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Black Diamond Stormline Stretch: Red Rock Ready or Just a Dud? (My Honest Review)
Hey y'all! You know I gotta be prepared for anything out here on the rez. As a kid, my grandma always said, "Respect the elements, and they'll respect you." That means being ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way, and that includes rain. Today, I'm putting the Black Diamond Stormline Stretch Rain Shell (Red Rock, size Medium – gotta represent those desert colors!) through its paces. Now, I've trusted Black Diamond for years, ever since their climbing harness saved my butt on a sketchy climb in the San Juans. They're usually pretty reliable, focusing on durability and performance, but let's see if this rain shell lives up to the hype. The model number for those playing at home is BLD00Q3.
Using Experience
Alright, so here’s the deal. I’ve been testing this jacket in a few different scenarios, from light drizzles on morning hikes to full-on downpours while trying to get the kids to school. First impressions are good. The "Stretch" in the name is no joke; this thing moves with you. No stiff, plastic-y feeling that restricts your movement when you're scrambling over rocks or reaching for that perfect handhold. The Red Rock color is also on point - it doesn't scream "tactical," but it's still stylish enough to wear around town. The fit is pretty true to size. I usually wear a medium, and the medium fits me perfectly with enough room for layering a fleece underneath.
But let's get down to the nitty-gritty. The Stormline Stretch uses Black Diamond's BD.dry™ waterproof/breathable solution. The breathability, according to Black Diamond, has a Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of 10,000 g/m²/24h. That puts it in the same ballpark as some entry-level Gore-Tex options, but significantly lower than something like Gore-Tex Pro (25,000+ g/m²/24h). I definitely noticed some clamminess during high-output activities – but it's significantly better than those cheap ponchos. The DWR (durable water repellent) coating seems solid. Water beads up and rolls right off… at least for now. A study by the University of Delaware showed that most DWR coatings lose about 50% of their effectiveness after 20 washes, so regular re-application is key. The jacket also features pit zips, which are a lifesaver for venting when you're working hard. The hood is adjustable and fits nicely over a helmet, which is a big plus for climbers and cyclists. The pockets are decent size for stashing your phone or a small snack. Overall, the jacket feels well-constructed and durable and gives you a sense of security.
The biggest downside I've found is the packability. While it stuffs into its own pocket, it doesn't compress down as small as some other rain shells I've used. The packed size is roughly 6" x 4" x 3", and it weighs about 11.3 oz (320g). The Patagonia Houdini, by comparison, packs down to about half that size and weighs only 3.7 oz. So, if you're counting every ounce and cubic inch in your pack, this might not be the best choice. Also, while the breathability is decent, it could definitely be better. Maybe Black Diamond could explore using a different membrane in future versions to improve airflow. Overall, it's a solid rain shell that offers good protection and comfort at a reasonable price. It's perfect for everyday use and most outdoor activities, but serious backpackers might want to consider something lighter and more breathable.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Good waterproofing | Packability could be better |
| Comfortable, stretchy fabric | Breathability not the best for high output |
| Durable construction | DWR needs regular re-application |
| Reasonable price |
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Gear Terminology - Quick Glossary
- DWR (Durable Water Repellent): A coating applied to the outer fabric of a garment that makes it water resistant, causing water to bead up and roll off.
- MVTR (Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate): A measure of how much moisture vapor (sweat) can pass through a fabric in a 24-hour period. A higher MVTR indicates better breathability.
- Pit Zips: Zippers located under the arms of a jacket that can be opened to vent heat and improve breathability.
Black Diamond Stormline Stretch Red Rock M: Deals, Coupons & Restock Alerts!
Alright, listen up if you're hunting down a sweet deal on the Black Diamond Stormline Stretch jacket in Red Rock, size Medium! This is your one-stop shop for finding the lowest prices, promo codes, and stock alerts for this super popular rain jacket. Whether you're hitting the trails, scaling some rocks, or just need to stay dry on your commute, getting the Stormline Stretch on sale is a major win.
The Black Diamond Stormline Stretch is famous for being comfy and seriously waterproof. Thanks to its BD.dry™ tech (which gives it a 10,000mm waterproof rating), you'll stay dry even in a downpour. Plus, the stretchy fabric lets you move freely. The Red Rock color is a fan favorite, but that means it often sells out, especially in Medium! That's why we're constantly tracking prices and availability.
Finding the Best Black Diamond Stormline Stretch Red Rock M Deals
Big retailers like Backcountry, REI, and Amazon are always having sales on Black Diamond gear. To score the Stormline Stretch Red Rock M for cheap, keep your eyes peeled for:
- Seasonal Blowouts: Think Memorial Day, Black Friday, and end-of-season sales. These are the best times to snag deep discounts on outdoor gear.
- Coupon Codes: Hunt for those hidden coupon codes on retailer websites and sites like RetailMeNot. Every dollar counts!
- Price Drop Trackers: Use tools like CamelCamelCamel to get notified when the price of the Red Rock M drops. Set your target price and wait for the magic to happen.
- Restock Notifications: Sign up for email alerts on your favorite retailer's website to know the moment the Red Rock M is back in stock. Don't let it slip through your fingers!
Why This Jacket Rocks (Even More When It's on Sale!)
Even at full price, the Black Diamond Stormline Stretch is a solid buy. But finding a deal? That's just icing on the cake! It's durable, super waterproof, and comfortable enough to wear all day. Outdoor Gear Lab gives the Stormline Stretch high marks for its balance of waterproofness and breathability, noting that it offers "excellent weather protection at a reasonable price." The Stormline Stretch typically sells for around $150, but we've seen it dip as low as $90 during sales. That's a bargain compared to higher-end jackets like the Arc'teryx Beta AR, which can easily cost twice as much.
Pros:
- Excellent Waterproofing (BD.dry™)
- Breathable and Comfortable
- Great Range of Motion (Stretch Fabric)
- Durable
Cons:
- Can run slightly small (consider sizing up)
- Limited pocket options
We'll keep this page updated with all the latest deals, coupons, restock info, and promo codes for the Black Diamond Stormline Stretch in Red Rock, size Medium. Check back regularly and happy deal hunting!
Last Updated: October 26, 2023
