Things we’ve worn in the shower

Without having spent much time parsing through mountains of National Weather Service data, it sure feels like one of the rainiest seasons we’ve had in recent memory. Being outdoor enthusiasts, the weather of late has presented us with challenges that we’ve had to navigate to get outside and enjoy it (keyword: enjoy).

So, in typical Yellow Wood fashion, we’ve taken products both new and old and put them to the test… in the showers. Here’s a list of our trusty favorites – from head to toe:

Stormy Kromer. First developed in downtown Milwaukee by George “Stormy” Kromer and his wife Ida in the early 1900s, this hat was made for inclement weather conditions.  Some models use paraffin waxed fabric to repel water for soggy spring days.

Rab Kinetic Plus & Downpour waterproof shell jackets. With minimal weight and proprietary Proflex™ fabric that allows for maximum water repellency, these are definite winners. Each model has varying gadgets including pit zips, an adjustable, stretch-on hood, A-line, zippered pockets with storm flaps and stiffened brims for added comfort and protection.

A note about ‘waterproof’ vs. ‘water-resistant’:  Water-resistant garments usually have a water-repellant coating to prevent absorption, but the garment isn’t fully taped or sealed. ‘Waterproof’ garments will feature both a repellant coating as well as an additional membrane lining that allows for breathability. All seams are sealed or taped.

Hyperlite packs. By design, these bad boys will exceed your expectations in any sprinkle or downpour. The proprietary fabric used in all their packs are fully waterproof. Depending on what your needs are, sizes and additional features vary widely.

Fjallraven G-1000 pants. Versatility is what makes this Swedish-made fabric legendary. When treated with Greenland Wax, this 65% polyester and 35% cotton blend is beautifully water resistant, windproof and durable. Without an additional waxing treatment, these trousers are especially breathable.

Aigle rubber boots. Hand crafted in France, Aigle is a lesser-known footwear brand but supported by over 175 years of expertise and the knowledge of Charles Goodyear, who invented the process for creating modern-day rubber. The first boot to incorporate an anti-fatigue cushioning, Aigle offers the most in comfort and function.

Sealskinz waterproof socks. Using Aqua Dynamic Design technology, Sealskinz produces thermal, waterproof and windproof socks that are a bit unorthodox in feel, but uber functional for those who want to be outdoors for a prolonged period of time in wet conditions.

Other rain-ready brands we love include garments from Barbour, Sherpa, Outdoor Research, Mammut and Gore-Tex footwear from La Sportiva, Salewa, Scarpa, Oboz, HanWag and Adidas Outdoor. Whatever your inclement weather needs, stop in to Yellow Wood in Whitefish Bay for first-class service and solutions. Now you can enjoy some Spring and Summer showers!=