Wind Jacket

Define affordable.    I actually used a Walmart $20 nylon jacket while I was trying to determine if a wind jacket was suitable for my needs.    It was 12 ounces but had a nice webbed liner that didn’t feel clammy on my bare arms when worn alone.

I use a $50 Marmot piece now that is 5 ounces…. it breaths a little better but other than the weight I had no complaints with the Walmart jacket.

HI Jason – I bought the Patagonia Houdini (XL is 115g, I’m 6’2″/90kg). It’s comfortable, small, light – have a read around – I based my decision on this : https://hikelighter.com/2015/03/05/wind-jackets-take-2/

Used it in the summer in the Alps for the start of the day to take the chill off; when crossing cols and when sitting eating lunch if it was windy.

Now use it for local windy walks with no rain – will be taking it on future trips to the mountains.

Wanted to try it out & discovered that it suits me.

Ed

Hey Kev… Affordable… 50ish for me. I have a heavier one too..looking for a lighter one since I want to also take a rain jacket.  What Marmot jacket ddid u go with?  Thanks for your info

I bought the Marmot Trail Wind Hoody and I have no regrets.   It is more breathable than many which was important to me.    Which flavor you like will depend on what you are trying to achieve.
I was looking for an active layer that would increase my comfort while moving.    There are lighter choices but my experience with others is nill so I’ll let others comment.

I think it is being discontinued.   There are a LOT of choices floating around.

https://www.rei.com/rei-garage/product/109648/marmot-trail-wind-jacket-mens

Don’t know if this fits your requirement but it’s in the ballpark for function and price.

Personally I’m a fan of Montbell Dynamo but they stopped making them although they can still be found with some googling around. Patagonia Houdini seems to be a perennial favorite and used ones pop up from time to time.

I bought this one and it works pretty well for a cheap jacket http://www.ems.com/ems-men%E2%80%99s-fast-pack-jacket/1282114.html#q=wind+jackets&prefn1=brand&prefv1=EASTERN+MOUNTAIN+SPORTS&start=5

But I normally use Luke’s Argon with the pitzips now

https://lukesultralite.com/argon-wind-shell

Try searching online for “wind jackets” and find a good sale. Last year I found the North Face Binary wind jacket on sale online someplace for $40. This jacket is simple and perhaps less breathable than some other brands, but works well for my needs. At 3 ounces it adds quite a bit of warmth and versatility for its weight.

You said, “Can anyone recommend a good affordable windshell?” FOR WHAT?

-Typical temperature range above freezing or below?

-City use, backpacking, or both?

-Bushwhacking use?

-Static, light aerobic, or high aerobic use?

-Required as dual use rainwear when static?

-Required as dual use rainwear when active?

-Durability or weight most important?

Got a Patagonia Houdini for $25 new at the REI garage sale.

I also use an Outdoor Research Ferrosi in a similar role when I need superior articulation and breathability.

Not sure about “affordable” (may vary a bit) but Patagonia just came out with a wind shirt that meets some of Richard Nisley’s more desirable criteria and is under 4oz claimed weight. See link:

http://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-airshed-running-pullover/24190.html?dwvar_24190_color=BSRB&utm_source=em&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=011717_new_styles_m&ett=156388440&dtm_em=