I might get a fleece jacket to replace my puffy, for my insulation layer. This is for long day hikes, 4 seasons. I find that below freezing, things get wet when I’m in snow, and here in the Pacific Northwest there’s the 35-and-rain scenario to contend with as well. My understanding is that fleece insulates better than down or synthetics like Primaloft when wet. I’ll be bringing something to block the wind to put over the fleece, if there’s wind. Thus I don’t want wind blocking to be part of the fleece jacket itself.
For this setup, it seems that insulation is where the piece’s weight should go, for two reasons: (1) the purpose is insulation, (2) often the fleece will be under something else, rendering pockets not very useful. I think I want a fleece with only a hood, a full zip, and a bunch (yes, vague) of warmth (probably 300 weight), less than 15 ounces. No pockets. Some bulk is ok.
Does anyone know of a weight-efficient full zip hooded 300 weight fleece with no pockets? I’ve not been able to find one. I may have to settle for something with pockets. I cringe at the weight.
