The Packa is a unique jacket/poncho hybrid with an integrated pack cover. Photo: Shannon Keeton
When I wrote the Core 13 Clothing series, I was frustrated with the existing rain gear options. Manufacturers were (and still are, three years later) unquestioning of waterproof/breathable fabrics, which fall short of their hyperbolic claims; and there was little innovation in format, with everyone stuck on traditional jackets and pants.
Subsequently I was contacted by Edward Hinnant (“Cedar Tree”), who thought that I might be interested in the Packa — a hybrid rain jacket and poncho with an integrated pack cover — that he designed and distributes. I was game, of course, and he sent one over.
Since I backpack mostly in semi-arid and arid locations in the West, testing rain gear can be a challenge. But after using the Packa for three seasons — specifically, to yo-yo the Pfiffner Traverse, guide trips in California’s High Sierra, and hunt elk in Colorado — I think I can speak fairly to it.
Maybe you had to be there. I’m hunkered down at the top of Northeast Gully, the crux feature on the Pfiffner Traverse. An out-of-view thunderstorm hit me when I reached the top, forcing me to hunker down between boulders at 12,000 feet and drape my shelter over me.
Review: The Packa
I grade the Packa as follows:
- For innovation, A;
- For execution, C (at least for my version from late-2015, since which time it’s been improved);
- For overall performance, B.
The Packa successfully protected me (and my pack) from precip and expelled trapped heat and moisture with its generous ventilation. But I struggled with its fit and sizing, and was annoyed by some unrefined trims and details.
I found that the Packa excels most when hiking on-trail in calm weather, and in cool to warm temperatures. It seems tailor-made for conditions on the Appalachian Trail (or similar).
But when using the Packa off-trail or in high-winds, I longed for a more athletic garment that didn’t snag, flap, or drape. When it was cold and snowing, I would have preferred the warmth of a traditional shell. And in hot conditions, I believe that the only rain gear with adequate ventilation is an umbrella like the My Trail Company Chrome.
Furthermore, the Packa cannot be worn as intended (i.e. over the backpack and backpack straps) if sharp or oversized objects are attached to the exterior of the backpack, such as a trekking pole, ice axe, or snowshoes. Similarly, it cannot be worn as intended while wearing a hunting safety vest, which doesn’t have the girth to wrap around a body and backpack. In these situations, my solution was to wear the Packa under my backpack, compromising its ventilation.
The Packa cannot be worn as intended (over the backpack and backpack straps) if anything sharp or long is attached to the backpack. It is also not compatible with a hunting safety vest.
Specs
My Packa is a size Medium and is made of 20d waterproof nylon. It weighs 10.0 ounces (283 g), which was consistent with the advertised weight. The seams are taped.
This fabric is no longer available. Currently, the Packa comes in two fabrics:
- 30d silicone/PU nylon (15-16 oz, $100); and,
- eVent (18-22 oz, $170).
A 15d sil-nylon version will be available around January 2019 and cost about $130, according to Hinnant. The estimated weight (9.0 oz for size Small) is attractive, but I’m unexcited about its seams, which are not taped — DIY seam-sealing is messy and time-consuming.
My Packa is size Medium and made with 20d nylon weighs 10 ounces.
Which fabric?
The 30d nylon is coated with silicone on one side and polyurethane on the other. A two-sided silicone coating would be stronger and more waterproof, but it’d be more expensive and the seams could not be taped. This 30d fabric is commonly used for tent flies and floors.
I’m generally skeptical of waterproof-breathable fabrics like eVent. Its waterproofness is compromised by abrasion, dirt, and body oils. And while its breathability is measurable, it’s insufficient to keep up with normal rates of perspiration.
I chose the waterproof/non-breathable option, for its more reliable long-term performance. It was also a rare opportunity to experiment with non-breathable rain gear.
When the Packa is closed up (i.e. zipped fully, closed pit zips, and cinched bottom hem), the build-up of perspiration inside is noticeable. In fact, it’s actually visible, due to the transparency of the fabric. My hunting partner, Steve, said that he felt clammy just looking at me, although I was more comfortable than I appeared: my fleece mid-layer buffered the moisture that had built-up.
To be fair, clamminess is a common compliant among WP/B rain jackets, too. It’s just not visible, because WP/B fabrics are opaque.
Due to the transparency of the fabric, moisture build-up can be seen inside the jacket. Uncomfortable claminess can be mitigated with a next-to-skin layer, like a long-sleeve shirt or mid-layer fleece.
The moisture build-up was solved, however, as soon as I opened up the jacket. With help from the billowy cut, the Packa’s vents allowed relatively dry outside air to exchange with the relatively humid air inside. My damp layers even seemed to dry out with the resulting airflow — except for my lower arms, which are trapped in an un-vented zone.
Sizing
The Packa is available in three sizes:
- Small (5’7″ and shorter);
- Medium (5’8″ to 6′); and,
- Large (6′ and taller).
In addition, the Medium and Large are available with extra large pack cover volume (for packs that are 65 liters or more), referred to as Medium-X and Large-X.
This 65-liter cut-off is consistent with my experience. When I used my Packa with a fully loaded Osprey Aether Pro 70, the pack cover seam was scarily tensioned. Also, the pack messed with the fit, making it impossible for me to get my arms out of the sleeves without assistance.
If pack volume exceeds 65 liters, a size Medium-X or Large-X is required. Otherwise the pack cover will not fit properly, and may skew the body fit, too. Photo: Shannon Keeton
Comparisons
How does the Packa compare to more traditional options?
Versus a rain jacket
The Packa expels internal heat and moisture much better than a conventional rain jacket. Its secret is ventilation. The Packa:
- Creates an air channel between it and the user, because the Packa is worn over the backpack and backpack straps (like a poncho);
- Has an over-sized silhouette that billows with movement or wind; and,
- Features huge pit zips and an open bottom.
In this respect, the Packa is head-and-shoulders better than any jacket, even fully featured models like the Outdoor Research Foray with pit zips, side zips, and/or two-way zippers. Without an air channel between the user and the jacket, the value of these vents is limited. And “breathable” fabrics are not good enough to offset the difference.
But the Packa is unwiedly and cumbersome. The preponderance of loose, draping fabric is a liability in high winds and when off-trail, and makes it impractical for any athletic activity like running or scrambling. I often felt “lost” in the Packa, like when trying to find its arms and hood so that I could put it on, or when I wanted to adjust my pit zips or hood cinch. Product familiarity will reduce this sensation, but it will always feel more poncho-like than jacket-like.
Versus a poncho
The Packa rivals a poncho in its ventilation, but sacrifices the expected low cost and simplicity for enhanced user-friendliness, weather-resistance, and features. Unlike a poncho, the Packa has a:
- Full-length front zipper, for easy on/off;
- Full-length arm sleeves with wrist cuffs, for enhanced protection; and,
- Stiffened hood with a cinch cord.
In addition, the Packa stores more easily when not being used. Instead of taking it off entirely, it can be hung over the pack, where it’s easily accessible for rapid deployment. This is very convenient during on-and-off rain showers.
During on-and-off rain, the Packa can be kept ready for rapid deployment by taking it off the body but keeping it as a pack cover. Photo: Justin Simoni
Execution and room for improvement
First, I would like to applaud Hinnant for designing an innovative option for hiking in the rain that remedies some problems of traditional waterproof/breathable jackets and pants.
But the Packa has issues of its own, some inherent to the design (mostly already discussed) and others related to the execution of it. To improve the Packa, I would recommend consideration of the changes described below. These generally are aimed at improving its finish, which currently feels cottage- or garage-level.
I have added Hinnant’s responses in italics. Some of my suggestions have been addressed over the last two years.
1. Replace the current front zipper with a shorter, smooth-sliding watertight #5 model with an easy-to-grab pull that would reduce a potential water-entry point and that would allow the user to:
- Reach the zipper without leaning over; and,
- Operate it while wearing gloves.
To retain the option of sealing flush the bottom hem, install a plastic snap.
I looked at some waterproof zippers and could not find any that were dual separating. To me dual separating is key for the front zipper. The front zipper flap now has Velcro closures to keep the flap closed.
2. Increase the height of the hood, to improve mobility and to reduce tension on the hood when the Packa is worn under a backpack. Be careful, though: more slack may cause water to pool between the shoulders and backpack.
The hood has been completely redesigned. The length has been increased and there is an adjustment added to the back of the head.
3. Reduce the size of the cord locks and the diameter of the shock cord in the hood closure, bottom hem, and pack cover. Move the bottom hem cord lock to the side, where it won’t interfere with the user’s stride.
Most of the shockcord and toggles have been reduced in size. I did leave the packcover cord and toggle big so it is easier to manage behind your head.
4. Move up the bottom hem cinch, to the base of the butt. Here, it will not restrict knee-lift. Below this higher cinch point, let the Packa drape naturally.
Interesting
5. Replace the non-anchored wrist cuff cord locks with Velcro closures, which can be adjusted with one-hand and which distribute pressure more evenly than draw cords.
For about the first 7 or 8 years I used Velcro for the sleeve closures. I didn’t really like them, and they were heavy. I’ve been selling Packas 18 years now. The thought behind the shockcord closure is they allow for more air flow when opened.
The shock cords and cord locks on the hood, bottom hem, and pack cover cinch are all excessively large and heavy. The wrist cuff adjustment should use Velcro.
6. Reinforce with heavier fabric the parts of the Packa that touch the ground when the backpack is taken off. I fear that a 20d fabric will not withstand long-term abrasion from sharp rocks and sticks if it has a 30-pound pack atop it.
I used a heavier fabric for the bottom of the packcover when I used to make Packas myself. I don’t let my Packa ever touch the ground. I take it off the pack before setting my pack down. But, point noted.
7. Move the pocket higher, so that it is more easily accessible and so that it flops less.
Questions about the Packa or have an experience to share? Please leave a comment.
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I got a Packa last year and I like it. I thought it worked well when we got caught in last year’s September snow storm in the Sierra coming back over Bishop pass. I didn’t think it flopped around too much in the wind but I was on-trail during this time. I was very happy with the ventilation while climbing the pass.
The only thing I don’t like about it is what to do when separated from your pack in camp. Either you or your pack is going to get wet. There’s no easy way to pack up camp if it’s raining in the morning without getting wet while putting the Packa on your pack.
I take it you don’t use a tarp?
Do you know if the Packa is still being sold? The website has expired.
http://www.thepacka.com
Thanks, when I went to that page yesterday it said the web domain had expired. Seems to work now.
Apologies for going off topic. I noticed you using the CMT trekking poles with the 3k carbon weave. Are there plans to review them in the future? Interested to know if these poles offer more lateral stiffness compared to its predecessor.
They’re nicer than the standard CMT Quick Lock poles, but it’s subtle. I think most people would be just as happy with the $30 original.
Not exactly Packa related, but since we’re on rain gear……was curious on your thoughts of Colimbia’s Outdry fabric? Particularly the Ex Featherweight? Thanks
Haven’t used it, so can’t say. I have a jacket made of the original heavier material, but I haven’t used it enough that it should have failed by now.
Interesting design and it looks like some of your suggestions have been implemented in updated versions. This design might give better results than my current summer and spring/fall selections. Generally I use a poncho in the summer, sealed raingear in the early spring and late fall, WPB in the winter snow (Goat Rocks, Columbia Gorge, Mt Hood, Clackamas drainage, Three Sisters).
What do you think of this design versus a Gatewood Cape? Probably always keeping a minimal tarp handy.
For rainy environments I prefer a dedicated shelter and dedicated rain gear. My experience is that combination items don’t perform well in either area, and then there’s that whole transition thing. Poncho/tarp-ish products are best for areas where it rarely rains, when you’re carrying shelter and rain gear mostly as a just-in-case.
Good article. Exped has an impressive selection of ponchos.
I was initially taken with the Packa concept, and I think it might work well in the woods. But having run up a quick prototype, I’ve hit the same issues as Andrew.
In our exposed UK conditions I found it quite flappy in the wind and awkward for scrambling.It just feels ungainly. I could improve this a bit by refining the cut, but suspect that it’s an inherent limitation of the concept. You can’t really stow poles, axe, crampons, snowshoes etc on the pack, or an external bear can or sleeping mat. It’s difficult to access side pockets for water, You can’t access the pack without taking off the jacket, which is potentially quite dangerous in a blizzard or torrential downpour. And while venting was better than a traditional jacket, the difference wasn’t spectacular enough to offset the drawbacks, at least for me.
I guess that’s why the market has remained quite specialised – despite its better venting it’s not nearly as versatile as a conventional jacket.
Like many people I have gone round and round trying to find a decent solution to the question of the best rain gear for a long backpacking trip. Your thoughts on the hype surrounding WP/B fabrics have been very enlightening.
So have you come across anything recently that has impressed you? At the moment I am trying to decide between a poncho, a non-breathable but vented jacket like the LightHeart Gear or AntiGravityGear jackets (with a rain skirt), or some sort of hybrid like the Packa or the Sierra Designs Elite Cagoule (I was a little disappointed to find the latter now advertises the ‘breathability’ of the fabric).
I plan to thru-hike the AT next year so the conditions I am expecting are lots of rain and humidity.
In my mind’s eye I am picturing something like a poncho but with proper arms.
For an AT thru-hike, I think I’d probably start with the Packa and maybe swap to an umbrella for the middle miles/months when even a well ventilated Packa would be too hot.
Do you have an umbrella you recommend currently? I live in the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, near Gatlinburg. I really like the Packa idea, but you recommended an umbrella for conditions that describe this area well.
The most trail-tested model is sourced by several companies. I remember it first as the GoLite Chrome Dome. Zpacks, Gossamer Gear, and Six Moon Designs (plus maybe a few others that I’m unaware of) all have something similar, https://www.sixmoondesigns.com/collections/umbrellas/products/silver-shadow-original.
If you poke around Amazon, you might be able to find this same umbrella without a middle man, but you could also end up with junk.
Thanks for the nearly instantaneous response! Six moons looks good!
My wife and I both used Packas for our lashes we completed the AT with. You are right that it is perfect for the AT.
I’ll note that even though we often tented, because I carried a polycro tarp to set up in and because of the presence of shelters we never had problems.
For the PCT I switched to a Lightheart rain jacket which is lighter and more form fitting. We both switched to Versilite rain pants from the EMS rain pants we used on the AT. 1700 miles into the PCT I’m happy with the switch —especially given the amount of exposure the PCT has.
I’ll note that the EMS pants are completely waterproof and full zip. My Moabs were waterproof and rain did not get through them (the pants easily worked without rain gaiters—which I used back when I used a rain skirt instead of pants).
I really like the Eastern Mountain Sports pants but for a little less harsh environments found the Versilite pants to work well—and less than a third of the weight.
On the PCT I used shoes that were not waterproof. When we return to finish next year I’ll probably go back to waterproof shoes. My feet adjust so I don’t sweat as much (I used to train in the Dallas summers with waterproof shoes doing a five mile circuit in 100 degree weather).
Other note. The Packa replaced my Arc’tryx that actually worked in conditions that were very wet and cold on the AT. My wife’s Arc’tryx was lighter and less expensive and started to wet through in the same conditions.
I’m convinced that goretex can work as advertised but only when it is three layer and too heavy. I saved weight by moving to a Packa.
Anyway. Long report/comment but I was really pleased with the Packa on the AT. Still have it in my gear box even if I’m using something else right now.
I didn’t trust event and went with the heavier fabric. Did not use it in the heat of summer. Liked it a lot better than the couple of ponchos I tried.
Living in it with steady rain on the AT I was happy.
Update, I went with a bright color, and when I was in windy conditions that called more for a rain jacket I went with the Lightheart Gear rain jacket in orange (no attempt at breathability, just pit zips and pure waterproof). That approach solved the size/hunting vest issue.
So the Packa for the Appalachain Trail, Lightheart Gear for the PCT. I’m going to try a Visp for the CDT as I wore the LG out on the PCT with the number of days I used it for a wind jacket.
You seem to have gone through similar stages to me for finding appropriate rain gear. Conventional (wetting out) rain gear. Experimenting with the new “outdry” and “shakedry” fabrics (my columbia outdry delaminated after about 18 months of use – though that was at least 150 days of hiking, day-to-day use around town + a 6 month cycle trip where it was my windshell for 2 months of that was in the dusty high atlas mountains). I’ll get another of the membrane-on-the-outside shells, but only for on-trail use in cooler weather.
I’m about to order a Packa, finding reviews very mixed. Roger Caffin, an experienced off-trail and alpine hiker on BPL has a similar DIY design, which he reckons does well in wind and off-trail scrub.
Having been through these experiments, i’m curious to know what your preferred rain systems are now?
For the past two seasons I’ve mostly been able to avoid rain, so I’ve not evolved much in this way.
I still think for warm and humid conditions, the Packa is difficult to beat.
When I need a more form-fitting jacket, I’ve been using the Gore H7, https://andrewskurka.com/review-gore-wear-h5-gore-tex-shakedry-jacket/. Durability is suspect with abrasion from vegetation.
When I need just-in-case rain gear, some of the UL options (like EE Visp) are acceptable because you probably won’t need them long or at all.
I assume you mean the gore h5 (which crazily seems to be discontinued). I agree with your review – better direct venting would be great. I’ve picked up a local version of the shakedry jacket – a Katmandhu Zeolite, which according to the confused customer service is made of the “hike” shakedry fabric (but it took a while to get this confirmed, so I’m not all that confident!). The breathability is remarkable, but compared to my old Columbia Featherweight it’s very athletically fitted. So it moves well, has a much better hood, but has less airflow. It seems to breath a lot better, but the lower airflow and lack of direct venting remains to be tested – the chest zips on the Featherweight worked well in my opinion. Columbia seems a bit more “onto it” with having direct venting options. The shakedry feels less tough, but thats only by touch.
Given Gore’s apparent disinterest in producing hiking appropriate variants of the shakedry stuff, and their focus on cycling jackets, I’ve considered getting a hoodless cycling jacket and using it with a big tilley hat or something similar..
I’ve ordered a packa now, hoping the hood issues you mentioned are a bit better. I hope it handles the wet and sometimes very dense bush here in New Zealand. A few comments on BPL suggest that silnylon rain gear does better than expected in bush, as it’s slipperiness means things don’t poke into it, and rather slide off. We’ll see.
(Of course, cycling jackets aren’t made to stand the abrasion of a pack and generally have a short cut on the front and long cut on the back, so this idea wouldn’t really work out in practice)
I’m continuing to experiment, looking for the best compromise in wet Eastern conditions.
I’m using a Columbia Outdry Extreme jacket (no put zips), a Frog Toggs Xtreme Light poncho, and a Marmot Precip (with pit zips). These are inexpensive enough that buying several jackets is not the problem it would be at Gore Wear H5 prices.
The Outdry will be used in cool, wet conditions where I really need to stay protected from rain getting in.
The poncho (which is much better quality than $3 disposables, but still much cheaper than the Packa) will be used in warm, wet summer conditions with little wind expected, where I really need airflow.
The Marmot gets used mostly when rain is not predicted but wind is likely.
Any of these can be paired with a light umbrella.
I had hoped to use all of these extensively in 2020, but COVID seriously impacted my outdoor plans. Next year…
Andrew, thanks for setting my expectations of not being able to stay dry in truly wet conditions. Your website and my copy of your Ultimate Hiker’s Gear Guide have significantly changed my approach to clothing. The Core 13 is really well thought out.