Clothing System for Denali

I know this has been asked a million times before, my apologies, but I'm potentially planning on heading to Denali in 2016 (I'm stuck down in Antarctica for most of the time in between, or at least until this October), and am working on assembling my clothing system, building on what I already have from use in the lower 48 (summer). I'm good on bottom layers (boots, overboots, -or possibly triple boots, unsure yet-, insulated pants, etc), and hand layers, but it's the top layers that are giving me pause.

Thus far I have the following:

Lightweight synthetic t-shirt
Lightweight baselayer top (for lower down)
Midweight baselayer top
Wild Things WindPro Hoody (about the same as Patagonia R1, but wind-blocking)
Mountain Hardwear Compressor Jacket (hooded)
Shell jacket (currently in the process of replacing, possibly with the Patagonia M10)
Feathered Friends Frontpoint Parka

I also have an MH MonkeyMan fleece, but it's a bit constrictive when layered with the windpro or the compressor, so I'm not sure how/if that'll fit into this system.

These are all of the things I currently own. However, I feel like there should be something between the Compressor Jacket and the full-on heavy parka, but I can't quite put my finger on the right layer. I feel as though something like a DAS Parka might be too much, and perhaps something like a Patagonia Hooded Down Sweater, MH Ghost Whisperer, or the synthetic equivalent (whatever that may be), might be right.

If anyone has input/advice/experience on this, it'd be hugely appreciated. Thanks!

sounds good.
don't think you'll need the extra layer. when super cold you are either moving, or in your tent/bag.

Travis.....one item that you'll be glad you have on Denali is a full fleece long john style suit. Layer with capilene underneath and the fleece suit under the outer shell and parka. Once you put the full fleece suit on you won't take it off. Be sure to get one with a drop seat or full crotch zip. Been on Denali twice and wouldn't go there again without a full fleece suit.

So you're saying that all of those layers period would be fine? I am considering switching out the MonkeyMan for another synthetic jacket, due to less bulk. (Also I could use the jacket as my outer parka in say, South America or some place)

I've heard the long john suit is not a bad idea actually.

Benjamin Chapman wrote:Travis.....one item that you'll be glad you have on Denali is a full fleece long john style suit. Layer with capilene underneath and the fleece suit under the outer shell and parka. Once you put the full fleece suit on you won't take it off. Be sure to get one with a drop seat or full crotch zip. Been on Denali twice and wouldn't go there again without a full fleece suit.

I used to like a one piece base layer...but...went with tights on the bottom and cap zip t medium weight rig for the top in separate pieces. Just easier to deal with and layer easier.

One thing I like for up high, was a stretch capilene farmer john but no arms, just vest. Wasn't as heavy as pile but layered over tights and a medium weight capilene top, pretty comfy.

I'd probably cut down your list a bit.

Just one light windbreaker type jacket (with hood) that can shed snow and cut the wind (and shed rain, if need be).

Down jacket (with hood) for sure. Good for hanging around and good for summit day. Other than that, won't see much use.

I'd take a light synthetic t-shirt (or two to keep the funk down a touch). A medium weight top. Maybe a nano puff jacket. That's it for upstairs.

I don't find my lower body gets that cold, but, I'd take probably two pair of synthetic boxer/briefs, medium weight tights and some stretchy shoeller pants for wind/rain/snow.

I took down pants but didn't use them. If it gets that chilly, I'd probably stay in the tent until the cold front passes.

Anyhoo...some idears.

Thanks for the tips all. So what's the opinion on the MH Compressor as a synthetic insulation layer for this particular climb? I reckon perhaps something a little bit heavier weight is in order? It's been forever since I've been active in that kind of cold, so my memory is very fuzzy on what worked and what didn't (also it was 11 years ago).

What about

shop.americanalpineclub.org…

instead of the monkeyman fleece? Thinner, lighter, breathable, thumbloops, and it's $60 if you're a member compared to the $230+ retail once the non-AAC version is released. I have one and haven't used it on any long climbs yet but it layers well.