H2No^® is Patagonia's standard for 100% waterproof and breathable protection in our shell garments. H2No is created by adding a waterproof and breathable laminate or coating to a high performance protective fabric. This fabric package blocks wind and water on the outside while allowing water vapor generated by your body to escape – keeping you warm, dry and comfortable.

3-Layer H2No – Most Durable
H2No 3-layer is a completely waterproof, windproof and breathable fabric package that, in addition to the bonded face fabric and H2No barrier technology, uses a laminated scrim on the inside to disperse built-up water vapor for faster drying, protect the waterproof/breathable barrier from abrasion and aid gliding over inner layers. 3-layer H2No maximizes overall durability and tear strength.

2.5-Layer H2No – Lightest Weight
Patagonia’s 2.5-layer fabrics are completely waterproof, windproof and breathable barriers that offer enhanced packability and lighter weight through the use of a printed interior pattern instead of a bonded scrim. This raised pattern protects the waterproof barrier, helps to disperse moisture and aids glide over the inside layers. Because of the reduced materials and weight 2.5 layer H2No is preferred when pack space is at a premium.

2-Layer H2No – General Use
2-Layer H2No is a completely waterproof, windproof and breathable fabric package that uses a wicking hanging liner instead of a bonded scrim or raised pattern to protect the waterproof/breathable barrier. It is very comfortable and warm even against the skin – a versatile alternative when counting grams or bombproof durability aren't priorities.

Testing and Performance Standards
All products bearing the H2No mark have been vigorously tested for durability in our 24 Killer Wash, a process used to simulate years of use and abuse in a short period of time. This process consists of exposing the fabric to severe thrashing in a modified washing machine for a continuous 24 hours. After the killer wash we test for water permeability, adhering to a standard almost twice that of the U.S. Military.

Environmental Impact
To determine the environmental impact, we look at the lifecycle of the product, including end-of-life disposal, and the toxin levels in the manufacturing process. The most environmentally harmful component of a waterproof shell is the waterproof/breathable barrier. It is usually made from three different chemical compounds: polyester (PES, PET), polyurethane (PU) and polytetrafluoroethene (PTFE). As of fall 2008, Patagonia does not use polytetrafluoroethene (PTFE) – the most harmful of the three chemicals – in our waterproof/breathable membrane construction.

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