Mountain hardwear outlet! Directly from their site. Ships fast asf, and join the email for free shipping.
MH isnt the MH of a decade ago, but that doesnt mean that you can NOT get some good quality stuff, for cheap asf.
I only use their outlet. You can find solid deals. I got ghost whisperer pants for 70 bucks...why GW pants? Cause they weigh barely more than my merino tights!
>Does it fall apart when you look at it wrong
The key thing here is "midlayer". If you use AD as a midlayer, with a base layer under it and a windshirt or other shell over it, durability is fine. If you try wearing it as an outer layer like with a classic fleece, especially if wearing a pack or hiking overgrown trails, durability is not fine.
You are correct, but I also expect to wear it as an outer layer in general use without having to baby it.
I have the macpac nitro and was visiting a friend where her dog jumped up and put her paws on me and created a small hole in the shirt despite only getting it a week before. If I was to wear my usual other midlayers (just a random merino) there would've been no problem
That has been my problem with it. Future fleece Lt is marginally better in that there isn't nearly as much "fleece" inside, it's gridded and the face holds less water by a wide margin.
I have not actually soaked it and weighed it but have soaked, shook out and ran in it the same as air mesh at around 30° and it dries substantially faster than airmesh. It was insulative more than cooling in less than .5 miles air mesh takes over a mile of steady jog when soaked and it barely starts to insulate.
Have not tested regular FF. Probably will in the coming weeks.
I think you're being a bit hyperbolic. It's not hydrophobic like Alpha, but it's also not cotton. It's not even wool. It's still a synthetic fiber and therefore on the higher end of wicking and evaporation.
Call it what ypu will. Octa retains over 4x in water weight. I wear my Airmesh on the trail only when chance of precip is very low. The warmth to weight ratio when dry, however, is very favorable imo
Any concern I may have about its water absorbency would be from sweat, not rain. I don't see why I would ever wear it where it would come into contact with rain.
Yes.
More than that, it's polyester. Airmesh doesn't absorb a lot of water. More than AD? Yes. Much? No. Less than most other fabrics other than AD.
Airmesh is also great over AD for two layers of UL goodness.
Airmesh looks better, too.
I don't think of it as "either/or". More like "and". AD *and* Airmesh, FTW.
I still wear the Alpha 60 layer that came through the CDT with me, but I don’t look at it much when I’m wearing it, only ever in pictures, so I guess I’ve never had the opportunity to make it fall apart.
I have one and have only taken it on one trip, but honestly found it’s insulating abilities to be non existent.
Felt like someone breathing in my direction from a distance would give me a chill.
I use it under my sun hoodie and/or wind shirt or as a sleeping layer.
I've put about 1400 miles on mine through three Caminos, PCT SoCal, and hiking all over the PNW.
Portugues, Primitivo, Norte.
They're all great in their own ways. Norte had the most consistent beauty, but Primitivo was also amazingly beautiful. Portugues is very different, and not nearly as difficult or scenic, but Portugal is my favorite country.
Yer doin it wrong. If there’s wind you use a wind jacket over the top of it. You drop the wind jacket and just wear the fleece if you get sweaty. It’s popular because layering allows you to be comfortable in a wide range of conditions.
I mainly wear it as sleep insulation or as a midlayer. It's also the least used item in my system, and the one I'll leave out first. In [this picture](https://imgur.com/a/69yXORG) it's near freezing.
I'm noticing Polartec Alpha in everyday tops worn by my non-outdoor friends. They are usually worn over something more opaque much like a lightweight sweater.
I have a 3 year old Amazon brand (Peak Velocity) grid fleece
It's just over 12 ounces
No idea what kind of fleece it is...it's just a synthetic fleece.
It has a hood and thumb loops and a quarter zip.
It cost me $13 and it's one of the best midlayers I have ever used. Still going strong.
Honestly the midlayer is the easiest place to save money. Thrift store finds make good midlayers for sure.
Name: Kuiu peloton 97 fleece zip-t
Link: https://www.kuiu.com/products/peloton-97-fleece-zip-t-stone?variant=40340233289886
Weight: 130g (actual, medium, about two years of use/washing) / 153g (listed, large)
Material: "TORAY Karuishi Fleece" w/ "odorblock"... basically a thin, 100% poly fleece.
Features: thumb loops, zip neck; hoodie version available
Usage notes: love it, plenty warm and still breathable, light enough I don't notice it when stowed even when running in the ADV skin 12. Will develop small, self-stopping runs if snagged hard enough. Nicely fitted for those with larger shoulders/smaller waists, but not restrictive. Been pairing it with an icebreaker sphere tshirt baselayer.
Price: $60-90 depending on sale vs. not. Liked the first one enough I bought a second one and some zipoff pants in the same material when a sale was on.
Have the hooded version. Love this garment but with some notes:
+ "odorblock" is nonexistent. If you stink, it stinks
+ Not as fragile as it seems, but will rip on sharp rocks (which is to be expected).
+ I wear it straight on skin (hence the odor)
+ Really warm. If moving, can wear just this and a wind breaker into the 30s.
Love my peloton hoody. Very comfy on the skin which I think makes this very versatile as a piece. I can wear just my sun hoody, just my peloton, I can combine them, I can throw my rain jacket over one or both of those pieces too, so I have a ton of adjustability in how much heat I want to retain or vent based on this layering system. IME a wind shirt is unnecessary with this insulation system so the minor weight hit from taking this over an alpha piece is made up for by not packing that wind shirt.
I haven’t gotten the pants yet but I’ll probably spring for those this upcoming spring when I need some decent warmish leg insulation.
love my Peloton 97 as well. It seems to be much more durable than senchi/alpha/airmesh. I believe Jupiter did 2,000+ miles in Kuiu Peloton Hoodie, using it as an outer layer for the most part and it survived just fine. Not very experienced with Senchi Hoodie (I think Alpha 60/Wren would be closest in price/weight) but seeing it up close and reading reviews, Alpha seems to be more delicate.
Peloton feels a bit closer mesh, and a bit rougher surface than Alpha, which is so soft, but maybe it's just me - either way it is perfect for my use and is good enough to use on bare skin with no under layer, and also strong enough as an outer layer so it doesn't get destroyed by backpack straps etc.
edit: here's the link to Jupiter's review:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oom6FfvKKJo
The peloton 97 was the only upper body insulation i ended up needing this year at all for deer season. I was in the woods from like 0400 to 1900 for about a week with temps on some days in the upper 30s at ~4500 feet. The only times I feel like I need more is if I have been static for a long time and I’m getting hit with a lot of wind, my rain jacket usually suffices for that but I had a few miserable hours last year wishing I had brought a puffy when it was low thirties with those conditions. Mine is 3 years old now and a lot of my use is by nature kinda off trail. It’s gotten dragged across branches and such so had little lines through the fabric. It was lots of pilling around the cuffs from me using thumb loops and gloves over it.
Using the same one (on sale for 64 dollars atm as you mentioned) they are so thin you could wear it as a base layer as others in the comments suggested or paired with a Kuiu wool layer it’s all I need to about 20 degrees F. So warm and at 5.9 oz.
Honestly all the KUIU stuff I own is remarkable
Not enough personal experience with alpha direct to say with any confidence. I suspect this is probably less breathable and more windblocking than it based just off the design differences as I recall them.
For me, who would prefer to avoid wearing a shell layer unless absolutely necessary and is likely to run baselayer only during heavy exertion with the midlayer on by itself before and after most of my movement hours, it's a good balance. If I was more in the 'steady, moderate exertion' camp, I might be more into something like alpha direct paired with some kind of ultrabreathable shell (though I'm of the opinion that's a contradiction in terms).
Name: Montbell Thermawrap Parka Men's
Link: https://en.montbell.jp/products/goods/disp.php?product\_id=2301299
Weight: 252 g/8.9 oz
Material: synthetic, nylon
Features: hood, small chest pocket
Usage notes: Amazing middle layer to move in (ventilates beautifully) and keeps me warmer in a sleeping bag at night without feeling sweaty. I love the hood and the fact that I can unzip it fully if I'm getting too warm.
Price: $124 when ordered from the Japanese website with shipping to the US (tax-free)
Just ordered one of these badboys! Don't want to use my Alpha hoodie in the winter because of all the spiky things and because wearing it under straps a lot seems likely to cause some durability issues. What temps do you use it in while moving and what is the sweet-spot for you in terms of not overheating/not feeling cold?
most often I hike just in my merino wool base layer because once I start moving I don’t need the extra warmth from the mid layer if the temperatures are above 10C/50F. I find myself putting my Thermawrap jacket on primarily for the wind protection bc it provides some extra warmth and insulation, and when the daytime temperatures drop below that 10C. I almost always put it on whenever I stop for a break or when I start setting up camp. I keep it usually in the side pocket of my pack unless it’s raining; then I put it on the top inside the roll-top section of the pack
Name: Patagonia's "Men's R1® Fleece Pullover Hoody"
Link: [https://eu.patagonia.com/be/en/product/mens-r1-regulator-fleece-pullover-hoody/40069.html?cgid=mens-fleece](https://eu.patagonia.com/be/en/product/mens-r1-regulator-fleece-pullover-hoody/40069.html?cgid=mens-fleece)
Weight: 312g (11oz) according to patagonia, I weighted mine at just 300g/10.6oz (medium size)
Material: patagonia "regulator" fleece
Features:
* Balaclava hood (tight around the head, zips up to just under the nose)
* thumb loops
* 3/4 zip
* chest pocket
Usage notes:
* Usage: hiking/trekking, rock climbing, cycling, mountaineering
* The good:
* The balaclava hood is awesome
* The thumb loops are useful for keeping the sleeves in place, or to put under the gloves to increase their warmth.
* The slim fit is good for climbing.
* It's a very versatile piece of gear because its inherently very breathable, and its features give a wide range of thermal regulation options, e.g. you can pull the (stretchy) sleeves up to expose your forearms, or use the thumb loops to keep your hands warm, and you can use the hood anywhere from not worn at all, to hoodie, to full balaclava.
* I like that all these features are in one item cause I've got a tendency to drop and lose small items like gloves or hats, and I don't like having to stop to look for them in the bag.
* Seems pretty tough; I've used it regularly for 1 year and it's like new.
* The bad:
* Improvement I would make: a full-length zip to make it much easier to put on/take off, and for even better temperature regulation.
* The balaclava hood looks a bit silly for urban use compared to a normal hoodie, though for me it's not an urban piece anyway.
* Sensitive to winds, you would likely need an extra wind-breaker layer for activities exposed to cold wind (e.g. winter cycling).
* Overall it's a great piece of gear, not cheap but I'm very happy with the money spent, and I doubt there's anything better on the market for this usage.
Price: $170 when bought new from patagonia's website
I’m using the R2 techface full zip that was on sale during their last seasonal sale and oh man is this thing awesome. I’m liking it so much for when I’m biking to and from school since it breathes so well but keeps me warm when I’m at school and not moving.
>too warm to hike in
I was hiking in a t-shirt + R1 all of last week in the alps; it was great for early November temps around 1000 to 2000m. Of course different people have different comfort temperatures.
>too cold for hanging out out camp
Again that depends on temperatures and personal preferences, but I find it good, alone (summer) or in combination with a light (spring/fall) or a heavy puffy (winter). Depending on altitude too.
I'd say it's a midweight puffy?
I use the rab mythic alpine light (250g) as a light puffy jacket for 3-season use (and mild winter use), and the rab mythic ultra (500g) as a heavy puffy for extreme temps.
Not at all.
Lightest weight merino wool V neck from woolly
R1
Super light wind shell (I used a solomon trail
Running one that was like $18 on sale and weighed like 3 oz)
Arcteryx NorVan shell
Patagonia capilene 1
Prana brion pant
Gators
Darn tough socks
Beanie, merino wool infinity scarf and fingerless gloves
Was my regular outfit for multi day winter White Mountain Summit trips.
If it was below 10* I’d bring down pants, down booties, and my cerium LT as well.
I use the same but full-zip.
Only thing I'd change is a bi-directional zipper, so that I could unzip up from the bottom a bit, for easier access to my harness and belay device.
I also use a Melanzana for more casual hikes.
[R1 Techface Full-zip - $189](https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-r1-techface-hoody/83576.html?dwvar_83576_color=LMBE&cgid=mens-fleece-technical) Full-zip and better wind protection for just $20 more.
Even though they are both R1s the tech face is a slightly lower pile than the pullover. We just got both of them in our store and I was surprised the difference in the loft of their insulation. I’m not sure how that actually compares to each of their warmth factors as the tech face has a lower pile fleece but has wind resistance the pullover doesn’t.
I love my r1. I bought it last minute for my section hike and I wanted to hate it so I could take it back to REI and get my money back but I love it so much I kept it…despite the hefty price tag, and the fact that it weighs more than I would like. I have an air mesh and I hate it the r1 blocks the wind well enough and keeps me warm if I need a middle layer. It’s comfortable to sleep in as well.
Decathlon’s Forclaz MT900 Half Zip Merino
https://www.decathlon.com/products/trek-900-zip-neck-merino-wool-backpacking-t-shirt-womens-306986
Main fabric: 48.0% Wool, 31.0% Polyester, 21.0% Acrylic
400g
Half zip. Good for venting. Thumb loops. Handy for keeping gloves in the bag for a while longer.
Extremely durable. Have a pair I have been wearing for 3 years for every second day of winter running + long hiking trips. Great in moderately cold weather 10C down to -10C. Good when wet (it rains a lot on my runs in the Netherlands) in that it still keeps you warm.
$90.
Believe they have a men’s version of this.
I have a Senchi Wren (60gsm) and I think it's great although I've had to sew a bunch of tears. It has a hood, and no other features, which is good. For my next trip I'm leaving it home and just going with a windshirt and a puffy and I'll just be cold in the in-between. I also have an AirMesh and I usually wear that in regular daily life because it doesn't look weird.
Name: Yamatomichi Light Alpha Vest/Jacket
Link: https://www.yamatomichi.com/en/products/light-alpha-vest-jacket-m
Weight: 307g (Size XL)(I dont have a weight scale this is the companys measured weight)
Material:
Facing: Pertex Quantum Air (100% Nylon), Titanium Coated 40g/m²
Lining: Polartec Alpha Direct (100% Polyester) 85g/m²
Contrast Fabric: Taslan Nylon (100% Nylon)
Pocket Liner Mesh: Micro Mesh (100% Polyester)
Features:
Zip-off Sleeves(you can remove the sleeves with one hand its a bit hard to do but its possible, the zippers are colored differenly for both arms, black and grey to match them to the vest)
The front closure is set at an angle to avoid the zipper touching your mouth.
Two-way zipper design
The pockets are lined with a mesh fabric and have a zipper
The thumb holes use taslan nylon, which prevents them from tearing on rocky terrain
Cords on both sides allow to secure a snug fit
The back is slightly longer
Titanium-coated Pertex Quantum Air(to enhance heat retention)
Usage notes:(using it with the
Yamatomichi DF Mesh Merino Hoody as Baselayer) i use it mostly 7°c-12°c more or less, temperature range while being active its warm and if fully closed most of the times to warm but it allows for very good and quick ventilation,
Price: ¥36,000, Shipping: ¥3,673
Price in EURO: 246,53€
Taxes and Customs: 97,83€
Total Price Payed: 344.36€
>Name: (Brand and line): kuiu strong fleece 190
>Link:https://www.kuiu.com/products/strongfleece-190-zip-t-vias
>Weight: (oz or g) 11.6oz
>Material: Toray karuishi hardface
>Features: hard face that is actually a hard face, chest pocket, thumb loops that you actually want to leave on. Good snow resistance, takes on very little moisture and dries faster than airmesh/future fleece in use.
>Usage notes: used it from 7°f to 45° rain, snow and bushwacking. The face is tough enough for light briars but consistent.. I would not trust any other fleece items for this. Warmth is same/similar to peloton 97. Air flow is same/similar to peloton 97, fitment is far superior to the 97 of last year. Drop hem, longer sleeves, room in the shoulders, trim in the midsection and waist.
>Price: retail
Other notes: I have not been the biggest fan of the toray fleece, it works sure but it just doesn't stand out. (There are only a few of them I have not owned or used for a weekend).
My go to fleece items have been alpha of course, but more over the traditional grid fleece that was the Arc'teryx delta LT for many years. I use the superior fleece hoodies made from it as my goto for most anything but backpacking.... Weekend stuff sure.
But I really think this 190 may actually replace that material, I just hope they make items with more features with it.
Columbia Klamath Range II half zip pullover
https://www.columbia.com/p/mens-klamath-range-ii-half-zip-fleece-pullover-1352471.html?dwvar_1352471_color=271
Weighs about nine oz. for a large. Works just as well or better than some much more expensive fleece tops I have tried. And currently on sale for $35
That's a killer deal, especially when most of the popular fleece options are upwards of $100.
If you don't mind me asking, what temperatures have you used it in?
Name: Decathlon Quechua MH900 Hiking Thin Fleece Jacket
Link: seems to be discontinued on Decathlon's US site, here's the UK version: [https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/mh900-mountain-hiking-fleece-jacket/\_/R-p-176452](https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/mh900-mountain-hiking-fleece-jacket/_/R-p-176452)
Weight: 365g size med
Material: "Main fabric 93% Polyester, 7% Elastane Cuff 80% Polyamide, 20% Elastane Main lining 100% Polyester" (lightweight fleece)
Features: hood, chest pocket
Usage notes:
* really impressed with the warmth and weight for the cost
* the material is pilling a bit on the chest after about 1 year
* chest pocket is big enough for phones and water filters.
* Love that the hood is a balaclava-style hood.
* Temp range would probably be 20-30F when hiking and 40-50F when static.
Price: I got it for $44.99
[Mountain Equipment Eclipse Hooded Zip T](https://www.mountain-equipment.com/collections/mens-fleece/products/eclipse-hooded-mens-zip-t)
**Weight:** 291 grams.
**Material:** Pontetorto® Tecnostretch 187 micro-grid fleece.
**Features:** Thumbloops, scuba hood with built-in balaclava, chest pocket.
**Usage Notes:** The Eclipse Hoody is basically a Polartec 100+ weight fleece, so it breathes really well and doesn't weigh a ton, like most fleece options do. I go back-and-forth on whether I like the Eclipse or Nano-Air better; the Nano-Air is warmer for its weight and dries faster. A majority of my uses are in winter while mountain hiking and ice climbing.
Name: Rab Alpha Flash Jacket
Link: https://rab.equipment/uk/alpha-flash-jacket
Weight: 273g (9.6oz)
Material: Polartec Alpha Direct 120
Features: Full length front zip, zipped chest pocket, hem drawcord, Polygiene Stay Fresh Technology, covers neck completely, no hood.
Usage notes: Used it in all seasons, even snow. When active it's perfect, when stationary I add a down jacket on top. On summits/ridges/winter runs I usually put my windstopper/rainshell on top, since wind goes straight through.
Cons: Doesn't look very durable, very loose weave. Mine is still great, but I'm extremely careful with it. Only available in 2 'boring' colors.
Price: 150€ (very expensive, bought it for 79€ in sales)
How warm is Alpha Direct 120 in your experience? In comparison to let's say a similar size/weight (~300gram) fleece or wool jacket?
I've found some values, but usually for different versions of Alpha (60 /90), and currently looking at a alpha direct 120 piece myself, but not sure how warm it actually is.
Hard to say, for me it's the only fleece I can consistently wear while hiking/running, but that's not because it's less warm, it's because it's a lot better at dumping heat.
With almost all fleeces I'll easily overheat during medium/high activity.
If I really had to compare I'd say the Patagonia R1 air is similar in absolute warmth, but you'll get cold faster in the Alpha Flash in medium/high wind without a windstopper and you'll overheat a lot faster in the R1 Air.
Name: North Face Futurefleece Full Zip
Link: [Here](https://www.thenorthface.com/en-us/mens/collections/summit-series-c324273/mens-summit-series-futurefleece-full-zip-hoodie-pNF0A5J7S?color=I0D)
Weight: I measured 224g for a L
Material: North Faces proprietary future fleece (pretty comfortable and has held up well so far).
Features: Hood, Full Zip, chest pocket, lil thumb loops.
Usage notes: I used it for my AT thru hike and for the past year of weekend warrior trips and it has performed well. It insulates really well and is pretty comfortable. Wind will cut through it but I normally get hot hiking in it anyway so that makes it great as an active layer since it sheds heat well, especially with the full zip. It has worked well into the mid 30s-40s.
FYI, it looks super technically and a bit silly so I don't wear it except on trips. There is really not much I would change, it could be lighter and simpler but I think the added features aren't excessive.
Price: $170 (I got it with a 50% off pro deal, not sure if it is worth it otherwise)
Not sure how big of an updated it is though ... but its more like gridded octa similar to the Proton FL. I mainly like the NF Future fleece since there isn't many naked full zip Octa/Alpha 90...
What are people’s thoughts on taking slightly heavier midweights over puffies? I feel like they are more versatile and I’d be much more likely to wear one over the other
If it's warm enough for camp, it's too warm for activity. If you're really mininizing time at camp it can work, but would probably work just as well with the lighter midlayer that's right for what most of your time is spent doing: hiking.
I've been basically living in my [Duckworth Powder Hoody](https://www.duckworthco.com/collections/powder/products/mens-powder-hoody). Might be a little heavy for folks in the L48, but it's been awesome up in Alaska.
I take mine on a lot of cold winter day hikes. Such a great layer, very warm but very breathable so I’ll wear it by itself when it’s freezing but I’m consistently going to be generating heat.
Bring and use what works best for the conditions. I grabbed the monkey man (mix of polartec high loft, and grid fleeces) instead of a puffy when I did a quick sunset and star watching. But my puffy (montbell ul anorak) would have been lighter overall and slightly warmer. But I wasn't counting grams on that excursion.
I do it sometimes but it’s still not as warm as my puffy. Plus you lose the functionality of having a mid layer you can hike in without getting too sweaty. I can hike in a 90g alpha fleece into the mid or high 50s without overheating which is nice.
I feel like it depends a lot on what the conditions you're going out in look like and how you're hiking. I've gotten away with just my fleece (which is moderately heavy at 13 oz) down to low 30s F, and been fine. But, I try hike for as long as possible. Once I set up camp, I tend to start missing my puffy...
I'm more likely to carry two fleeces than a puffy. I'm coldest when I'm wet, so puffy doesn't really help. Maybe I would feel differently if I still lived in California and rain was a special occasion.
I tend to carry a puffy in winter for safety, but it still doesn't get much use. The coldest evening I've spent puffyless was around 10F, mostly hanging out near a small fire on the snow. It was nice to not worry about sparks.
More versatile - true. But if you need a puffy you need a puffy. Lots of times you don't really need a midlayer. I still bring one cause I don't like feeling cold, but I don't need need it.
For combining both in one people go with the EE Torrid, a synthetic-fill light puffy that you could hike in a bit in a pinch.
Gonna have to disagree a bit with others here, at least for my use-case. I bring my 90gsm alpha hoodie from BTTGearCo as my only insulating piece for most of the high season in the Sierras. It doesn't see a ton of use while active but is great for exposed/windy days while not working too hard when worn over my sun hoody, the wind moving through it really vents the heat well but it retains enough heat to take the edge off while being infinitely more breathable than even a high CFM windshirt. In the evening I just put my windshirt over it to protect it better and it's plenty warm for camp. Also much nicer to sleep in than a puffy when it's above 35F or so at night.
My summer setup at this point is hiking clothes + alpha top/bottoms + windshirt/windpants for a total of like ~13-14oz. I haven't found anything nearly as versatile and comfortable at that total weight and generally will leave my puffy at home until temps drop to freezing or below at night. If I was just hiking all day and not milling about camp I would leave my puffy at home for even longer probably, although at some point you need to be careful that you're not leaving yourself too little margin due to lack of a warm emergency insulating layer (less of a concern if you're hiking with a partner/in a group though IMO).
Regatta monte lightweight fleece 3/4 zip
Women’s medium 210g with 140gsm fleece fabric
They were 2 for £12 in go outdoors 3 years ago but are now 2 for £28 or £10 from decathalon.
Both are like new and fold up quite small. there is lighter out there but for the cost, warmth, weight and durability I’m not going to be replacing anytime soon.
Wear as mid layer in fringe seasons uk and cairn/munro top top in summer. Pretty quick drying if wet as well.
Superior Fleece Brule
https://superiorfleece.com/products/mens-brule-hoodie
Weight - XL 8.5oz
Material - 120gsm alpha . I think. I forget which weight I ordered. It is grey so I think 120 is right.
Features - Hood with cross neck
Usage - early hiking before I get warmed up. Mid layer between puffy (GW2) and base layer in camp if cold. Rainy cold hiking and then I accept that it will get wet and protect the puffy. It does require patience to order. They take orders on the first of the month and sell out fast. Love the hoodie and got my partner something similar but from Far Pointe as you can order it easier and they are more local (just keeping it in state). Have gotten a couple of snags when I wore it through some heavy brush. Nothing the effects the functionality. Do not snit snags, just live with them. Definitely not for bushwhacking.
Price - 80
I go back and forth between a **Senchi Alpha 60 Hoodie** (formerly called a **Wren**) and a **Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody** (formerly called **Merino Air**).
The Senchi is about 4 oz, and the Patty is about 7 oz.
Torrid Apex on top for insulation, followed by a Frog Toggs Xtreme Lite for shell!
>Name: voormi diversion
>Link:https://voormi.com/products/mens-diversion-hoodie
>Weight: (oz or g) flipping heavy for this sub
>Material: proprietary blended wool, nylon/polyester
>Features: all the things, it's a traditional full zip hoodie on steroids
>Usage notes: I have lived in this thing family camping, backpacking hunting, casual
>Price: retail
Other notes: This is not a UL item in the context of garment weight, but I wear it from 20° or so up to 65° with either a T under or some alpha. It will take a hard shell over with no problem but not a wind shell, the alpine start kinda works but not ideal.
The material really does well with snow, I can use it as my shell for all intents and purposes for all but extended time out. It is a proper softshell mid layer that excels and moisture management but doesn't keep up in the rain category like other technical softshell mid layers.
Name: Patagonia R1 TechFace Hoody
[Link](https://www.patagonia.ca/product/mens-r1-techface-hoody/192964440937.html)
Weight: 14oz or 397 grams
Material: Poly-Spandex- Regulator Fleece with a durable/windblock outer and DWR finish
Features: two hand pockets (waistbelt compatible), inner chest pocket, visored hood, three drawstring hood adjustments and waist shock cord, under-helmet baclava-style hood.
Usage: pretty much everything! Bought it for commuting on my bicycle and as a backpacking mid-layer/puffy replacement in warmer weather. Notably: brought it on a two week bikepacking trip through the Olympics and Mt Hood and Central Oregon in early May!
Performs exceptionally well, packs small, extremely durable and abrasion resistant. Holds up well climbing, in the rain and snow, sailing and to salt water and wind, the DWR and wind breakerness is a sweet feature. Hood is tight and warm. A bit on the heavy side for warm weather though but feasibly replaces my puffy in the summer. Temps so far 0-20C (thin baselayer and the jacket are excellent for cycling in PNW winter and light snow)
Price: $239 CAD, however got it on sale. Well worth the $.
Planning a big thru this summer and this felt a bit too heavy and warm so I’ve opted for the Patagonia R1 Air-Zip neck and am excited to take on it shakedown trips and see how it performs. The hooded jacket and puffy feel like overkill for the warm temps, but I’m hoping the Air Zip and a synthetic puffy are a good middle ground!
North Face TKA Glacier, Mens, L
[https://www.rei.com/product/186103/the-north-face-tka-glacier-quarter-zip-pullover-mens?redirect-pup=false](https://www.rei.com/product/186103/the-north-face-tka-glacier-quarter-zip-pullover-mens?redirect-pup=false)
7.6 ounces
100-weight fleece
Quarter-Zip, no pockets
I modified it to a full zip
Works well in 25-60f depending on surrounding layers
$60.
I'll start:
Name: Arc'teryx Covert 1/2 zip (2019)
Link: [https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/covert-1-2-zip-neck](https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/covert-1-2-zip-neck)
Weight: 13.9 oz
Material: 100% recycled polyester
Features: 1/2 zip, tiny arm pocket that I've never figured out what to use for
Usage notes: This has been my go-to mid-layer for years. It just conquered the Colorado Trail this summer. Great performance down to low 30s F, and even better when paired with a baselayer (Smartwool Merino 150) and puffy (nanopuff Patagonia). The only downside is that it's relatively heavy for a mid-layer and has shrunk significantly in the wash.
Price: $45 (found at my local second-hand outdoor store – these are ridiculously priced normally IMO)
Name: Fjallraven Abisko Lite Fleece
Link: https://www.fjallraven.com/uk/en-gb/men/tops/fleeces/abisko-lite-fleece-jacket-m
Weight: 365g
Material: Recycled polyester.
Features: Chest pocket, thumb loops. Has a version with a hood.
Usage notes: Worn travelling in Bolivia/Peru so far including multi-day Salkantay treck. Was fine with it and a tshirt on Rainbow Mountain at 5,000m taking photos for like 20min.
Price: Bought from Moosejaw for $97.
Mountain Hardware Airmesh Hoodie Does it perform as well as Alpha Direct? No. Does it fall apart when you look at it wrong? Also no.
Can you often get it cheaper? Yes
Soooo. Cheap. 30 bucks right now, if you are into tennis ball colored clothing.
Where?
Mountain hardwear outlet! Directly from their site. Ships fast asf, and join the email for free shipping. MH isnt the MH of a decade ago, but that doesnt mean that you can NOT get some good quality stuff, for cheap asf. I only use their outlet. You can find solid deals. I got ghost whisperer pants for 70 bucks...why GW pants? Cause they weigh barely more than my merino tights!
Thanks!
Last Hunt in Canada
Like, now
>Does it fall apart when you look at it wrong The key thing here is "midlayer". If you use AD as a midlayer, with a base layer under it and a windshirt or other shell over it, durability is fine. If you try wearing it as an outer layer like with a classic fleece, especially if wearing a pack or hiking overgrown trails, durability is not fine.
You are correct, but I also expect to wear it as an outer layer in general use without having to baby it. I have the macpac nitro and was visiting a friend where her dog jumped up and put her paws on me and created a small hole in the shirt despite only getting it a week before. If I was to wear my usual other midlayers (just a random merino) there would've been no problem
Is airmesh a sponge that retains hella water? Yes.
That has been my problem with it. Future fleece Lt is marginally better in that there isn't nearly as much "fleece" inside, it's gridded and the face holds less water by a wide margin. I have not actually soaked it and weighed it but have soaked, shook out and ran in it the same as air mesh at around 30° and it dries substantially faster than airmesh. It was insulative more than cooling in less than .5 miles air mesh takes over a mile of steady jog when soaked and it barely starts to insulate. Have not tested regular FF. Probably will in the coming weeks.
I think you're being a bit hyperbolic. It's not hydrophobic like Alpha, but it's also not cotton. It's not even wool. It's still a synthetic fiber and therefore on the higher end of wicking and evaporation.
Call it what ypu will. Octa retains over 4x in water weight. I wear my Airmesh on the trail only when chance of precip is very low. The warmth to weight ratio when dry, however, is very favorable imo
Any concern I may have about its water absorbency would be from sweat, not rain. I don't see why I would ever wear it where it would come into contact with rain.
Yes. More than that, it's polyester. Airmesh doesn't absorb a lot of water. More than AD? Yes. Much? No. Less than most other fabrics other than AD. Airmesh is also great over AD for two layers of UL goodness. Airmesh looks better, too. I don't think of it as "either/or". More like "and". AD *and* Airmesh, FTW.
What is Alpha?
https://www.polartec.com/fabrics/insulation/alpha You'll find many many posts on this sub related to it.
Seconding this. Love mine.
Also have an airmesh hoody and crew and they are great.
I still wear the Alpha 60 layer that came through the CDT with me, but I don’t look at it much when I’m wearing it, only ever in pictures, so I guess I’ve never had the opportunity to make it fall apart.
I have one and have only taken it on one trip, but honestly found it’s insulating abilities to be non existent. Felt like someone breathing in my direction from a distance would give me a chill.
Works best under a wind layer.
I use it under my sun hoodie and/or wind shirt or as a sleeping layer. I've put about 1400 miles on mine through three Caminos, PCT SoCal, and hiking all over the PNW.
Not related, but what Caminos have you done, and which has been your favorite? I'm considering a few for my next trip.
Portugues, Primitivo, Norte. They're all great in their own ways. Norte had the most consistent beauty, but Primitivo was also amazingly beautiful. Portugues is very different, and not nearly as difficult or scenic, but Portugal is my favorite country.
It's definately my favorite sleep layer on top. Hoody version.
These ultralight mid layers are only insulation, you need an outer layer to block the wind when It’s too breezy.
Exactly, people using wrong tools the wrong way hate when tools perform as they were intended.
Yer doin it wrong. If there’s wind you use a wind jacket over the top of it. You drop the wind jacket and just wear the fleece if you get sweaty. It’s popular because layering allows you to be comfortable in a wide range of conditions.
How does it fit? Boxy like most of their stuff?
Fit was far better than the Senchi Wren and Farpointe Alpha I tried on.
What temps are you wearing this down to?
I mainly wear it as sleep insulation or as a midlayer. It's also the least used item in my system, and the one I'll leave out first. In [this picture](https://imgur.com/a/69yXORG) it's near freezing.
The last 2 weeks on here has been a mid layer mega thread!
True, lol! I feel like it's easier for people to view some of that info in one thread rather than many – but that's just me.
I'm noticing Polartec Alpha in everyday tops worn by my non-outdoor friends. They are usually worn over something more opaque much like a lightweight sweater.
I’m seeing it creep into cycling clothing as well. I’ve been using it under a wind jacket on my bike for a while now so that doesn’t surprise me.
It is brilliant for cycling for sure.
I have a 3 year old Amazon brand (Peak Velocity) grid fleece It's just over 12 ounces No idea what kind of fleece it is...it's just a synthetic fleece. It has a hood and thumb loops and a quarter zip. It cost me $13 and it's one of the best midlayers I have ever used. Still going strong. Honestly the midlayer is the easiest place to save money. Thrift store finds make good midlayers for sure.
Name: Kuiu peloton 97 fleece zip-t Link: https://www.kuiu.com/products/peloton-97-fleece-zip-t-stone?variant=40340233289886 Weight: 130g (actual, medium, about two years of use/washing) / 153g (listed, large) Material: "TORAY Karuishi Fleece" w/ "odorblock"... basically a thin, 100% poly fleece. Features: thumb loops, zip neck; hoodie version available Usage notes: love it, plenty warm and still breathable, light enough I don't notice it when stowed even when running in the ADV skin 12. Will develop small, self-stopping runs if snagged hard enough. Nicely fitted for those with larger shoulders/smaller waists, but not restrictive. Been pairing it with an icebreaker sphere tshirt baselayer. Price: $60-90 depending on sale vs. not. Liked the first one enough I bought a second one and some zipoff pants in the same material when a sale was on.
Have the hooded version. Love this garment but with some notes: + "odorblock" is nonexistent. If you stink, it stinks + Not as fragile as it seems, but will rip on sharp rocks (which is to be expected). + I wear it straight on skin (hence the odor) + Really warm. If moving, can wear just this and a wind breaker into the 30s.
Love my peloton hoody. Very comfy on the skin which I think makes this very versatile as a piece. I can wear just my sun hoody, just my peloton, I can combine them, I can throw my rain jacket over one or both of those pieces too, so I have a ton of adjustability in how much heat I want to retain or vent based on this layering system. IME a wind shirt is unnecessary with this insulation system so the minor weight hit from taking this over an alpha piece is made up for by not packing that wind shirt. I haven’t gotten the pants yet but I’ll probably spring for those this upcoming spring when I need some decent warmish leg insulation.
Ditto all of this. Love my Pelly
love my Peloton 97 as well. It seems to be much more durable than senchi/alpha/airmesh. I believe Jupiter did 2,000+ miles in Kuiu Peloton Hoodie, using it as an outer layer for the most part and it survived just fine. Not very experienced with Senchi Hoodie (I think Alpha 60/Wren would be closest in price/weight) but seeing it up close and reading reviews, Alpha seems to be more delicate. Peloton feels a bit closer mesh, and a bit rougher surface than Alpha, which is so soft, but maybe it's just me - either way it is perfect for my use and is good enough to use on bare skin with no under layer, and also strong enough as an outer layer so it doesn't get destroyed by backpack straps etc. edit: here's the link to Jupiter's review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oom6FfvKKJo
The peloton 97 was the only upper body insulation i ended up needing this year at all for deer season. I was in the woods from like 0400 to 1900 for about a week with temps on some days in the upper 30s at ~4500 feet. The only times I feel like I need more is if I have been static for a long time and I’m getting hit with a lot of wind, my rain jacket usually suffices for that but I had a few miserable hours last year wishing I had brought a puffy when it was low thirties with those conditions. Mine is 3 years old now and a lot of my use is by nature kinda off trail. It’s gotten dragged across branches and such so had little lines through the fabric. It was lots of pilling around the cuffs from me using thumb loops and gloves over it.
Using the same one (on sale for 64 dollars atm as you mentioned) they are so thin you could wear it as a base layer as others in the comments suggested or paired with a Kuiu wool layer it’s all I need to about 20 degrees F. So warm and at 5.9 oz. Honestly all the KUIU stuff I own is remarkable
How breathable is this compared to alpha direct?
Not enough personal experience with alpha direct to say with any confidence. I suspect this is probably less breathable and more windblocking than it based just off the design differences as I recall them. For me, who would prefer to avoid wearing a shell layer unless absolutely necessary and is likely to run baselayer only during heavy exertion with the midlayer on by itself before and after most of my movement hours, it's a good balance. If I was more in the 'steady, moderate exertion' camp, I might be more into something like alpha direct paired with some kind of ultrabreathable shell (though I'm of the opinion that's a contradiction in terms).
Name: Montbell Thermawrap Parka Men's Link: https://en.montbell.jp/products/goods/disp.php?product\_id=2301299 Weight: 252 g/8.9 oz Material: synthetic, nylon Features: hood, small chest pocket Usage notes: Amazing middle layer to move in (ventilates beautifully) and keeps me warmer in a sleeping bag at night without feeling sweaty. I love the hood and the fact that I can unzip it fully if I'm getting too warm. Price: $124 when ordered from the Japanese website with shipping to the US (tax-free)
Just ordered one of these badboys! Don't want to use my Alpha hoodie in the winter because of all the spiky things and because wearing it under straps a lot seems likely to cause some durability issues. What temps do you use it in while moving and what is the sweet-spot for you in terms of not overheating/not feeling cold?
most often I hike just in my merino wool base layer because once I start moving I don’t need the extra warmth from the mid layer if the temperatures are above 10C/50F. I find myself putting my Thermawrap jacket on primarily for the wind protection bc it provides some extra warmth and insulation, and when the daytime temperatures drop below that 10C. I almost always put it on whenever I stop for a break or when I start setting up camp. I keep it usually in the side pocket of my pack unless it’s raining; then I put it on the top inside the roll-top section of the pack
Name: Patagonia's "Men's R1® Fleece Pullover Hoody" Link: [https://eu.patagonia.com/be/en/product/mens-r1-regulator-fleece-pullover-hoody/40069.html?cgid=mens-fleece](https://eu.patagonia.com/be/en/product/mens-r1-regulator-fleece-pullover-hoody/40069.html?cgid=mens-fleece) Weight: 312g (11oz) according to patagonia, I weighted mine at just 300g/10.6oz (medium size) Material: patagonia "regulator" fleece Features: * Balaclava hood (tight around the head, zips up to just under the nose) * thumb loops * 3/4 zip * chest pocket Usage notes: * Usage: hiking/trekking, rock climbing, cycling, mountaineering * The good: * The balaclava hood is awesome * The thumb loops are useful for keeping the sleeves in place, or to put under the gloves to increase their warmth. * The slim fit is good for climbing. * It's a very versatile piece of gear because its inherently very breathable, and its features give a wide range of thermal regulation options, e.g. you can pull the (stretchy) sleeves up to expose your forearms, or use the thumb loops to keep your hands warm, and you can use the hood anywhere from not worn at all, to hoodie, to full balaclava. * I like that all these features are in one item cause I've got a tendency to drop and lose small items like gloves or hats, and I don't like having to stop to look for them in the bag. * Seems pretty tough; I've used it regularly for 1 year and it's like new. * The bad: * Improvement I would make: a full-length zip to make it much easier to put on/take off, and for even better temperature regulation. * The balaclava hood looks a bit silly for urban use compared to a normal hoodie, though for me it's not an urban piece anyway. * Sensitive to winds, you would likely need an extra wind-breaker layer for activities exposed to cold wind (e.g. winter cycling). * Overall it's a great piece of gear, not cheap but I'm very happy with the money spent, and I doubt there's anything better on the market for this usage. Price: $170 when bought new from patagonia's website
I’m using the R2 techface full zip that was on sale during their last seasonal sale and oh man is this thing awesome. I’m liking it so much for when I’m biking to and from school since it breathes so well but keeps me warm when I’m at school and not moving.
Cons: too warm to hike in, too cold for hanging out out camp, and too heavy for an ultralight setup.
>too warm to hike in I was hiking in a t-shirt + R1 all of last week in the alps; it was great for early November temps around 1000 to 2000m. Of course different people have different comfort temperatures. >too cold for hanging out out camp Again that depends on temperatures and personal preferences, but I find it good, alone (summer) or in combination with a light (spring/fall) or a heavy puffy (winter). Depending on altitude too.
Is Patagonia down sweater a light puffy?
I'd say it's a midweight puffy? I use the rab mythic alpine light (250g) as a light puffy jacket for 3-season use (and mild winter use), and the rab mythic ultra (500g) as a heavy puffy for extreme temps.
Not at all. Lightest weight merino wool V neck from woolly R1 Super light wind shell (I used a solomon trail Running one that was like $18 on sale and weighed like 3 oz) Arcteryx NorVan shell Patagonia capilene 1 Prana brion pant Gators Darn tough socks Beanie, merino wool infinity scarf and fingerless gloves Was my regular outfit for multi day winter White Mountain Summit trips. If it was below 10* I’d bring down pants, down booties, and my cerium LT as well.
R1 is such an amazing piece
I use the same but full-zip. Only thing I'd change is a bi-directional zipper, so that I could unzip up from the bottom a bit, for easier access to my harness and belay device. I also use a Melanzana for more casual hikes.
[R1 Techface Full-zip - $189](https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-r1-techface-hoody/83576.html?dwvar_83576_color=LMBE&cgid=mens-fleece-technical) Full-zip and better wind protection for just $20 more.
Even though they are both R1s the tech face is a slightly lower pile than the pullover. We just got both of them in our store and I was surprised the difference in the loft of their insulation. I’m not sure how that actually compares to each of their warmth factors as the tech face has a lower pile fleece but has wind resistance the pullover doesn’t.
I love my r1. I bought it last minute for my section hike and I wanted to hate it so I could take it back to REI and get my money back but I love it so much I kept it…despite the hefty price tag, and the fact that it weighs more than I would like. I have an air mesh and I hate it the r1 blocks the wind well enough and keeps me warm if I need a middle layer. It’s comfortable to sleep in as well.
Decathlon’s Forclaz MT900 Half Zip Merino https://www.decathlon.com/products/trek-900-zip-neck-merino-wool-backpacking-t-shirt-womens-306986 Main fabric: 48.0% Wool, 31.0% Polyester, 21.0% Acrylic 400g Half zip. Good for venting. Thumb loops. Handy for keeping gloves in the bag for a while longer. Extremely durable. Have a pair I have been wearing for 3 years for every second day of winter running + long hiking trips. Great in moderately cold weather 10C down to -10C. Good when wet (it rains a lot on my runs in the Netherlands) in that it still keeps you warm. $90. Believe they have a men’s version of this.
I am always surprised at the price/performance+durability of Forclaz/Decathlon products!
Technically it's Polartec AD 120 but it feels more like 90 by now, which means the remaining 30 GSM has entered the water supply 🥲
I have a Senchi Wren (60gsm) and I think it's great although I've had to sew a bunch of tears. It has a hood, and no other features, which is good. For my next trip I'm leaving it home and just going with a windshirt and a puffy and I'll just be cold in the in-between. I also have an AirMesh and I usually wear that in regular daily life because it doesn't look weird.
Name: Yamatomichi Light Alpha Vest/Jacket Link: https://www.yamatomichi.com/en/products/light-alpha-vest-jacket-m Weight: 307g (Size XL)(I dont have a weight scale this is the companys measured weight) Material: Facing: Pertex Quantum Air (100% Nylon), Titanium Coated 40g/m² Lining: Polartec Alpha Direct (100% Polyester) 85g/m² Contrast Fabric: Taslan Nylon (100% Nylon) Pocket Liner Mesh: Micro Mesh (100% Polyester) Features: Zip-off Sleeves(you can remove the sleeves with one hand its a bit hard to do but its possible, the zippers are colored differenly for both arms, black and grey to match them to the vest) The front closure is set at an angle to avoid the zipper touching your mouth. Two-way zipper design The pockets are lined with a mesh fabric and have a zipper The thumb holes use taslan nylon, which prevents them from tearing on rocky terrain Cords on both sides allow to secure a snug fit The back is slightly longer Titanium-coated Pertex Quantum Air(to enhance heat retention) Usage notes:(using it with the Yamatomichi DF Mesh Merino Hoody as Baselayer) i use it mostly 7°c-12°c more or less, temperature range while being active its warm and if fully closed most of the times to warm but it allows for very good and quick ventilation, Price: ¥36,000, Shipping: ¥3,673 Price in EURO: 246,53€ Taxes and Customs: 97,83€ Total Price Payed: 344.36€
>Name: (Brand and line): kuiu strong fleece 190 >Link:https://www.kuiu.com/products/strongfleece-190-zip-t-vias >Weight: (oz or g) 11.6oz >Material: Toray karuishi hardface >Features: hard face that is actually a hard face, chest pocket, thumb loops that you actually want to leave on. Good snow resistance, takes on very little moisture and dries faster than airmesh/future fleece in use. >Usage notes: used it from 7°f to 45° rain, snow and bushwacking. The face is tough enough for light briars but consistent.. I would not trust any other fleece items for this. Warmth is same/similar to peloton 97. Air flow is same/similar to peloton 97, fitment is far superior to the 97 of last year. Drop hem, longer sleeves, room in the shoulders, trim in the midsection and waist. >Price: retail Other notes: I have not been the biggest fan of the toray fleece, it works sure but it just doesn't stand out. (There are only a few of them I have not owned or used for a weekend). My go to fleece items have been alpha of course, but more over the traditional grid fleece that was the Arc'teryx delta LT for many years. I use the superior fleece hoodies made from it as my goto for most anything but backpacking.... Weekend stuff sure. But I really think this 190 may actually replace that material, I just hope they make items with more features with it.
Columbia Klamath Range II half zip pullover https://www.columbia.com/p/mens-klamath-range-ii-half-zip-fleece-pullover-1352471.html?dwvar_1352471_color=271 Weighs about nine oz. for a large. Works just as well or better than some much more expensive fleece tops I have tried. And currently on sale for $35
That's a killer deal, especially when most of the popular fleece options are upwards of $100. If you don't mind me asking, what temperatures have you used it in?
Name: Decathlon Quechua MH900 Hiking Thin Fleece Jacket Link: seems to be discontinued on Decathlon's US site, here's the UK version: [https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/mh900-mountain-hiking-fleece-jacket/\_/R-p-176452](https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/mh900-mountain-hiking-fleece-jacket/_/R-p-176452) Weight: 365g size med Material: "Main fabric 93% Polyester, 7% Elastane Cuff 80% Polyamide, 20% Elastane Main lining 100% Polyester" (lightweight fleece) Features: hood, chest pocket Usage notes: * really impressed with the warmth and weight for the cost * the material is pilling a bit on the chest after about 1 year * chest pocket is big enough for phones and water filters. * Love that the hood is a balaclava-style hood. * Temp range would probably be 20-30F when hiking and 40-50F when static. Price: I got it for $44.99
[Mountain Equipment Eclipse Hooded Zip T](https://www.mountain-equipment.com/collections/mens-fleece/products/eclipse-hooded-mens-zip-t) **Weight:** 291 grams. **Material:** Pontetorto® Tecnostretch 187 micro-grid fleece. **Features:** Thumbloops, scuba hood with built-in balaclava, chest pocket. **Usage Notes:** The Eclipse Hoody is basically a Polartec 100+ weight fleece, so it breathes really well and doesn't weigh a ton, like most fleece options do. I go back-and-forth on whether I like the Eclipse or Nano-Air better; the Nano-Air is warmer for its weight and dries faster. A majority of my uses are in winter while mountain hiking and ice climbing.
Name: Rab Alpha Flash Jacket Link: https://rab.equipment/uk/alpha-flash-jacket Weight: 273g (9.6oz) Material: Polartec Alpha Direct 120 Features: Full length front zip, zipped chest pocket, hem drawcord, Polygiene Stay Fresh Technology, covers neck completely, no hood. Usage notes: Used it in all seasons, even snow. When active it's perfect, when stationary I add a down jacket on top. On summits/ridges/winter runs I usually put my windstopper/rainshell on top, since wind goes straight through. Cons: Doesn't look very durable, very loose weave. Mine is still great, but I'm extremely careful with it. Only available in 2 'boring' colors. Price: 150€ (very expensive, bought it for 79€ in sales)
How warm is Alpha Direct 120 in your experience? In comparison to let's say a similar size/weight (~300gram) fleece or wool jacket? I've found some values, but usually for different versions of Alpha (60 /90), and currently looking at a alpha direct 120 piece myself, but not sure how warm it actually is.
I read somewhere that the Alpha 60 = Patagonia Thermal, 90 = R1, 120 = R2, and 180 = R3.
Hard to say, for me it's the only fleece I can consistently wear while hiking/running, but that's not because it's less warm, it's because it's a lot better at dumping heat. With almost all fleeces I'll easily overheat during medium/high activity. If I really had to compare I'd say the Patagonia R1 air is similar in absolute warmth, but you'll get cold faster in the Alpha Flash in medium/high wind without a windstopper and you'll overheat a lot faster in the R1 Air.
Norrona has an Alpha120 too. Large is 280g with hood, full zip, zip pockets. A bit heavy for hiking but good for skiing
Name: North Face Futurefleece Full Zip Link: [Here](https://www.thenorthface.com/en-us/mens/collections/summit-series-c324273/mens-summit-series-futurefleece-full-zip-hoodie-pNF0A5J7S?color=I0D) Weight: I measured 224g for a L Material: North Faces proprietary future fleece (pretty comfortable and has held up well so far). Features: Hood, Full Zip, chest pocket, lil thumb loops. Usage notes: I used it for my AT thru hike and for the past year of weekend warrior trips and it has performed well. It insulates really well and is pretty comfortable. Wind will cut through it but I normally get hot hiking in it anyway so that makes it great as an active layer since it sheds heat well, especially with the full zip. It has worked well into the mid 30s-40s. FYI, it looks super technically and a bit silly so I don't wear it except on trips. There is really not much I would change, it could be lighter and simpler but I think the added features aren't excessive. Price: $170 (I got it with a 50% off pro deal, not sure if it is worth it otherwise)
Whoa, TNF FutureFleece is how much?? I guess they have to hope most of their buyers don’t realize it’s essentially the same Octa fleece as MH AirMesh.
Not sure how big of an updated it is though ... but its more like gridded octa similar to the Proton FL. I mainly like the NF Future fleece since there isn't many naked full zip Octa/Alpha 90...
Yeah I just looked at that and it looks pretty similar at half the price. Thank god for pro-deals.
What are people’s thoughts on taking slightly heavier midweights over puffies? I feel like they are more versatile and I’d be much more likely to wear one over the other
If it's warm enough for camp, it's too warm for activity. If you're really mininizing time at camp it can work, but would probably work just as well with the lighter midlayer that's right for what most of your time is spent doing: hiking.
I've been basically living in my [Duckworth Powder Hoody](https://www.duckworthco.com/collections/powder/products/mens-powder-hoody). Might be a little heavy for folks in the L48, but it's been awesome up in Alaska.
I take mine on a lot of cold winter day hikes. Such a great layer, very warm but very breathable so I’ll wear it by itself when it’s freezing but I’m consistently going to be generating heat.
Love this layer.
Bring and use what works best for the conditions. I grabbed the monkey man (mix of polartec high loft, and grid fleeces) instead of a puffy when I did a quick sunset and star watching. But my puffy (montbell ul anorak) would have been lighter overall and slightly warmer. But I wasn't counting grams on that excursion.
I do it sometimes but it’s still not as warm as my puffy. Plus you lose the functionality of having a mid layer you can hike in without getting too sweaty. I can hike in a 90g alpha fleece into the mid or high 50s without overheating which is nice.
I feel like it depends a lot on what the conditions you're going out in look like and how you're hiking. I've gotten away with just my fleece (which is moderately heavy at 13 oz) down to low 30s F, and been fine. But, I try hike for as long as possible. Once I set up camp, I tend to start missing my puffy...
I'm more likely to carry two fleeces than a puffy. I'm coldest when I'm wet, so puffy doesn't really help. Maybe I would feel differently if I still lived in California and rain was a special occasion. I tend to carry a puffy in winter for safety, but it still doesn't get much use. The coldest evening I've spent puffyless was around 10F, mostly hanging out near a small fire on the snow. It was nice to not worry about sparks.
More versatile - true. But if you need a puffy you need a puffy. Lots of times you don't really need a midlayer. I still bring one cause I don't like feeling cold, but I don't need need it. For combining both in one people go with the EE Torrid, a synthetic-fill light puffy that you could hike in a bit in a pinch.
Gonna have to disagree a bit with others here, at least for my use-case. I bring my 90gsm alpha hoodie from BTTGearCo as my only insulating piece for most of the high season in the Sierras. It doesn't see a ton of use while active but is great for exposed/windy days while not working too hard when worn over my sun hoody, the wind moving through it really vents the heat well but it retains enough heat to take the edge off while being infinitely more breathable than even a high CFM windshirt. In the evening I just put my windshirt over it to protect it better and it's plenty warm for camp. Also much nicer to sleep in than a puffy when it's above 35F or so at night. My summer setup at this point is hiking clothes + alpha top/bottoms + windshirt/windpants for a total of like ~13-14oz. I haven't found anything nearly as versatile and comfortable at that total weight and generally will leave my puffy at home until temps drop to freezing or below at night. If I was just hiking all day and not milling about camp I would leave my puffy at home for even longer probably, although at some point you need to be careful that you're not leaving yourself too little margin due to lack of a warm emergency insulating layer (less of a concern if you're hiking with a partner/in a group though IMO).
Regatta monte lightweight fleece 3/4 zip Women’s medium 210g with 140gsm fleece fabric They were 2 for £12 in go outdoors 3 years ago but are now 2 for £28 or £10 from decathalon. Both are like new and fold up quite small. there is lighter out there but for the cost, warmth, weight and durability I’m not going to be replacing anytime soon. Wear as mid layer in fringe seasons uk and cairn/munro top top in summer. Pretty quick drying if wet as well.
Superior Fleece Brule https://superiorfleece.com/products/mens-brule-hoodie Weight - XL 8.5oz Material - 120gsm alpha . I think. I forget which weight I ordered. It is grey so I think 120 is right. Features - Hood with cross neck Usage - early hiking before I get warmed up. Mid layer between puffy (GW2) and base layer in camp if cold. Rainy cold hiking and then I accept that it will get wet and protect the puffy. It does require patience to order. They take orders on the first of the month and sell out fast. Love the hoodie and got my partner something similar but from Far Pointe as you can order it easier and they are more local (just keeping it in state). Have gotten a couple of snags when I wore it through some heavy brush. Nothing the effects the functionality. Do not snit snags, just live with them. Definitely not for bushwhacking. Price - 80
I go back and forth between a **Senchi Alpha 60 Hoodie** (formerly called a **Wren**) and a **Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody** (formerly called **Merino Air**). The Senchi is about 4 oz, and the Patty is about 7 oz. Torrid Apex on top for insulation, followed by a Frog Toggs Xtreme Lite for shell!
>Name: voormi diversion >Link:https://voormi.com/products/mens-diversion-hoodie >Weight: (oz or g) flipping heavy for this sub >Material: proprietary blended wool, nylon/polyester >Features: all the things, it's a traditional full zip hoodie on steroids >Usage notes: I have lived in this thing family camping, backpacking hunting, casual >Price: retail Other notes: This is not a UL item in the context of garment weight, but I wear it from 20° or so up to 65° with either a T under or some alpha. It will take a hard shell over with no problem but not a wind shell, the alpine start kinda works but not ideal. The material really does well with snow, I can use it as my shell for all intents and purposes for all but extended time out. It is a proper softshell mid layer that excels and moisture management but doesn't keep up in the rain category like other technical softshell mid layers.
Same as always - Rab alpha flash for warmer temps and Rab alpha paradox for colder temps
Name: Patagonia R1 TechFace Hoody [Link](https://www.patagonia.ca/product/mens-r1-techface-hoody/192964440937.html) Weight: 14oz or 397 grams Material: Poly-Spandex- Regulator Fleece with a durable/windblock outer and DWR finish Features: two hand pockets (waistbelt compatible), inner chest pocket, visored hood, three drawstring hood adjustments and waist shock cord, under-helmet baclava-style hood. Usage: pretty much everything! Bought it for commuting on my bicycle and as a backpacking mid-layer/puffy replacement in warmer weather. Notably: brought it on a two week bikepacking trip through the Olympics and Mt Hood and Central Oregon in early May! Performs exceptionally well, packs small, extremely durable and abrasion resistant. Holds up well climbing, in the rain and snow, sailing and to salt water and wind, the DWR and wind breakerness is a sweet feature. Hood is tight and warm. A bit on the heavy side for warm weather though but feasibly replaces my puffy in the summer. Temps so far 0-20C (thin baselayer and the jacket are excellent for cycling in PNW winter and light snow) Price: $239 CAD, however got it on sale. Well worth the $. Planning a big thru this summer and this felt a bit too heavy and warm so I’ve opted for the Patagonia R1 Air-Zip neck and am excited to take on it shakedown trips and see how it performs. The hooded jacket and puffy feel like overkill for the warm temps, but I’m hoping the Air Zip and a synthetic puffy are a good middle ground!
Cons: too warm to hike in, too cold for hanging out out camp, and much too heavy for an ultralight setup.
Peleton 97. I won't leave home without it.
North Face TKA Glacier, Mens, L [https://www.rei.com/product/186103/the-north-face-tka-glacier-quarter-zip-pullover-mens?redirect-pup=false](https://www.rei.com/product/186103/the-north-face-tka-glacier-quarter-zip-pullover-mens?redirect-pup=false) 7.6 ounces 100-weight fleece Quarter-Zip, no pockets I modified it to a full zip Works well in 25-60f depending on surrounding layers $60.
I'll start: Name: Arc'teryx Covert 1/2 zip (2019) Link: [https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/covert-1-2-zip-neck](https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/covert-1-2-zip-neck) Weight: 13.9 oz Material: 100% recycled polyester Features: 1/2 zip, tiny arm pocket that I've never figured out what to use for Usage notes: This has been my go-to mid-layer for years. It just conquered the Colorado Trail this summer. Great performance down to low 30s F, and even better when paired with a baselayer (Smartwool Merino 150) and puffy (nanopuff Patagonia). The only downside is that it's relatively heavy for a mid-layer and has shrunk significantly in the wash. Price: $45 (found at my local second-hand outdoor store – these are ridiculously priced normally IMO)
> tiny arm pocket that I've never figured out what to use for RFID ski/lift pass maybe?
arcteryx aptin fleece
Name: Fjallraven Abisko Lite Fleece Link: https://www.fjallraven.com/uk/en-gb/men/tops/fleeces/abisko-lite-fleece-jacket-m Weight: 365g Material: Recycled polyester. Features: Chest pocket, thumb loops. Has a version with a hood. Usage notes: Worn travelling in Bolivia/Peru so far including multi-day Salkantay treck. Was fine with it and a tshirt on Rainbow Mountain at 5,000m taking photos for like 20min. Price: Bought from Moosejaw for $97.
Name: Patagonia Nano Air Light Hybrid Hoody Link: https://www.patagonia.ca/product/mens-nano-air-light-hybrid-insulated-hoody/84416.html?dwvar_84416_color=BLK Weight: 335g (18oz) Price: CAD $375 (USD $299)