top/rain layer option

Posted by: MarkNM

top/rain layer option - 05/17/10 07:26 PM

since joining this forum i've been thinking lots! lots about cutting my weight/combining options...as i go through my heavy winter gear i've come across my NF hard shell jacket...i was thinking couldn't i use this year round?
no liner...and put over my baselayer if it starts to rain and open up all the vents...and if things get chilly perhaps put on my midweight layer over base, and this on top?

Northface doesn't make my shell - the FreeThinker anylonger
but here is a close example...mine is around 14oz

http://www.thenorthface.com/catalog/sc-g...mp;cm_vc=Search
Posted by: ChrisFol

Re: top/rain layer option - 05/17/10 07:54 PM

Originally Posted By MarkNM

Northface doesn't make my shell - the FreeThinker anylonger
but here is a close example...mine is around 14oz

http://www.thenorthface.com/catalog/sc-g...mp;cm_vc=Search


A quick Google on the FreeThinker tells me that the jacket is around 36.6oz, depending on the size of course.

http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/The-North-Face-Free-Thinker-Jacket-Mens/TNF1233M.html

Softshell jackets are technically built for winter conditions; they tend to be heavy and overkill for the rest of the year when all you need is protection from the rain and wind. Could you use one year-round? Of course you can, but do I think that it is worth its weight for regular three-season use in the COUNS, most certainly not.

If you are happy with it and you don't mind lugging it around, then don't worry about it.