Gore-Tex and/or waterproof layering systems

[Michael Bennett]

I'm looking for suggestions on waterproof clothing systems for winter/3-season camping/hiking/hunting/fishing. Think all-day or overnight in 37 degree F days with colder nights. With drizzling rain.

I'm thinking polypro underwear with fleece and gore-tex on top, or something similar. Most likely, the pants would be wool.

I have good pak boots, so that is not a concern.

Who is familiar with the various waterproof layering systems out there? I'm looking at Gore-Tex/Fleece XCR systems. How durable/tough/tear resistant are they? I know the US military uses Gore-Tex for their cold weather clothing system. Are there better options for the money?

I'm not averse to wool/natural fibers either if you have thoughts on them in this weather scenario. The final factor is cost. What works and is inexpensive, not just what is cheapest.

Mike

 

[bladefixation]

the best coat ive ever had is a Lowe Alpine triple point Ceramic ive had it for about 4 years and worn it almost every day, both on the hills and to and from the office and its still amazing and showing no signs of giving up

as for underlayers, often I wear fleeces for convenience but when the cold weather bites I put on 100% pure new wool, when I need to be certain of the clothes I take 100% pure new wool, when I _need_ to be warm wool is the answer for me. I have a great ribbed jumper with a zip up tube neck about 8 inches long that covers most of my face if I pull it up and zip it up. mmmm......toasty

the thing I notice is if youre walking then fine but if you arent doing anything overly active alot of heat goes from your legs, an area easily overlooked but theyre actually quite a sizable part of your body if you think about it.

 

[diletante]

Check this out http://www.promountainsports.com/clothing.shtml

I'd go with Merino Wool for the base layer. Check out the link--it's got a lot going for it. Patagucci's Capilene or another wicking polyester would be my second choice.

I'd go with a quilted synthetic mid layer. I have a Wild Things Primaloft Jacket but there are many alternatives out there, such as Patagucci's Puffball series. They are WAY lighter than fleece, insulate better and dry faster.

I can't speak to waterproof-breathables. I've had terrible luck with them. I'm a heat machine. I'd end up wet from the inside even in your daytime scenario if I was hiking or working hard. I'd probably rely on a water resistant shell or the insulating layer as long as I was generating enough heat to keep it reasonably dry and then add a waterproof-breathable shell or a poncho or cagoule as necessary.

A more traditional (but much heavier) approach would be all wool with a waterproof-breathable, waxed cotton or other top layer. The Filson system if you will