The Outdoor Research Puffy Jacket is a lightweight, warm-weather down jacket. It’s the perfect choice for mountaineering or mixed-weather excursions. Patagonia’s Down Sweater and Rab Microlight Alpine jackets also provide similar performance. Ultimately, you’ll need to decide which jacket suits your needs.
Patagonia’s Micro Puff Hoody
The Micro Puff Hoody from Patagonia is one of the best lightweight insulated jackets on the market. It boasts a PFC-free DWR finish and is made from 100% recycled fishing nets. In addition, it is bluesign-approved and Fair Trade Certified. This means that no harmful chemicals were used during the manufacturing process and that workers were compensated fairly.
Patagonia’s PlumaFill insulation
Patagonia’s Micro Puff is a packable, lightweight jacket stuffed with a 65-gram continuous filament of PlumaFill insulation. Compared to down, it delivers similar warmth for half the weight. Its lightweight, wind-resistant shell keeps it dry and breathable, while the down-like insulation keeps you toasty.
Arc’teryx’s Falketind Down750
Despite its streamlined design, Arc’teryx’s Falkettind Down750 Outdoor Research Puffy Jacket feels extremely lightweight and warm. This jacket is also a great mid-layer during the colder months. While not the warmest jacket on the market, it’s still an excellent option for colder days.
Norrona’s Falketind Down750
This down-filled jacket is lightweight and ideal for all-season wear. It’s also water-repellent and PFC-free and folds into a convenient pocket for easy transport. Its fabric is RDS certified and made from recycled 20D nylon.
Mountain Equipment Lightline Eco
The Mountain Equipment Lightline Eco puffy jacket is a highly versatile jacket for cold-weather use. Made from certified recycled materials, it provides a toasty layer of insulation. It has an adjustable zip-off hood for optimum protection. It also has plenty of pockets and an elastic cuff. Moreover, it also repels wind and rain. The Mountain Equipment Lightline jacket also comes with a drawstring waistband for a snug fit.
Rab Neutrino Pro
Among heavyweight down jackets, the Rab Neutrino Pro is our top pick. It features more than 800-fill-power European goose down and a durable Pertex Quantum Pro shell, making it a better choice for people who frequently experience cold temperatures. This jacket is also an excellent value at $399.
Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2
The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 Puffy Jacket is a lightweight down jacket packed with 800-fill-power down. This down is moisture-resistant and retains critical loft even when wet. It’s a great jacket for active summer days on the trail.
Mammut Meron IN Hoody
The Mammut Meron IN Hoody for Men is an ultra-lightweight, high-loft down jacket. Its body features 900-fill-power European goose down and ultra-light ripstop nylon outer. The jacket packs down to 3.5 ounces and has a soft interior lining. Other features include a helmet-compatible hood and two exterior pockets with a zippered pocket inside. It is priced at USD 450 or CAD 600.
