Front Insulated Apex Vests, Prototype 1 & 2

http://backpackinglight.com/forums/topic/103286/

This thread quickly veers in your direction.  The OP ended up w/ a full zip vest of Argon67 and 2.5oz Apex (front insulation only) at 2.6oz.

Have you considered using a few thin shock cord loops to hold it on?  It’d fit like an apron.  Instead of tying a knot behind your back, use a mitten hook or watch band clip on one side. No velcro worries and no base layer dependencies.  You’re talking a half square yard or less, so you should be able to break 3oz, all in, even w/ 1osy on both sides.

Hi Rene,

I’m the Justin referenced also in that older thread–if you look at the links/older threads that the other Justin, Justin Baker shared on the one above, it links to my original designs, a couple of which Dave Chenault tested.  They to were also sub 3 oz. He recommended some wicking fabric for the lining, as well as better fit.

So yes, i’ve considered very similar.  I may revisit those designs a bit because of their simplicity and light weight.

I think Allen did a great job on his vest design and especially execution.  But, i wouldn’t use Argon or any similar fabric.  Those fabrics are designed to be down proof.  To be down proof, a fabric has to be tightly woven, and typically, such fabrics around or less than 15 cfm.  That’s not breathable enough for active insulation to vent optimal amounts of moisture.  These pieces work best in combo with a windjacket (especially) or rain wear, and having that much wind blocking in combo is no bueno.

The 1.1 oz nylon i most prefer for this application, is much, much, much more breathable.  One of the fabrics i currently have, is easily 3 X more breathable than the UL nylon fabrics typically used for Down quilts.  The fabric is 30 D nylon, low thread count, and uncalendered.  Super breathable.   The other one i have, the black nylon, is less breathable, but still more so than Argon etc.   Probably closer to 30 or so CFM.