Winter layers – choosing a fleece

Hi Chris,

I think you're right; the system you currently use will work fine in winter WHILE ACTIVE. I use a similar system frequently; I have a range of base layer tops in different weights, and I choose a top for the trip based on the expected conditions, with a windshirt over. If I'm expecting serious cold, I take a very light fleece vest for additional core warmth.

I don't think you'll need any of the fleeces mentioned, but you will need some sort of high-loft layer, whether down or synthetic. When you stop for rest breaks, you can get chilled pretty quick; a nice puffy jacket conserves alot of energy in these conditions. I consider it mandatory safety gear in below freezing temps. Even though you are using huts, a jacket might keep you alive if you get stuck out in an emergency: injury, whiteout, etc.

Check out some of the user reviews; most of the jackets on the market have been reviewed by at least one member here.

Scott, good point about the high-loft layer. I currently have an older MEC Northern Lite Pullover (about 12oz total and using 60g/m2 – or about 1.8oz/yd2 – Primaloft 1) for 3-season hiking and it is barely adequate. I'm looking at replacing it with something a shade warmer – perhaps the Montbell Thermawrap Parka. However, that's not going to be enough for the depths of winter and I'll have to get something along the lines of a Patagonia DAS.

What I am currently using for training hikes in the North Shore Mountains are Icebreaker or MEC merino wool tops in layers plus an eVENT Integral Designs Thru Hiker shell. My buddy has a Montane, nice, but I consider ID superior and lighter.

I use Powerdry Alpine tights from Wildthings, pricey to import to Vancity, but, they are SO comfortable, especially carrying a big pack, such as my various Mystery Ranch models. WT makes outstanding gear and they are great to deal with.

Avoid Smartwool like the Ebola virus, 3-4 years ago, I bought four OD SW mid-weight zip tops from the Valhalla Pure store near MEC-main store. These were to use largely in alpine hunting trips and they charged me about $125.00 ea., tax in. I soon found that they developed little holes even tho' I only handwash them in Zero unscented and they also stretch like freakin' Spiderman.

I bought some MEC Asulkan tops at the same time and some Icebreaker from Mountain Magic in Surrey, as well. The MEC stuff is surprisingly good for the price and the IB is superb, just outstanding. I wouldn't take more SW as a gift.

For "warmup" insulation, I have given up on fleece and now use Montbell's Thermawarp UL and especially an ID Rundle and Dolomitti jackets made from Pl. I prefer these to my elderly Richard Egge double down duvet in most BC weather and no longer bother with light down jackets.

I tolerate cold like few other people I have seen and am comfortable wearing an IB 150wt. T, an IB Tornado top, an MEC Hyperloft vest (very good item, this and mine has worked in some crappy situations) and the ID Thruhiker. I find this does not reek like any synthetic top I have ever seen, has a wider comfort range and packs lighter/smaller, plus it feels better to me.

In really heavy rain, I carry a Hilleberg Bivanorak and wear chaps and gaiters, this can serve as an emerg. bivy, as well and with a Wildthings halfbag plus your jacket under it and a ccf pad, you can lean your pack against a tree and sleep as I have done, more than once. Some options that I find work, hth.