REI Gossamer Jacket

The Gossamer is not as thick as the micropuff pullover. It IS warm and comfortable in damp conditions, and I was happy with mine down into the mid-40's with a lightweight wicking long-sleeved base layer last year. It packs wonderfully small and is windproof, but I don't feel it is warm enough to replace the likes of a typical down sweater. For me it is a nice jacket for a rainy southeastern spring, which might also relate to a decent PNW summer jacket.

Thanks Shawn, that is exactly the kind of info Info I'm looking for. I'll use it mostly in the Colorado Rockies in summer and fall and to supplement my bag when needed.

My buddy ben got one for christmas when I got a montbell thermawrap parka. We traded for a bit and exchanged results. The gossamer had double insulated pockets, and MP3 player pocket (keep battery powered things and lighters warm) on the montbell. It did have an awkward placing of the top of the zipper. Not quite up to the chin, but not below either. It weighed 2 oz more than the MB on my scale, size L, 16 oz. The hood was also inferior to the MB. They were similar in warmth (no science, just feeling). The REI had a looser fit. The MB had a droptail cut. Both are very stylish (among outdoorsy people, everyone else thinks I look silly) and envied by those still stuck w/ fleece.

Being practically the same jacket, I can reason that the REI is an amazing deal at $75. Hooded jackets provide much more warmth than non hooded jackets. I use the MB all the time. Weighs less than a hooded fleece and is windproof and much warmer. Its also great for sealing in heat around the head and torso under a loose quilt.

Thanks David. I think I'll get 1 and try it out. I hate to carry those extra 2-4 ounces, but maybe I'll carry my lighter WM Iroqoius bag and wear the Gossamer when its below 35. This bag is about 8 oz. lighter than my Sub Kilo, so maybe I'll be dropping weight by carrying a slightly heavier jacket. ;) Thanks again for the comparison between these 2 jackets.