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And I agree, function first. However, if you ski a lot, and I mean a lot, you start to value powder skirts, velcro cuffs, taped seams, ruggedness, windproof fabric, lots of pockets, pass pouch, zip off hood, unsnaggable zippers with large pulls, etc. Pretty soon $350 on sale is looking like a deal.
Off topic, but I'm looking at a north face 3 in 1 online. NF size chart tells me I'm a medium - anyone have experience with the sizing on these? 6-1, 175-180 lbs. Normally I'd get large, but NF says M.
Thanks.
My jacket purchased in August has just about everything listed here - include Omni heat, high zip up collar and I spent $69 at a tent sale in North Conway. We always buy our gear in July and August or try to catch an Spring sale at resorts.
Aren't you the guy who also gets lift tickets for an average of $17.85 per day as well?
I never pay close to retail for any winter equipment or clothing! Many dirt cheap deals available in the offseasons. Then there's the internet where there's always a deal every day of the year. Bought my TNF pants for $80 and Helly jacket for $99. Found my current snowboard boots Salomon F22 for $50 at a tent sale. All new.
I'd lean toward the large if I were you - I tried on a few recently and was surprised that the medium seemed a bit small. I thought a large on the other hand was a tad too roomy for me. I'm a bit smaller than you, about 5'11 170, would have guessed medium for myself.
Some of this Bogner and Kjus stuff is ridiculously priced and not real durable.
I am fortunate enough to have gotten a FREE Kjus jacket and I have to say it kicks ass. It's durable and has tons of little features that go a long way in my book. I've put it to the test too...frigid temps, storms, bushwhacks in the trees, exposed ridgelines, whatever. It holds up.
I would not spend the money on it! Not on sale (or free) - $400-$900. There are plenty of other products that cost way less that perform just as well! Hell they have 1/2 zip up sweaters that cost more than my skis! However to each there own!
I will take my less costly stuff and drink more beer!:beer:
As I mentioned in BOLD type I got it for FREE.