Black Diamond  First Light Hybrid Insulated Hoody - Men's

The BD First Light hoody is my new go-to mid-layer for most outdoor activities. Never thought I'd say that having been a long time fan of the Patogonia Nano Air, but all factors considered (breathability, lightness, stretch, warmth) make the First Light hoody a true contender!

Great jacket, but the blue material came with spots on it. I tried washing it but near came out. Love the jacket just wish it didn't come with spots on one sleeve.

Was looking for an Arc Teryx Atom replacement and this isn’t quite the same, but I really like it for winter hiking and backcountry skiing. The biggest difference is that there is no insulation in the back. Instead, it has a stretchy breathable fabric. This makes it a perfect in-between piece for when it’s cold, but you’re working hard and wearing a pack. Like before the sun comes up on a backcountry ski ascent. Compared to the Atom, I sweat a lot less in this jacket, which keeps me warmer in the long run. However, I have to throw on something warm during rest breaks to avoid my body temperature dropping (generally a good practice anyways). Big fan of this jacket, but probably need to get a BD solution jacket as well for a wear anytime, do anything kind of jacket.

This jacket is a fantastic blend of style and functionality. The helmet-compatible hood is a standout feature, perfect for winter sports or unexpected weather. It packs into its own chest pocket, making it easy to stow and carry. With two zippered hand pockets and a hidden chest pocket, it offers great storage options. The updated design ensures a modern fit and added comfort. Ideal for both casual wear and outdoor adventures, this jacket is a must-have for versatility and convenience!

This is by far the most comfortable jacket I’ve ever worn and can’t recommend it enough to anyone who gets after it in the mountains. But the 20d nylon material that covers the primaloft insulation is extremely delicate and gets little fibers coming off anywhere it rubs on literally anything. My face stubble tears the fibers it’s way to delicate. I wish it was just a bit more abrasion resistant because it is amazingly comfortable. You can wear it in 50 degree f weather all the way down into the low 20’s and still be comfortable. It’s amazing at keeping you at the right temperature. Just is beyond delicate… my bread stubble shouldn’t tear up the nylon face fabric that is just ridiculous for outdoor gear. Seriously you will have to be so careful with it, and for the price it shouldn’t be that delicate.

I have owned several jackets like the First Light 1. 0 (Arc'teryx Proton FL Hoody, Mountain Hardwear), and this jacket is superior in every way. From the general stretch of the material, unisulated in the back panel to avoid overheating, and a generous hood, it is my go-to for winter running/ backcountry climbs in temperatures from 10 to 40 degrees. It's also a great around-town jacket - highly recommend. I'm 6 ft / 175 lbs, and the medium was a perfect fit.

Ideal for high output activities, but can be a little cold if you're not moving fast. The stretch panels are very breathable, but therefore let in the wind. One thing that keeps me from always grabbing it from the closet is the non-adjustable hood. I have to make sure I'm wearing a billed-hat or helmet, or the hood tends to fall down in front of my eyes. Might have opted for the slightly warmer and more adjustable 2. 0 version for my northeast adventures.

excellent for ski touring or anything involving a light backpack. fairly wind resistant and very, very comfortable and mobile. im 5'9. 5" with long arms and big shoulders and the medium fits perfectly over a base or even over a midlayer because it's very stretchy. it's like a slight bump up in warmth from the nanoair ultralight, which i prefer for jogging but this has a little more insulation for zone 1 - 2 activities. style and fit are outstanding

This is the second one of these I've bought. I've had my first one for 5 years and still wear it. The side pocket zippers have failed in the last couple of years but otherwise, this jacket out-performs its price by a mile. I call it a "maybe jacket" --- If I think, "maybe I'm gonna be too cold" or "Maybe it's going to snow" or "Maybe I'm going to sweat too much with this pack". This is my go-to jacket to answer all those maybes.

I love the weight to warmth ratio of this coat, which is great. It keeps my core and arms warm during high-output activities, without overheating for the most part. Between the thin wool panels and adjusting the zip, I’ve been able to dial in heat management while active. I also really like the chest pocket, reflective zips, and pack-in-pocket features. The only two downsides are that the hood is oversized for a helmet (not usually an issue, but without any adjustments, it makes it far too large and cumbersome for everyday, non-helmet wear), and I noticed a small amount of premature wear on the smooth material after my first backcountry ski tour wearing it. As skinning was one of its advertised activities, I was surprised to find that the material was already worn from the backpack on my first long outing wearing it. I’ll continue to wear and enjoy the jacket, but it’s not as durable as I expected.