Author Topic: Ski Jacket Recommendations  (Read 4067 times)

smackboy1

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Ski Jacket Recommendations
« on: October 27, 2011, 12:03:33 pm »
Help! Looking for recommendations for a new ski jacket. The number of brands and prices points are overwhelming: Salomon, Descente, Columbia, Patagonia, Kjus, Arcteryx, etc.. And that doesn't even include all the snowboarding jackets (I am not above wearing snowboarding gear). I live and ski in the mid-atlantic (NJ, PA, VT) and have a Whistler trip planned this year. I want something that I can continue to ski when it's wet outside. I prefer to keep it under $500, but if there is something about a jacket that puts it head and shoulders above the others, I would consider splurging. Current jackets are a 10+ y.o. Helly Hansen (works fine, but is a bit dated in the looks) and a 2 y.o. Salomon soft shell (doesn't keep out the weather as much as I would like). Any advice appreciated!
I'm not a ski instructor, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night.

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Gary

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #1 on: October 27, 2011, 12:19:01 pm »
WOW..so tuff due to the varying styles out there...

I think if you focus on waterproof and breathablility...fo r the $$$ you figuring on spending...20,000m/20,000m is a good place to start. Another important factor is whether you want insulated on shell...I prefer insulated that breaths and vents well...wind proof and warm works for me.

Things like zip pits,  # of pockets, their locations, hood that fits a helmet, but most of the jackets in the upper end price range are pretty well thought out in the useablility department.

I personally have been a fan of Spyder jackets this past 6 years or so...But Arcteryx makes some excellent products too.

If you check on Backcountry.com...y ou can get a pretty good eyefull of the styles out there and then narror down your choice from there.

Good luck...g
« Last Edit: October 27, 2011, 12:25:42 pm by Gary »

jim-ratliff

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #2 on: October 27, 2011, 12:21:17 pm »

I have to admit that I went back and bought a Columbia Titanium two years back and I'm not sure I'll ever spend the money on higher end or bigger name jackets again.  I've had Marker, Spyder, Killy, Kjus, Obermeyer, etc.  What I would consider mid brand, but don't think I see any value that the Columbia doesn't also provide.

But you are looking at the right time of year.  With jackets, I think it's all about getting something from last year at a great price or this years product at a good price.  Whoops, I am sooo wrong.  As Gary says, with Jackets it's ALL about color.  Whether or not it keeps you warm is just frosting on the cake. And if you have multiple pair of skis, then you may need multiple jackets to stay color coordinated?

I did buy a vest with a battery and heating elements last year with variable power switch in the pocket; when needed (like when stopped too long on a windy chair lift) it is just wonderful.  So I might look for similar technology if I were looking for a new jacket.
« Last Edit: October 27, 2011, 12:25:48 pm by jim-ratliff »
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midwif

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #3 on: October 27, 2011, 12:44:01 pm »
CHeck out Sierra Trading Post.
(sierratradingpost.c om)

I signed up for their daily Deal Flyer.
There are great deals to be had via this feature.
25-40% off the already discounted prices and free shipping on most orders >$100.

I sometimes order 2 or 3 "possibilities" knowing that 2 must go back.
They have recently added a restocking charge of about $5, which I don't find unfair.

They have a wide variety of brands with good descriptions and reading reviews gives great feed back on fit, features that work, sizing idiosyncracies etc.

Not that many of the higher end jackets, like Arctyerx, though.

L.
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Liam

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #4 on: October 27, 2011, 01:44:56 pm »
I recommend an orange jacket....it's the new black.

jbotti

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #5 on: October 27, 2011, 01:50:53 pm »
Agree on Sierra Trading Post. I bought a jacket for my brother this year and it was a $500 jacket and we paid $200. I bought a Marker jacket with Light insulation, Pit Zips, powder skirt and Gore Tex performance shell (solid water proof) for $159.

Here is a jacket that I would consider. This is Kjus like quality and with a 35% off coupon it's a great price (I can send you mine if you need one, current one expires today but they come once a week).

http://www.sierratradingpost.com/goldwin-speed-jacket-insulated-for-men~p~3640y/?filterString=newproducts~21%2Fsports-and-outdoors~d~4868%2Foutdoor-gear~d~2%2Fsnow-sports~d~22%2F&colorFamily=02

Here is another one. also great quality and a super price with the coupon:

http://www.sierratradingpost.com/ziener-toranaga-ski-jacket-waterproof-insulated-for-men~p~3644t/?filterString=newproducts~21%2Fsports-and-outdoors~d~4868%2Foutdoor-gear~d~2%2Fsnow-sports~d~22%2F&colorFamily=03

Here is a link to all their ski jackets.

http://www.sierratradingpost.com/mens-ski-jackets~d~407/

LivingProof

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #6 on: October 27, 2011, 06:01:16 pm »
I recommend an orange jacket....it's the new black.

Liam,
When I first met Gary, he was the "popsickle" man....his orange jacket just glowed through the Jackson Hole mist. He always was a ahead of his time, only he did not know it! My 5 year old Spyder is a little orange (if there is such a thing as "little orange"). The longer I own it, the more I like it....strange!

Smackboy,
Our friend Ron posted he just bought this Mountain Hardware jacket. Retail is $340, so not major $$$, and, MH has a new process called DryQ that is very waterproof. Plus MH has a great lifetime warranty, and, are now owned by Columbia (I think).

http://www.mountainhardwear.com/Men%27s-Kepler%E2%84%A2-Jacket/OM4151,default,pd.html

There are such great deals today, it's almost hard to go wrong, unless you hate the color 2 years from now.

Until today, I did not realize that John Botti likes jackets as much as skis. But he was stylin' by the side of the trail in the recent HH "Freeskiing" video. JB, I presume your coupons get an additional 35% off the allready discounted prices. Two nice jackets! Skiing in Big Sky Montana increases the importance of getting it right!

« Last Edit: October 28, 2011, 07:06:16 am by LivingProof »

smackboy1

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #7 on: October 27, 2011, 07:06:23 pm »
I recommend an orange jacket....it's the new black.

Great advice and tips, thanks.

2 years ago when I bought my Salomon soft shell I was told brown was the new black. This year I've been told black is the new black. It's so confusing  :o  I've decided brown is not me, I just look like a big cow pie on the snow - albeit a fast one.

Anyone have any experience with Patagonia? I've been strangely attracted to the green or orange jackets in the catalog.

Yay or nay on the puffy jacket for skiing? Do they have powder skirts and vents and things?

Kjus, I like the style, but it's hard to justify the extra coin.

I'm not a ski instructor, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night.

meput

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #8 on: October 27, 2011, 07:44:52 pm »
Listen up! LL Bean. For an insulated H2O, resistant that is warm (Sugarloaf at its worst), the North Ridge Sport jacket at $200. For a shell parka, the Ascent Gore-tex at $350 (I have the previous version made with tek2 material and is great. It only cost $200. The Weather Challenger 3 in 1 jacket appears similar and has a liner for $180). All of these jackets are this years models and therefore can be exchanged for a different size, returned etc. Don't forget LL Bean has its money back, no questions asked guarantee.

Gary

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #9 on: October 28, 2011, 07:36:49 am »
Mike, I'm honored my Jackson Hole glow so inspired you to go orange...u look marvelous!!!!

Coming in from Christy Sports is my new Lime Spyder Leader jacket...Lime Mikey....still glowing I am! That with the blue HH pants, I'm still looking like a Easter Basket! But hey, easy to see, avoidance colors....happy colors!

Always having fun with it but will be enjoying the better waterproofing and breathability this season.

G

LivingProof

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #10 on: October 28, 2011, 07:58:18 am »
Gary
So Lime is the new Orange, or, is it the new Black. So confusing! :'(  I will never compete in a  jacket competition with G or Lynn or JB, but, admit to having my fair share of shells and insulated outer garments. Life is too short to be cold and wet when having a good time.

Tennis Diva and I are off to Penn State football tomorrow and the forecast is 3 to 5 inches of snow during game day. My North Face Denali fleece liner has been zipped into the Blue (for PSU) North Face Expedition hooded Goretex Shell. I am ready for whatever Illinois or the weather throws at us. And, yeah, the ski gloves are packed too.

Gary

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #11 on: October 28, 2011, 08:48:46 am »
Hey Mike....I think Jim is on to something with electric heated vests...they also make the same in socks and gloves...and I might be going out on a limb here....but someones gotta make a heated pair of underwear!  :o

Safe travels Mike...travel on the roads for part of the trip might be dicey...enjoy the game and oh yeah...

One must have the appropriate flask with the appropriate liquid inside!  ;)

G

GreenTrails

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #12 on: October 28, 2011, 08:45:27 pm »
Check out TJ Maxx/Marshalls, some nice Marker jackets in there last week.  I'd skied in Marker stuff for years before donning the official patrol jacket.  The Patagonia stuff is nice as well, though in another league price-wise.

Like was mentioned above, nothing beats a good efficient pit zip on a powder day in the bumps.

HighAngles

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #13 on: October 30, 2011, 04:44:12 pm »

Anyone have any experience with Patagonia? I've been strangely attracted to the green or orange jackets in the catalog.


I have skied in Patagonia for years.  Their new line looks good for this year, but I've made the switch to Mountain Hardwear.  I just feel it's better value for the buck.  Both companies have rock solid warranties and stand behind their products.

HeluvaSkier

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #14 on: October 30, 2011, 05:00:52 pm »
I started skiing in only Halti gear a few seasons back and won't ski anything else now. They make good stuff.
All-Mountain: A common descriptive term for boots or skis that are designed to perform equally poorly under a variety of conditions and over many different types of terrain.

jbotti

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #15 on: October 30, 2011, 05:52:29 pm »
I am convinced that gear from quality manufacturers is comparable. I have looked closely at Kjus and Mountain Force jackets (both priced in the stratosphere) and I am convinced that my Marker Gore tex performance shell insulated jacket has essentially the same materials (except for Gore Tex which may be preferable to their (Kjus and MF) waterproof shell material) to what is in the Kjus and MF jackets. I really only shop 4 things anymore, Features (pit zips, powder skirt, enough pockets), Waterproof (some form of truly waterproof material)  fit which for me especially with pants can be hard (whenever I find a pair of pnats that is small enough in the waist and long enough in the legs I usually buy two pairs) and lastly and perhaps most important;y: Color (and/or style)!!. As for durability, most people wear a jacket or pants for 3-5 seasons before they decide to get something new (and for me pants age faster than Jackets). Most skiers do not wear out their outerwear, and all the major brands hold up well for that amount of time especially if you wash them with Nik wax and apply more DWR after several washings.

I guess because I ski mostly in Montana versus Tahoe in the past, I also prefer puffy's/insulated jackets (Pataonia Primo Down Jacket is my favorite and an awesome product!!). I try to wear as little as possible underneath (usually a long sleeve thin shirt and a Nano puff jacket (great Patagonia product as well) or a light smartwool layer and this allows me to cool down quicly on the lift if I find myself sweating. The whole layering thing with a shell never really worked for me. I was never as warm when I was moving slowly as I am with an insulated jacket, and I when I got hot it was really hard to open things up to get in cold air quickly. An insualted jacket with Pit Zips is awesome for MT, I can cool down in 2-3 minutes on the lift and then zip things back up and be warm when I get off. IMO, for resort skiing this is a vastly superior set up.

Gary

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #16 on: October 31, 2011, 08:12:03 am »
I agree with JB on similar things I also look for in a ski jacket.

I have however had to replace jackets after 2 or 3 season...(60 plus or minus days out each season) because of grease stains from cranky lifts or pilling or wear spots where my arms seem to brush against the jacket...really fries my azz because it shouldn't do that.. THe biggest buggaboo is the stains that no matter how I treat or what I do seem to go deep and don't retreat.

As for the different brands...many of the products in the upper range you are looking for truly are top notch gear...color, features and fit are probably going to be the "decider's" for you.


jbotti

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #17 on: October 31, 2011, 08:16:41 am »
Yes stains and Gore Tex are not a good match!!

Gary

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #18 on: October 31, 2011, 08:28:25 am »
You know I wish there was some common denominator when it comes to waterproofing when describing the materials use to achieve the ratings.

EX: my new Spyder jacket for waterproofing uses the following: XT.L Laminate and Spylon DWR..what the heck?

I was able to find out that the Spylon was a spray on material...the rest is a mystery to me.

Hopefully, it all works.

Gary

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #19 on: October 31, 2011, 09:53:34 am »
Thanks again Max...great explanation...

I think along with the waterproofing...bre athability is a HUGE factor...gotta breath or moisture build up is a REAL prob!

Now for those miserable rain days where I'm loving the snow but sitting on very wet chairs...out comes the neoprene "bun" protector...that truly works looks dorky...but hey...dry biscits is dry biscits!   :o

Best, G

jbotti

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #20 on: October 31, 2011, 01:11:41 pm »
I personaly think breathability is way overrated for resort skiing. Where I find breathability to be very important is for back country skiing especially when you are skinning and hiking. Here you are working for your turns and generating a lot of body heat when you aren't skiing (which is most of the time unfortunately) and having a shell that breathes and the ability to add and take off layers is essential. For resort skiing I find that having pits zips is all that I need especially if I have an insulated jacket and wear minmal layers. I do find this to be vastly superior to shells with many layers again for lift access skiing where you are seated on fast (or slow) moving lifts between runs.

jim-ratliff

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #21 on: October 31, 2011, 01:40:34 pm »



$.06 worth. I have one jacket (maybe the Columbia) which has vents in front of the pits rather than under.  Much easier to get the zipper up and down, much less bulk under the arms, and can actually get ventilation in the chair lift where you normally have your arms pretty close to your sides. And better ventilation when skiing, as well, since the speed of skiing forces ventilation.


As a general statement, I have found these far superior to arm pit "pit zips".
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Gary

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #22 on: October 31, 2011, 01:50:31 pm »
Max great link....splains a bunch!  Thanks.

JB...I'm just saying for me...if I"m out making tons of turns 4-5 hours on the snow....groomers, pow, bumps, crud or whatever....I"m working up a good sweat..with good silk base layer and wick away layer above that..it moves that moisture away from my skin but I find it's got to have somewhere to go....underarmvents certainly help a great deal...but..

I find that gear that breaths is critical...especial ly at 15 deg f and colder when opening up the jackets just creates a body chill. I have always used front and underarm vents to help mitigate overheating...will be curious to see if the higher breathablity feature really pays off.

Jim...interesting 6 cents cause its the first time I've had those kind of vents on any jacket I've owned...(vents in front) are on my new Spyder....glad to hear they work well.
G


jbotti

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #23 on: October 31, 2011, 02:02:11 pm »
Gary, for two months straight in MT it rarely gets above 15F. Maybe the dfference is that I don't sweat that often. When I do I find it better to have less layers, regulate it with the pit zips and open up on the lift when I am hot. Yes a wicking base layer is essential.

jbotti

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #24 on: October 31, 2011, 09:34:33 pm »
I found this post from Ron on Epicski. This material (DryQ Elite) looks quite interesting and it ups the ante in the waterproof breathable space. It appears to double the breathability numbers versus Gore Tex so for those that want and need this, DryQ should be included in the mix. My guess is that others will follow with similar breakthroughs.

Ron's jacket selection looks pretty nice as well. It's a true softshell that is totally waterproof and very breathable. The downside is that it won't be windproof. Should be great for truly active activities or for those that sweat a lot when they ski.

Here is the link to Ron's commentary:

http://www.epicski.com/t/106336/mountain-hardwear-kepler-softshell-jacket

The gloves he talks about may be even more interesting for me. My biggest problem with gloves is having my hands sweat and the only time my hands get cold is when I have sweated up the inside of the glove and it gets wet. My solution for years has been to take them off on the lifts whichlps cool down my hands and prevents moisture buildup. These gloves may be perfect for me with greater breathability.

Here is the link:

http://www.epicski.com/t/106345/mountain-hardwear-bazuka-gloves-and-other-outdry-gloves-a-true-h20-proof-glove

After seeing this I reda up on DryQ and reda some reviews of the technology from some alpine climbing sites. Looks like the stuff is quite good and a true step forward. 

Both seem like real interesting products with some potentially gamechanging technology. Thanks Ron, even though you've abandoned us and your buddy Phil disses us!


Liam

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #25 on: November 01, 2011, 05:52:46 am »
As to wet butts from  sitting on snow and sometimes rain ( :'() covered lift chairs....

Myself and a number of other patrollers use those Neoprene 'Hot Buns".  Basically a fairly substantial neoprene layer with velcro straps that covers your butt and your back thighs.  They work pretty well and cost about 20 bucks.  They make 12 hour wet days a lot more enjoyable...I have goretex pro-shell pants that will wet out on a wet day of lift riding, these make a huge difference.  Yep, they are a little dorky...but what's cooler than staying dry and warm?

You can find them on line...but be prepared for a lot of unintended hits if you type 'Hot Buns' in your google search engine! :D

Gary

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #26 on: November 01, 2011, 08:12:51 am »
Ron does his homework on gear....for sure....and where he decides to make time to post...certainly his call. His equipment and gear exposure and sharing that info I must admit is missed here...but hey...saylavee!

He and I were chating a month ago about gloves for the very reason JB pointed out...breathability .

It's so funny, my bag has 4 pairs of gloves...for 4 different types of weather conditions.

Ron's my go to test support guy on many things and I'm waiting to hear his review of those gloves on mountain. I'd love to be able to pair down my glove addiction to maybe 2 pair.

As far as any disses....who cares...people who know us like us or NOT....my attitiude...who give a sheazit!

G

LivingProof

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #27 on: November 01, 2011, 08:41:31 am »

The gloves he talks about may be even more interesting for me. My biggest problem with gloves is having my hands sweat and the only time my hands get cold is when I have sweated up the inside of the glove and it gets wet. My solution for years has been to take them off on the lifts whichlps cool down my hands and prevents moisture buildup. These gloves may be perfect for me with greater breathability.

After seeing this I reda up on DryQ and reda some reviews of the technology from some alpine climbing sites. Looks like the stuff is quite good and a true step forward. 



John,

I bought the next model down the MH line, called the "Medusa". On Altrec they have same '10 leftovers for $115 (mine were $90). No XL's left, as I have long thin fingers, I need the length. No real change in this years model, just more $$ to buy. My concern is how much will the palm and finger bottom's breath as there is leather on the exterior of the glove. Some reviews found them "cold" and that may indicate superior breathing. Mine have removable liners...I like the ability to change liners during the day, or, just do without on warmer days.
All I know is that I skied with ToddW in the rain at K'ton last year and there was water trapped inside my old gloves making it very uncomfortable.

What do you use in Montana on very cold days?



jbotti

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #28 on: November 01, 2011, 10:38:53 am »
LP, I have been using the Hestra Alpine Pro Heli Glove as well (mine have Gore Tex XCR). Great gloves and they keep my hands very warm. I probably don't need that much warmth. I have the mittens as well but even on days when the temps are below 0* F I still wear the gloves otherwise my hands sweat way to much.  I may check out a pair of the MH gloves you mentioned.

smackboy1

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #29 on: November 02, 2011, 07:45:33 am »
The gloves he talks about may be even more interesting for me. My biggest problem with gloves is having my hands sweat and the only time my hands get cold is when I have sweated up the inside of the glove and it gets wet. My solution for years has been to take them off on the lifts whichlps cool down my hands and prevents moisture buildup. These gloves may be perfect for me with greater breathability.

+1

This is exactly my problem too. I sweat  a lot, especially my hands. Not surprisingly my kids have inherited the sweaty gene. Hands get cold and then the whining begins  :(

This DryQ Elite/OutDry might be worth the extra $ for me. Is Mountain Hardware/Coumbia the only mfr which has these improved fabrics or do others have them too under their own proprietary name?
« Last Edit: November 02, 2011, 08:08:57 am by smackboy1 »
I'm not a ski instructor, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night.

jim-ratliff

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #30 on: November 02, 2011, 08:17:13 am »
Suggestion. 

Use anti-perspirant on your hands!!  I've heard of people doing this for their feet with great success, but never considered it for hands or other sweat prone locations.
"If you're gonna play the game boy, ya gotta learn to play it right."

LivingProof

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #31 on: November 05, 2011, 07:11:55 am »


This is exactly my problem too. I sweat  a lot, especially my hands. Not surprisingly my kids have inherited the sweaty gene. Hands get cold and then the whining begins  :(

This DryQ Elite/OutDry might be worth the extra $ for me. Is Mountain Hardware/Coumbia the only mfr which has these improved fabrics or do others have them too under their own proprietary name?

Just to get the names correct, MH gloves use the "Outdry" name, while MH jackets and pants use the DryQ Elite name/process. It's confusing.

With Outdry gloves, it's not so much the fabrics, it's the process where the water proof material is bonded to the surface material. The magic is how they bond it to seamed areas, and, gloves are the most difficult to seal all the seams. While I bought the new MH gloves, the motivating factor was my old were trash by season's end, so, it just made sense to give the new technology a try. I am always dubious of manufacturer's claims, we'll see. I'll do review after a few days on the actual slopes.

I think Jim's thought of trying a anti-perspiration fluid to your palms is very much worth trying. In winter, it may dry skin out too much

Gary

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #32 on: November 07, 2011, 09:43:31 am »
oooooooouuuuuuuuuu    :'(  Deodorant on the hands...it also might distort the aromatic quality of the excellent ski food we devour!

Maybe Jim...some ultra thin silk liners to wick away?

midwif

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #33 on: November 07, 2011, 09:57:57 am »
oooooooouuuuuuuuuu    :'(  Deodorant on the hands...it also might distort the aromatic quality of the excellent ski food we devour!

Maybe Jim...some ultra thin silk liners to wick away?


Gary,
Read carefully. He's suggesting others try it!!
So they can let every one else here know if it works or not! :P

Someone here was revved up by the new ski jacket topic and pulled the trigger on a new
Obermeyer on sale from last year!

OP may not have a new jacket yet, but his thread is certainly helping the economy. :D

L.
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jim-ratliff

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #34 on: November 07, 2011, 10:01:43 am »
oooooooouuuuuuuuuu    :'(  Deodorant on the hands...it also might distort the aromatic quality of the excellent ski food we devour!

Maybe Jim...some ultra thin silk liners to wick away?
Gary:  I said anti-perpirant, not deodorant.  I don't care if your hands stink,  :(  I just don't want them freezing from getting sweaty and then getting cold and causing a chilly and early end of the day.
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Obermeyer hasn't been an admired brand on my part, but it caught my eye, was half price, and said 20,000 on the tech info just like Gary said for his jacket.  It has vents that wrap from the ribs around to the back that can be managed with one hand and all the requisite pockets without getting carried away.  I sent my fashion consultant a picture and she approved the fit and the color. Now I'm looking for a gray pair of pants.
« Last Edit: November 07, 2011, 10:09:45 am by jim-ratliff »
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Gary

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #35 on: November 07, 2011, 10:13:07 am »
Jim...let's be clear...my hands do not stink and the next time we get together, I would be happy to put them up to your delicate nose for the sniff test. AND besides...if my hands get cold and the gloves are not meeting the mandatory demand of the day....you know i got backups...why of course!  ;D

 Ok anti persp....on the hands...very unnatural but of course this is the 21st Century and I must learn to grow with all new movements.  ::)

Hmmmm Lynn,....can we hear more of this new Ski Jacket you speak?

Now Jim...let's get back to your stinky shweatty mitts....did you poo poo the silk liners already?

jim-ratliff

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #36 on: November 07, 2011, 11:10:04 am »
Not a fan of silk. I think that Smart Wool works better in almost every application than silk, and washes much better.  silk seems to pile very quickly.

You haven't had a good night sleep until you've used Smart Wool sheets on a cold winters night.
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Gary

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #37 on: November 07, 2011, 12:03:57 pm »
Smart wool or silk....

Ladies (all 2 of them)....would you rather sleep on silk or wool even if the wool is smart?  :o

Besides....just the name wool makes me itch!  ;D

Jim...and the color of this new jacket is????? We'll have to compare breathabiliy!

midwif

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #38 on: November 07, 2011, 01:54:51 pm »
No silk sheets for me.
Hmm, I think I prefer IceBreaker sheets. Higher sheep count than smartwool. ;D
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HighAngles

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #39 on: November 07, 2011, 03:40:14 pm »
If you use gloves without a removable liner I recommend that you use a very thin glove liner with them.  That thin liner will absorb most of the sweat/oil from your hands.  Then you can wash the liners.  This not only helps extend the life of your gloves, but it actually keeps them warmer over time.  Once the fixed liner in an older pair of gloves absorbs enough hand perspiration it no longer keeps your hands as warm.  Of course packing out the gloves also works to eliminate warmth, but I don't think many skiers consider what the sweat and dirt are doing to their gloves on the inside.  This was pointed out to me many years ago and I've never looked back.

I use the Patagonia Capilene liners with my gloves.  I've also tried to only purchase gloves with removable liners if they're available.

Gary

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #40 on: November 07, 2011, 04:02:25 pm »
Cute Lynn....I see you as a Icebreaker kinda gal....whatever the sheep count!  :o

AND thank you HighAngles...Jim thought I was just blowing smoke...

There it is Jim...capaline liners...can we do a test here...?

jim-ratliff

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #41 on: November 08, 2011, 08:23:49 am »
No silk sheets for me.
Hmm, I think I prefer IceBreaker sheets. Higher sheep count than smartwool. ;D


Hmmm.

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jim-ratliff

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #42 on: November 08, 2011, 10:40:31 am »



thanks Max.  I'm glad to hear another voice so that it's OK not to like the feel of having a liner, because I just don't.. 
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ToddW

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Re: Ski Jacket Recommendations
« Reply #43 on: November 14, 2011, 05:22:11 pm »
Suggestion. 

Use anti-perspirant on your hands!!  I've heard of people doing this for their feet with great success, but never considered it for hands or other sweat prone locations.

Jim,  I tried your suggestion this Sunday after confronting moist gloves on Saturday.  For my hands, the effect was minimal, much less noticeable than on my feet.