After being the cat's meow a few years ago, I no longer see waterproof jackets and sleeping bags with welded seams replacing sewn seams. Thought this weight saving technology would catch on once the pieces stopped being so pricey; have a piece with this technology and really like it.

Ed. Brevity.

Edited by hknewman on 07/10/2011 20:36:24 MDT.

yeah, i was wondering that myself not too long ago. i had me some of that technology a while back in the form of a Vaude pack, a seam blew out on it, so now i dont have it. got a full refund though which was nice

The Triumph anorak still uses them.

First Ascent BC-200 uses them as well.

Edited by simplespirit on 07/11/2011 07:57:15 MDT.

Lots of Sierra Designs and Stoic (Backcountry) jackets use welded seams as well.

Something I've noticed from having a few jackets with welded seams and reading reviews online: They *feel* cheaper/gimmicky for some reason, even though I've never heard of a welded seam being a problem. Maybe we're so used to seeing seam tape that something looking like it's just glued together doesn't seem right.

yes the Triumph anorak still has them but I think most manufacturers see it as added cost maybe?

Edited by danielY on 07/11/2011 11:20:44 MDT.

If I recall correctly when fondling an 'extreme' waterproof bag with welded seams and highly water resistant fabric -- they are harder to pack. Instead of squishing down to almost nothing, packing such a bag is almost like packing a balloon -- the darn thing keeps puffing up in corners because it just takes a lot longer for the air inside to finally escape.

My guess is that these specialized gear have their place, but for most hikers, the 'extreme waterproof' feature is not needed -- so why pay the (usually) higher cost and fuss with squeezing out the air come packing time?

When the technology first came out, I got one of the first jackets (Patagonia Jetstream - full features at 10oz with a sturdy feel) and it's still the rainjacket I always seem to pack. I have no seen the technology recently, but good to know Stoic makes them if I need a good ski jacket.

ADD: Figured someone would make a highly breathable eVent anorak with full features (kangaroo pocket with handwarmer pockets) by now but looks like everyone has gone back to stitching and sewing.

Edited by hknewman on 07/11/2011 14:32:23 MDT.