To Frogman: As far as rain gear goes, do you use something cheap? Rain gear is not any good, USUALLY, if you paid under $300 for your set( pants and jacket). I would suggest something with pit-zips, they really help. Also, long alpine style pockets, so you can unzip them every minute it is not absolutely pouring. Another thing is to wear a good baselayer, because it will help to wick sweat off your body. Personally, I would get Sitka rain gear, if I were you, but I understand the expense, some people don't want to pay quite that much. Still, in the Olympics and Cascades good rain gear is helpful. ( I live in drier places now and don't have to deal with rain gear anymore, YAY!!!)