>>1387146Depends on your load, how far you're going, what layers you have, what you're doing when you stop, how cold it actually is, etc. While hiking I only wear my base layers and a fleece/sweater, with a goretex/anorak on back up if wind picks up. Otherwise my back will be drenched in sweat from my pack. However, when I get to where I'm setting up camp, a parka can be really nice. In the military (blah blah blah thank u 4 ur cervix) we only wear our snivel gear (level 7 parka and pants) when we stop moving, because the amount of heat you generate under your armor while moving with all your other gear is more than enough if you've layered properly.
So I think they can be a great piece of gear, depending on if you can take the extra weight and if you know when to use it.
