Both the Ekolab’s vegetable-based waterproof-breathable membrane and DWR finish are fluorocarbon-free and recyclable. Testers were a bit skeptical that the sustainable chemistry would perform as well as the regular stuff, but the shell easily fended off hours of rain during a wet hike in Colorado’s Indian Peaks. Although the membrane doesn’t breathe quite as well as less earth-friendly fabrics, it can break down or be recycled without harming the environment. The pit zips are more like diagonal chest vents; they work just as well as traditional under-the-armpit zips but aren’t nearly as awkward to open and close. We wish we could say the same about the front hood adjustments, which are unnecessarily difficult to use. 16 oz;