options for a light syn vest?

Hi Sean,

For vests I do prefer synthetic for the reasons you mention, I use mine all year round.
Sometimes I carry a Synthetic vest and a down jacket, sometimes a Synethic jacket and a light down hoody, sometimes all synthetic.

Depends where I am going and the weather conditions.

I've not used the Marmot Stride vest buy I have the DriClime hoody (same fabric). I would say that between the thin wicking layer and the wind blocking of the outer windshell layer, it ends up being about the same warmth as a light fleece layer, but with wind/moisture blocking.

The running companies all make running vests — basically their running jackets minus the sleeves. These tend to be a bit heavier/warmer fabric than ultralight windshirt fabric.

The first layer I always put on when I start to get chilly hiking is a Patagonia Nine Trails jacket. No hood. Houdini fabric on the front, sides, and arms. Thin stretchy breathable fabric across the back and under the arms.

http://www.patagonia.com/us/product/mens-nine-trails-jacket?p=25020-1

4.4 ounces. Zips into a tiny pocket pouch. Takes just a bit of the chill off while still being very breathable. I wore it most of the day on a breezy fall weather hike in the mountains the other day and it's also the first layer I go to over warmer baselayers in the winter.

Ito- definitely has happened to me more w/ moist weather, but occasionally dry as well- like you said it really sneaks up on you, you're warm, moving well and then out of the blue you start getting slightly chilled and it's tough to shake (I've been known to take 45 minute warm showers at home just to revive!)

Stephen- good to know, sounds like an ideal layer for on the move!

down vs syn- I'll still use my down vest for warmer three season backpacking trips, but the syn will likely be used w/ higher exertion stuff- so in that sense, it might be a little more flexible than down (but w/ a weight penalty)

Look at The North Face new synthetic puff ball insulation (or whatever that call it).

"Supposably" has very good loft rebound after stuffing.

Otherwise look for a Climashield filled vest for good loft retention.

Personally I'd go with an LL Bean down vest with the new Down Tec DWR treatment.