At first when I saw the Summit series I was wondering why they had priced it where they did. I can't say enough about it after using it in a downpour that I got caught in at Lake Louise. It rained so hard, I was able to stay dry and also get to shelter and not sweat too bad underneath because the technology has a breathability and also side pockets for air in order for you to not sweat and get to a safe dry place and wait for the storm to pass. The summit series is very durable. I walked through forest and twigs as it snagged on my jacket and not once did it ever scratch or rip or tear. The Summit series in my opinion is definitely worth the investment. I've compared it with a cheaper jacket when it rains and it's not even the same thing. Because when the storm passes the Summit series will have breathed and kept you dry and then you can continue working. But if you use a less expensive raincoat you would just probably stay dry but be sweating underneath because that rain jacket doesn't breathe.