My Sugoi rain jacket

I really like my rain jacket. I bought it in a hurry a day or two before I left for this trip. I had gone to MEC and couldn't find anything suitable and almost didn't bring rain gear. Then I did an emergency trip to the Bike Shop. I almost came out empty handed, but this Sugoi jacket caught my eye as I was leaving. It looked like a simple plastic rain coat, but felt light and I was told it was breathable. I figured there was no way it could be both waterproof AND breathable, but I bought it anyway because I figured I needed something. I first used the jacket when we went through the Andes on our second day of riding. After an hour or so, I thought I had put it on inside out because it was a rough texture, kind of a micro waffle, instead of the smooth jacket I remembered buying. Upon checking, I determined it was, in fact, on the right way. Maybe I had remembered incorrectly. It was definitely waterproof. It seemed to be reasonably breathable too, as I didn't get that sauna effect that typically comes with waterproof jackets.

The next day, when I packed up my rain jacket, I noticed it was smooth again. I was confused. So I watched closely the next time I used it in the rain. It looked like it swelled when it became wet. It was really cool. I don't know how it works. The tag says it is made of polyester and polyurethane. As far as I know these are impermeable to water. I'm fascinated with how it works. Erik is too. I've caught him touching the jacket and trying to make it expand and contract.

I don't know how it works, but this is the best rain gear I have ever bought.