SOF PCU or other extreme weather gear?

[fnberzerker]

Good day to all!
I've been in the market for some extreme wet/cold weather gear. Looking for a layer-able system since one coat/pant for all climates and weather would be harder than finding the Pre-64 Mdl 70 300 H&H Ive been looking for.
Does anyone have experience with the SOF PCU system and know where to find them for sale? Also does anyone recommend anything other than the PCU setup?

I'm mostly looking for the whole kit to have around in case, but definitely would wear certain pieces all the time as the weather here changes at the drop of a dime.

Any help would be most appreciated.

Erik

Caveat- I have quite a bit of experience with the ECWCS, or polar bear suits, and really need something more movable and versatile. Thanks again!

 

[Dogtown]

The SOF PCU is okay but also a good value as it's price is good for what you get. I ran the first generation years ago and it was adequate but not ideal. Personally, I've gone through quite an overhaul of my inclement weather gear since moving to New Zealand (where they actually have weather as opposed to the southwest US). Initially I used an OR softshell pant that had minimal insulation and was wind/water resistant along with my TAD Gear Ranger Hoodie and Jacket. This combo worked pretty well, allowing me to layer in a variety of conditions, but over time I came to want a bit more flexibility with layering and more importantly I wanted a proper waterproof shell, not just resistant. During winter especially I dealt with some heavy rain and snow and even the DWR finish on my softshells couldn't keep me dry long enough (it's not what they're designed for). So early this year I started taking advantage of some of the big sales on Arcteryx LEAF products from places like Mission Ready Equipment and Tactical Distributors and picked up a Sphinx Halfshell and Pants that I more or less use year round as they're quite breathable and wind resistant, but for heavy rain I use an Alpha Parka and Pants (works great on the slopes too). An Atom AF insulated jacket gets stuffed in my pack on just about every trip except during summer because it's incredibly warm, stows very small and light and fits over gear easily. After a long hike I often whip it out when I start to really cool off during a long break. It's normally really expensive gear, but definitely top quality and very durable. The trick is getting it on sale (I bought most of mine 20-25% off) In fact, both places I mentioned are about to have big Nov sales.

 

[sinister]

The standard ACU-pattern equivalent to the grey PCU works well, too, and you should be able to find components on-line for cheaper than the genuine ORC Industries and Patagonia (or that you might be able to find on ebay).

 

[lrs50bmg]

There is a bunch of genuine PCU stuff on E-Bay right now.....

 

[45.308]

Good day to all!
I've been in the market for some extreme wet/cold weather gear. Looking for a layer-able system since one coat/pant for all climates and weather would be harder than finding the Pre-64 Mdl 70 300 H&H Ive been looking for.
Does anyone have experience with the SOF PCU system and know where to find them for sale? Also does anyone recommend anything other than the PCU setup?

I'm mostly looking for the whole kit to have around in case, but definitely would wear certain pieces all the time as the weather here changes at the drop of a dime.

Any help would be most appreciated.

Erik

Caveat- I have quite a bit of experience with the ECWCS, or polar bear suits, and really need something more movable and versatile. Thanks again!

Define extreme wet/cold weather?
Define layer-able system?
Elaborate more on more movable and versatile?

My main system is:

Capilene t and briefs
Capilene lgt, mid or exp wgt
WildThings wind shirt
Black Diamond Shoeller Dynamic soft shell guide top and pants
Patagonia Talus soft shell pants
WildThings Primaloft sweater
WildThings EP jacket and pants
Integral Designs Dolomitti parka and Denali pants

Combo layers to meet the season and weather from 70f to -40f in Alaska backcountry. Activities include climbing, guiding, hunting, shooting, camping, etc. Only standing around fishing do I wear a "cheap" coated nylon rain shell.


How about a pre 64 70 in 375HH?