Consider the Macpac Nitro or a similar Alpha Direct fleece. It offers advantages over the Montbell Plasma 1000, being lighter, more breathable, and easier to clean. When paired with a shell, an Alpha Direct fleece can match the warmth provided by the Montbell Plasma 1000.
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kyler
I agree. The alpha direct fleece fabric is more geared toward active use. I have tried several weights (60/90/120) and they all have pros and cons. They are extremely lightweight and pack down to nothing (at least the lower weights) but they must be paired with a shell if there is any kind of wind. They are also somewhat fragile and prone to snags, even from the friendly fire of your own velcro!
Nick
This isn't necessarily true.
You can get alpha shirts that way less than that. I'm 5'9 150 athletic build and rolled my own 60gsm alpha direct fleece I ordered off eBay and it weighs 2.5 oz last I checked.
You can then pair this with a Copperfield wind shirt and you have an extremely versatile combo for activities or stationary warmth.
I used to use a Houdini for wind / rain but never liked it's pack size (bigger than coke can). The Copperfield packs down WAY smaller and alpha direct is insanely compressible and DOESNT lose loft / effectiveness like packed down will
Everyone always forgets down isn't suited for long term travel due to this and the loft being killed which is how it's warmth works.
Tynan
I was using 90gsm in the R value comparison.
I tried a wind shirt in the past and it wasn't waterproof when I needed it to be, so I'll wear the lightest rain coat.
The montbell loses its loft when packed but within 15-30 minute of wearing is back to normal (and I suspect it's warmer than the alpha even when half-compressed). I usually only pack it tightly when I'm nowhere near cold weather anyway. My bag is empty enough that if I take it off to go inside somewhere I'll just stuff it in.
This looks really interesting, and may be the right choice for more active travel (constant hiking) or for spring/fall, but the Mont Bell is about 3.5x warmer per ounce (90gsm Alpha Direct has an R value of .43, Montbell was measured at 1.48), both are around 4.5oz.