Camp jacket for winter use

imported
#1

Okay - maybe this belongs in the gear forum - but it applies to the AT terrain, so here goes.

I know/have the proper layer clothing when hiking during the winter. I also know what works best once I’m in my sleeping bag at night. But there is a time (no matter how brief) between the time you take off your pack and get into your bag for the night. The time during which your body is quickly cooling off and your fixing/eating dinner.

So here’s my question: what would be a good jacket to wear while in “camp” (wherever it might be that night)? Let’s assume the afternoon/evening temps are in the low to mid 20’s. No rain or snow - but moisture in the air (like the southern part of the trail is known for).

For the sake of argument, I will have removed any damp (perspiration) hiking garb worn that day and put on my dry, fleece layer. What’s the recommendation for a good outer jacket reasonable in weight and packability? I’ve tried using a synthetic Puffball pullover - it’s just a bit too light for what I want. I’m not a big fan of ultra-light backpacking - and for winter hiking you really can’t keep the weight that low. So I’d sacrifice jacket weight (within reason)for the ability to keep me warm.

Thanks.

The Unknown Hiker

#2

I have a WM Flight Jacket that keeps me toasty warm in camp well down into the 20s. Keep in mind that in camp, you aren’t generating much heat so the insulation must be of high quality to keep the warmth in. It all depends on what you can afford and how much comfort you want.

Cognition

#3

Go for the high-end synthetic insulations, especially Climashield and Primaloft One. Puffballs are okay, but they’re still pretty light and meant as a replacement for the fleece, not a heavy jacket. You can get good protection at still quite reasonable weights (and just as importantly, reasonable bulkiness) with top-end synthetics.

I know you said you’re not a fan of ultralight, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go fairly light and still get a good jacket. I’d suggest something like the
<a href=http://www.thru-hiker.com/maxima_kit.html">Maxima jacket at Thru-Hiker: With a 1.1oz DWR shell and Momentum90 liner and 5oz Climashield XP it’s good down to 20* easily and should only weight in around 18oz or so (assuming you’re not much bigger than me at a size 40.) That’s a DIY option, of course, which may not appeal to all (or even many) hikers, but it’s the way to go if you want good light gear for cheap.

If you don’t like sewing or just plain have the cash and don’t want to bother, there are plenty of commercial option out there, from the ultralight stuff (Bozeman Mountain Works’ Cocoon series) to reasonable weight and warmth stuff from all the majors. It’s still a good bet to go with the synthetics, though, just be careful to know what insulation you’re actually getting and go for the best you can find. :smiley:

Strategic

#4

Dear Unknown Hiker,

You’re looking for a camp jacket to handle +20F to +25F.

Here’s a site with reviews of hiking and camping gear:

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/Clothing/Jackets/

Take a look at the Marmot Flurry and work up or down from there. Whatever you do, get a jacket with a hood.

Conan

Conan

#5

Patagonia has their Das parka on sale in limited sizes. proven in the harshest conditions on earth. light weight too. what is next? b

benjamin e dunlap jr