Building A Layering System

[Dos XX]

I have been reading threads for almost a month. I have gathered some info, but it gets overwhelming. I am building a layering system for backpack hunting, spot and stalk. My immediate need will be day hunt from base camp. Some Sitka stuff is on sale now for 30% off , and I have picked up some pieces but could use some help finishing it off. I would like to be covered down to maybe 0 degrees though teens or 20's is probably more realistic of what I will see. I am more worried about being warm when not hiking.

I have a lot of base layer, mostly Patagonia capilene from silk weight to expedition weight. I also have 150 t0 200 ish Smart wool shirts and long pants. I am open to other base layers, though.

I have picked up Sitka Apex pants, core heavy weight hoody, core light weight hoody, mountain vest, and kelvin light hoody. I like the Apex pants and they are a keeper. I feel like I need a heavier pair as well. Mountain or Timberline, maybe?

I am wondering about a heavier, warmer upper layer or outer piece as well. Do I need more wind stopper? Mountain jacket? Stormfront? I wouldn't mind a water proof jacket, though I do have a Patagonia lightweight rain jacket and I am going to be hunting desert initially, so it may work for now for rain gear. That has me wondering about something to add a little more warmth maybe?

I won't receive the kelvin light hoody or core lightweight hoody until tomorrow, so they could be returned or exchanged. I really like the core heavy weight hoody and have worn it several times already. I think it is a keeper.

 

[Back Country Hunter 2]

Backpacking when it goes down to 0 degrees is different than when it goes down to 20 degrees. For down to 20 degree backpack hunting, I’m running mostly what you already have. For top layers I have: SS merino shirt, core lightweight hoody, heavyweight hoody, kelvin lite jacket, rain gear top. Bottom layers I use: Kuiu zip off merino 145, apex pants, and rain gear bottom. The other layers I have, but don’t pack for backpack hunting are: Jetstream jacket, timberline pants, Kuiu superdown pants, and Kifaru LPP. I use those for rifle hunts in the later seasons here in CO. Keep in mind I only backpack hunt during September in Colorado. You have a lot of great pieces!

 

[Dos XX]

Thanks. That is helpful.

I live a long way from where I am hunting, so I don't want to show up under prepared for the possible weather. I kind of felt like I might need one step warmer worth of stuff. I also don't want to buy and carry stuff I don't need.