Sierra Designs Introduces Innovative Cloud Layering System, Redefines Ultralight Backcountry Weather Protection
OutdoorHub 07.11.12
Ideal for backcountry enthusiasts who like to travel light and fast without sacrificing comfort, the three-piece Sierra Designs Cloud Layering System offers warmth, weather protection, and versatility in a package that fits easily into any pack.
Featuring the ultralight and highly breathable Cloud Windshell (6 oz), the warm and packable Cloud Puffy (12 oz), and the waterproof and highly breathable Cloud Airshell (4 oz), the Cloud Layering System is a huge leap forward in outerwear design and performance. Working as a unit, this three-piece system gives versatile weather protection covering the categories of GO (Windshell), STOP (Puffy), and RAIN (Airshell) while adding a minimal amount of weight.
“Traditionally, backpackers would sacrifice a certain amount of comfort in order to travel light. By rethinking how wind, rain, and cold protection can function together, our Cloud Layering System turns that old paradigm on its side,” said Michael Glavin, Sierra Designs VP. “We’re revolutionizing the way people stay warm, dry and comfortable in the outdoors while simultaneously removing extra weight.”
Lighter and far more versatile than a traditional 3-layer hardshell, this system effectively separates the windproof layer from the waterproof/breathable layer for enhanced, customizable performance in a wide range of conditions. Start with the Cloud Windshell when you’re on the GO, add the Cloud Puffy when you STOP moving or temps drop, and break out the Cloud Airshell only when the RAIN starts to fall.
The Cloud Windshell is the foundation for the Cloud layering system. Put this piece on over your baselayer for highly breathable protection from wind and cool temps while on the GO. Made with 100% polyester with 2-way mechanical stretch, the Cloud Windshell creates a microclimate close to your body to minimize evaporative heat loss. Weighing in at 6-ounces, the Cloud Winshell retails for $119.
When you STOP moving, your body can cool off quickly. That’s where the Cloud Puffy comes into play. Throw this layer over your Cloud Windshell for short breaks or around camp to help maintain the microclimate. Lightweight, packable, and ideal for layering, the Cloud Puffy is insulated with 800-fill DriDown™ hydrophobic down for supreme performance in all weather conditions and all activities. This layer weighs 12-ounces and retails for $249.
Waterproof/breathable shells are great for keeping moisture out, but they also tend to keep a lot of moisture in. That’s why the 2L Cloud Airshell is designed to be used only when it RAINS. Ultralight and packable, the 4-ounce Cloud Airshell packs down to the size of a couple energy bars to maximize space in any pack, deploying in seconds for wet weather protection. $125.
Weighing in at a total of 22-ounces, this system is lighter than a bag of GORP and takes up less space in any pack. And while it may not taste as good as GORP, it will give much better weather protection.
