Warmth
As with any mid-layer piece, the specific activity (or activities) is the key factor for determining if the Decoder will be suitable for the given temperature. Plus, I don’t tend to run cold. I have a very high metabolism, and if anything typically run on the warm side.
With high levels of activity (ski touring, running) the use of the Decoder as a mid-layer has been perfect. On December 28, I skinned up Flagstaff (across the street from Alta) under the full moon to ski some of the deep snow that fell on the 27th. The temperature was 0° F, and I kept a pretty quick, constant pace to the top. I remained very comfortable for the entire trip—though I didn’t waste any time at the top. If I had taken a longer break up top, I think I would have become cold fairly quickly.
For cold resort days, even powder days (when staying warm usually isn’t a problem for me), the Decoder hasn’t been quite enough for me. Because the mid-layer is only a piece of the full equation, I have used all of the different combinations of base and outer layers I have, and still the Decoder seems to be the weak link. My base layer options, which I have used alone and combined, consist of an Icebreaker 200g longsleeve, a Hot Chilly’s long sleeve, a blue synthetic wicking/insulating long sleeve (that I have had for so long and used so much the brand name is worn away), and multiple moisture wicking technical short sleeves. The outer layers I have used with the Decoder include the Oakley Unification Pro, The North Face Gonzo, and EMS Blindside jackets.
I have found for temperatures above 20° F, the Decoder works well for resort skiing, especially if you are skiing hard and don’t mind a little chill on the lift at those lower 20° temps.
As an external layer or as street wear, the Decoder has been great for running to and from the car, or hanging out in chilly places (like my house). I have loved the jacket as an outer layer going out for runs, or for quick sessions on the trampoline with temps around 30-35° F.
Durability
I’ve basically worn the Decoder jacket every day since I received it. It has been through the wash four times, and I’ve never put it in a drier. I managed to blow a couple threads in one of the armpits while putting it on once, which is something I never do. On that occasion, my arm went into the armhole basically sideways and instead of withdrawing my arm and trying again, I relied on the stretch of the fabric to give enough to straighten my arm out. The fabric gave enough, but not before I heard 3-4 stitches exceed their limits. Luckily I was in New Hampshire visiting my grandparents at the time, and my grandmother fixed it in a matter of minutes. I haven’t had any issues in that department since. (Moral of the story: put your arm in the armhole like you were taught when you were 3 years old.)
The only notable areas showing any sign of wear is the fleece located at the inside elbow—there’s just a very, very, slight bit of pilling. There is also a tiny bit of thread pilling at the bottom of the jacket, near the zipper, where a piece of my outerwear is apparently rubbing.
Bottom Line
Like I said, I have worn the Jacket at some point of every day since its arrival, which I think says a lot. The Decoder is the perfect layer to throw on when you get cold at the house, head to the grocery store, or go out for a run. The fit is very comfortable with a nice, relaxed style, so you’re not sporting the Mr. Mountaineer look standing in the seafood line.
Furthermore, the Decoder isn’t heavy or bulky like most fleece layers. It works well as an insulation layer under a non-insulated shell, as long as the temperature is somewhat moderate. If you are looking for a jacket/layer to keep you super warm on frigid days, you may want to look elsewhere, and a few great options to consider can be found in our reviews here.
I won’t be replacing my Polartec fleece on very cold days with the Decoder, but for almost all other occasions, it has become my go-to insulator.