Yup, different places, conditions, times of year, length of trip, size of pack all call for different clothing "tools."

Probably the only jacket I carry 12 months/year is a 3oz Patagonia windshirt. All else is selected based on the variables above.

I found that once I abandoned the search for a do-all garment, I was a lot happier with what was available. Zipout linings and the like aren't well-suited to lightweight travel.
Quote:
I'm with Paddy. Everything is a compromise. You have to pick a jacket for the conditions. Rainy? You want a hardshell. Bushwhacking? You want durable. Cold? You want lots of insulation. So for me there is no perfect jacket. Maybe perfect for a particular trip but that's all.
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--Rick