As a dedicated owner, ensuring your canine companion stays comfortable and dry during inclement weather is paramount. The Non-stop Dogwear Fjord 2.0 Raincoat emerges as a top contender, offering a blend of advanced materials, thoughtful design, and practical features. This review delves into its performance, focusing on waterproof capabilities, breathability, ease of use, and overall value for discerning dog owners.
Superior Waterproofing and Breathability
The Fjord 2.0 boasts an impressive 20,000mm waterproof rating, a significant upgrade from its predecessor and the highest rating among tested options. This advanced waterproofing effectively repels water, ensuring your dog remains dry even in heavy rain. Beyond just repelling water, the coat’s 20,000 g/m2/24hr breathability rating is a crucial feature. Unlike some other raincoats that can trap moisture and cause condensation, leading to a damp interior, the Fjord 2.0 allows for excellent ventilation. This is particularly beneficial during high-energy activities, preventing your dog from becoming overheated or clammy, a common issue observed with other gear like the Hurtta rain suit. The coat’s ability to manage internal moisture contributes significantly to your dog’s comfort and temperature regulation.
Innovative Design for Ease of Use and Movement
Ease of use is a standout feature of the Fjord 2.0. The design allows for simple application: pull the coat over your dog’s head, then secure a single belly strap. This single-clip system is a welcome change from coats requiring multiple fastenings, which can be challenging with wiggly dogs. Removing the coat is equally straightforward – unclip the buckle and slide it off. While the head-over design might be a slight consideration for particularly head-shy dogs, the overall process is intuitive and efficient.
The Fjord 2.0 is engineered with canine athleticism in mind, a hallmark of Non-stop Dogwear’s commitment to sporting dogs. The flapped shoulder covers are designed as two separate pieces, allowing for a full range of motion, essential for activities like canicross, bikejoring, and skijoring. The rear of the coat is equally unrestricted, and the elastic leg loops, while keeping the jacket securely in place, do not impede movement during running or play. This focus on unimpeded movement ensures your dog can engage in vigorous activities without discomfort or restriction.
Practical Features and Durability
Beyond its core protective functions, the Fjord 2.0 is packed with practical features. It is exceptionally lightweight and packable, coming with a dedicated stuff sack for easy storage on the go. Drainage holes in the chest prevent water from accumulating inside if any seeps in from the top. A leash portal located mid-back allows for the convenient use of a harness underneath the coat. Reflective trim enhances visibility in low-light conditions, while the aforementioned leg loops ensure the coat stays put. Notably, the coat lacks a hood, a design choice many owners appreciate for its simplicity and reduced potential for irritation.
Durability is a key consideration, and the Fjord 2.0 shines in its ease of maintenance. It is machine washable and dryable, a significant advantage over many other raincoats that require hand-washing and line-drying. This convenience makes it far more likely that the coat will be used regularly, as it can be easily cleaned after muddy adventures. The reviewer noted that washing and drying the coat did not affect its waterproof performance, nor did it cause any shrinking or damage. Despite its lightweight construction, which some might perceive as less robust than thicker options, its durability is proven through its material quality and washability.
Value and Considerations
The Fjord 2.0 falls into the higher price range among tested options, though it is not the most expensive. The price difference between sizes is minimal, with sizes 24-36 costing $95 and sizes 40-90 costing $100. While a significant investment, the combination of advanced waterproofing, superior breathability, freedom of movement, and exceptional ease of care justifies the cost for owners seeking premium protection for their dogs.
In conclusion, the Non-stop Dogwear Fjord 2.0 Raincoat is a highly recommended piece of gear for active dogs and their owners. Its exceptional waterproof and breathable qualities, coupled with a user-friendly design and durable construction, make it a reliable choice for keeping your canine companion comfortable and dry in any weather.
