Active Insulation

[P Carter]

I've been using a vest more this winter. I have a Sitka Mountain vest (discontinued) that I've been layering over my MDWi (military version of the Ambient Hoody, basically identical) and a light base layer. I've been doing this when the temps are in the low teens to low 20's and there is some wind (not a $hit ton of wind though as my arms would likely get too cold). It's worked pretty well, but other than day hunts, probably not much chance of incorporating it while hunting.

The other vest I've been using is a Montbell Chameece vest—a very light "traditional" fleece. I've been using it under the MDWi and over my base layer when temps drop into the 0-single digits (and not much wind). This has worked pretty well too, but not sure if I'd use it during hunting season either.

I recently picked up an Ambient vest that I think could see some use during hunting season. Early season combined with a base layer and windshirt and possibly very frigid conditions late season used in combination with the MDWi when moving more slowly.

A company called ornot makes an alpha vest. Naked on the back, some light wind proofing on the front. I think 125gsm. It’s a great piece—perfect for running in the teens/twenties when there is a bit of a wind. Would be nice with a pack. Super lightweight—like 4 ounces? Only problem: no pockets since it’s a cycling piece.

 

[mtwarden]

I’ll check into that, sounds interesting

 

[P Carter]

I’ll check into that, sounds interesting

Men's Alpha Riding Vest - Slate

While we love down and synthetic vests, their lack of breathability is undeniable. That’s why we created the Alpha Daily Vest. Using Polartec® Alpha® Direct 90gsm as its foundation, we've designed a vest that not only insulates but also wicks and breathes during active movement. True to its...

www.ornotbike.com

 

[fngTony]

Men's Alpha Riding Vest - Slate

While we love down and synthetic vests, their lack of breathability is undeniable. That’s why we created the Alpha Daily Vest. Using Polartec® Alpha® Direct 90gsm as its foundation, we've designed a vest that not only insulates but also wicks and breathes during active movement. True to its...

www.ornotbike.com

I could definitely use that for hiking but not sure a heavy hunting pack wouldn't destroy the exposed back.

 

[mtwarden]

4 oz is crazy light even for a vest! One place it says 90 g/m, another says 120 g/m???

 

[Bandit16]

I totally agree, sometimes I feel like I’m one of the only ones that can’t stand hoods on my mid layers… the last thing I want is a stack of hoods to deal with…

Im with you I do t want a hood on anything but my coat. If indeed a hood I’m at my max layers. I literally don’t own a hoodie. Lots of quarter zips but can’t stand hood’s.


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[P Carter]

4 oz is crazy light even for a vest! One place it says 90 g/m, another says 120 g/m???

I’m pretty sure it’s 120 gsm. The thickness is between the rab evolute (75 gsm) and beyond alpha aura (186 gsm). Closer to the alpha aura.

The naked alpha seems delicate, but has held up well. Might get torn up on a backpack, but it might be alright.

It’s a nice piece. I’ll come back from a run nice and warm, and there will be a touch of frost on the outer tips of the fabric. Breathes super well, and the wind resistant front does just enough to keep the chill at bay. Definitely a cycling fit…

 

[Oregonhuntrboi]

Im with you I do t want a hood on anything but my coat. If indeed a hood I’m at my max layers. I literally don’t own a hoodie. Lots of quarter zips but can’t stand hood’s.


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I currently don’t have any layers with a hoods but my rain jacket with a hood