.

Breathability
As a 2.5-layer membrane (versus more breathable 3-layer construction) we didn’t expect amazing things from the Modis, so we were pleasantly surprised when it won the battle with humidity and sweat on a mountain bike ride. It breathed very well for this style of jacket and when needed, we could up the venting by opening the pit zips.

Function
Here’s where this shell impressed us most. Zippers ripped down their tracks and never caught on fabric. Pockets were well positioned, out of the way of packs, but also strategically placed so everything didn’t fall out when we left them open by accident. The cinch cords for the hem are stowed in the pockets. We never had to deal with excess cord hanging in the way. Finally, rather than being a crinkly feeling fabric, like most shells, this one is soft. It’s quiet on the move and feels great in the hand.

Durability
We don’t have a lot of experience with Pertex Shield, so only prolonged testing will tell just how long it lasts compared to other membranes. As a 2.5-layer it won’t be as tough or long lasting as 3-layer shells. Overall it has a nice light feel, but still well made and tough.

Packability
At 11 ounces, it’s right in the sweet spot of hard shell jackets today. It packs down about average for its weight, which is to say, compact.