Topic

Lightweight full zip fleeces?

Viewing 13 posts - 1 through 13 (of 13 total)
Brett Peugh BPL Member
PostedJan 3, 2021 at 9:35 am

Hello all,

 

I like my MH Microchill Lite Full Zip Hoody that I have but I was wondering if there are any other similar lightweight full zip fleeces out there?  My XXL is 10 oz so things in that range would be nice.  Even though I am an XXL, my friend is also looking and he is an L so any suggestions would be appreciated.  Thank you.

Scott S BPL Member
PostedJan 3, 2021 at 8:38 pm

I recently got an Arcteryx Delta LT full zipper jacket. It also comes as a hoodie. It’s 8 ounces (in size small) and I’m very pleased with it so far. It’s become my go-to for pickleball on 40 degree days. It has zero wind resistance, so for a hike I’d pair it with a shell.

Paul S BPL Member
PostedJan 4, 2021 at 3:32 pm

The Mountain Hardware Microchill lite hood! I own one, love it. The day it finally dies I hope I can find a similar substitute! I like that the pockets aren’t zipped..minimalist!

 

 

Jerry Adams BPL Member
PostedJan 4, 2021 at 9:14 pm

Now that you’ve had your question answered, “lightweight” and “fleece” are contradictory

From the by the numbers article, synthetic like apex are 4 times warmer for the same weight

I have a fleece vest I got from my employer.  12 ounces.  But it has pockets, so maybe it would be 10 ounces without pockets

I made an apex vest – 5 ounces.  Its probably twice as warm.

I like wearing the fleece vest around town, in the yard or whatever.  Its more robust.  It’ll last forever.

The apex vest as some ember holes, still usable.  I’ve probably compressed it enough its lost some loft.

Many people like fleece though, for backpacking.  Many different solutions…

Brad W BPL Member
PostedJan 6, 2021 at 1:44 pm

The newer TKA are not what they used to be. The older tighter knit TKA 100 was fantastic. The new version feels like fluffy cheap fleece and piles way too quickly. Mine wore down the elbows after a few days at the office. Disappointing.

Brett Peugh BPL Member
PostedJan 15, 2021 at 5:21 pm

Thank you everyone for their suggestions.  Apex is nice but doesn’t breath well.  The new TKA sounds fun in that is more fluffy and would create more heat under a shell but it does not sound very durable.  Thank you everyone.

kevperro . BPL Member
PostedJan 15, 2021 at 5:47 pm

The best layer for our cold near-freezing rain under a shell is a 100wt fleece in my not so humble opinion.    Of course, that is the hardest to find.    Work supplies me with Eddie Bauer products, with our logo printed on them and I’ve found one I really like.   I have like six different colors.    They are a full-zip but without a hood.    I prefer a fleece watch cap and a neck gaiter which I carry separately.    They go on in camp mainly when I’m cold.    I don’t need a hood other than my baseball cap and the shell hood while I’m moving.

Dale Wambaugh BPL Member
PostedJan 16, 2021 at 8:47 am

@retiredjerry

”Now that you’ve had your question answered, “lightweight” and “fleece” are contradictory”

Indeed, but the stuff works, especially in the soggy parts of the Pacific NW. Packability/compression sucks too. I’m willing to take the trade off for the functionality.

A fleece is just a polyester sweater. I’ve been experimenting with light Merino sweaters as a light fleece alternative.

A fleece is a component in my layering system of base layer/fleece/shell. IMHO, no other alternatives have the versatility.

A Patagonia R1 is my usual choice. I recently acquired an Arcteryx Delta LT that packs better, but it’s only a couple ounces lighter than the R1.

 

Depending on the season, a fleece vest might work, with savings in weight and bulk both. There have been some Power Stretch versions that were good.

PostedJan 16, 2021 at 11:09 am

Arcteryx Delta LT or Delta MX.

I prefer the MX.

Air permeable Polartec Power Dry fleece with voided inner grid construction for great warmth to weight ratio. Also has a smooth face for easy layering.

Approx. 10.3 ounces, tough, warm but super breathable, and typical amazing arcteryx construction and fit.

Very spendy but IMO it’s worth it.

 

Viewing 13 posts - 1 through 13 (of 13 total)
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