insulative jackets

I just recently recieved this jacket. I have only tested it in light cool weather in San Antonio, TX. But I like it because:

1. It has a waist adjustment
2. It has a hood adjustment
3. It is 8 oz for a small with the stuff sack
4. It is discreet but keeps you REALLY warm for the size
5. Comes with stuff sack and packs pretty darn small

I have found nothing that I dont like, just concerns.

1. If it gets wet it may not keep you warm.
2. The material is super thin, be careful where you are trekking… dont go bushwacking.

Other than that I am buying this for my wife, and we both use the MontBell U.L. Super Stretch 850 #3 bags as a sleep system. Hope that helps.

Sorry. My first question was not quite accurate. I was mostly interested in pros/cons of the hood portion.

Biggest pro of a hooded jacket to me is simplicity in that your warm hood is already attached. Biggest con to me is in warmer weather you might not need a hood so its an extra 1-2 oz of weight you don't need. A parka might not be quite as versatile as a jacket + high loft balaclava combination.

I don't think there's any earth-shattering pros or cons regarding the hood. For me…

During the day, I don't really care whether the jacket has a hood or if I bring a separate insulated hat. When it's cold, I would wear both — with a hooded shell jacket on top — so no big difference either way.

But at night, if temps fall below expectation and I need to wear my insulation jacket inside the bag, then I prefer hoodless — and wear a separate hat or beanie if required. Wearing a hooded jacket will annoy me when I toss and turn. YMMV.

I don't see any huge reason for or against the parka hood. What is important is that your top shell garment must have a hood, especially for cold or windy weather when you can have so much heat loss from your neck, otherwise.

–B.G.–

Thanks all. I think I know what to do now.