Sitka Core Heavyweight Zip Hoody vs Traverse Zip-T

[cornfedkiller]

Alright experts.. I need your opinions on the core heavyweight hoody vs the traverse zip T. I know Sitka lists the core hoody as a "next to skin" and the Traverse as "insulation", but and I'm looking for an insulating mid layer when it's cold (under a Fanatic jacket when treestand hunting or under like a Jetstream jacket), and as an outer layer when it's just chilly. I know the Traverse would fit this bill perfectly, but they are out of stock for the rest of the season, so I'm wondering if the heavyweight core would work well for this situation. I think the warmth value would be about the same, but the main difference would be the outer fabric. Unsure how the outer fabric on the heavyweight core would hold up when wearing it as an outer layer.

What do you guys think? Should I just wait until next year when I can get the traverse again?

 

[davescarp]

the fabric on the this year's traverse line is substantially more durable than the core series. I'd say they the core would be more breathable, but if you're busting any brush at all, teh core isn't what you want. the traverse will hold up better for sure. insulation wise they are fairly comparable, the traverse might be a touch warmer since the face fabric is a bit more wind resistant. what size are you, I have a solid colored traverse that I'm probably not going to use?

 

[cornfedkiller]

Davescarp - that's kinda what I was thinking, so I'll probably wait til next year and order the Traverse.

Thanks for the offer - I actually have a solid gray traverse that I can wear as a mid layer when it's cold. And I suppose I could wear the gray one with a vest when it's cool..

 

[Rucker61]

I asked Sitka the same question. They replied "
Thanks for reaching out! They are very similar in style and warmth. Just a
few key features are different. The traverse is going to be a little less
comfortable, but a little more durable. Where as the heavweight will wick
away moisture efficiently as well as be comfortable next to skin."

The rep didn't know if the Traverse would get they new odor treatment next year.

 

[Where's Bruce?]

Go merino zip tee or go home. Everything else sucks by comparison.

 

[tipsntails7]

Go merino zip tee or go home. Everything else sucks by comparison.

For an insulating mid layer, wool is heavy for its warmth... Base layer sure, they are good. But in my opinion fleeces are much much better second layers. Lighter than wool, warmer than wool, dry faster than wool.