Weatherproof jackets often use seam tape to seal seams and keep them from leaking. But that practice can use as much as 65 feet of tape per jacket, causing a lot of waste. Jackets using seam-sealing tape also can have double layers, which isn’t optimal for breathability.
The Jack Wolfskin Men’s Tapeless Jacket eliminates this seam tape by welding the seams instead. That eliminates the waste, as well as avoids double layers—both maximizing the jacket’s waterproof performance and making it more breathable. This zero-tape design rethinks the way that waterproof, breathable apparel is constructed—from seam sealing to seam placement.
The jacket is made with the brand’s Texapore Core Fuse Stretch Ripstop 3-layer and Texapore Stretch Pro 3L fabrics. The stretch properties of the fabric allow for great freedom of movement in your outdoor adventures, whether they involve wind or rain, or even both. The stretchiness is noticeable. Where many other jackets can feel limiting when you cross your arms in front of you, with this jacket, you can feel the additional flexibility.
The hood is adjustable in two places to get the fit that’s best for you. The bottom hem is adjustable, as well. Velcro at the wrists adjust to keep wind and rain out, or let air in, as you prefer.
Both zips—the central jacket zipper and the chest pocket—are waterproof. One of the best things about this jacket aside from the welded seams is the roomy jacket pocket, which can fit large phones without wedging them in sideways. Having the ability to place your important items in that pocket without having to squeeze them in is more than worth it.
The Men’s Tapeless Jacket comes in hedge green and phantom (black), and lists for $479.95 on the Jack Wolfskin site.