The Patagonia Nano-Air Light Hybrid Insulated Jacket shines in high-output activities in cold weather because of its highly breathable back panel and warm front. Designed to be lightweight and flexible for lots of movement, the jacket is comfortable and easy to layer under other jackets. The Nano-Air Light Hybrid shines for its odor resistance, front panel water resistance, and comfort, but it may not be the best choice for someone looking for a do-it-all jacket. For what it does, however, this jacket does it very well.
The Patagonia Micro Puff Insulated Jacket for women is exceedingly lightweight and packable, offering surprising warmth for its 8 ounces. It is a great piece for layering, fitting well under rain shells and works with under layers for more warmth. Sizing is the biggest issue with the Micro Puff, as many users have found that the slim cut does not accommodate those with larger hips or chests, so it is highly recommended that buyers try it on before purchasing. For those that find the right fit, this is a reliable and warm although somewhat minimalist layer that focuses on lightness and packability, although still achieving some water resistance and thoughtful features.
Marmot’s Featherless Insulated Jacket for women is a synthetic fill, trim cut jacket that will keep you warm through mixed conditions. You can add a layer underneath, top with a shell or wear on its own. If it gets wet, it will still provide warmth, and when the sun comes out, it will dry quickly. This jacket is meant to emulate 700 fill down, and it does just that.
The North Face Ventrix Hooded Insulated Jacket for women is a comfortable, versatile, multi-season jacket for all kinds of mountain activities. The unique ventilation system dumps heat while you’re working and seals up to hold heat in when you stop. This jacket can be worn on its own in warm and moderately cold weather, and fits easily under or over other layers as needed. Zip pockets hold your valuables, so you can head straight to the pub or cafe in style before or after your hike, ski, climb or walk around town.
The Black Diamond Cold Forge Down Hooded Jacket for women is warm and fairly lightweight. The down/synthetic blend keeps you warm even in damp weather. Some users found the long sleeves cumbersome, while others appreciated them, especially while climbing. The hood fits over a helmet, and a waist drawstring hem cinches down to keep warmth in. This jacket well designed and ready to accompany you on many chilly weather adventures.
The North Face ThermoBall Insulated Jacket for women is a fairly lightweight and warm synthetic jacket that is stylish enough to wear around town. It is best used as a mid-layer in cold temps or as a top-layer in moderate conditions. While the jacket may not breathe well enough for high intensity activities, for most other outdoor adventures, this is a good-looking and practical choice.
The North Face Ventrix Insulated Jacket for women is a warm, durable, and relaxed-fit option for those who prefer a technical jacket that is suited for layering. The layering abilities, warmth provided, and breathability makes this a great option for outdoor-women.
The Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Down Jacket for women is a stylish, warm, and mobile jacket that is designed for combining style and performance into one layer. The shorter length, lack of durability, heavy weight, and no harness-compatible pockets make this not the best choice for an outer layer during high intensity activity or during intense weather, but the comfort features like elastic cuffs, ample pockets, and stylish-fit make this a great option for low-key outdoor activities or hanging out around town.
The Outdoor Research Deviator Hooded Insulated Jacket for women is a light, breathable, and versatile hoody perfect for high-output activities on cold days. A favorite for winter runners, this hoody offers the comfort of a fleece with the extra insulation of a down vest to distribute heat well on cold days, and works well for layering. The sizing on this hoody is the most common complaint, but those who find a good fit love it to keep them warm for everything from rock climbing to running and skiing.
The Patagonia Nano-Air Jacket for women is a good option as a mid-layer during cold days, and as an outer-layer over some insulation pieces during the shoulder seasons. The mobility, versatility, lightweight, and breathability make this usable in all climates, especially during fall and spring as an outer layer during light activity, or as a mid-layer in colder temperatures. The lack of extreme weather protection and adequate warmth doesn’t make this a top choice for a stand-alone jacket in the winter months.