I used to buy all my softwoods used from thrift, consignment, or eBay. There was happiness in my savings but I did not understand what I paid for in performance until I owned something new or NWT from a discount source. Here is the secret I did not know, performance shells and pants depend on DWR (durable waterproof repellant) as a significant part of what makes them work. Will lack of DWR make a jacket not waterproof? Nope not at all, but it will cause it to "wet" out and not breath like it is designed to do. So what if it doesnt breath? Well then you sweat like HE double L inside and everything becomes wet from your own bodies moisture. Also, when the wetness (perspiration) does not escape you have a high humidity level inside your garments and it makes you very cold. Live and learn I did. Now I will bargain shop for new and not buy used anymore. I will take very good care of my garments and use them until they do not perform like new. Then do you peddle them off on some unknowing sap? Nope I am going to trade my jacket in with a brand that takes trade ins and gives you a discount for your old jacket !! Win Win !
Now if I could find the same on high end shell, I would be golden.
