issues with Kuiu Yukon waterproofness- fixed outstanding customer service!

[Westside88]

Update: I contacted the company with the info @jackelope provided. I am beyond impressed with their response. Thank you for sharing the contact information, I think my previous attempts were through an automated system. Either way, they have been extremely helpful.


I waited awhile to post this because I'd hoped I might hear back from one of the emails I sent the company, but I never did. I realize that there's a trade off in everything and light flexible raingear won't be as waterproof as heavy grundens or the like. I sent the below email a couple times and never received any response. At this point I'm wondering if anyone can recommend a wash in or spray on product that might help? I've seen them state this is the set for Alaska and I would caution anyone headed that direction or even those who hunt coastal WA that their idea of waterproof and mine are not the same.

Hello, I purchased Yukon rain gear in September of 2022. I have only used it three times now and I'm disappointed to say that I have gotten wet every time. The first time I chalked it up to unzipping my jacket frequently to retrieve binoculars. This year while hunting elk in the rain I was very conscious to stay zipped up and wear an appropriate layer underneath.  Unfortunately, I was soaked through within a few hours (it was worse after the first 3) When deciding what to buy I was very careful to choose a product that clearly stated "waterproof". The Yukon seemed like a top choice for all day in the elements. Unfortunately, this has not been my experience. Will you accept a return on warranty since the product is not as advertised?  I appreciate any help you may be able to provide.

[Rainier10]

Wow that is disappointing. Thanks for posting.

[LDennis24]

And that's why I don't buy that over priced junk. Doesn't make you a better hunter and it just seems to be a status thing. Not bashing anyone particular but a coat that costs $400 should be absolutely waterproof. Don't buy KUIU! Buy the new Louis Vutton parka!

[Westside88]

And that's why I don't buy that over priced junk. Doesn't make you a better hunter and it just seems to be a status thing. Not bashing anyone particular but a coat that costs $400 should be absolutely waterproof. Don't buy KUIU! Buy the new Louis Vutton parka!

The disappointing part is I like everything about them except the overstated waterproofness. $400 is a lot of money for a jacket, but if it keeps you dry and out there hunting for several years it’s worth it. I’ll keep using this stuff and will like it most of the time. I’ll just have my fishing rain gear or a poncho available as well

[vandeman17]

Tagging along. I will be buying a set of packable waterproof pants/jacket here in the next 6 weeks for a Canadian moose hunt in October. I don't want anything too expensive or crazy because it will likely get beat up if I end up needing to wear it.

[blackveltbowhunter]

   I have used nikwax detergent  and goretex wash in repellent with good success. Haven't treated the yukon yet, but it rejuvenated my sitka downpour prior to all out breakdown.

Just out of curiousity what are you using for base layer underneath, and what's your average ambient temp?

[Crunchy]

I have had the Yukon rain gear for probably 8 years and the jacket is still waterproof.  The pants were until I finally wore them out.  I will order a new set of pants here pretty quick. 

[jackelope]

Have you tried calling them?

[OltHunter]

I've never had great success with breathable rain gear especially on long hikes as a lot of "leaks" is just your own perspiration. Going off trail through soaked brush will wet through all layers.

The other thing I've recently realized is how often you're supposed to wash and recharge your DWR. I was always hesitant to wash them cause it would delaminate something. But you shouldn't be worried or scared to wash them, just need to wash them right.

Nixwax is good, but is a 2 step. I use Grangers 2 in 1.

Should do it after every season now and anytime dirt or grime is introduced.

[Westside88]

   I have used nikwax detergent  and goretex wash in repellent with good success. Haven't treated the yukon yet, but it rejuvenated my sitka downpour prior to all out breakdown.

Just out of curiousity what are you using for base layer underneath, and what's your average ambient temp?
[/quote

Under armor, I think some lightweight wool would be better. Probably 60 degrees and 4 inches of rain in 12 hours

[elkslayer069]

Nikwax my stuff every year before the start of the season. Follow the directions. The Yukon does become saturated eventually.

[elkinrutdrivemenuts]

You might want to call them because your experience seems to be unique.  I have been nothing but impressed with the Yukon rain gear.  Holds up well in the brush and I stay dry all day. 

[Wolfdog2314]

Nothing but great things to say about the lighter version of their rain gear, the Chugach line. Works great. Keep trying and see if u can get someone on the phone.

[O. Nerka]

60 degrees and 4 inches of rain in a day is a real tough situation to try to stay dry in, if not impossible. Being fully zipped up means you will be trapping a ton of heat and sweat while venting is an opportunity for rain to get in.

In the past in similar conditions the best option I've found is a synthetic t shirt and underwear.

[Bob33]

Waterproof breathable membrane materials normally work well, but have their limitations.

They work by blocking large molecules of water like rain from penetrating the membrane, but allowing smaller molecules of water like perspiration to pass from the inside out.

One common cause of failure is when perspiration can’t escape, which causes the user to be wet and is misinterpreted as the fabric not being waterproof. This situation can be caused by oil or dirt on the exterior fabric which is why it needs to be periodically cleaned. Water collecting on the exterior fabric and not beading up can also act as a barrier preventing the moisture from escaping. Treating the exterior fabric with something that causes water to bead up and not sit on the fabric helps. In situations where there is constant moisture on the exterior fabric (i.e. heavy rain) and heavy bodily perspiration the ability to expel the moisture can be exceeded. There’s not much that can be done about that.

I concur with trying to get in touch with someone at Kuiu to talk through the situation. I expect they will find a solution that satisfies you.