Patagonia Nano Puff Hooded Jacket Review: The Ultimate Versatile Mid-Layer

A Legacy of Adventure: Sustainability and Ethical Design

Ever since the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket debuted in 2009 it has been accompanying folks on any and all adventures in the outdoors and in and around the hustle and bustle of urban areas too!  I can remember working at a little gear shop on the Yale campus in New Haven during my college years when this jacket was released.  I remember getting my first edition via a clinic special and the rest is history. 

Utilizing mid to light weight synthetic insulation that easily packs down for travelers, this piece has become a staple across all activities.  With the newest edition being made with 100% recycled ripstop polyester that has a softer feel one can feel good about what they’re consuming and how its effecting the sustainability supply chain.  The people in Vietnam that made this product were paid a premium for their efforts which makes a positive impact for all involved.

Technical Specs: Warmth-to-Weight and Weather Resistance

As far as the nuts and bolts of this piece it is built with 60 grams of PrimaLoft Gold insulation weighing in at 14.1 oz and packing down to about the size of a football. The insulation is Eco 100% post consumer recycled polyester with P.U.R.E.(Produced Using Reduced Emissions) which accomplishes an industry leading warmth to weight ratio while simultaneously maintaining your warmth when moisture comes your way.

The shell fabric is 100% recycled ripstop polyester treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish thus effectively shedding light moisture that is absent of any added PFAS(Per- and Polyfluoralkyl Substances) which are defined as a large group of man-made chemicals used for their oil, water, and stain-resistant properties.  The signature horizontal quilting is abrasion resistant and maintains insulative integrity for the life of the garment while striking a great balance when it comes to accomplishing a low profile, low bulk fit when layering pending desired activity.  The fit has been dialed in over the years and most recently has improved mobility in the shoulders and freedom of elbow movement along with a larger hood to accommodate a superior fit through the chin of the garment. 

With two zippered hand warmer pockets and an internal zippered chest pocket that also pulls double duty as a stuff sack, one has sufficient storage options in this lightweight layering piece.  By utilizing a drawcord-adjustable drop-tail hem the jacket locks in warmth.  Wether you’re skiing or riding, sailing, touring thru Barcelona or just simply running errands around town, the Nano Puff always has your back!

Field Performance: Mobility and the Redesigned Hood

When it comes to the pro’s of the Nano Puff Jacket it offers a clean, refined look that transitions seamlessly from trail to town. It is lightweight featuring a low bulk design that layers effectively under a shell and or other layers.  It stands up to the wind fairly well, cutting the chill to a tolerable level. With the recent update the mobility has significantly improved accomplishing this by creating less restriction specifically for an activity such as climbing. 

The hood being redesigned is a game changer.  It accommodates a beanie or baseball cap and even a climbing helmet functions well with minimal bunching experienced.  It stays put in variable conditions keeping you warm when exposed to elements,  The hand pockets are lined for warmth and comfort and all the zippers function soundly even when using gloves which as we all know makes life so much easier when out in the field. 

Limitations: Warmth Thresholds and Packability

As far as the cons, the Nano Puff Jacket has a few minor drawbacks but I would classify them more as limiting factors pending the activity and rigors you plan to put the jacket up against.  Firstly, the jacket offers moderate warmth and in certain situations and alpine conditions could under deliver.  The jacket performs well depending on how ones internal temperature runs to about the mid 40’s Fahrenheit and the top end temperature during activity performs up into the high 50’s Fahrenheit.  The main takeaway here being that based on how your internal temp’s regulate and the activity/pursuit/mission you plan to take the jacket on effects the overall performance and one’s comfort in the garment. 

It is less breathable and less stretchy than other active insulation pieces compared to the Nano Air from Patagonia that performs at a higher level during higher aerobic outputs.  Knowing that is the case, one can choose to consume the proper garment based on the activity they are choosing to use it for.  The stuff pocket is a bit wonky and not very easy to use ultimately only stuffing down to a football sized shape once packed.  That being said depending on your intended use, the football shaped packed down version still accomplishes a slimmed down version that works well when traveling thru warm poorly ventilated airports, train or bus stations and general highly populated areas that you find in urban areas. 

Overall Impression: Is the Nano Puff Hoody Worth It?

In summary the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody is a multifaceted synthetic mid layer that excels in a range of activities from alpine climbing to simple everyday use.  It is an exceptional layering piece due to its low bulk insulation and trim fit which produces a sleek, clean look as a standalone garment seamlessly transitioning from the field to dinner in town.  The mid-level warmth of the jacket excels in shoulder season’s or if living in Southern California or Florida the jacket excels nearly year around! 

That being said once you cross the temperature line of around 40 degrees Fahrenheit depending on the individual one may want to consider a higher loft insulating option.  It truly is a jack of all trades mid to lightweight insulating piece for the masses.  Year in and year out the Patagonia Nano Puff Hooded Jacket is a top performer on the market.  Having utilized this jacket over so many years on so many adventures I can honestly say I would recommend it to anyone!  Bravo Patagonia!

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