Topic: Windproofs (shirts) (Read 7116 times)

whoRya · « **on:** October 19, 2011 »

Ok so my quest for layering utopia continues. My last purchase of a Primaloft insulated layer has worked out well and I am well pleased.

So currently my set up is >synthetic base layer>microfleece>waterproof shell>insulated layer. Obviously I can go from base straight to any layer as conditions, stops etc. dictate.

Now I am on the cusp of making another purchase. Having had a couple of experiences were windchill on the move with a wee skiff of water has forced my to up the layers, ending up all clammy with a waterproof on. I have now decided that a wind shirt is my next thing on the list.

I reckon I have narrowed it down to the Montane Litespeed Jacket and the Paramo Fuera Ascent. The LS is lighter at 165g and cheaper at about £50. It has a Pertex outer. The Ascent is heavier at 390g and more expensive at about £65, but from my reading of it is regarded as being harder wearing and a little better at shedding light moisture. It has Paramo's own outer (or is it Nikwax?). The Ascent will be slightly bulkier also. By the way I'm terrified about Pertex and rough granite mixing.

You'll note I've gone for a hood, since I want it to cope with a little water I think it makes sense.

Has anyone any experience of the jackets?

It also throws me a slight dilema, what to bring with me. I don't want to just add more gear to my rucksack. I think I have got to replace the microfleece although it seems a bit weird carrying what amounts to three jackets, a windproof, a waterproof and an insulated one. I can't see how I can be without them though. To keep wind out/ water out / cold out when stopped.

Does anyone carry that combination? When the inevitable happens and the waterproof needs to go on, what is it like to have a windproof below a waterproof compared to a microfleece below a waterproof?

Any thoughts are appreciated.

David M · « **Reply #1 on:** October 19, 2011 »

sounds like you have a good combination there. Quite alot of weight tho id imagine with all those jackets. I would usually just have a base layer and wear my soft shell jacket and keep little down jacket in the bag it works really well for me but suppose everyone is different.

RedLeader · « **Reply #2 on:** October 20, 2011 »

Interesting! I wear base layer -> microfleece -> down vest -> waterproof jacket. However, I do get a bit chilly sometimes, especially late at night. I have a Montane Featherlite Smock (an older version) which is hoodless and cost £24 from sportsdirect. It was intended for waking in cold weather but tbh I don't usually take it.

twentyclicks · « **Reply #3 on:** October 21, 2011 »

For a start, don't fear the durability of pertex! I've had a Montane featherlite smock since 07 and it has been worn a lot with hardly any wear. The fabric is so slippery that abrasive friction generally doesn't apply. Unless you are rock climbing or sitting on it it really isn't going to rub on granite. Reminds me it needs a good wash! It really is a go-to bit of gear: so simple and so tiny/light.

I've recently got a Rab Alpine Jacket which is 3x the weight, but has a hood and pockets. I was so impressed with my Vapour Rise for winter that I decided to try this for when it's not cold. The pertex equilibrium is more breathable than the microlight, but not quite 100% windproof. So far, so good, but not sure how it fits with my system, or what my system is... I generally avoid waterproofs but my new one is very breathable and is bringing me around to them a bit more.

I think the paramo is one of the most shower-proof. On a dry windy day, they are all hard to beat.

whoRya · « **Reply #4 on:** October 22, 2011 »

Thanks for the replies. I went for the Paramo in the end, found it for £58 online with free delivery. Quite impressed when it arrived this morning after ordering at lunchtime yesterday.

Where the windproof fits into in the grand scheme of things will be decided after a few trips. I suppose having a variation in gear gives you a bit of versatility, now all I need is reliable weather forecasts

666_pack · « **Reply #5 on:** October 22, 2011 »

bit late with this but like craig my montane lightspeed pertex jacket in never off my back. i used it for two days of very wet mourne mountain marathon and yes I was wet...but if your on the move the breathability is superb and it really reduces the wind chill.

LennyJ1 · « **Reply #6 on:** October 24, 2011 »

Flipmebe has just bought a rab windshirt. He thinks its really good and I could see how it would be handy.

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Author Topic: Windproofs (shirts) (Read 7116 times)

whoRya

Windproofs (shirts)

David M

Re: Windproofs (shirts)

RedLeader

Re: Windproofs (shirts)

twentyclicks

Re: Windproofs (shirts)

whoRya

Re: Windproofs (shirts)

666_pack

Re: Windproofs (shirts)

LennyJ1

Re: Windproofs (shirts)

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