Who pre-ordered their KUIU this week?

JJB2 · March 28, 2011, 06:35:00 PM

Where are you guys looking at the clothing and ordering? I was just on their website and the "shop" link doesn't click through.

JockC · March 28, 2011, 06:47:00 PM

Guru, how "hard" is the finish on their synthetic cloth? For instance, I think the Sitka 90% is too hard and reflective, as opposed to fleece, Berber, or, in particular, wool.

JJB2, I had the same problem. If you e-mail them, they will send a hot link.

Guru · March 28, 2011, 07:35:00 PM

Jock, Sitka is 90% is good stuff, and I had good luck using it.

But in comparing the KUIU Guide jacket and the 90% jacket, the Toray soft shell fabric that makes up the Guide jacket is both "softer", and less reflective(if reflective at all)compared to the 90% material.

That was always one of my pet peeves with the 90%...

Ryan Sanpei · March 28, 2011, 08:35:00 PM

JJB2,
For any info on ordering, please call 1-855-FOR-KUIU between 9am to 5:30pm PST, or shoot them an email at service@kuiu.com anytime.

For any info on KUIU please check the interactive blog. Jason posted a years worth of information about KUIU.

http://kuiu.wordpress.com/

Aloha!
Ryan

JJB2 · March 28, 2011, 09:15:00 PM

Thanks guys, I was wanting to look at each item and read product descriptions for each piece in the system. I see the pics on the blog and test links and some info on the attack pants and pack frame but nothing on the jackets, base layers, caps, etc. JockC - is that info on the hot link they emailed you?

JJB2 · March 28, 2011, 09:33:00 PM

Figured out what I was doing wrong - was on the last page of the blog. I went back thru the whole thing and read thru it all. Wow, appreciate the thought and research that went into both the gear and business model. Can't wait to try it out.

Phil Tuccillo · March 28, 2011, 10:14:00 PM

Finally got my stuff ordered today, I can't wait to get my hands on it.....

Burnsie · March 28, 2011, 10:26:00 PM

Ok, Veronica at KUIU finally got me hooked up so I can order. I planned to start out with some of the base layer pieces and would like some input on what will work best.
From the KUIU web site:
The Merino 250 collection is a balance of warmth, weight and durability, with each piece designed to be worn over our Merino 185 collection as a second layer.
I guess my question is, will the 185 collection be fine for late season in Central Illinois and a few outings to Wisconsin. Can the 250 collection be worn alone as a step up from 185? Seems like wearing it over the 185 would be reserved for Musk Ox in the NWT or something. Or sitting in a tree stand for several hours in Alberta.

Ryan Sanpei · March 28, 2011, 11:30:00 PM

Hey Burnsie,
I'm glad that Veronica was able to help.
The 185 is designed to be the primary base layer, giving it the ability to be worm in hot weather as a stand alone piece or a "comfort" piece in warmer weather. The 250 is designed to be worn over the 185 when layering for colder temps. Everyones threshold for cold weather varies, but my opinion is that you could use both layers together in temps below 70 degrees. The 250 has a "slight itch" factor if worn alone. If the "slight itch" doesn't bother you than wearing the 250 alone shouldn't be a problem.
Sorry but I can't help you with the question regarding Illinois and Wisconsin, I'm not sure what the weather temps and conditions are like during those time periods.
Hope this helps,
Ryan

Burnsie · March 29, 2011, 03:05:00 PM

Thanks Ryan, that helps alot, I definitely want to avoid the itch factor. I just want to make sure I understand how each layer is designed to work and then order appropriately.
So your saying I could wear the 185 base layer with no other layers over it directly into the woods on warm days. I guess I was looking at the 185 and 250 as modern versions of my trusty thermal long johns and shirt.

Ryan Sanpei · March 29, 2011, 04:02:00 PM

Yes Burnsie,
For example, I'll be using the 185 all the time in Hawaii as my primary shirt. When the weather gets a little colder in the mornings or in the evenings, let's say temps below 70, I'll throw on my 250. Below 60's I may start to use my Guide vest and even colder, I may need to use the Guide jacket. For added insulation on really cold days, you may always use the Spindrift under you jacket.

The KUIU blog is also a great place to interact and ask questions.

Let me know if you have any more questions.

Aloha,
Ryan

highpoint forge · March 29, 2011, 06:44:00 PM

Tempted to order the beanies, but it won't be cold again in TX until freakin' November.

limbow · March 30, 2011, 09:26:00 PM

I am really excited to get this product. I have been waiting for a company to produce such a line of clothing. The camo pattern looks very versatile and extremely effective.
I often thought that if technical outdoor/climbing gear could be converged with a camo pattern and quiet exterior shell it would be a winner. That is what I believe KUIU will be.