Backpacker Magazine – October 2008

Field Notes: Boots, Jackets, Tents, And More

The latest word from our testers. This month, we test the Marmot Cauldro jacket, Gregory Z65 pack, Exped Andromeda, tents, Danner Formation boots, and more.

by: BACKPACKER Editors

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Marmot Cauldron

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Gregory Z65

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Royal Robbins Bivy Pant (Seth Hughes)

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Exped Andromeda

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Danner Formation GTX

Jacket
Marmot Cauldron This insulated jacket is the year's top choice for a versatile fall-through-spring mid and outer layer, thanks to its low weight, high warmth, and durability. It sailed through a full winter of hiking, camping, cragging, skiing, and climbing in temps from 0°F to 40°F. The hoodless design and features are minimalist: elastic cuffs, zippered handwarmer pockets, inside and outside chest pockets, wicking DriClime-lined collar and chin guard, and a drawcord hem. The low-bulk profile easily slides under any shell, and the fit allows full range of motion without the hem and sleeves creeping up. Bonus: The Cauldron, which packs down to cantaloupe size, is filled with Marmot's 80 percent recycled EcoPro 100 insulation. And the shell is recycled poly, which in testing appeared just as durable and water-resistant as the standard stuff. $120; 1 lb. 1 oz. (M); men's S-XXL; marmot.com. Reader Service #113

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