Guide pants are warmer I combine the guide pants with waffles long johns, pretty warm and no Michelin man. Kenai with guide dcs is t enough for serious cold. I debate getting the Down coat every year. Lots of cash for me.
Call customer service explain your needs. They’ll spend $1200 so fast you’ll be swooning. But, you’ll probably be warm and not tired from lugging 35 lbs of carhart clothing.
I’ve settled on Filson Mackinaw vest coat and pants layered over thinsulate quilted underwear for cold tree stand hunts. Kuiu when I’ll be moving more or temps move from 20 - 60 degrees
----------The weather is here I wish you were beautiful----------
December 18, 2020, 03:52 PM
Ackks
quote:
Originally posted by reflex/deflex 64: Guide pants are warmer I combine the guide pants with waffles long johns, pretty warm and no Michelin man. Kenai with guide dcs is t enough for serious cold. I debate getting the Down coat every year. Lots of cash for me.
Call customer service explain your needs. They’ll spend $1200 so fast you’ll be swooning. But, you’ll probably be warm and not tired from lugging 35 lbs of carhart clothing.
I’ve settled on Filson Mackinaw vest coat and pants layered over thinsulate quilted underwear for cold tree stand hunts. Kuiu when I’ll be moving more or temps move from 20 - 60 degrees
I've considered the Filson Mackinaw pants as well. If you could own just one which would you pick? I was thinking about buying Kuiu and a $40 pair of surplus wool pants, but am open to either.
I talked to Kuiu and have to do some thinking. They are a layer system, so I just have to figure out where I'd get the most value with what I already own. There is a "breathable" Carhartt nylon shell with a water repellent finish in my closet. The breathable aspect isn't something I buy, but it has zippered pits, and is rugged. I'm leaning towards staying with that as a shell, which knocks a few of their products out for me. It would probably be the Kenai or one of the Super Downs.
December 18, 2020, 04:08 PM
reflex/deflex 64
Filson vs Kuiu. They serve complete different purposes for me. If I’m moving the Kuiu are hard to beat the stretch makes a world of difference. Filson is heavy and ridiculously expensive but I believe they justify the cost over the years they will last.
If you have a higher metabolism and don’t tend to suffer in winter Kuiu is good stuff. I like it and tend to run warm. If your cold blooded plan on the expense of down to stay loyal to the brand. For warmth skip the guide dcs maybe axis instead same weight with better wind protection.
I started Filson. Went to Kuiu, I’d reverse if I had it to do over. I’m spending more time elk hunting now.
----------The weather is here I wish you were beautiful----------
December 19, 2020, 08:31 AM
smlsig
quote:
Originally posted by C-Dubs: When it hits about 10° below or more, that's when I break out my Carhartt Arctic. --------》 Carhartt Arctic
I have the optional detachable hood as well.
We had the opportunity to go up to Deadhorse AK this summer (at the beginning of the pipeline) and went into the general store there. Most of what they sold was geared specifically to the folks that worked on the pipeline 24/7/365 and they exclusively sold Carhartt like this..
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December 19, 2020, 11:36 AM
Ackks
quote:
Originally posted by smlsig:
quote:
Originally posted by C-Dubs: When it hits about 10° below or more, that's when I break out my Carhartt Arctic. --------》 Carhartt Arctic
I have the optional detachable hood as well.
We had the opportunity to go up to Deadhorse AK this summer (at the beginning of the pipeline) and went into the general store there. Most of what they sold was geared specifically to the folks that worked on the pipeline 24/7/365 and they exclusively sold Carhartt like this..
I have a Carhartt Extremes jacket from a few years ago, but it's not a Yukon. I'll have to see if my local store has one in stock.
quote:
Originally posted by reflex/deflex 64: Filson vs Kuiu. They serve complete different purposes for me. If I’m moving the Kuiu are hard to beat the stretch makes a world of difference. Filson is heavy and ridiculously expensive but I believe they justify the cost over the years they will last.
If you have a higher metabolism and don’t tend to suffer in winter Kuiu is good stuff. I like it and tend to run warm. If your cold blooded plan on the expense of down to stay loyal to the brand. For warmth skip the guide dcs maybe axis instead same weight with better wind protection.
I started Filson. Went to Kuiu, I’d reverse if I had it to do over. I’m spending more time elk hunting now.
I remember from a Joe Rogan podcast the guy who won Alone wore Kuiu and looked up what he had. Holy cow, have you seen the pricing on their ran gear? $350+ each for the top and bottoms. They are obviously for a different use, but that makes the Filson pants look like a bargain. They must make good stuff though because their solid color Guide pants are sold out until September.
December 19, 2020, 12:20 PM
ArtieS
I would get the LL Bean Maine Warden's set. 3 in 1 Gor-Tex jacket system and Gore-Tex pants. Will set you back $600 or so for the entire kit, but it's fabulous stuff, designed and engineered for working outdoors, and the guarantee / warranty can't be beat. Not the flashiest looking, but in the serious cold, performance is what counts.
Additional layering underneath will keep you warm in the coldest environments.
LL Bean makes some fashionable stuff, and some serious stuff. Their serious stuff is first rate.
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December 19, 2020, 06:26 PM
Ackks
^That looks like a good one. The nice thing is the layers are meant to work together.
December 19, 2020, 09:50 PM
Bassamatic
If I am serious about staying warm, Carhartt lined bibs always get the job done.
.....never marry a woman who is mean to your waitress.
December 20, 2020, 01:43 AM
ptb351
quote:
Originally posted by ArtieS: I would get the LL Bean Maine Warden's set. 3 in 1 Gor-Tex jacket system and Gore-Tex pants. Will set you back $600 or so for the entire kit, but it's fabulous stuff, designed and engineered for working outdoors, and the guarantee / warranty can't be beat. Not the flashiest looking, but in the serious cold, performance is what counts.
Additional layering underneath will keep you warm in the coldest environments.
LL Bean makes some fashionable stuff, and some serious stuff. Their serious stuff is first rate.
I have a ton of of winter jackets/coats. Having an L L Bean outlet in town doesn't hurt.
My wife bought me a Bean Warden coat years ago. If it comes down to it, weather wise, I have supreme confidence in the Warden parka. I believe I could go out, sit in a snow bank, and read a book with zero issue. It is ridiculously warm.
We get some seriously cold days in the winter, and sometimes my wife will ask "why don't you wear your Bean parka?" I tell her "because I would melt...not nearly cold enough for that."
December 20, 2020, 11:15 AM
corsair
quote:
Originally posted by Ackks: I'd be using them for winter hiking, snowshoeing, sitting in a tree stand, etc.
I wear a wool base with polar fleece over it. Those two layers stay on, and I add and subtract layers over them depending on if I'm moving or sitting. I listed -20 because I'm aiming for a bit below zero, and like a sleeping bag, I want some extra for comfort and just in case.
Outdoor brands like Marmot, Mountain Hardwear, and Eddie Bauer down jackets work alright, but they are very delicate. My hope with Kuiu or something similar was wearing them without a protective shell.
OK, so one sedentary activity and two moderate activities, although the snowshoeing can get pretty vigorous and aerobic.
You're right on the money with layering, for all those activities, the ability to shed or, add layers is key. If you already have an assortment of mid- and base-layers, then you're more than half-way there. Personally, I prefer 3-layer laminated jackets versus traditional 2-layer jackets: they breathe better, packs-up better, easier to layer, and usually much better face fabrics. The downside is older 3L construction was rather stiff and kinda crunchy, and then there's the cost...yeah, you pay for performance. Costs and fabric stiffness has come down quite a bit over the last 5-years so things are improving. 3-in-1 type jackets offer good value, just depends on the shell jkt construction (most are 2L) and the type of liner that comes with (down, synthetic, good fleece, cheap fleece).
A number of brands have been listed, I've been in the outdoor industry for 25+ years and seen much: TNF...big name, has some solid styles, trying too hard to appease too broad an audience, disappointed many recently Patagona...not known for innovating but, solid designs, if you like activism with your clothing Arc'Teryx...only builds 3L jackets, LEAF collection (Alpha & Alpha LT) should be considered especially now with a few sales, owned by Chinese company Mountain Hardware...owned by Columbia, once innovative brand has fallen on hard times since the acquisition Black Diamond...only builds 3L jackets, fit can be an issue Outdoor Research...plucky mid-sized outdoor brand that continues to find its niche in the industry Marmot...once respected technical brand with a few remaining legacy styles (Minimalist & Spire Jkt), now run into the ground since being acquired by Newell Columnia...mass market outdoor brand that services the non-technical consumer, massive 3-in-1 jkt assortment
Sitka...initially created by former Kiui owner, now owned by Gore, first hunt brand focused on performance Kiui...performance hunt brand for elk and sheep hunters First Lite...first hunt brand to introduce Merino wool as a collection, impressed with their SEAK technology. Simms...performance fishing brand, solid designers, jackets can be overbuilt but, very solid.
Filson...brand designed for loggers and prospectors in the early 20th century with some hunt application, best technology is waxed canvas and wool, wouldn't hike in it but, solid workwear and lifestyle. Fjallraven...the Filson-of-Sweden uses same technology with some modern designs, higher cost for lifestyle-look, best selling item is a backpack.
December 20, 2020, 11:42 AM
Ackks
quote:
Originally posted by corsair:
OK, so one sedentary activity and two moderate activities, although the snowshoeing can get pretty vigorous and aerobic.
You're right on the money with layering, for all those activities, the ability to shed or, add layers is key. If you already have an assortment of mid- and base-layers, then you're more than half-way there. Personally, I prefer 3-layer laminated jackets versus traditional 2-layer jackets: they breathe better, packs-up better, easier to layer, and usually much better face fabrics. The downside is older 3L construction was rather stiff and kinda crunchy, and then there's the cost...yeah, you pay for performance. Costs and fabric stiffness has come down quite a bit over the last 5-years so things are improving. 3-in-1 type jackets offer good value, just depends on the shell jkt construction (most are 2L) and the type of liner that comes with (down, synthetic, good fleece, cheap fleece).
A number of brands have been listed, I've been in the outdoor industry for 25+ years and seen much: TNF...big name, has some solid styles, trying too hard to appease too broad an audience, disappointed many recently Patagona...not known for innovating but, solid designs, if you like activism with your clothing Arc'Teryx...only builds 3L jackets, LEAF collection (Alpha & Alpha LT) should be considered especially now with a few sales, owned by Chinese company Mountain Hardware...owned by Columbia, once innovative brand has fallen on hard times since the acquisition Black Diamond...only builds 3L jackets, fit can be an issue Outdoor Research...plucky mid-sized outdoor brand that continues to find its niche in the industry Marmot...once respected technical brand with a few remaining legacy styles (Minimalist & Spire Jkt), now run into the ground since being acquired by Newell Columnia...mass market outdoor brand that services the non-technical consumer, massive 3-in-1 jkt assortment
Sitka...initially created by former Kiui owner, now owned by Gore, first hunt brand focused on performance Kiui...performance hunt brand for elk and sheep hunters First Lite...first hunt brand to introduce Merino wool as a collection, impressed with their SEAK technology. Simms...performance fishing brand, solid designers, jackets can be overbuilt but, very solid.
Filson...brand designed for loggers and prospectors in the early 20th century with some hunt application, best technology is waxed canvas and wool, wouldn't hike in it but, solid workwear and lifestyle. Fjallraven...the Filson-of-Sweden uses same technology with some modern designs, higher cost for lifestyle-look, best selling item is a backpack.
The only hard part about having an assortment of layers is they don't all work well together vs buying something like the 3-layer which was designed to. Like you mentioned, can I trust some of the name brands to hold up after the investment? I picked up an Eddie Bauer down jacket on sale two weeks ago, but would I be better putting that $130 towards a Kiui or other option? Will there really be a huge difference in warmth and durability, especially if they would both be mostly under shells?
I'm leaning more towards something like the LL Bean as the thread goes along.
December 21, 2020, 10:22 AM
corsair
quote:
Originally posted by Ackks: The only hard part about having an assortment of layers is they don't all work well together vs buying something like the 3-layer which was designed to. Like you mentioned, can I trust some of the name brands to hold up after the investment? I picked up an Eddie Bauer down jacket on sale two weeks ago, but would I be better putting that $130 towards a Kiui or other option? Will there really be a huge difference in warmth and durability, especially if they would both be mostly under shells?
I'm leaning more towards something like the LL Bean as the thread goes along.
Some garments are made to be worn as a system or, layers, and others are simply geared for single-wear use..building-car-building. Just got to do a bit of research and see if certain styles are made as apart of an assortment or, a stand-alone. All 3L garments are designed to be worn as a system, the majority of 3L shells are using at least 40D face fabric, Fall/Winter styles you'll find shells that are in the 60D & 70D face fabrics which are plenty tough but still packable, most ski jackets are at least 70D face.
LL Bean does a great job of making general use styles (that 3L Warden Jkt looks like it'll work), which fits the broadest range of body types. Kiui is definitely a more athletic-fit, its users are much more active since they're hiking up great distances chasing sheep and elk.
As you weigh your choices, consider which garment you'll wear the most, and that should be where you make your investment. Personally, I only wear my hardshell when its really wet or, cold when I need to batten down the hatches, otherwise, I wear a lot of soft-shells.
January 05, 2021, 12:49 PM
Ackks
I'm going to wait until LL Bean has a 20% coupon. In the meantime, who makes best civilian version of the L7 ECWCS? I'm not looking for Rotcho or Tru-spec, but does Kuiu make a comparable parka? Maybe Patagonia since they have the contract?
A buddy of mine swears by the L7 when he hunts and says it holds up well against brush. A place called SEKRI makes them for the military and has an outlet store in Kentucky. Unfortunately, there isn't a place like that near me, and I'm wary of rolling the dice with all the fakes online.
January 05, 2021, 05:29 PM
corsair
quote:
Originally posted by Ackks: I'm going to wait until LL Bean has a 20% coupon. In the meantime, who makes best civilian version of the L7 ECWCS? I'm not looking for Rotcho or Tru-spec, but does Kuiu make a comparable parka? Maybe Patagonia since they have the contract?
A buddy of mine swears by the L7 when he hunts and says it holds up well against brush. A place called SEKRI makes them for the military and has an outlet store in Kentucky. Unfortunately, there isn't a place like that near me, and I'm wary of rolling the dice with all the fakes online.
Your buddy is hunting in a heavy-synthetic insulated parka? I guess if you're in a hide site or, stand, that makes sense; static position for several hours. The L7 was developed for Norway and Alaska, the light face fabric is packable, allows for air permeability and dries fast. Its designed so you can wear your overwhites on top or, a smock while in a hide-site. ECWCS was developed for big army reflecting in some part to USSOCOM's PCU system; ECWCS has since been replaced with Cold Temperature and Arctic Protection System (CTAPS) SEKRI is the military contract company...Very.Basic. Compared to what's on the commercial market, it looks like a 3rd grader put it together.
The below are better alternatives to the issue ECWCS L7:
He throws it on when he gets to the stand, but wears it going back to his truck. I was talking to him about the LL Bean and he suggested it.
Thanks for the alternatives. Any big difference between the Wild Things and Otte?
January 05, 2021, 08:28 PM
corsair
quote:
Originally posted by Ackks: He throws it on when he gets to the stand, but wears it going back to his truck. I was talking to him about the LL Bean and he suggested it.
Thanks for the alternatives. Any big difference between the Wild Things and Otte?
They're all using the same materials more or, less, biggest issue for guys going down range was who had inventory. Both are using PrimaLoft synthetic fill, WT doesn't list the how much whereas OG is using 200g which is quite a bit, very toasty. Most tech outdoor brands will have 80g for their standard all-around jackets and 100g or, 120g for their warmer styles. OG details are pretty sharp also, and they have 4 outer pockets, 2 chest, 2 hand, along with internal pockets..lots of pockets.
January 05, 2021, 09:53 PM
Ackks
Thank you, corsair. The nice thing about OG is Optics Planet sells it, so I can use a coupon. Also, if their 6'1 195 lbs model is wearing a medium they must run small.
January 05, 2021, 10:06 PM
kimber1911
Strange to see the comments about ice fishing.
How many people actually ice fish outside?
“We’re in a situation where we have put together, and you guys did it for our administration…President Obama’s administration before this. We have put together, I think, the most extensive and inclusive voter fraud organization in the history of American politics,” Pres. Select, Joe Biden
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January 06, 2021, 02:20 PM
Ackks
Thanks again for the suggestion, corsair. I found a 15% off coupon and got it for $216 shipped directly from Otte Gear. Seems like a fair price for a good jacket.
Could you suggest a soft shell similar to that system as well? Something that breathes well and built tough?This message has been edited. Last edited by: Ackks,
January 06, 2021, 11:43 PM
corsair
quote:
Originally posted by Ackks: Thanks again for the suggestion, corsair. I found a 15% off coupon and got it for $216 shipped directly from Otte Gear. Seems like a fair price for a good jacket.
Could you suggest a soft shell similar to that system as well? Something that breathes well and built tough?
Their Alpine Jkt is the toughest soft-shell I've ever owned, took it hunting in Texas one year; doesn't look like they're making it anymore or, out of stock. Its very tactical though with the upper arm pockets and velcro, it was made for Afghanistan. Ironically, my order of their Capitol pants arrived, I'm very impressed, very Greyman but smart-casual look, these are now my go-to travel pants.
Soft-shell...you want something windproof with a laminate underneath or light with a lot of stretch? There's a lot of confusing grey-area when it comes to defining soft-shells. What's it's primary use 90% of the time?