Foul Weather Gear for All Season--No Such Thing?

[thinwater]

I'm frankly amused when I see folks wearing the same weather gear">foul weather gear in summer, fall, and winter. Yes, they probably have different under layers, but it still doesn't make sense to me. I have multiple sets and they keep me very comfortable.

Summer (>70F)
* Hot. Maybe I just get wet. I'm wearing board shorts, so the that doesn't matter. I might pull on a light waterproof pull-over jacket and certainly a hat.
* A little cooler. I have light Goretex hiking-type rainwear. Layers if needed.

Fall 45-70F)
* Wind only. Windbreaker top and bottom. These are reasonably water repellent, enough for occasional spray. I also have spare clothes on board.
* Rain. Either the light rain gear or the more standard rain gear. Depends on how much rain.
* Rain and lotsa wind. Dry suit. No leaks anywhere. Full agility.

Winter (near freezing)
*Wind only. Still mountaineering gear, but a little heavier. Soft shells or wind gear.
* Rain. Standard rain gear.
* Rain and lotsa wind. Stay home. But seriously, a dry suit. Falling in is deadly and full rain gear makes it too hard to move in rough conditions.

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So why do folks were the same rain gear all the time? It ain't the money.

[Hydra]

It depends on the area where one is sailing. Where I usually cruise, I wear foul weather gear not only against rain but also against wind, spray and green water.

In winter, I would like to wear a soft shell in cold, windy and dry conditions but it's difficult to find one with enough room in the sleeves for layering clothes.

Alain

[rockDAWG]

Well, it is definitely much more desirable to have a half dozen of Porsche 911 in different colors, so that one can match the color of the 911 to their Polo shirt.

I just can't stand these people driving around town with their Porsche that does not match the color of their shirt. How rude!!! :P

[SV DestinyAscen]

I guess I'm one of the amusing people. I prefer to layer and think the exterior layer is only there to be a water barrier.