[SkaerE]

im in need of some warmer clothes this winter, and i wonder...

is there any difference in what the high cost fleece gear is made of compared to the fleece you can buy for $5 a yard at a fabric store?

im a big fan of making my own stuff, so if it the same...

thanks

[Devonai]

I imagine not, although I have no way of knowing for sure. It certainly seems to be the same material. It's all polyester.

I know Polartec has different ratings for their fleece. I have seen 100, 200, and 300 "warmth." I would suggest looking for the USGI older style "Buffalo" jackets and pants (part of the ECWCS, the older style are brown rather than black). They are quite toasty and a full set should cost around $20. They equate to Polartec level 300 if not better.

[Snorkel Bob]

The polartec series is good stuff. The higher the number the thicker it is. It makes a difference. It limits body heat lost and inhibits wind entering your core. I have a Mountain Hardware windstopper Tech jaket. Fleece with a Gore-windstopper lining. Completely wind-proof. Warmest damn thin Ive even had. Get good stuff and it will make a difference

[SkaerE]

right, i understand the higher the number the thicker the fleece. what i want to know is this:

can i make an EQUALLY thick fleece jacket from "buy by the yard" fleece and have it be as warm as a "polartec" fleece jacket. all things considered, are they the same material?

[Snorkel Bob]

pretty much form what Ive seen, only differenaces Ive seen is the windpro linings. But then again you can get that stuff and line the underside of the jacket

[wanderinwalker]

You can't exactly get the Windstopper (where's that little R thingie?) membrane from WL Gore for do-it-yourself projects. Malden(?) Mills Polartec-makers have a WindPro fabric that is more wind-resistant than regular Polartec but breaths better than Windstopper ever dreamed of, but again, I don't think it is available in bulk. Sorry to bring the bad news.

And yes, the higher-end gear is worth every penny. I will only buy Marmot, Mountain Hardwear and similar serious-weather outerwear anymore. But look at www.sierratradingpost.com for good deals on this stuff. Beats paying retail! ;)