Insulation - Pacific Crest Trail

imported
#1

So i am trying to pick out my insulation layer for my 2011 Pct thru. i wanted t know what suggestions are out there from some previous experience. I really want to invest in another mont-bell as my syn fill one is great but by that time it will be 5 yrs and one AT thru old. Plus i want to switch to down. Is mont-bell’s heat to weight ratio really as good as it sounds. their new one boasts 4.7 oz (med) and 900 fill down. wow! any other maybe better or more efficient suggestions out there?
Thanks in advance
BF

Bravefriend

#2 
 I am not sure but I believe ratings on down only go to 800.  After that it may be like sunscreen where anything over spf15 is left up to the seller to post as long as it meets the maximum standard.  Sounds like you have some experience on the trail and most likely realize that down stays warm when damp and most likely is only worn when not hiking so it is fairly easy to keep dry.  
 I would recommend any product on sale with an 800 count rating and use the savings for enjoyment on the trail.
 Instead of focusing on just weight consider the porducts loft as it will give you a more accurate temperature rating.  :cheers

stealthblew

#3

Regardless of the inaccuracy of fill ratings above 800, the mont-bell UL down jacket is a very good item, if you can afford it I definitely recommend it. It’s warm and super light. I’ve tried some on and hiked with people who had them and they all raved.

For a super cheap option you probably have to make your own (and source some down from somewhere on the internet) because down items are typically expensive.

For other expensive options, consider Western Mountaineering’s offerings. They have a vest that’s pretty light and REALLY lofty and they also make the famous flight jacket, which is REALLY REALLY warm (like, winter-capable warm) and still pretty light (although nothing like the mont-bell).

Overall I’d say run with the montbell if you can, it’s perfect for the PCT as far as warmth goes and it’s very light.

Joker

#4

If I could ever afford it, I’d love a Montbell down sweater. I agree it would be perfect for the PCT.

Garlic

#5

Garbage all of it–Corning R-30 bats are the way to go. Staple together and use a trash bag poncho.–there really isn’t any other way for the distinguished hiker.

J/k go with the bestest-Patagonia down sweater my friend-on and off the trail badazzness.

Long Island says FU :slight_smile:

#6

I carried the MontBell Ex. Light down jacket on the PCT this year. It held up and was more warmth then I needed with the layers I carried. It was fine around camp at night and early morning, but its too warm to hike in for very long before you overheat. If I was to hike another long trail, I’d carry it again. It made the best pillow.

The slightly heavier UL Down Jacket is also a good jacket as I had the 2006 model of it and loved it. I can’t imagine the need for a heavier down jacket though unless its for someone who has no meat on their bones and thus needs the extra insulation. And in that case, I think people are bettery off with several light layers then a big heavy layer since you can layer on what is needed.

Miner