Puffy jacket

Wireman07

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Apr 1, 2017
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Watertown,SD
Trying to decide between a synthetic puffy jacket. I dont want down. I'm either thinking the new FL Uncompahgre, Kuiu Kenai or Sitka Kelvin. Would like to hear some thoughts and experiences from you guys! Thank you!
 

Trr15

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Feb 16, 2014
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I’ve had all three as well (original uncompahgre) and I’ve found that the kelvin is the least breathable, Kenai the most breathable (too much to be used for an outer layer in my opinion). I like the fit of the uncompahgre the least as it fits about a full size too big. All things considered, I’d go with the kelvin, but I wouldn’t mind trying the newest version of the uncompahgre.


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OP
Wireman07

Wireman07

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Watertown,SD
I’ve had all three as well (original uncompahgre) and I’ve found that the kelvin is the least breathable, Kenai the most breathable (too much to be used for an outer layer in my opinion). I like the fit of the uncompahgre the least as it fits about a full size too big. All things considered, I’d go with the kelvin, but I wouldn’t mind trying the newest version of the uncompahgre.


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I was looking hard at the kelvin, is it about as quiet as the kenai?
 

Trr15

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The Kenai is quieter because the outer fabric is softer and more breathable. The kelvin isn’t loud by any means though.


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1shotgear

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Jun 8, 2015
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Another vote for the Kelvin. I have run it for about 150 days total in the back country and it has held up great. Really worm and has the best abrasion resistance of the three of those for sure.
 

LJ Buck

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Oct 7, 2013
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If you want a step up the warmth go with the Lost Parka. The kelvin is a nice jacket but the kenia alway surprises me on how warm it is and how breathable at the same time.

Come Sept I prefer a warm jacket like Lost parka or Grumman puffy for a backpack hunt where it is my main piece of insulation.
 

2blade

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Jan 4, 2015
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I've owned all 3 and the uncompahgre is the only one I have left. Love the shooters cut for bowhunting.
 
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tdot

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Aug 18, 2014
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BC
It's funny all the varied responses here. I personally found the Kenai to be the single best insulating piece I've ever had. I prefer my insulation layers to be under a shell jacket, so that is probably why I prefer it to the others. I dont want multiple jackets that all sorta do the same thing. So I don't need a puffy that is a poor exterior shell. I'd rather a proper shell. In more moderate conditions I also like the quietness and breathability of the Kenai.
 
Joined
May 8, 2017
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Kifaru Lost Park Parka lol. I have the lost park and the FL Uncomp. Both are outstanding. I've only heard positives of the others you listed as well
 

wannabemtnman

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Mar 23, 2020
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Kerrville
Kelvin is my go to, FL Uncompahgre and Kenai didn't fit me as well (being a thinner person) but the Kenai was more breathable.
 
Joined
Apr 24, 2019
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Between the Kuiu Kenai or Sitka Kelvin I think the Sitka is quieter. Both are quality products though for warmth. I don't have experience with the FL. I ultimately went with a Kuiu down for weight and wear it under an outer layer if I'm moving, because it's definitely noisier.
 

Vernon

FNG
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Apr 3, 2020
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Uncompahgre gets my vote! Never owned the Sitka but have owned the Kenai which I also liked but not as much as my Uncompahgre puffy.
 

Benjblt

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mtwarden

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Montana
^ this- Apex insulation- you choose the correct weight, you can even combine weights ie lighter in the sleeves, heavier in the core.

fully customizable- multiple fabrics to choose from, you can add length to the sleeves, to the length of the garment, pockets, full zip or pullover, the list goes on

I have a couple of years on mine and myriad of trips

Oh- the also make custom Apex insulated pants too :)
 

nuclear worker

Lil-Rokslider
Joined
Mar 2, 2019
Messages
134
If you like the design of the Lost Parka, you may want to check out the custom jackets by Nunatak Gear. You can a super warm jacket that is far lighter than any of the stock jackets that you mentioned.
I have a Nunataks jacket and pants made for a Dall Sheep hunt I did in tha Arctic Circle loved them. My wife is having a set made now for our 3 season Elk hunt this year.
 
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