How to Choose Insulated Jackets

Built to flex, insulate and move with you, this durable Mountain Hardwear down hoodie pushes the limits of warmth and mobility. It's filled with 750-fill-power down. The hood wraps the head in warmth.
Imported.
View the Mountain Hardwear StretchDown Product LineView all Mountain Hardwear Men's Down Jackets| Best Use | Hiking |
|---|---|
| Fabric | DoppleWeave™ 20-denier 85% nylon/15% elastane |
| Insulated | Yes |
| Insulation Type | Down |
| Insulation | 750-fill-power RDS®-certified down |
| Warmth | Warmer |
| Hood | Yes |
| 2-Way Zipper | Yes |
| Back Length | Hip-length |
| Back Length (in.) | 28 inches |
| Gender | Men's |
| Weight | 1 lb. 1.5 oz. |
| Sustainability | Down certified to the Responsible Down Standard (RDS) |
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This is probably my 6th stretch down and fourth generation I think. Let me start by saying that the stretch and flex is absolutely appreciated when compared to other more restrictive clothing brand. I gave taken these jacket to various weather conditions and extreme and I'm very pleased with the outcome. From near sub zero temperature where frost bult up on my hair, face and jacket...I was still warm on the inside with nothing more than a t shirt. I've been in snowy conditions in Yosemite on more than one conditions where the jacket was soaked heavily in the house outside but I still managed to stay warm and dry in the inside. The soaking and wetness of the jacket was my fault for not taking care of it and using the proper care but was still surprised at the ability the jacket to do what it still did. I know for a for fact, if I had used the care product wax and etc, the jacket would've performed even better if not as good as when it was brand new. For a down jacket and all its qualities, it's relatively light weight. Never had issues with breathability since the jackets is design to allow some air flow unless you intentionally zipped up all the way and tighten the bottom and wore a medium to heavy underlayer while participating in strenuous activity. These jackets are my go to for any weather 10-50 degrees with additional layers. Treat it well, wash with water phobic treatment and low low dry to increase the fluff. My only issue is that the past down versions were much more puffier as opposed to today's version. I assume higher quality down feathers but so were the ones with the older generation. The baffle chambered design does help to nicely distribute the feather everywhere and keeping a consistent overall warmth without a cold spot that happens with the older long narrow design that pushes the feather to one side or spot.
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Very nice jacket the only reason I didn't rate higher was the bottom zipper makes an odd crease when base bungy is snug. Other than that it's light, stretchy, warm, and a good looking jacket. I'm 6'3" 200#, my jacket is an XL which I usually get for enough room to move. I could have probably got away with a large. That said the XL is still a good fit. The cuffs are a different style than I'm use to. Not a tight stretchy cuff. After using the jacket I like this jackets cuff better. Doesn't slide up on your arm and allows gloves to go under the jacket easier. I've used it hiking and general around town wear. It's very comfortable and with generous pockets.
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I've got little to complain about with this jacket. Fit is true to size (for reference I'm 5'8" and 160lbs and the Medium was good), it's stretchy, warm not hot, and good for someone who is active. I'm an climbing and canyoneering guide and I was able to use this in Colorado and Utah with some pretty wet, rainy, cold weather 20°F to 50°F in climbing, camping, and just regular daily wear. Mountain Hardwear StretchDown Hooded Jacket Pros: - DUAL ZIPPERS - Inner pocket - Handles a wide range of temps from below freezing 20°F to 50°F - Lightweight and moves great with you (good ROM; stretchy as advertised) - Light water repellence (rain beaded off surprisingly) - Packs well, doesn't wrinkle Neutral: - Warm not hot (if you're looking for a heavy down jacket, look elsewhere; this is better for people on the move) - Torso is a tad long for me personally (dual zips help) Cons: - Colour/fabric is easy to get dirty As a guide, I often find myself belaying after long approaches and hikes which creates a scenario where I am stationary, sweaty, and needing to stay warm. I don't want to worry about scuffing elbows or bursting seams and need to stay focused. This was my first time trying the MH StretchDown jacket and this was a gamechanger. The jacket packs well, fits under a shell, and allows a full range of motion. Many other down jackets have baffles that restrict movement or seams that simply just bust open from tension. The stretch part isn't even my favourite part...this baby's got DOUBLE ZIPS. You know how many down jackets have that? Near nada. Double zips allow me to open up the jacket from the bottom and belay in warmth, avoid squishing the insulation with a harness, and keep it clean and avoid snags. Beyond belaying and climbing, opening up the bottom zip opens up heat regulation, ROM for snowmobiling, skiing, and other activities, and extends the life/reduces the wear and tear on the jacket. BIG W for Mountain Hardwear. It's safe to say I was impressed and will be taking this jacket on plenty more trips beyond the crag. I received this product for free in exchange for my honest review.
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I received this product for free in exchange for my honest review. I tested the Mountain Hardwear Men’s StretchDown Hooded Jacket while hiking and mountaineering in temperatures ranging from 10–30°F with variable snow/rain. The XL fits slightly roomy, which I appreciate for mobility and layering a 3L shell over it when snow or rain moves in. Temperature regulation was spot on, kept me comfortable high in the mountains during cold alpine starts and long descents. Perfect for early morning rolling outta the tent..Wind protection is also better than other puffies I’ve worn. The stretch material allowed great freedom of movement never felt too tight in the shoulder or arms when climbing, and the durable outer construction gives me confidence when bushwhacking through branches and rough rocky terrain. The adjustable hem cinch inside the pockets is another clutch feature. Packability is average for me (6/10), and during high output uphill efforts sweat can build up and leave the insulation damp like very damp(I also sweat a lot). It performs best when warmth is the priority rather than during long pushes.. Overall, this will be my go to puffy for fall and winter mountaineering and splitboarding. Mountain Hardwear clearly designed it for people who move in their insulation. It’s warm, comfortable, durable, and versatile enough for everyday wear. Even if you're looking for a everyday puffy this is the one. Also it's very easy to wash because of the tougher material - didn't need to worry about burning holes in it when I was running it through the dryer.
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I have wanted a stretch down jacket for years and I’m so stoked I finally got one. It’s warm, breathable, and stretches and moves with you. It’s great for hiking and climbing (works great as a belay jacket) and looks stylish enough to wear to work or out on the town with the family. I’ve been really impressed with it over the past few weeks as Utah has received its first winter storms. I’ve used it climbing, hiking, daily use around town, and on late night search and rescue calls. I’ve received this jacket free for my honest review.
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I received this product for free in exchange for my honest review. This is a great jacket, and it's hard to start with all the things that it did well. I used the jacket in the Rockies and Sierras both in camping, climbing, belaying, hiking, and standing around in the windy cold (30s/40s F). I've even stuffed it into a backpack full of cams with no damage. I've worn it through very light drizzle, and it works great as both an outer layer and to layer under a waterproof. With the proper layering, I wore this relatively comfortably down to 35F. I needed more layers than just a a base, sun hoody, a thin mid layer, and this when it got to freezing, but that's just me an my body. I only wish that it could pack into its own pocket or that it came with a bag to stuff it in. This jacket moved with me, and went low enough to cover my bum. i've used it in all sort of movement that climbing offers, and the dual zipper is key to allow for belaying! The pockets align with the seams so they're kind of hidden. The outside pocket is also very clutch that is bigger than the zipper. The jacket moves with you when climbing, and resists sharp rock. It keeps me warm down to 35F ish, and is surprisingly light. Definitely for anyone who camps or spends time outside needing mobility and versatility.
Here's why: 1. True fit and stretch allow for easy movement during activities. 2. StretchDown comfortably hugs the torso so there are no drafts. 3. Pockets allow easy access. Chest pocket just the right size so your phone won't get lost and won't fall out if unzipped. 4. Interior drop pockets(2) are pure genius. Huge: 12'' deep, 8'' wide. Should be government mandated! Essential for the traveler as they securely hold valuables out of sight, out of reach. No pickpocketing. 5. The hood is just right, warm but not too big/bulky. Not in the way when you're not using. 6. DANG! IT JUST FEELS SO DAM GOOD TO WEAR! Autumn through Spring it's an A+++++
Really comfortable. Nice athletic fit. I'm 6 ft 1.5, 178 lbs and got a size large, and the sleeves and torso are plenty long. Only problem with the jacket is that it's a lot less warm than I initially imagined. My friend has a previous model of a MTN Hrdwear stretch down jacket and it feels nice and puffy. This newer model is lacking a lot of down fill and doesn't have much of that "puffy" feeling when you press into the jacket. The being said, it's really lightweight and still reasonably warm given how light it is. I've needed 2 long-sleeve (1 cotton 1 marino wool) under-layers to feel comfortable in windy, sub 50 degree F weather. But maybe I'm just a wimp.
I have not had the opportunity to really put this thing 'through the test', but so far, I am really impressed and happy with this jacket. As with most down 'puffers' it is incredibly light weight and packable. The fit is great: I am 6'1 and 175lb, athletic build, and the Large is a perfect fit. Enough space underneath for some layering if needed, but not overly flowing or bulky. Long enough to cover my arms and waist. I'm excited for the stretch fabric. Feels as if it will have more forgiveness and hold up better over time, vs the standard light weight down jacket outer fabrics. If you're on the fence, make the leap!
It's summer in SoCal so I am not going to have an opportunity to really try out this jacket for a while, but so far I think it's great!! I'm pleased with my purchase and I would buy it again or recommend it to others. I'm 5'10 and usually fall between an XL and XXL because of my shoulder width and arm length in most long-sleeved garments, but I have owned and tried on Mountain Hardwear jackets before and I know that XXL is a little too big and that I should go with an XL. So, maybe size down from your usual size if you are going to buy this jacket if you don't have experience with the fit of this brand already.


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