I'm trying to finish my clothing options for 3 season in N.C./TN area. I'm looking to buy an insulating jacket...Please tell me if this sounds good

-From inner to outer-
Merino 1 shirt
Patagonia sun hoody or R1 pullover depending on season
Houdini wind jacket
montbell ul down inner jacket
golite poncho for rain


I'm worried that the MB jacket won't hold up due to the abrasion/wear from my pack(zpack exo, if it matters), since it will be the outer layer. Is this something I should be worried about ?
also, I get pretty hot when hiking, so is it possible that I wouldnt need the MB jacket while hiking, just in camp or early mornings?
Thanks, Eric

In temps down to the low 30's, I find a base layer, R1 and windshirt are more than ample while on the move.
I only use the MB jacket in camp. Especially since sweat will reduce the fluffyness of the down.

And yes, I said fluffyness.

I can't imagine hiking in a down jacket unless it was seriously cold...I'd overheat big time and suspect most are similar. If moving, I'm fine in base layer + wind jacket down to 20 or so. I just use my down pullover for around camp/sleep.

Edited by AndyC on 05/30/2012 14:45:23 MDT.

I definitely recommend AGAINST hiking in the Montbell. Great gear, but not durable enough and too hot.

+1 on the above layering advice, as well. When moving, less is needed (unless you're in COOOOOOOLD temps).

Thank you for confirming what I was thinking.... It looks like that part of my gear should be set, as it follows along with your advice.
Great wealth of info here, thanks

Your system should work perfectly, now you'll just have to play with it enough to learn how it is perfect ;)

I use the same basic setup for my three season list here in the desert, granted here the "three" seasons are fall, winter, spring!