Hi There,

Getting ready to suit up for this coming winter. I have decided I am in the market for an anorak. I was lucky enough to check out empire canvas works anoraks during the winter camping symposium but couldn't find anything in my size nor does it sound like any are going to be made for this year from ECW. My question to you expert winter campers is, what other options do I have for a quality cotton anorak? I see Duluth pack is making one, haven't seen it in person but will check it out next time I'm down there. I have also heard about Lure of the North and their products. Never seen any of their wares in person either. Anyone have some input on these or other options?

-Thanks

Lure of the north sells from their website as you may already know. You can buy their kit and try your hand at making one yourself or buy a pre-made one. Otherwise you might try an Army surplus store for something cheap that will work until you have the money and opportunity to get what you want. After all it's mostly a wind breaker designed to fit over all your other layers.

I've never been a fan of pullovers so when I had a chance to buy a full zip anorak I did so.

Curious but what size do you need?

I'm not to sure on the size. I tried a medium from ECW and the room was good but the length was pretty long, past my knees. I know they are suppose to be long but I could barely walk in the thing. I'm 5'7" 145 lbs but tend to size most my clothing on the big size. I have lots of layers. I'm not loyal to any one brand, but I do like supporting small business (ECW, LOTN) but on the other hand, I like Minnesota made (Duluth Pack). Not set on zipper or pull over yet either.

Yes, having it past your knees will make it too hard to walk. Being 5'7" I could see where you might have issues with the length of an anorak. I guess this is a time where LOTN would be a good alternative because you could custom size the length to what you want.

Good luck with your search. Keep us informed because I'm sure there are others that have had the same issue.

I dig ECW but vainly I wanted something that looked a little more modern for everyday use around the Twin Cities. I wound up picking up a Norrona (Norwegian) Svalbard Cotton Anorak and it has been awesome! It is a 76% cotton/24% poly blend but I have used mine around fires and woodstoves and not experienced any burns/singeing. It is a great tight weave that blocks the wind but still breathes. In order to have room for layering (including my puffy down jacket) I bought the largest size I could find-XXL. It covers my hips (6'3")but is not nearly as long as the traditional ECW style anorak. The pullover style affords two convenient pockets on the front. It has a big adjustable hood and roomy arms with nice heavy Velcro wrist closures.

I liked mine so much that I bought two more-one in a different more visible color. My wife (5'3") wore one (also XXL) last year on a dogsledding trip but not since and I am thinking about selling it. Its off white/gray with blue trim. If you're interested drop me a line. If you're in the Twin Cities you are welcome to check it out. Sorry to turn this into a solicitation.

Rich aka tg

They are worth their weight in gold! love my anoraks! Just make sure that you get one that you can partially unzip to help with being able to maintain your body temp without overheating. I have a wintergreen anorak without the zipper, and find I can only wear it at times when I am not active (i.e. sitting around the campfire in the evening).

Wintergreen in production yet?