Just been looking at lightweight, warm jackets - recent cool (very cold!) evenings do concentrate the mind, just a bit.

I currently use a Rab Generator jacket, it's okay but I feel I could do with something warmer. It's good in that it's insulation is synthetic and therefore less likely to suffer from the soggy & damp conditions endured on a typical Challenge.

The down-filled Rab Microlight Jacket caught my eye, not least because it's currently on offer at Go Outdoors for £114.75 - still not cheap.

I wondered if any of you good folk out there have any thoughts on this jacket - or this type of jacket.

Thanks,

JJ

PHD _ really, really good kit.

There was an over production of down last year and you can still find bargains!

Thanks Andy.

I'm aware of PHD but have no knowledge of any of their products, do you have any particular garment in mind?

JJ

Hi JJ , I too use a generator and enjoy its ease of maintenance . You may recall you , I , and Another, turning my shelter in the upper Findhorn one windy day 2011 . I think Down will suit you . I purchased a RAB Down Bag and have enjoyed its warmth ( it is in fact a half bag ie all above you).

Try the PHD Midwinter minimus - with or without dryshell - but definitely with the removable hood. It may make you look like a pointy-headed nerd but who cares when you are toasty warm?

It is so good I bought the same jacket but as a gillet - great for the not so freezing expeditions.

I have absolutely no reservations in recommending this jacket - it is brill.

I have the Rab Generator too, but now much prefer my PHD Minimus - but get the dri-shell. Essential in our climate and for in a damp tent.

I've had a PHD Minimus Down Vest for a few years and took it on the Challenge this time (it's not a jacket, of course, but I did add some down sleeves from Jacks 'R' Better for similar effect). Absolutely essential, reliable kit. As others have said, the DriShell version is worth getting. I wore it in bed, wandering around town, sitting around in camp, pretty much everything except actually hiking as it's far too warm for that. No problems with the wet weather either.

Everything about the fit, from collar fit and pocket placement to the generous bum-hugging length, is spot-on for me, making it easily the cosiest garment I own. Pricey, but PHD sales are worth waiting for if you're not fussy about available colours.

I see that Alpkit have their down jackets on sale at the moment. Probably worth a look, as I've heard positive reports and the price is pretty good (£80).

Don't need a down jacket, but a gilet, probably hollow fibre rather than down.
PHD do one at £95 (not sale price). Any other suggestions?

Thanks for all your advice - isn't Challenge-land a great place, eh?

The PHD stuff looks good, if a little pricy. But I suppose quality doesn't come cheap. I didn't realise PHD were (relatively) local to me so I'll have to pay them a visit.

Alpkit gear is certainly excellent - particularly for the price. Unfortunately they only have ladies down jackets on offer at £80 now. Again, they're not a million miles from Timperley....so another trip will be pencilled in.

Thanks again.

JJ