Fat Guy In A Little Coat 

“Fat guy in a little coat….fat guy in a little coat.” 🎶🎵🎶

You’re singing it now in your head, aren’t you? Such a ridiculous scene from the hilarious late Chris Farley in the classic comedy Tommy Boy.

Guess what this post is about?

MY COAT! Yes, the coat I mentioned in my previous post “Herman Gulch Hike.” I love it so much that I’m giving it a blog post of it’s own.

My Cathode Hooded Jacket by Outdoor Research sitting on my couch wondering where will we be hiking next? 🤗

Prior to moving to Colorado three years ago, I lived on the island of Key West about a 3 hour drive from mainland Florida on the US 1. My wardrobe consisted mainly of flip flops, bathing suits, shorts, and tank tops. Acquiring a more “Colorado friendly” wardrobe was going to be a pricy, but fun challenge. I value not just a good price though, but also quality. I specifically look for products that are well made and that will withstand the test of time.

About a year ago, Aaron came home and told me that the Outdoor Research company was offering a friends and family deal for his Alpine Rescue Team. Of course, I can never pass up a good deal. Knowing that a three season type jacket was next on my “wish list”, I carefully researched their products and decided that the Cathode Hooded Jacket (in my favorite color) was a great choice for my needs.

Hiking Mt. Lincoln, Mt Cameron, Mt. Bross, and Mt. Democrat in my jacket (June 2016)

I’ve been wearing this amazing jacket for just over a year now for various activities outdoors and I am still loving it!

This may read like an infomercial transcript but I don’t care. 😜

My favorite features:

~Machine Washable~ After a sweaty run or hike this jacket can go right in the washing machine and it comes out looking like new every time.

~Zippered Pockets~ There are a total of three zippered pockets that I use for easy access to a stash of tissues for my allergies to the outdoors, my phone for snapping pics, and a trail map.

~Lightweight~ This jacket is so lightweight and easy to stash in my pack when the temps get warm. 11.3 ounces to be exact. Even when I don’t think I need it for a particular hike, I pack it anyway as part of “The Ten Essentials.”

~A Damn Good Outer Layer~ I have used this jacket in a varitey of conditions and it has always kept me comfortable, dry, and warm. I never feel the wind or chilly air when I’m sporting this perfectly insulated jacket.

~The Hood~ The hood does a great job keeping my head and ears warm too especially at higher elevations like Mt. Evans

~Flattering~ It really does fit me so well unlike Chris Farley’s coat in Tommy Boy.  I even love wearing it when I’m not doing something active outdoors such as posing for pics on my very first visit to Aaron’s home state, New Hampshire!

This particular jacket, a 2014 Outdoor Magazine Gear of the Year winner, is one of the best purchases I have made for my Colorado gear collection.

👍🏻👍🏻 Outdoor Research