Houdini sizing/layering question

[Gerald L]

I'm considering the purchase of a Houdini and have a question about sizing. I am 5'10", 165lbs and usually wear a size large shirt/jacket.I would be using this as a mid windshirt as well as a shell over a bulky fleece when conditions dictate. Should I size up to an XL and if so would I then feel like I am wearing a tarp when used as a mid over a lightweight base layer?

[Bob Bankhead]

Sizes are not always the same for each manufacturer (Montbell comes to mind). Here's what I do for situations like yours.

Find a store that carries the item desired.
Wear – or carry – the different layers that will be involved.
At the store, mix and match accordingly.
Purchase the size you need.

I'm 5'9 and 190 lbs. My large Houdini works fine over a base layer – even a 260 weight merino. Only you know which combination is the more common when you hike; base + WS or fleece + WS.

Depending on how "bulky" your fleece layer is, I suspect you'll want to go up to an XL so as to not risk compressing the insulation. If that means you'll flap a bit with just a base layer, that's the price you have to pay for the thermal efficiency with the heavier fleece.

[Steve K]

I have both the 2012 and 2013 Houdini in medium. I am 5'11 190#. In Patagonia and other well-tailored brands I wear a medium, but I wear a large on other simpler patterned clothes.

The old 2012 Houdini in Medium fits great with a R1. A light synthetic puff vest fits underneath as well, but snugly. The new 2013 Houdini in Medium fits great with a t-shirt. Definitely will not fit an R1 as it is snug across my chest. Large fits decently, and I'd guess would layer fine with a 200wt fleece, depending on the cut of the fleece.

[Gerald L]

Thank you both for the input. I don't live close to a retailer that carries the Houdini so I'm counting on experience from those who have owned this particular jacket. I dislike returning ordered items so thought I would get some feedback before making a decision.

Cheers

[Hamish McHamish]

For Patagonia jackets I wear a Large for the normal fit and an XL for the slim fit. I had to get the Houdini in an XXL to have any room for an insulating layer. The XL was too snug when worn over a 100-weight fleece pullover.

[bjc]

6'1" and 190. I layer a large over a base and mid layer. It is snug but comfortable. I don't like baggy since I run in it too. On the other hand I sized up to an XL for my waterproof.

[Chris Chandler]

Hey Stephen–

I'd be interested to hear more comparisons of the 2012 vs 2013. Don't want to hijack this thread but wasn't able to PM you

[Rick Reno]

…and return whichever doesn't fit?

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