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Review

Looking for a lightweight, durable, synthetic and ethically produced puffy jacket for your next thru-hike? The Patagonia Micropuff hoodie is definitely worth a look.

Why the North Ridge Hybrid Spirit?

After testing out a number of down puffy jackets like the Trespass Rustler and the North Ridge Hybrid Spirit, it was time to try something synthetic. I was always very cautious with my down jackets and wanted something that could be used as more of an active mid-layer while walking which wouldn’t soak up so much moisture. Going synthetic has helped a great deal and the added benefits of a lighter jacket that’s a better fit while being durable and easily washable was a massive upgrade for my insulated jacket of choice.

How did it do?

 I’ve used the MicroPuff hoodie on the Welsh 3,000s, and Pacific Crest Trail and also washed it a couple of times and it’s held up really well. It’s lost a little of its loft after all that, but washing it didn’t cause it. I’d wear it to bed, wear it while walking and wear it around town. It was basically my primary insulation later and even after some bumps and scrapes the Pertex Quantum Ripstop nylon has no damage at all. I’ll still use this far into the future.

Is there anything you didn’t like?

While for its weight this is a very warm jacket and the Plumafill inside mimics the consistency and insulative qualities of down, it’s not quite as warm as down. If the same jacket were filled with down it would be significantly warmer. I’d be happy to wear this jacket even if they added just a few grams more Plumafill to it to make it that little bit warmer and give it some more loft, but hey, you can’t have it all.

Value for money

This is an expensive jacket, but it is built to last with high-quality and ethically produced materials. While it’s not as warm as down, it’ll cope better on a thru-hike and you can wear it more often after the fact. A premium jacket, but priced strategically.

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