Foo - Looking for a new winter shell

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Hocam
02-01-09, 11:14 AM
So I'm on the hunt for a really nice, wind and water proof breathable hardshell for 3 season ascents of the bumpier NE hills for long day hikes. There's plenty of sales going on and I have a few contenders but was looking for feedback from some of the more outdoorsier foosters. I have a good assortment of mid-layers, so while the 3 in 1 systems (outer shell and zip in liner) seem nice, the liner isn't really needed.

My first choice is the Mountain Hardware Pinnacle jacket (http://www.rei.com/outlet/product/780559), only a shell but looks fantastic. Pit zips, big hood, solid company.

http://media.rei.com/media/nn/b76d41d8-ed6b-4568-96d7-55740ce257fa.jpg

Second in line is the Marmot Spellbound 3 in 1 (http://www.rei.com/product/770764), again not really needing the liner but this one seems really nice. It's cheaper than the Pinnacle and includes an extra layer so what is the hardshell losing in terms of quality?

http://media.rei.com/media/zz/e04c8014-afc6-4f08-a710-d0edd40b8591.jpg

Any other suggestions? I saw the North Face Amplitude triclimate jacket but didn't like the hood closure system, very hard to use even without gloves.

UnsafeAlpine
02-01-09, 11:22 AM
I don't trust anything new from North Face.

Those are pretty nice shells but look for 2 layer Gore-Tex or its equivalent. 3 layer is generally used for severe wind and cold, like light duty mountaineering. 2 layer will breath better and feel more comfortable in higher temps.

Also, it sounds like a soft shell might work well for you, too.