Rubber or plastic?

[froggy]

I find rubber to be cold or clammy. It is expensive too. I prefer the smell and feel of vinyl.

[Simonebag]

For me I like both and they have their pros and cons. There is nothing a s beautiful as a glass clear raincoat in the rain, but what I like about rubber (latex) is the amount of verity of colours and thicknesses available. Not only that but it is relatively easy to work with. PVC needs welding equipment to create clothing, latex items on the other hand can be made by anyone with a little bit of practice and skill. I would love to make 90s style colour block cagoules out of latex as they would look so shiny and cool. All the modern rainwear in the shops are going down the drab mute colour palettes like all modern clothing and it makes me sad. I'm not totally against TPU either as I have a few clear dry bags made out of it and it's wonderfully rubbery and totally transparent. It also has that squeakiness that some people find delightful, I wish rainwear manufacturers would use clear TPU more often as they would get my money.
PS My fav raincoat is a Helly Hansen Moss jacket in yellow, it is well designed (could use a peaked hood though), surprisingly breathable, supple and wonderfully silky to the touch. I wear it when ever it is raining, unlike heavier options from Guy Cotten and Farmer Rain which although are great are just a bit heavy for day-today use.

So rubber or plastic, pvc or whatever, if it's raining just wear your gear with pride and brighten up the dull day with a splash of colour and make someones day!

Simone. x

[vp39]

Vinyl plastic for me, always.
Although I'm finding that polyurethane has its good points too.