Got to agree with you there Monty, too many brand snobs. I've had expensive jackets that were not that good and much cheaper brands that did the same job. Funny thing, when I wear my North Face jacket people will chat with me, cheaper jacket i'm lucky if I get a nod
Don't think I will use wash and go again though rinsing the washing machine beforehand makes sort of sense.
Waterproofing for tents I have thought about before, but will the jacket still 'breath'?
As for tumble drying, I was told today that tumble drying the garment makes no difference and to never tumble dry a garment if it has not to be dried that way. suppose the jury is still out on this one