Budget insulating layers

I would suggest good ole fleece pull over jacket.

Even in the snow, for the lower section, I just have long johns, REI convertables, and I use my rain pants.

For really colder, I would add fleece pants for the insulating layer.

Not the lightest or most compact, but the price can not be beat.

If you are saying that you won't spend over $100 on a jacket, I was able to get my Montbell 8.5 oz Thermawrap jacket for $100 on sale and the matching pants for $100 or $110, which I have taken into the snow.

Hope that helps.

-Tony

You could always go with fleece. True Polartec 200 or 300 is actually quite warm and reasonably light, but it just doesn't compress well. I have seen Polartec fleece jackets for as low as $35. Also of note, I much prefer Polartec brand fleece to the others, I can tell a difference in warmth and durability.

You could also go with an army field jacket liner. I don't know a ton about these, but I have met some people that swear by the polyester filled liner, which can be had for even less than a polartec jacket, it is said to weigh about 11 ounces, and compress fairly well.

Or if you look hard you can find something like a Thermawrap or Micropuff for under $100. I bought my Thermawrap new for about $90 and bought a Micropuff here used for $50 so deals can be had. You might also look at down jackets by Cabelas and LL Bean if you need more warmth for less bucks if you don't mind a little more weight.

If you actually can spend $100 on just your insulation that’s an easy budget to live within. I would look for a Patagonia Micro Puff vest or jacket (whichever works better for you). They are on sale right now for ~100 on patagonia’s website. If you have an outlet nearby, you should be able to find them for even cheaper. I would generally prefer the slightly lighter and less insulated Montbell Thermwrap because I run hot but they are hard to find on sale and list for around $140 which is out of your budget range.

If the $100 is for more than insulation, then I would suggest a 200wt fleece should be about right. It will be 2x as heavy and 3x as bulky as a high loft jacket, but it will also be a lot cheaper. Other idea on my recommended clothing page and backpacking gear on a budget

–Mark

I am looking at Campmor brand fleece right now and found a pullover for only 22 bucks. Weight is 9.7 oz

Here it is http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___33416

But, when I need more warmth than just a fleece will provide, that's what I'm in search for.

I'll have to peruse your suggestions and make my decision. Thanks!

Chris, check out the Montbell UL Down Inner Jacket/Parka if you haven't already. You can often pick up an inner jacket on gear swap for under $100.

If you are looking for some “lighterweight” compressible down pants that are cheap consider Cabelas’ down long underwear. I picked these up for my son on sale for US$40. I have not weighed them yet but they feel lighter than heavyweight fleece pants. Here is a LINK

Dont forget the local thrift store. Ali

I've assembled some good thermal and insulating materials from cheaper sources as well.

I got some Starter brand wicking tops from Wally World, and a merino LS top from Lands End (done for the season).
I use running tights, or check Lands End or LL Bean for merino bottoms. Put those under some rain or shell pants, and you're good.

I absolutely love my REI Spruce Run jacket. It is like the Coccoon tops, but (when on sale) not as pricey. I got mine for $50 a few weeks ago on sale. I used it last night on a walk down to at least 25F comfortably.

The cheapest gear is that which you do without or already own.

I love fleece- especially 100 weight. Its lack of compressability is an asset. It feels better under a pack than puffy gear because it allows perspiration vapor to move out. When sitting on a cold, hard rock or snow it doesn't compress and let all your heat out. When sleeping and your elbows are off the pad it is more comfortable.

A cashmere sweater from the thrift store is light and warm. My 8 year old daughter has one that she wears whenever she expects to be cool but active- like evening softball practice or hiking.

Christopher,

My budget insulation is a long underwear top (8 oz. – $10), fleece jacket (12 oz – $10 on sale at Bass Pro) and Dri Ducks rain/wind jacket (7.5 oz – $20).

Warm, dry and reasonable weight for $40.