Softshell Opinions? - Jackets

Marmot makes great jackets as well! Don't forget about them.

Brian Scoggins wrote: Looks like the only flaw is the use of cord for the gaiter instep straps. Unfortunately, that's a fatal flaw for any gaiter if the point is to keep snow out.

Not what I have found using all the Alteryx pants for years now.

The idea is light and user friendly. I don't know of a useful mtn pant that doesn't use shock cord under the instep as a "gaiter".

Brian Scoggins wrote: Looks like the only flaw is the use of cord for the gaiter instep straps. Unfortunately, that's a fatal flaw for any gaiter if the point is to keep snow out. Same as going without an anti-bot. If its snowy enough to need gaiters, its snowy enough that you don't want snow sticking to the instep strap.

I've almost completely stopped using gators in favor of simple loops through the lower pants. Both on softshell pants such as the Pata Guide Pants and Hardshell pants. I've used this method in both alpine ascents and ice climbing and have found it to be superior in weight reduction and breathability. Snow and moisture does not get in (even in waste deep snow). The only advantage I see to gators anymore is for additional insulation. In fact, I don't even carry gators anymore for winter use. Dane's pictures show elastic cord, however, I use 550 para cord with the core pulled out.

I do almost all my climbing wearing similar pants in winter or at least winter conditions. Pant leg "gaiters" are what I use exclusivly and have a for a few years now.

The reason I use elastic cord is two fold. It allows the pants to move a bit so less likely to rip the grommets out. Which is important for the reliability and durability of your "gaiter". The other is a trick I picked up from Colin Haley. Make the loop long enough and hook it over the crampon and boot. That way you can snap the elastic off and adjust your boot laces as required with less hassle.

No knots to play with and a more reliable gaiter. I don't see a flaw in that.

One advantage to gaiters is they take the abuse from crampons rather than the more expensive pant legs and are thus less expensive to replace once I have shredded them.

Mitch Musci wrote: The Marmot ROM jacket is a great example of the type of softshell I am describing, plus it's quite affordable.

+1 on the Marmot ROM. Awesome jacket with a great hood, plenty of pockets, good fit, and good blend of breathe-ability and weather resistance.