Clothing for winter backpacking?

[Ravaillac]

I recommand this link, no useless writing, all interesting stuff:
http://www.karamat.com/PDF Files/dressing001.pdf

 

[brians]

Good wicking under layers (synthetic/wool blends), then thick wools (I use surplus wool pants with suspenders, wool shirts/sweaters, and wool jacket), then down (keep it dry) or synthetic outerwear with loft and heat retention when not active.

Modify layers based upon activity/sweat level to keep dry. The wool is great next to fire - unlike synthetics - you'll smell the wool before you ignite.

 

[Bob W]

Going to Idaho in late October? I'd be looking for a lodge with a fireplace.

Heck, New Mexico mountains are already too cold for my comfort. We often have mountain snows in September, and October can bring severe winter weather.

This is a good time of the year for a southern trip. Fall in Arkansas is the best time to be outdoors there, and the southern deserts are still quite warm.

 

[Thomas Linton]

Good wicking under layers (synthetic/wool blends), then thick wools (I use surplus wool pants with suspenders, wool shirts/sweaters, and wool jacket), then down (keep it dry) or synthetic outerwear with loft and heat retention when not active.

Again, if you are alive you perspire -- even at rest[/B]. The warm, moist air will reach dew point as it moves outwards, driven by body heat. Down will absorb the moisture. If you do not have dry, preferably sunny and breezy, conditions, down garments will steadily lose loft. A variable, as you indicate, is how much you perspire. There is no if.