>>2184288It depends how often you go /out/ and in what conditions.
I really appreciate a top-tier jacket with a high denier face fabric when I'm out in the worst Scottish winter conditions.
A good jacket costs a lot but getting the right one for you is important. There is no point spending £700 on an Alpha SV if you don't climb and just need a jacket for a ramble at a nature reserve.
I've bought and sold quite a few jacket that I just didn't like - pocket location, too short in the body, crap hood, etc.
I've got a BETA SV now and it's really great. I got it 50% off - wouldn't pay retail for it.
