Several online stores offer a ykk #5 waterproof zipper. Is a smaller size available for DIY'ers? The zipper doesn't have to be the ykk brand, but it does need to be water resistant; I'm planning to add waterproof ankle zips to a pair of golite reed pants, ideally zipper size #3.

Thru-Hiker sells a #3 waterproof zipper.
#3 Waterproof Zipper

Thanks Bill. I don't know how I missed that. I looked at thru-hiker a week or so ago, and only saw the #5.

Chris, It might be a new item. I ordered a Vest Kit and asked about the zipper. Paul said he had the #3 WaterProof Zippers and I got a piece 129" long.

I always ask if he has anything new that isn't on the web site when I talk to him.

I am not sure I ever saw it on his web site but I knew I had some.

Back to the Pertex stuff. I really like the Thru-Hiker Momentum90. Its true weight is +/- 1oz a sq yard.

My vest will use the Momentum90 for both the shell and lining. I am using Climasheld XP as my insulation.

Edited by bfornshell on 07/05/2006 21:56:03 MDT.

Hi,

Thru-hiker.com has added the ykk #3 coil water resistant zippers sold by the foot. The reg #3 coil is about 10gms/yd and the water ressistant is about 12gm/yd and the #5 WR is about 20gm/yd. I've been using the #3 WR on bags and bivys for a while. The WR design eliminates the need for a draft flap on most bags/ items and the added stiffness works fairly well as an anti snag strip. Regular #3 zips pulls and double sided zip pulls both work on the WR. Note that single sided pulls are WR specific and face backwards and so I recommend using the double sided pulls for convienience. Putting on the pulls is very easy since the edges are stiffer than the reg #3. The #3 is a bit more fragile but I have not have any return or complaints yet. AS will any SUlL item VS a heavy weight item, a bit more care is required. Lube the zip from time to time.

-Ron

Ron, thanks for the helpful hints and weights for the waterproof zippers. I've ordered the #3 zipper and double-sided pulls from thru-hiker.