is low bulk really a benefit?
I have the choice between a down hooded coat at 16.2 oz. or the combination of a fleece 300 hoodie at 17.9 oz and windshirt at 3.8 oz.
The down packs smaller.
They both give about the same amount of insulation.
The fleece feels good worn next to my skin.
The fleece does not compress as much when slept on so that I can stretch my 3 season underquilt to almost zero. I save 8 oz. on the winter underquilt, but give up 5.5 oz. for the fleece.
While active it is much easier to not wet the fleece from the inside when worn without the windshirt.
The laundry comparison between down and fleece is startling.
Wait, I think I just made the case that the heavier and bulkier is the better choice.
I can hike with a base weight as low at 8 pounds - but seldom do because I like to have separate sleep clothes. I generally go out with a base weight at about 12 pounds for up to three nights. With more food I have to go to a frame pack and the base weight goes up to about 15 pounds.
Food also provides a good example. If you are only concerned about weight and bulk then a stick of butter rolled in sugar is the perfect food. Lots of calories per oz. and low bulk. Add a multivitamin and Metamucil and you're good to go. Not sure I would want to do that, but...