Mountain Hardwear Synchro

[Casey Ryska]

I was wondering if anyone has had any experience with the Mountain Hardwear Synchro jacket.

[Todd Fuller]

I bought one about a month ago. I havn’t tested it’s waterproofness yet. It doens’t have much fleece insulation but it’s not a bad top layer with something under it. I havn’t used it for backpacking yet, only a chilly bike ride. It didn’t breath quite as well as I’d hoped (keep in mind, I was doing a highly aerobic activity) but it did a great job blocking out the wind. The fit is good, construction is flawless, flatlock seams everywhere but at the zipper, so no worries about being rubbed the wrong way by a seam on your back or arms.

What I like:
– sizable front pockets.
– really blocks out the wind.
– good fit for me.
– neck drawcord.
– taped seams.
– flatlock internal seams, impeccable construction.

What I don’t like:
– arm pocket is impossible to open with one hand.
– not much insulation, but it’s meant to be layered.
– arms don’t have the nice fleece feel that the body does, so sleeves can feel clamy if you’re working hard and don’t have a long sleeve shirt on.
– no pit zips.

Just for reference, I bought it on clearance from REI for $180 in December.

[Dane Fliedner]

I am actually a relatively new subscriber and thought initial impressions of BPL site might give some insight. I had returned to backpacking after a hiatus (read: schooling) of some years, and once I discovered UL backpacking I was determined to do it right…I stumbled across BPL some time ago, but my initial impression of the site was that it was essentially a centralized sales site for UL gear since so much of the lead articles/ advertising on the Home page relates to gear, sales of gear, etc. So, I didn’t pay it much mind, bookmarked it “in case” I wanted to get more UL gear from the web. It wasn’t until visiting the site multiple times (looking for gear/ reviews of gear for possible purchase) that I realized that it was actually a “online Magazine”. OK, I know that sounds stupid, because it SAYS magazine in the title. But, truthfully, it didn’t “feel” like one on my initial impressions, and I think that is actually telling. Once I realized that there was more content inside, was when I subscribed. I think that maybe the layout could be altered somewhat so that when people come across it, it has more of a “magazine” feel, and less of a gear clearing house feel. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy it and am happy I subscribe, but at the same time, I think changes could increase readership if people who come across it realize more easily that this is the UL alternative to “Adpacker” magazine.

BTW: Not sure how this started a new thread when I thought I was replying to earlier related comments… ?

[Casey Ryska]

Todd,

Thanks for replying. I’ve actually had mine for a couple of months now and have had the same issues. I’ve had the opportunity to wear it in a couple of snow storms and so far the waterproofness has been good. I also wore it on a 4 hour hike/climb and had similar experiences you did on your bike ride. Breathability was only so so and it does require layers in order to stay warm. However, I do like the look and construction and have gotten many compliments on the street.

[Author]

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