CASummit wrote:Went to my local REI to check out some down and synthetic jackets to compare. I tried on the REI antifreeze II (700 fill) which seemed nice overall. There really weren't any others with a hood in that particular to compare it to. I then tried on TNF Redpoint Optimus (similar price) synthetic jacket. The redpoint optimus seemed like it was good quality but it was hard to tell how warm it would be. Obviously being a synthetic it had far less loft than the down jacket but I've heard synthetics can still be pretty warm. For use mostly in good weather in socal mountains / Sierra Nevada (occassionally during stormy weather) should I opt for the down jacket or will the redpoint optimus provide adequate warmth? Also, I'm not sold on these particular jackets, they are just the two that I tried on to compare down vs. synthetic.
Hmmm. Imo, depends a bit on what you want them for, ie, warmth vs. versatility. I"d be tempted to go for the Redpoint optimus for what you described. However, I don't think it's super warm, just warm enough for on-the-go adventures. The Rei is probably a little warmer, but, . . . I used to work there and am suspect of all of their down products. I think they skimp on their fill. Just my opinion. I have a friend who has the Generator, couple years old, and likes it well, but that one has a bit more fill than the Antifreeze, I do believe. And, maybe their coats(and bags), are better than a couple years ago. Still suspect though.
As you mentioned, there are many to choose from, all pretty good. Check out the Mnt. Hardwear Compressor. Very nice synthetic. OR, as well. All pretty good. Good luck.