My old MH Drystein jacket has given up the ghost. It's been on some awesome back country trips, kept me warm in Chicago winters, and most importantly it has Goldilocks level of breathability for me even without pit zips!

As best I can tell it seems something happened in the 3 layer waterproof breathable shell market in the last decade that's resulted in the number of options lessening and Gore-Tex strengthening its grip and adding more product lines.

My only other comparison for 3 layer shell was my NF Gore-Tex XCR. Which was hot for me even with pit zips open under mild exertion.

I feel like the number of product offerings between the big names have increased significantly over the last 10 years and my head is swimming with options. I don't want to say cost isn't a concern, but that's mostly true. I want something bombproof that will give a long life of service.