Hmnn, tempting, especially since I can return the REI fleece jacket despite having worn it on a run and around the house for a week--they have a very generous return policy. Returning the $50 jacket would bring the price of the PI jacket down to $75 or so. You're really on top of these things, so the fact that you're recommending this jacket so strongly is definitely swaying me. How is PI sizing? I'm 6'1" 210-215, about a 45-46" chest I think.I do like REI. Been a membership since the 90's. Though, no stores in FL at all! Nearest is in Atlanta, 6 hrs away. I can't say that they have house brand equivalents of everything though. Of course, one can run in any jacket. It just might not work as well as a sport specific one.
Anyway, I tried the combo on my run at 41F and 14mph wind. It worked well for those conditions.
long sleeve baselayer and jacket(cheaper at Amazon)
Feet were cold, so I kept everything zipped up until the end. Sweat through the baselayer and jacket was damp. Was doing laundry anyway, so I tossed it in, too. It was pretty much dry by last night. Completely dry now, this morning.
It looks like the jacket is on sale at Amazon. 25% Off Pearl iZumi Athletic Clothing: Now thru Dec 23rd
Going to try again today, forecast 36F with 4mph. Feeling a bit lazy, but I'll go and call it product testing!
Edit: never mind, I found their sizing chart. Looks like I'm XL. Just ordered it. They didn't have the safety orange in that size unfortunately, so I'm getting the black.
So now I'm up to around $400 in new kit, if we count the neo trail shoes that SillyC recommended for snow traction.
So I think I'm officially a tech whore now. Thanks everyone, especially Sid, for your advice / comments in this thread.