Can someone explain what the "DWR finish" is? And what is "hardface pebble polyester"? Is the jacket soft? Does it feel like a fleece, or more like a shell?

A DWR finish is a liquid concoction that is applied to the outer fabric of shells, fleece, softshells, carpets, anything that is designed to repel water or liquids. Every fabric manufacturer has their own proprietary blend and you can buy it over the counter from companies like Nik Wax or McNett to apply to garments where it has worn off due to use. It is what causes water to 'bead-up' on the outside of any waterproof or weather resistant outerwear piece and is an integral part of any waterproof/breathable shell fabric. It is NOT what makes a jacket waterproof and breathable. That is the laminate and that is another story!

Hard-faced Fleece is fleece that has been 'hardened' on one side of the fabric during production to make it feel more softshell-like while still maintaining its fleecy-ness on the inside. So, the answer to your question is both... it feels like fleece on the inside and like a softshell on the outside!

Clear as mud?
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