Ghost whisperer vs EE Torrid

I had a GW hoody years ago. I didn’t like it much. Not that warm and after getting to camp a bit sweaty from exertion it was like putting on a garbage bag. I’ve had a Torrid now for 2 seasons (with other puffies in between) and it’s a great jacket. It breathes better (not quite like ‘active’ insulation, but decent) and is warm enough for late spring, summer, and early fall trips in coastal Alaska. It packs down incredibly small. I went full 7d fabric and with care I’ve only put one small hole in it. Recommended.

I trend hot while moving but cold at rest. I sold my GW because it left me cold in the low 40’s and I can always justify carrying a couple more oz of down if it means im warm and comfortable. It was ok if it was calm, but if it was windy or humid it left me cool.

To keep me comfortable near freezing in non-ideal conditions I need ~5oz of 800fp down like a Montbell Alpine Light. Never had a Torrid but everyone seems to like them a lot. For reference, the Torrid uses Apex 2.0 oz and Simply Light Designs rate their Apex 2.5 oz quilts at 50 degrees.

Personally, I need more insulation than most 9oz jackets provide to be warm around freezing, unless im in my Plasma 1000 (9.1oz) which is good to the mid 20’s. The plasma is about the same warmth as the Alpine light at 15oz, but more $. YMMV, as I run cold as soon as I stop moving.

I bought a Torrid for my wife. We returned it because of the fit. The arms/sleeves were too narrow (tight) making it difficult to layer underneath it. Also, the upper chest/neck area didn’t fit right. If EE could put  a little more effort into re-tailoring the jacket they would have a slam dunk winner as the jacket is warm and has more loft that you’d think for something so light.

Meanwhike, we use Montbell Superior Down Parka, and Montbell AlpineLight Parka (when it’s a bit colder)- they are well tailored, they fit well. Truem, they are down, so you have to keep them dry but in all our years of backcountry bashing in WA state down has not once been a problem.

I tried a Ghost Whisperer a few years ago and did not like the fit — tight through the chest and arms, armpits cut too high for me.

I found the Ghost Whisperer’s paltry down fill unacceptable here in Montana for a summer Highcountry jacket. I sold it.

Generally I use a Patagonia Micro Puff Hoodie (size M 9.9oz’s) for summer or a Montbell Alpine Light jacket (size M 11.9oz’s) in cooler weather. The Patagonia is noticeably warmer then the Ghost Whisperer (which I consider a waste of ounces and money – but it may have changed, mine was from 4 or 5 years back).

As a down alternative to the Ghost Whisperer I’d suggest the Montbell Superior – I think it’s a better jacket.

Wow no love for the GW here.  I have owned mine since 2014 and absolutely love it. Thing is super warm and if it’s freezing and windy just throw your rain shell over top and you are all set. Had just my GW in 15 degrees Fahrenheit at camp and it keeps me toasty….maybe I run hot *shrug

K2

JR: I find that many puffy jackets have armpit openings that are too high, digging into my armpits.