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Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

jimmykm21

jimmykm21

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Feb 7, 2006
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I remember last year there was a review of a top quality fleece jacket.
I can't remember the name of it but it cost somewhere aroung $200.00

It was rated very warm , wind proof and had a good number of pockets/

It came in OD and black , It wasn't Northface or any of the companies you see at a regular top quality sporting goods store.

Thanks if you can help on the name.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

TAD GEAR or Arcteryx
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

TAD (Triple Aught Design) Gear Ranger Hoodie. Good jacket/hoodie. Available in 2 weights.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

Guys thanks a lot it is the TAD gear fleece.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

And you better get a move in if you want one. They just released this years Rangers and they are going fast!
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 2ac</div><div class="ubbcode-body">And you better get a move in if you want one. They just released this years Rangers and they are going fast!</div></div>

I just ordered one 5 minutes ago.

and jason thanks for the links

smile.gif
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

As a backpacker who haunts the "Backpacking Light" web site and having lots of experience in hunting and backcountry skiing I can tell you a bit about mid layer insulating garments.

1. shelled jackets are THE warmest for the weight. Down is the best and warmest and good synthetic fills like Climashield or Primaloft are great as well. I use both depending on conditions.

2.Polartec 300 weight fleece with Gore's "Windstopper" laminate is a very warm material, the warmest in fleece fabrics.

3. Cabela's seems to have the widest range of fleece jackets and vests and the best prices I've seen. REI also has very good stuff and good prices, both REI brand and other brands and both have the same garantee. Patagonia ("Patagucci") is 'spensive but good quality. Eddie Bauer First Ascent gear is excellent and priced very reasonably.

If you're normally going to wear it under a shell like a GTX mountain parka don't get a wind-blocking fleece. But if you plan to use it mostly alone then get the Windstopper laminate.

** Ya gotta know that Arc Teryx and TAD garments are priced WAAAAY over what they are worth. If you like supporting Canada's social system and don't mind paying the big VAT tax then get an Arc Teryx. Well made but not any better than good US brands. Hey, their Chinese workers aren't any better than The North Face's Chinese workers.

You may want to re-think your order. Just sayin'...


 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

I'm pretty sure that nothing Cabela's has to offer is going to be comparable to the TAD. I'm all about a good deal too, but none of the companies mentioned make such a feature laden fleece either. And not even one of them is made in the US. The Ranger hoodie has always been fabricated in the US. Probably by Chinese, but we won't get into that.
Also, is a laminate going to breath as well and stop the wind like Wind Pro? I've owned a few of the brands mentioned, only one comparable, to me, is Arcteryx. I don't scrimp on my clothing like I used to, TAD Gear is worth every penny.
Hell, most guys here spend thousands of dollars on a rifle, just to shoot at a steel plate. Is $230 really that much to spend? Especially when the cost will be spread out for years to come.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 2ac</div><div class="ubbcode-body">And you better get a move in if you want one. They just released this years Rangers and they are going fast! </div></div>

Pretty much sold out in the green and tan patched versions in the popular sizes. They haven't even been out for a week yet. That's why I bought two.
smile.gif
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

Can anyone give any comparison of the regular vs lite version of the TAD fleece?
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

I will put in a vote for Columbia smooth fleece (titanium line) - had one I wore working construction for years - the only holes started from weld splatter - finally the zipper just had to many cycles - bitch was they no longer made that model - the similar one I replaced it with is also of excellent quality

the pricing is very competitive
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

I'd say about half as thick, maybe a little less. My Recon, the first "LT" version isn't as fluffy anymore. I haven't had a chance to wear the Ranger yet though. I just got it today. It does feel as though I'll be able to wear it with just a t-shirt this winter. It's damp and chilly in Seattle, I have to wear a base layer with the LT.

I see you're in Utah, I'm guessing it gets chilly there often enough. How easy do you get cold..
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 2ac</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I see you're in Utah, I'm guessing it gets chilly there often enough. How easy do you get cold.. </div></div>

Well, cold is relative. Skinning uphill in winter is usually a base layer only affair even in the mid twenties. What I'm looking for is something light that will be windproof and thin enough to layer over with a light waterproof shell. Windproof and light is most important as it does get breezy here on the mountain tops in winter.

I'm more familiar with Arcteryx gear but TAD has my interest. I don't know anyone around here that has any TAD gear to personally evaluate.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: thezoltar</div><div class="ubbcode-body">What I'm looking for is something light that will be windproof and thin enough to layer over with a light waterproof shell. Windproof and light is most important as it does get breezy here on the mountain tops in winter.</div></div>

Based on that description, I'd say the Ranger LT is what you're after:

http://www.tripleaughtdesign.com/Apparel/Sweaters-Hoodies/Ranger-Hoodie-LT
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

For a windproof fleece, I've been a fan of the R4 from Patagucci or their synchilla snap t for more casual all round use.

The Ranger caught my eye from what seems to be a well integrated hood so I will be giving it a try this winter.

Otherwise, the other go to fleece is the North Face Denali, but it's not windproof.

If it is thin and light that you want, go with a synthetic fill jacket like the Patagucci Nanopuff or Montbell thermalwrap in the same vein as litehiker mentioned. It will pack smaller than a fleece, be lighter, be just as warm, if not warmer and be windproof. The only drawback is the material generally used for light weight jackets is understandably less abrasion resistant than the run of the mill all purpose jacket.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: paulyosh</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: thezoltar</div><div class="ubbcode-body">What I'm looking for is something light that will be windproof and thin enough to layer over with a light waterproof shell. Windproof and light is most important as it does get breezy here on the mountain tops in winter.</div></div>

Based on that description, I'd say the Ranger LT is what you're after:

http://www.tripleaughtdesign.com/Apparel/Sweaters-Hoodies/Ranger-Hoodie-LT</div></div>

Agreed, LT is the bomb for what you want.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

Yeah, LT of the two TAD choices. But also, as pointed out, it's still not all that light. Unless you really want fleece, there may be better options.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

I have been wearing the Duluth Shoreman's fleece while I deliver pizzas in NY. Windproof and decently water resistant. I have worn them down below zero with two long sleeves underneath. The biggest problem for me is the sizing. They start a little too big for me. I would need to layer less if I could fill it out more.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

Columbia fleece + Columbia rain coat and your gtg year round. Buy two fleece jackets and dedicate one to rough use. Keep one in the truck for the chick in your life - they are always too hot or too cold.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

Just got the Ranger today: it's a nice bit of kit as most reports say.

Warmer than the old R4 that I have and best hooded fleece I have seen so far.

The LT would probably be better for high output activity.

The fit on the Ranger is sleek enough to wear under a shell.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

Expensive, Arxteryx, true, but well worth it. Especially the LEAF line.
It will take a chunk out of your wallet for sure, but it is very durable. Are there brands that have items for half the price? Yup, but if it is the same quality...the only problem i have with the LEAF line, in that they actually last to long, so i don't have a legit reason to buy a new one.

Main reason for a good Fleece is that it works and keeps you warm. But as with all stuff, buy cheep....

NK.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

I just purchased a TAD Ranger hoodie. I keep reading posts about the high cost of the TAD hoodies. I have a North Face Denali fleece that was given as a Christmas gift three years ago. I don't wear it as its useless in any weather requiring a jacket. The wind blows right through it. What's more expensive, a $170 North Face that doesn't get worn or a $239 TAD that'll end up being my primary cold weather jacket for years to come? Now add in all the features of the TAD and its easy to see which is the smarter purchase.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

I got a TAD Ranger hoodie when I went to SF a couple years ago, it is hands down the best fleece I own. It looks as good as the day I bought it.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: swage</div><div class="ubbcode-body">What's more expensive, a $170 North Face that doesn't get worn or a $239 TAD that'll end up being my primary cold weather jacket for years to come? </div></div>

Exactly, I must have $300+ in fleece that I never wear. Adding to the fact that you have to use a shell to make them as functional and now I'm over dressed.

People, just stop worring about spending $230 and give one a try. It'll outperform your $280 fleece/shell combo all day. And if you still aren't happy you'll be able to resell with minimal loss.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

People keep taking about these damn hoodies. Sorry but I don't want to wear the same hoody every damn day.

http://www.mountainhardwear.com/Men's-Mountain-Tech™-Jacket/OM4163,default,pd.html

This is all you need, same thing, windproof, and it doesn't look like you wear the same thing every day since it's a jacket.

and what do you know, it's not overpriced.
No doubt that ranger hoodie is great. I just don't need to look like I'm doing a combat drop every day.

I've had the same one for the last 8 years. Totally windproof, very light and doesn't break the bank.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: YourMotherTrebek</div><div class="ubbcode-body">People keep taking about these damn hoodies. Sorry but I don't want to wear the same hoody every damn day.

http://www.mountainhardwear.com/Men's-Mountain-Tech™-Jacket/OM4163,default,pd.html

This is all you need, same thing, windproof, and it doesn't look like you wear the same thing every day since it's a jacket.

and what do you know, it's not overpriced.
No doubt that ranger hoodie is great. I just don't need to look like I'm doing a combat drop every day.

I've had the same one for the last 8 years. Totally windproof, very light and doesn't break the bank. </div></div>

Those appear to be quality jackets. I would argue that $180 isn't THAT much cheaper however. I would also argue that the Ranger hoodie is subtle enough to wear without anyone thinking it's tactical. It fits in on the range and trail as well as blending into the general population. They also hold their value well as many collect all things TAD. Take a peak at Ebay and see what used TAD Gear sells for. I'm not usually a fan of Gucci gear but I took a chance on the Ranger hoodie and I'm glad I did. When you factor in the quality, features, and limited production of the jacket the extra $60 dollars doesn't seem like it's breaking the bank to me.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: swage</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have a North Face Denali fleece that was given as a Christmas gift three years ago. I don't wear it as its useless in any weather requiring a jacket. The wind blows right through it.</div></div>

Yeah, same here, though I bought mine. Absolutely NOT windresistant at all, though it's a nice heavy fleece and a great midlayer. But it just hangs on the closet.

Black, XL, if anyone's interested.


1911fan
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: YourMotherTrebek</div><div class="ubbcode-body">http://www.rei.com/product/817991/mountain-hardwear-mountain-tech-jacket-mens

Boom. $130 bucks. hard to argue against that. </div></div>

Let's see...no hood, bottom doesn't have draw strings, only two pockets..no thumb holes. You're right, that seems like the better buy to me. I'll wear my Ranger hoodie for two years and you wear that one and we'll see what we can sell them for when we're done with them.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

You dumbass. I've worn that jacket for 8 years, through iraq and afghanistan winters too.
no hood, 4 pockets, under arm zippers.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: YourMotherTrebek</div><div class="ubbcode-body">You dumbass. I've worn that jacket for 8 years, through iraq and afghanistan winters too.
no hood, 4 pockets, under arm zippers. </div></div>

You're a classy guy Trebek. It's amazing you're not more popular around here. I guess people like Lowlight and JasonK who also recommend TAD Gear are dumbasses too? I'll stand by my purchase.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

It still amazes me how much people complain about TAD's prices without ever owning any of their gear. Top tier quality kit just costs $$$, whatever your discipline. Sure there are less expensive alternatives, but that's not the point. If you want some of the best you're just going to have to pony up.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: swage</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: YourMotherTrebek</div><div class="ubbcode-body">You dumbass. I've worn that jacket for 8 years, through iraq and afghanistan winters too.
no hood, 4 pockets, under arm zippers. </div></div>

You're a classy guy Trebek. It's amazing you're not more popular around here. I guess people like Lowlight and JasonK who also recommend TAD Gear are dumbasses too? I'll stand by my purchase. </div></div>

Hey I'm not saying that TAD gear isn't the shit. Maybe it is. Just saying there are other options for under $230 that get the job done nicely albeit without really cool thumbholes.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

I wear the shit out of TAD and I have paid a metric ton for Arc'Teryx... wore them right alongside cheaper stuff, and I see a difference. Especially when I am in the field with it.

Sure you can get lucky with a fleece or hoodie that might work out well, I know the UA stuff I use it is pretty good, but I will take the high end stuff over any Sport Authority bargain rack item any day of the week. (read Columbia)

With the REI Headquarters here in Denver I am there every month and use my points a lot. I will get a few item of the REI brand here and there, but at the end of the day, if I am buying something even from REI I am hitting the Arc'Teryx section and it's only with stop gap purchases do I opt for the lesser brands. If I know I may only wear it once or twice, sure the REI brands are fine. But otherwise... nah. I will dumb ass up and spend the money, gladly.

The biggest advertisement for buying the best was working with the Canadian SF guys. We had a nice rainy, cold South Texas winter day. It was icing up, freezing pipes, along with wind and moisture, and I had layer upon layer of cheap stuff from UA, 5.11, and even Columbia on, where the Canadians were using the Arc'Teryx kit and they walked out of the woods comfy as could be where I hated every minute of it . After that I went strictly high end and have never regretted it once, even if I had to pay 3x as much.

It's worth it, buy once, cry once, and never look back. Years later I am still doing the same thing, and never felt I needed to revert back to the REI Brand.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

I should note the one I have taken to wearing all year round is the Praetorian Hoodie, I love that hoodie and even the girl uses the Valkyrie Hoodie all the time. You won't find a lesser brand with an equivalent piece of clothing. It's my absolute favorite for daily wear. In the field I use the Stealth LT or Ranger LT simple because the Merino wool from the Praetorian will attract a ton of debris.

We've had too many days over 100 degrees and being in the field you have to wear long pants, the Amphib Pants are much better than my REI pants of a similar material. Huge difference, in fact I can show you the wear. They are both about the same age and yet the wear on the REI brand is noticeable. Even walking around here in town, you see very little REI Brands on locals, and more Kuhl or Arc'Teryx, which are all sold at REI. The active Coloradan is not sporting the cheap brands.

If it works for you saving a few dollars great, but personally it doesn't work for me and I can demonstrate it. Up and down the "hills" here, out in the field shooting, with the scrub brush and cacti, not to mention temperature swings, it matters.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

I have a friend who has 36,000 sq feet of contract sewing space. He builds for many of the top brands and just because it has a top brand label does not mean its top of the line in fleece.

He hooked me up with a super well made fleece last year and I could not believe how much better it was than many I paid alot more for. He says it was all about the type of fleece he used.

Lowlight said it best but once, cry once.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

Alright. Since I'm all about having good kit. From GAP to nightforce to H&K I'll give TAD a try.

I'll put my money where my mouth is.
I want a jacket to replace the one I have then.

Basic requirements are light, windproof, no hood.

what TAD jacket meets that?
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

Pathfinder or Vandguard, although the Pathfinder is probably what you are looking for ... however stock is limited on the no hood jackets
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

Once you use the thumbholes, you'll always want them.
smile.gif


Ya, their inventory swings, I would call them and ask, it might be right around the corner as part of the Fall Collection.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

Which one of these higher end companies with the good fleece makes jackets in a tall size? I'm 6'3 and my dress shirts have a 36" sleeve length, and when I buy a regular size L jacket the sleeves always come up short. I hate buying an XL because they don't fit right in the shoulders and chest.

Any suggestions fellas?
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

After getting my Ranger a few days ago, I'm a definitely becoming a fan. Definitely looking at when they restock on their other stuff so I can try it out.

http://farm9.static.flickr.com/8290/7851412674_2ba0484395_b.jpg?781

If that is any indication, it looks like a Ranger Jacket is in the pipe. It was only after moving to the pacific northwest did I appreciate the value of a good hoodie.

As far as fit goes the TAD size chart should help:

http://www.tripleaughtdesign.com/Support/Size-Chart-and-Fit-Guide
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

It's been said before, but anything Arc'teryx is killer. Among a couple jackets and a pair of bibs, I own a couple of their t-shirts and even those are head and shoulders above my other t-shirts.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: swage</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: YourMotherTrebek</div><div class="ubbcode-body">http://www.rei.com/product/817991/mountain-hardwear-mountain-tech-jacket-mens

Boom. $130 bucks. hard to argue against that. </div></div>

Let's see...no hood, bottom doesn't have draw strings, only two pockets..no thumb holes. You're right, that seems like the better buy to me. I'll wear my Ranger hoodie for two years and you wear that one and we'll see what we can sell them for when we're done with them.


</div></div>

actually from REI after 2, 4, 6 - whatever years you can return it for a full refund - if you want to be that way
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

I'm liking my Rivers West gear. It is made from good fleece and kills the wind and also sheds rain really well. Really well. Past weekend we had downpours while hunting ducks 'n geese with high winds - worked like a charm.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

I've got several pieces of TAD and they do rock, but when I'm getting down in dirty doing camp prep or field dressing game, I tend to cringe at the idea of wearing high-end performance clothing while doing so. Over the last couple of years I have been using an Adventure Tech (discontinued line) Spy hoody in alpha green mated with either a soft shell layer or wind shirt.
f7405-propper-apcu-spy-hoody-alpha%20green.jpg

If you look around, you can still find some for a great price. They aren't Tad, but provide a lot of the desired features for a fraction of the price. Mine has been through some nasty tasks and is still going strong. Yes, it has it's collection of stains, but there are no tears and the stitching is still gtg.
 
Re: Good fleece jacket? I hope you can help me

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Ghillie Zen</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've got several pieces of TAD and they do rock, but when I'm getting down in dirty doing camp prep or field dressing game, I tend to cringe at the idea of wearing high-end performance clothing while doing so. Over the last couple of years I have been using an Adventure Tech (discontinued line) Spy hoody in alpha green mated with either a soft shell layer or wind shirt.
f7405-propper-apcu-spy-hoody-alpha%20green.jpg

If you look around, you can still find some for a great price. They aren't Tad, but provide a lot of the desired features for a fraction of the price. Mine has been through some nasty tasks and is still going strong. Yes, it has it's collection of stains, but there are no tears and the stitching is still gtg. </div></div>

I had one of these that I just sold to a forum member brand new with tags. It was well made and worth the price I paid but I wanted something with a full length zipper. The hood was also uncomfortable, at least for me. It covered the eyes and was tight.
 
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