Awesome Extra Layer

By Michael Nies Ranked #500 - Men's Synthetic Insulation Jackets September 27, 2009

For years I've backpacked with the same layers in the mountains during the summer: wicking t-shirt, Polartec 200 fleece, rain jacket. For my trip to Kings Canyon National Park and a one-day ascent up Whitney last week I left my fleece at home and replaced it with this jacket. I no longer see the need to bring the fleece along for a summer trip. The Compressor kept me warmer in the mornings and evenings than the fleece ever did, and is lighter and more compressible. It seemed to handle wind well (with hat and gloves I was comfy on top of Mt. Whitney), but does nothing to stop water as the previous reviewer noted. The jacket also seemed to handle different temps well just by zipping/unzipping as needed.

Pros: Warm, light, and very packable. Synthetic insulation retains some R-value when wet, as opposed to down. Theoretically stuffs into its own pocket.
Cons: Not water repellent at all. Shell material is a bit delicate; be careful around rocks and pointy things. No pit zips, but adding them would likely hurt weight and compactness. I can't seem to get it to pack into it's pocket, but that may be a user error; it does pack fine in a very small compression stuff sack.
Overall: Great, highly versatile, extra layer

View Details: Mountain Hardwear Compressor Insulated Jacket - Men's

Helpful Votes: 6 Yes