I've really spent a lot of cash on gear this winter. That's partly because I sold a load of clutter on ebay and ended up with cash (I have a rule - the proceeds of selling clutter is 'self indulgence money' unless I really need it for something urgently), and partly because I wanted to make my winter training more pleasant.
One thing I've been chasing for a while is a decent packable mid layer. The montane fireball is unbelievably warm and packable, but that's the problem. It's far too warm. The fireball is a 'depths of a snowy winter' or 'shagged my ankle and got to hop/catch the bus home' article. It's not a 'brr, turning a bit chilly, think I need a bit more insulation' thing.
I'd been using spare long sleeved baselayers for this for years, and then I was reading the kit list for the lakeland 100 (out of curiousity - really, it's not happening. No.) and found a requirement to carry a dedicated mid layer (specifically not a 2nd base layer). That set me researching the merits of different mid layers.
I tried a couple of fleeces, but the problem is they're completely non-windproof, and worst of all they're really bulky. I did end up with a couple of uber squishy comfy fleeces for general wear whilst experimenting though. Then by chance, browsing in Cotswold, I saw a Rab Boreas. They only had it in blue (not a favoured colour) and my parking meter was about to run out, so I hopped it and did some research on line.
I ended up with a Ventus (Boreas without the hood). And then another, a week later. Yes, I was impressed. It packs down titchy (into it's own pocket), maybe half the size of the fireball and while it's not /warm/, it's warm enough for running. Pretty much exactly what I was looking for.
It's basically a thin softshell. No waterproofing, but very windproof, and very breathable. Over-length sleeves with thumb holes provide just-enough hand warmth when you don't want to bother getting gloves/mitts out. The half length zip provides excellent venting for a range of temperatures. Not being waterproof, it can just go in the washing machine along with the rest of the stinky mud covered running gear, instead of buggering about with techwash and txdirect.
One or other of them has been out with me on pretty much every run since. Definitely a useful bit of gear.
