Sitka Jetstream vs Kelvin

[Takeem406]

Looking to buy a Jetstream vest but my local store only has a Kelvin in my size.
I need something for years round for when I'm on the go hiking around and full jacket is too much. Probably just something to keep my core warm and still keep my arms free.
Should I go ahead with the Kelvin or order a Jetstream. Now what about the Jetstream Lite vs the original?
Thanks!

 

[Takeem406]

So the Kelvin is a "puff" style and the Jetstream is more of a soft shell?? I see the Jetstream jacket has a pit zip, might be better in the long run???

 

[ScottR_EHJ]

Jetstream is a play on words to show the jacket is a wind breaker.

 

[Steve O]

I'd order the Jestream. I have both. The Kelvin is made to go on the inside and it is HOT. Whenever I am in the mountains I have one smushed in my pack. I know if I get stuck out overnight I will be comfortable.

 

[Takeem406]

Probably go for a jacket before a vest?

 

[ScottR_EHJ]

Do you sweat a lot? Vests are good for guys who do, less heat in the arms and pits.

 

[Takeem406]

Yep I do when I'm moving. Probably get a Jetstream jacket and a Kelvin vest when it gets really cold? How does the Jetstream jacket work when your on the hike and it's too cold for just a base layer?

 

[ScottR_EHJ]

The jetstream is a windbreaker so it won't breathe as well as other soft shells. it will be better than a rain jacket, but you might want to consider the 90% jacket if you are really wanting Sitka.

 

[ScottR_EHJ]

And yes, a light puffy for mild early season, and a heavier fill for late season.

 

[bbrown]

you might want to consider the 90% jacket if you are really wanting Sitka.

This is my set up exactly and it is perfect for most conditions. I don't use the kelvin lite vest a lot when moving because it gets hot but when its THAT cold these 2 along with some good base layers (FL Llano and Sitka Traverse for me) and your good to go. The vest comes out a bunch when I sit down to glass though.
A few times I wished I went with the Jetstream for the wind cutting abilities but at the same time if I am expecting bad weather I usually leave the 90% at home and opt for the Cloudburst as my outer layer.

 

[Matt W.]

Check out the First Lite Uncompahgre if you can. Combine that with a soft shell vest and you'd be plenty warm. Vest for hiking in cool / cold weather, Uncompahgre for when you stop moving.

 

[ScottR_EHJ]

Check out the First Lite Uncompahgre if you can. Combine that with a soft shell vest and you'd be plenty warm. Vest for hiking in cool / cold weather, Uncompahgre for when you stop moving.

Very good all purpose jacket.

 

[Takeem406]

Went ahead and bought a Jetstream vest. Saved 40 bucks off eBay.
This should work great!