How to Choose Insulated Jackets

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For lightweight, cold-weather comfort, layer on The North Face ThermoBall™ full-zip jacket. It's as toasty and compressible as down, yet retains warmth even when wet for all-season insulation.
Shop newer version| Best Use | Multisport |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Ripstop nylon |
| Lining Fabric | Ripstop nylon |
| Insulated | Yes |
| Insulation Type | Synthetic |
| Insulation | PrimaLoft ThermoBall polyester fibers |
| Hood | No |
| Packable | Yes |
| Back Length | Hip-length |
| Gender | Men's |
| Weight | 12.3 ounces 12.7 |
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I bought this jacket to work as an insulator under my hard shell for winter as well as my outer layer during the fall and winter. By itself this jacket is pretty warm, but it really shines when you start to move in it. I use it while climbing mountains in the Cascades and it's often the only jacket I need in cooler temperatures because it keeps me very warm while I'm moving. I went for a synthetic because all of my climbing in the PNW and it's really handy to have something to doesn't give in to water and moisture. When it gets really cold out, this will make a great layer in between my base layer and a snow shell. It is extremely light weight and fits into it's own pocket, which makes it convenient for backpacking.
I bought this before traveling to Europe because I didn't want to pack a bulky winter coat and the temperatures were going to be cold. I love this jacket because it is so light weight but incredibly wind resistant and warm. The fact that it packs into a football size bundle when you pack in it's own packet came in very handy when perusing indoor attractions like museums. We were in Paris with 20 degree "F" temperatures with wind chills in the teens and this jacket along with a t-shirt and sweater under it kept me toasty warm. The other thing I like is that in moderate temperatures it's not too hot. Very happy with this purchase.
I have mixed feelings about this product. It is very lightweight, moves well, breathes ok, and warm at moderate activity levels. This product is best as a liner or interior layer, the reason I purchased it. By itself its warm for mild temperatures only, equivalent to a fleece jacket with slight wind resistance. The fabric is a little too thin which poses questionable durability or ruggedness on the trails if worn as an outer layer. For cooler than 30 temperatures, depending on activity level, its best to have an extra layer or more, as there is not much insulating material. Overall the product is decent, looks good, and well sewn, however I was expecting more insulation and a robust outer fabric.
Really enjoyed the jacket during two winters (casual use) , until poorly designed cheap zips started slowly destroying the jacket. I though ,at this price range (200+$), the jacket lasted for a longer period of time. Little bit disappointed.....
This is an awesome jacket. Weighs next to nothing. I got the NF Black and it's very stylish... I like the trim fit, even though I'm not a trim guy. One thing I did notice when walking in the COLD (teens) weather. The pocket area is very big and with my hands in the open pockets the warmth factor of the jacket goes way down. There is only a layer of thin nylon on the inside of the pockets, so cold air comes right in. So, if its real cold keep the zippers up. A minor detail.. In all, an awesome jacket for town or trail
This is a warm jacket, and a lot warmer than you might think for a light weight jacket. Good in the 30s and 40s, either by itself or layered under a windshell. Cozy for cross country skiing. So far has stood up well to two washings, The fabric is slick and has a definite parka look to it, so it may not be your favorite fashion statement. Bought one as a present then got one for myself.
I love the feel and lightness of this jacket! I use it as a light jacket over a T-shirt or as a mid layer when it's cold. Make sure to get a form-fitting size for you. It should be snug so it's not drafty. Packs very small.
I bought one yesterday. Went for 5 mile walk today in clear weather at 47 degrees without she'll and just a capilene base layer. If anything, it may have been too warm. Great so far. I didn't expect it to be as warm as it is is. It'll be great in colder weather with the shell. Wish it had an inside pocket.
This could be the best warmest lightest jacket int he world but if even the small fits like a parachute its not something I want to drop a couple hundred bucks on. I was really excited to get this jacket and had high hopes. I ordered the small. I am 5'8" and skinny but a small always fits me fine. This small was huge, it looked ridiculous. Not only super wide across the chest but the arms were also way too big and it just looked silly. There was no was to justify keeping it. Before this I had the REI Revelcloud (size small) and loved it before I lost it Was hoping to upgrade to this but I think I will either buy another Revelcloud or try the PAtagonia Nano Puff.
Not as warm as I though it would be. O.k. for cool conditions, but definitely not enough insulation or wind resistance for 40 degree weather. Also, I expected a better fit - I got a medium (I'm 5'10" and 165 lbs) and it seems very baggy around the middle. The REI brand Revelcloud jacket it was going to replace seems a much better fit, and very similar warmth and weight (but considerably less expensive!).