EMS Expedition Jacket

I purchased this jacket in a size medium for two reasons. I normally wear a size large jacket, however this was sitting on the clearance rack at my local EMS, and I thought I would give it a shot. This normally retails for $300. For my body, I can never find a good compromise between torso legth, arm sleeve length, and hood size. Most of the new EMS jackets are sized differently than other brands. Right now with my body type( 6'3", 190 lbs) being the way it is, I fit between a Medium and a Large. Now, I would have prefered a large, but they did not have one. I choose the medium because after trying it on, realized that all I might use this for would be a rain shell, winter shell under certain circumstances. I might have a down vest on, underneath.

My second reason for getting this jacket was the price. $99 versus $300, when the new Thunderheads were going for $99 as well. So my choice was clear. I like the way the torso fits. It is the right diameter around my body, however is slightly short, which is fine because I am not using it as a Parka. I know some might find it awkward this way, but to each their own.

I like the thinner profile of the jacket, and I am satisfied with the sleeve length (could be a half inch longer), but the hood is nice because its not flopping all around. There is room enough for layering, but I prefer a more slender profile jacket, so it's right up my ally.

I can recommend this jacket for a few reasons. It has a good fit, material is excellent, Gore-Tex is good, and the fact that it's the top of the line, XCR helps. It breathes, and it has some good options, and pit zips. It can be used for more than just winter camping, or rainy conditions. If treated well, it will last a long time. The return policy at EMS is top notch as well, should anything go wrong.

This jacket packs supprisingly well in a summit pack, or any pack you might have for your long treks. They do not have a picture of the Jacket, but here is a link to it for those that are curious what it looks like:

http://images.ems.com/media/images/products/210/21019/2101909/210190940/210190940_gold_100.jpg

Bring back this jacket!