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Post by downriver on Jul 8, 2023 12:04:28 GMT -8
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texasbb
Trail Wise!
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Post by texasbb on Jul 8, 2023 17:03:31 GMT -8
Not a single one comes in tall sizes. Eddie Bauer rules for some of us.
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Post by Coolkat on Jul 10, 2023 10:05:17 GMT -8
Eddie Bauer rules for some of us. I don't need a "tall" size but my go to is an Eddie Bauer that I got at Costco on sale for $25 that weighs less than most of those listed. |
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texasbb
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Post by texasbb on Jul 10, 2023 14:33:30 GMT -8
I don't need a "tall" size but my go to is an Eddie Bauer that I got at Costco on sale for $25 that weighs than most of those listed. Missing one word, but an important one.  |
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Post by Coolkat on Jul 11, 2023 3:57:30 GMT -8
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Post by oldbill on Jul 11, 2023 7:01:57 GMT -8
my go to is an Eddie Bauer that I got at Costco on sale for $25 that weighs less than most of those listed. The gear reviewed on most sites has links that support the site. No issue with that as it's disclosed, but very rarely will I see a review on a perfectly suitable, cheaper alternative. I found 6 oz rain pants that can be fit over size 11 boots for $25. Beats paying $100+. But I also own the Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoody. It just fit me better than comparable spec down puffies. The composite mapping is a great idea. Too bad all other gear makers don't do the same. Very beneficial for base and mid-layers as well. |
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Post by Coolkat on Jul 11, 2023 8:42:10 GMT -8
but very rarely will I see a review on a perfectly suitable, cheaper alternative. This! Now don't get me wrong, like you have I have some name brand items that I've paid a little more for because of function and/or weight. But I simply won't spend more because I automatically assume that the "name brands" are better. When it comes to puff jackets, if I were in the market I'd take a look at this one... Forclaz Men's MT100 Hooded Down Puffer Jacket which in the medium size is 10.2oz |
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tigger
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Post by tigger on Jul 20, 2023 16:45:33 GMT -8
If I need a down jacket, it's because it's cold, not because I'm concerned about a cool evening. $200+ for something to keep the chill off? No thanks. I bring down gear to keep me warm to 0F or below. Like others, found a cheap option - LandsEnd Parka that I paid $25 shipped and goes in my pack year-round.
Even if money was no object, I would never haul out a "down sweater" with a few ounces of down in it. Waste of weight and money in my opinion.
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Post by leadbelly on Sept 15, 2023 5:55:47 GMT -8
i wear the mountain hardware ghost whisperer/2 in that review. 3 ounces of 800+ down fill, nice if you want lightweight and you don't expect temps below the high 20s. plenty of room, I size up so it pairs well with a down vest to increase core insulation.
down jackets I've used or tested and some quick hit observations:
-Sierra Designs Whitney Hoody - a more 'athletic' fit, about 3-4 ounces of 800+ down, inner cuffs are nice. Dri-down, so it doesn't collapse like some jackets if you pull it on resting after a hard uphill climb. son poached it, then returned it.
-Patagonia down pullover - kangaroo pocket, snaps shut (current versions use a zipper). pretty warm, simple jacket, no hood, few bells and whistles. more of a fashion/around town jacket, but also serves as a good layer stuffed in a pack for stops on early/late winter hikes.
-Rab Infinity - my current 'general purpose' down jacket for winter, though I tend to wear it more when I'm visiting people in the Northeast, it's rarely cold enough in the DC metro to justify it. about 8 ounces of 800+ down, quite warm, super well-insulated hood that works well with a helmet, and well-articulated arms - doesn't feel nearly bulky as it could for a jacket this warm. There have been many different designs under the same 'infinity' name. not parka length.
Mountain Hardwear Phantom hoody down jacket - the one that preceded the Rab jacket. another name MH has used for multiple different models. used to be roomy, now athletic cut. close encounters with scrub/bushes tore mine up; a slightly newer version is our son's general use winter jacket. 5-6 ounces of 800+ down fill, almost parka length, but lightweight materials. a good, solid warm down jacket/parka to find and buy on sale.
-Valandre Troll - what I use for winter hiking in the white mountains. 13-14 ounces of 800+ down fill. this brand does particularly well with baffles to keep down situated, and is overall a high quality experience. it's super warm. size up if you want room to layer, runs narrow.
-Eddie Bauer/First Ascent Peak XV - the winter down parka that preceded the troll. guessing 12 ounces of 800+ down. The jacket is overbuilt, extremely warm, outer shell is particularly robust. Eddie Bauer also has 40% sales periodically, and at that discount, it's a great bargain for a winter parka. Nothing wrong with it; it's quite heavy and bulky-feeling due to that thicker outer shell, doesn't stuff particularly well. was still in great shape when i sold it used.
-special mention - feathered friends down vest. a clearance purchase, shell had a visible stain. simple, light, very warm for the weight. all function, very little style.
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Image Credit / Coolkat
