It's a solid windproof jacket, don't get me wrong. But-- one, there's no fleece on the inside, so it's not nearly as comfortable as other fleece jackets, especially next to the skin. Also, it's pretty stiff, so it doesn't layer as well or as comfortably as other jackets under something else. Otherwise, it's a good outer shell. For extra warmth and comfort, wear a light fleece pullover underneath.

For any woman above 5'9", it's seems like it's a constant search for camp pants that don't end up looking like capris once you try them on. The North Face has yet to create a pair of pants that recognize that.

Whenever I go out into the wilderness, my midweight capilene is the first thing in my bags. It's incredibly versatile, lightweight, and warm, whether on its own or under layers. I practically live in this shirt when I'm rafting, skiing, hiking, camping, or just hanging out. Absolutely essential if you plan to be outdoors.

This is an excellent basic whitewater jacket, super comfortable with excellent mobility. If you're looking for a straightforward, all-around solid pfd, this is the one you want.

I've taken this jacket to Europe, Alaska, and all over the 48, and it has stood up against everything. It's a solid jacket that can handle snow or rain, and all the pockets are a big plus (especially when skiing). A good 3-season jacket (or 4, depending on where you are) with lots of handy little details. The only drawback is the price, but the investment is worth it.

Along with the midweight capilene top, this is one of the first things you should own if you intend to go anywhere chilly. They're a lightweight, comfortable, and warm base layer, excellent for boating, camping, hiking, skiing, or whatever.

I stand by my Oakleys. I've had them for years, and by this point they're worth their weight in gold to me.

I have literally lived in this jacket for days at a time, and it has never let me down. It's completely waterproof but so light you almost forget it's there; plus it packs down so small you can bring it with you just about anywhere. The pockets are nice and high, and it's cut long enough to go over any pants and to give you a bit of a seat. It's a straight-forward, no-frills jacket but still cut nicely enough that you could wear it out in public without being embarrassed (if that's an issue). All in all, A+.

I've worn these things rafting, hiking, camping, traveling,... pretty much everywhere except skiing or kayaking (unless it's just a sit-on-top). They're great for just hanging out in town, too. I bought mine when they first came out and I've loved them ever since. I especially love them on the river where the grippy soles give me extra stability on wet rocks. Don't know what I'd do without my chacos.

Don't get me wrong, the R.5 top is a good shirt, lightweight, warm, and comfortable. But so is the midweight capilene shirt. I bought both at one time or another and use them primarily on extended rafting and camping trips (so believe me, I put them to the test), and to me the midweight capilene and the R.5 are pretty much the same--except that the capilene's cheaper. Whenever I pack, the first thing on my list is that midweight capilene top. The R.5 is just an extra.