(How I think about it as the guy behind SkyGOAT)
I’ll be honest.
I didn’t start SkyGOAT because I thought the world needed another hoodie.
I started it because I was frustrated.
I was out hiking, fishing, doing the normal mountain stuff, and I kept running into the same problem over and over again.
I had plenty of layers…
But none of them were the one I actually wanted to wear all day.
The Problem I Couldn’t Ignore
Every spring, it was the same story.
Cold mornings. Warm afternoons. Wind out of nowhere.
I’d start the day layering up. Then I’d overheat. Then I’d stop and get cold. Then I’d dig through my pack again.
And half the time, the extra layers I brought just stayed in my bag.
That’s when it clicked:
> Why am I carrying layers I don’t actually want to wear?
That question is what led to SkyGOAT.
What I Actually Wanted
I wasn’t chasing the lightest possible setup.
I was chasing something way more practical:
> A layer I could put on in the morning and not think about again.
Something that could:
- Breathe when I’m moving uphill
- Keep me warm when I stop
- Handle wind without needing a full shell
- Stay comfortable even if it gets a little damp
- Move with me whether I’m casting or climbing
Basically… something I wouldn’t want to take off.
Building That Layer
When we built GOATgrid, that was the goal.
Not just lighter. Not just warmer.
More wearable.
The grid structure creates airflow so you don’t overheat, but it also traps enough warmth when you slow down. It wicks moisture, dries fast, and doesn’t get that soaked heavy feeling.
And just as important, it feels good.
Because if it doesn’t feel good, you’re not going to keep it on.
What I Actually Wear Fishing
Fishing is where this matters most for me.
You’re not constantly moving. You’re standing in cold water, dealing with wind, and small temp swings hit harder.
These days I keep it simple:
- Light base layer
- SkyGOAT mid layer
- Shell if I really need it
My go-to pieces:
Camp Hoodie
This is my comfort pick. Early mornings, cold starts, hanging by the water. Easy, warm, and just feels right. The pocket is a bonus when your hands are freezing.
Half Zip Pullover
This is probably what I grab most. The zipper lets me regulate heat without stopping, and it fits clean under waders without bunching.
Camp Jacket
If I know it’s going to be windier or I’ll be adjusting more, I go with this. Full zip just makes life easier.
That’s it. I don’t overcomplicate it anymore.
What I Actually Wear Hiking
Hiking used to be where I made things too complicated.
Now it’s pretty dialed:
- Lightweight base
- SkyGOAT layer
- Shell in the pack just in case
What I rotate between:
Half Zip Pullover
Probably the most versatile thing we make. Easy to vent, easy to hike in, doesn’t feel bulky.
Camp Jacket
If I know temps are all over the place, this is the move. Full zip makes adapting simple without stopping.
Camp Hoodie
More of a slower pace, camp, or casual hike piece. Still performs, just leans a little more into comfort.
All of them are built with that athletic fit and raglan sleeve design so you can actually move without fighting your gear.
The Shift I Care About
I’ve got nothing against ultralight.
I care about weight too.
But what I’ve learned is this:
> It’s not just about carrying less
> It’s about wearing more of what you carry
Because the best layer isn’t the one in your pack.
It’s the one still on your back after mile 10… or after a full morning on the river.
For those considering Alpha Direct but wanting more warmth and versatility.
Final Thought
If you take anything from this, it’s this:
Don’t build a layering system for perfect conditions.
Build it for real ones.
Find that one layer you trust. The one you don’t think about. The one you keep reaching for.
For me, that’s what SkyGOAT is all about.
Not more gear.
Just better gear that you actually wear.