thenhoc

Hey, I'm thinking about getting a new heavy-duty (double layer) waterproof shell for winter use. Sledding, skiing, mountaineering, etc. I want it to be more beefy than your average rain shell, because it will take a pounding if I'm out playing in the snow. The one that has caught my eye so far is the Mountain Hardwear Exposure II Parka. If anyone has experience with this jacket or can recommend a similar one, I would appreciate it.

Jake, i have that jacket and its pretty much bomb proof. I've had mine since 04 and love it. its a long jacket though it comes down to about mid thigh, i love the length of it too especially when im out in the snow its better then a jacket that comes just to your waist and stops. over all id say its a good choice, and one of my fav jackets. Another option is the Snycro Jacket by mountain hardwear. its a windproof, waterproof soft shell jacket, ive got one of those also and its pretty nice. its a lot thinner then the Exposure 2 jacket but another good choice for winter activities. The only thing you have to watch out for with Mountain Hardwear and their conduit cloth jackets is that they can't be near any kind of smoke. Like from a campfire because there is something about the smoke that ruins the waterproofing of the jacket. I'm not really sure how or why it happens but its one thing to remember when you are thinking about the jackets.

speaking of getting new gear-i need a new winter jacket, mines just not ideal for winter backpacking/hiking/skiing
so anyone have any suggestions for what's a good winter jacket that meets these requirements and is good to just wear around campus? note: i am sensitive to the cold and hate it. so something that's really warm, but not too warm that i can't be active wearing it
i'm trying to make a xmas list-my grandmother insists and is getting annoyed i'm taking so long
thanks

Mountain Hardwear Syncro jacket its pretty awesome i have one of those in my collection of gear, the only thing w/ it is that you have to wear a good amount of layering under it to stay warm on the cold cold days. I usually wear it down into single digits w/ a thick wool sweater on underneath. You could also go with the Patagonia rubicon rider jacket which is the new replacement of the easy rider both jackets are solid and amazing. I would have to say that i would go w/ the Patagonia jacket over the mtn hardwear one even though i do own a Syncro jacket.