And Wander Raschel Ripstop Rain Jackets

In my bag at this very moment is a packable rain jacket kind of like the Raschel Ripstop Rain Jacket from and Wander, but it’s just not, even though I really wish it was. Like it most certainly does something similar, but it’s just not the same. 

First off, it’s not made in Japan like the aW joint is, which isn’t disqualifying but also not a great start since we’re playing the comparison game. And even though my version is also made from a lightweight, water-repellant, polyester ripstop fabric, but it’s not raschel-knit*, so strike two I guess.

(*So a raschel knit is a type of knit that’s made on an eponymously-named knitting machine and is traditionally used on French Breton shirts but can also apparently be used to make raincoat fabric. The more you know.)

And while the one that’s in my bag has plenty of functionality, it doesn’t have chest pockets, reflective 3M drawcords, elastic cuffs or YKK zippers, so there’s no miraculous comeback on its horizon. 

If you don’t have one of these—or something like it—and you live in a climate that’s not desert, you’re either too brave or too reckless. 

Available for $415 at Blue Owl.