How does the Venta SV compare with a "soft" hardshell like the Arc'teryx Stingray? Weight? Fit? Breathability? Wind resistance? Water resistance?Usage in this case would be for snowboarding.thnx

So are you saying this jacket could actually be some what water proof but because Gore doesnt allow this for windstopper it is not?

So are you saying this jacket could actually be some what water proof but because Gore doesnt allow this for windstopper it is not?

This is not a softshell like the stingray is. It is similar to the goretex shells like the sidewinder in feel and "noise" but it is just a windbreaker. It will breathe a bit better than the sidewinder, similar to the Stingray softshell material and the seams are not sealed. The warmth will be similar to the stingray too since it does have a light liner.Compared to the Stingray, a bit lighter, more breathable, equally wind resistant, and not as water resistant if rain or wet snow is involved. Dry snow, you'll stay equally dry. It actually does have sealed seams, but they aren't certified as waterproof because Gore-Tex doesn't allow that on a Windstopper item. it is much quieter than a Sidewinder as far as fabric goes, and also more stretchy than any of the Gore'tex jackets, like Stingray or Sidewinder.BTW, the Sidewinder is more breathable than the Stingray because of the Laminate and the fleece liner in the stingray.