I'm going to Iceland mid November and need a new jacket, needs to be warm but also waterproof.
I'm currently between:
Down Jacket, minimal waterproofing capabilities so would need to wear another waterproof coat on top.
I've never owned a jacket like this before and am really not convinced on durability, it feels so thing that I half expect the fabric to rip without effort.
Option 2 is this:
Less insulation on this one compared to the down jacket but it still has some, benefit of this one is that it is fully waterproof, Im thinking that combining this with the right layers(Base thermals etc.) will be enough to keep me toasty.
Any other options?
Has anyone been to Reykjavik in November and is able to give a first hand account of how cold it really is and which Jacket would be the better choice?
Comments
My feedback thread is here.
Keeping them separate gives you way more options
I went to Iceland in September and it was incredibly windy and very cold in the rain. In Nov it'll be getting below freezing and you do not want to be getting wet in those temps.
Also, make sure you have decent waterproof boots and test them before you go. I didn't learn mine weren't properly waterproof until I was 20 feet from skogafoss waterfall. Seriously unpleasant!
Mountain Equipment Citadel - warmth
http://www.mountain-equipment.co.uk/citadel-jacket
and
Helly Hansen Loke Jacket - waterproof
http://shop.hellyhansen.com/nl/item/loke-jacket-62252/
im thinking of going for the 2nd jacket and getting a down gilet to go underneath, should give a good combo of warmth and waterproofing.
http://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/Img/Dyn/Cache/Products/50768-0107161524361137460243.jpg
My feedback thread is here.
Option 1
Option 2
Get thermal underwear - long johns and long sleeve top. Then maybe some winter lined trousers like Craghopper Kiwi, a few top layers and a simple lightweight quality waterproof - my current one is a Berghaus Goretex Paclite which screws up nice and small into a bag when I don't need it.
Maybe worth getting waterproof socks if your boots/shoes aren't.
Wicking base layer. Warm mid layer and a waterproof / windproof outer shell.
You can chop and change then depending upon the situation. It's a lot more adaptable.
Just be careful of sizing as some manufacturers make their clothing with this in mind ie. Their outer shell size small will be big enough to accommodate layers underneath. Whereas others don't and you have to size up.
Arcteryx are great, and produce clothing in sizes to accommodate layers underneath. I use an RHO LT top, an Atom midlayer with an Alpha outershell.
If you head to a Cotswolds Outdoor shop or Milletts you'll be able to pick something up relatively cheap. If you don't want to spend too much.
I can't help about the shape I'm in, I can't sing I ain't pretty and my legs are thin
But don't ask me what I think of you, I might not give the answer that you want me to
Uniqlo do some good and cheap base layers, the heatech stuff- - long johns, and long sleeved tops. Decathlon do some good cheap ski socks.
Coatwise I used a Penfield parka, down filled. Layers layers and layers are the key.
It's a fun place to visit: the people are very nice and the landscape is incredible. Not really a food/drink destination but there are a few good pubs/restaurants - drink is expensive and there doesn't seem to be much of a going out drinking culture compared to other countries - they only legalised beer relatively recently:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prohibition_in_Iceland
Have a great time
Food wise, there are some nice restaurants. I had an amazing pasta with langoustines. And the traditional lamb soup is good, often with free refills so ideal way to give yourself some central heating.
If you're looking to buy something, maybe a pile jacket like the Montane Extreme Smock/Jacket. Pretty versatile.
When I was there though it wasn't cold really though.
Have a good time there. If any tips can help for your trip give me a shout.