I’ve used most of the older Strongfleece layers. It’s too bad they don’t bring back the Kutana Hybrid 3defx…basically strong fleece with a light layer of insulation. Didn’t suffer the same problems with durability that mid layers usually struggle with, and it had a touch of synthetic...
Hip vents in the mountain pants and ascent pants would make those pants much better than the competition. I have the equinox guard pants, and they work great in them—i like the fit of the mountain pants better though. I don’t think I’ve worn a pant with a fabric like the ascent…with hip vents...
I think a puffy with a laminate like the Kelvin Down WS (or non-hunting brand options) would be a nice compliment to this system for most later season, high exertion activities.
Barklow said that the fabric in the MDWi is inferior to the Evolve insulation they use in the Ambient. He didn’t say how inferior it was, but he made a point to differentiate them. I like the hooded “shacket” that they discontinued. I think it’s an awesome mid layer for most of the year and...
outdoor vitals pants have one, but they aren’t cut very loose fit and the zipped vents have the cheapest zipper possible. I think the SG pants are the next best option to the OG prana pants. OR, go with suspenders like the FL pants offer that don’t get in the way of a hip belt.
I wish there were other solid colored options than black. I have the flash pullover…I agree. I wear the mountain vest a lot underneath layers…similar to how Barklow mentions this piece should be used. The idea of having a breathable layer for the back is what makes this most appealing. I...
Kelvin Lite Down from Sitka has been versatile. I think they nailed it with the design of the synthetic in the areas you need it and enough synthetic mixed with the down to keep insulation if wet. There’s enough solid colors out there that you can find it for less than $200
Outdoor Research Ferrosi has been great. Cheap too. Not very durable, though. I like the Kuiu Kutana’s if going to be anywhere other than a trail in the heat.
Barklow seems to think this is a true 2nd layer piece. after your core layer, it’s this. Then insulation in the next layer. I’m intrigued by that. Anybody wear windstopper like that? There’s not many body mapped windstopper pieces.
I have two pieces that I’m relisting. Both are lightly used, just not using them much and thinning the closet.
Kuiu Strong Fleece 260 in Ash, Large - $125
Sitka Aerolite Vest in Lead, Large - $75 (Sold)
Prices are to your door. Both pieces are very lightly used and in excellent condition.
There’s few things worth paying full price for with Sitka. The only things that are stubborn to come down in price are current model stuff in camo. 20% might be the best you’ll find. But if there’s a rumor to updating it, it will get discounted big time this summer. I think many people...
The Strong Fleece 260 is more durable. In fact, they don’t make it anymore, but the Kutana Hybrid Jacket is my all-time favorite backpacking piece for that purpose…the strong fleece sleeves and the light insulation.
I view the Origin as more of a turkey/whitetail piece. Versatile layer...
I’ve had one for a few months. I love it. The material is similar to Kuiu Strong Fleece, just a little softer. It’s got great warmth for a midlayer, nice DWR treatment, and a great athletic fit. It’s not going to stop wind at all, but it serves well for an outerlayer when active; I pair it...
I have a waxed jacket from Wintergreen out of Ely Minnesota. It’s fantastic. A great all-around layer and a jacket I use nearly daily for 3 seasons. It wasn’t cheap, but it’s a buy it for life piece. I don’t use it for backpacking, just day trips. Love the durability and the look.