Hey Guys,
I am going to pick up a nice synthetic/active jacket and a down/stationary jacket for my winter hikes, and would like them to double as an around town jacket reasonably well.
I live near Ojai, CA just outside the Los Padres National Forest. I often hike between 3000 and 6000 feet around Sespe Creek, Pine Mountain, and Mckinnley mountain (north of santa barbara, not the famous McKinnley) all in the LPNF. In the winter 20-35* is pretty typical with varying wind, from calm to 20+ mph. I hike far less distance than many of you on here, but can expect do commonly do 5-10 miles in an outing with occasional 10-20 mile days. Being super ultralight is not a big concern, but lighter is always better.
Around Ojai the winter is often 35-50*ish and it would be nice if these jackets could double as an around town jacket when its colder. Above 50ish and I’ll wear a fleece.
For the Down jackets I am most considering the Arcteryx Cerium LT, Montbell Alpine Light Parka, or a Feathered Friends Eos. Any others I should consider? Or of those 3 how do you see the pros/cons/weight to warmth? It seems like the Alpine Light has the best value, while the Eos tempts me the most but is pricey. The Cerium LT seems very nice but I’m worried about how fragile a 7d shell would be.
The Synthetic jackets I’m mostly considering a Arcteryx Proton LT or Montbell Thermawrap Classic. I have no reference for either of these and will likely buy blind. Which would you prefer, why, and what else should I consider?
For other supporting gear at my disposal, I have smart wool base layers, various wind shells, an Arcteryx Alpha FL rain jacket, konseal mid layer, LEAF Naga hoody mid layer, and a couple other wool and fleece layers, nothing major though. I’ve been spoiled by SoCal weather and low elevation hikes, but have been here a couple years and its time to start branching out and up.
Last thought, does Montbell or Feathered Friends do a good black friday sale? we’re close enough I could wait a month if it means 25%+ off
Thanks for any thoughts!
