Sitka Kelvin Lite Hoody vs First Lite Uncompahgre Jackets

[dog]

Hi guys. I tried on a Sitka Kelvin Lite hoody recently at cabelas and liked the way it fit fairly tight in the body and arms. Seemed like it would work good as a mid layer (because of the nice fit) under another jacket in really cold conditions while sitting on stand, or by itself on warmer days. I have not been able to find one of the First Lite Uncompahgre Jackets to try on or look at. So I am wondering how it compares to the Sitka Kelvin Lite as far as the fit and weight and warmth. Anyone have experience with these jackets? If so tell me what you think.  Thanks!

[full choke]

I kind of fall in the tween size between medium and large. In First Lite base layers I wear a medium. In Sitka gear I generally need to go to large, mediums are just too tight in the shoulders. My kelvin lite in large fit very nice. When I bought the uncompahgre, I down sized to a medium because I had heard they run big. I ended up returning the medium because it was too big. The arms and shoulders were ok, but the mid section was waaay too puffy and baggy. I ended up with a size small. It fit snug, but not in a bad way. I guess for that type of layer I kind of liked it- not too tight or restricting. First Lite sizing is goofy as hell. But overall, I think the unc is a better jacket personally.

[SemperFidelis97]

I have no experience with the first light puffy, but I will say the Kelvin light is one of my favorite Sitka pieces.  I liked it so much that I have purchased several for friends, and family.

[dog]

I talked a bit with First Lite today and sounds like the Uncompahgre may be a fair amount warmer jacket than the kelvin lite. So that could be good or bad for layering depending on the use I suppose. I do have a nice outer jacket that I am happy with that is very warm so may be leaning towards the kelvin lite. (not sure I need that much extra insulation)

[Buck Rub Jr]

I have a uncompahgre vest and it's very warm and really light. And folds up real small into its pocket. I got an  XL which is what I normally wear but it's a little big on me.

[camsides]

I got a small uncompadre jacket and it fit a lot bigger than a Sitka large. I ended up getting a kuiu medium puffy which worked great. The first light runs pretty big.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[jackelope]

I recently picked up an uncompahgre puffy jacket and I love it. It's super light weight and really, really warm. From a sizing standpoint, it's big. I bought it off of a friend who got it and found it was too big for him. I'm bigger than him and I wouldn't call it "too big" but it's definitely got a little extra room in it.  I love the jacket though. It's packability is great.

I don't have any experience with the Sitka Kelvin jacket, but my other Sitka stuff runs pretty true to size.

[GUscottie]

I have the first lite Uncompahgre...

It's a great jacket. Really warm. Really well designed. Great jacket.

The only, ONLY, complaint I have with it, I wish the outer layer were more "hearty" (I feel it isn't quite as durable as a soft-shell), but it is a great jacket and if not in crap that will tear it up, it's the best hunting jacket I've owned.

The jacket kept me really, really warm in a cold and windy morning of glassing for deer. I was layered properly with a good base layer and my FL Labrador shirt/jacket under it.

[dog]

Thanks for the replies!

[X-Force]

http://www.rokslide.com/puffy-jacket-shootout-alaska-style/

here is a great review of 4 puffies.

From my experience with the Kuiu, First Lite and Kifaru puffy.

Kuiu quietest by far, First Lite compact and warm, Kifaru is a heater... I haven't had experience with the Sitka.

[T-Dozzer]

The Kelvin lite hoody is one of my favorite peices, but It's not as heavily insulated  as the first light puffy. Something more compareable would be the Sitka Kelvin which I'm not even positive they still make.

[WAcoyotehunter]

I have two of the FL puffy jackets and LOVE them.  It's a really versatile coat.  I wear an XL in pretty much every brand, except First Lite.  I fit a large perfectly, the tend fit big. 

I like my FL better than my Sitka puffy

[dog]

I ended up getting the Sitka Kelvin Lite hoody and like it quite a bit. The new (2017) version is a lot nicer than last years. It's more of a cloth like material, and much quieter. Also has a softer lining and scent control. Pretty dang nice.