Message #16577

[Gary]

WOW..so tuff due to the varying styles out there...

I think if you focus on waterproof and breathablility...fo r the $$$ you figuring on spending...20,000m/20,000m is a good place to start. Another important factor is whether you want insulated on shell...I prefer insulated that breaths and vents well...wind proof and warm works for me.

Things like zip pits,  # of pockets, their locations, hood that fits a helmet, but most of the jackets in the upper end price range are pretty well thought out in the useablility department.

I personally have been a fan of Spyder jackets this past 6 years or so...But Arcteryx makes some excellent products too.

If you check on Backcountry.com...y ou can get a pretty good eyefull of the styles out there and then narror down your choice from there.

Good luck...g