The 7 Best Insulated Jackets of 2025

The best synthetic jackets avoid the main weakness of down insulation by remaining functional and warm when wet. Though synthetic jackets may not have the same warmth-to-weight ratio as their down counterparts, they are usually more breathable and cheaper. They’re what we reach for when we need a layer to power us through active pursuits like backcountry or nordic skiing. climbing, mountain biking, and hiking.

Our team collectively tested dozens of these jackets to create our list of the best synthetic insulated jackets. Current authors Chris Kassar, Ryan Kempfer, and Andrew Potter put countless models through grueling tests in the past year alone.

We dangled off jugs thousands of feet in the air, skinned up thousands of switchbacks, skied down countless backcountry runs, ran, rode, hiked miles of trails, and even huddled around a few campfires with these synthetic layers to bring you the streamlined selection you see today. We evaluated each jacket based on fit, comfort, durability, breathability, packability, and value.

Whether you’re seeking the top performance of our overall pick, the Arc’teryx Atom Hoody, or a budget-friendly jacket like the Cotopaxi Capa Hybrid Insulated Hooded Jacket, we have all the options you need.

Editor’s Note: We updated this guide on March 20, 2025, by adding our favorite lightweight synthetic jacket, the Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoodie.

The Best Synthetic Insulated Jackets of 2025

$295 at REI – Men's $295 at REI – Women's

See more picks

Best Overall Synthetic Insulated Jacket: Arc’teryx Atom Hoody
Best Budget Synthetic Insulated Jacket: Cotopaxi Capa Hybrid Insulated Hooded Jacket
Most Versatile Synthetic Insulated Jacket: The North Face Casaval Hybrid Hoodie
Warmest Synthetic Insulated Jacket: Patagonia DAS Parka
Best Lightweight Synthetic Insulated Jacket: Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoodie
Best Active Synthetic Insulated Jacket: Black Diamond First Light Stretch Hoody

Best Overall Synthetic Insulated Jacket

9.1

How we rate products ⓘ

Specifications

Insulation: Coreloft 60 (60 g/m²)
Weight: 13.05 oz.
Key features: 2 hand pockets with hidden zippers, zippered chest pocket, gusseted underarms for mobility
Pockets: 3 (2 zippered handwarmer pockets, 1 internal zip pocket)
Shell fabric: Tyono, 100% nylon 20 denier shell with DWR treatment

Pros

Breathable but still warm
Durable fabrics that move well during activity
Stylish look with a great, comfortable fit

Cons

Expensive
No integrated stuff sack

The lightweight cousin of the popular Atom AR, the Atom Hoody ($300) is a time-tested classic for high-output adventures and is one of our favorite active insulators on the market. How often you snag a jacket from the closet while running out the door for spontaneous adventures is a good indicator of how solid it is, and we grab this one pretty much every time.

As a hardworking midlayer or a standalone piece in milder temps, there are few jackets out there that have better mobility, are comfier, or boast greater warmth-to-weight ratios. The versatility of this thing is really where it shines.

While not quite as breathable as others, the Atom scored high points in our book for its ability to be worn during intense activity in cold climates while also packing a solid amount of heat into a sleek, stylish design. We love that you can take this jacket on fast, cold-weather excursions or climbs without having to compromise warmth and weather/wind resistance like a lot of other active insulators.

The gusseted underarms, stretchy sides, and athletic fit allow the jacket to move with you phenomenally, and the interior fabric is soft and comfortable. You’ll be wearing this thing all day. Couple this with thoughtful features such as fleece-lined pockets, an adjustable hood, and improved cuffs, and well, that’s why Arc’teryx is tough on the wallet.

For speedy adventures in the wild where solid breathability with maximum warmth is required or for trotting confidently through town, it’d be difficult to find a better jacket. We think it’s just about the best synthetic insulated jacket on the market.

Best Budget Synthetic Insulated Jacket

8.7

How we rate products ⓘ

Specifications

Insulation: Recycled synthetic PrimaLoft Gold P.U.R.E. (40gsm)
Weight: 24 oz.
Key features: Colorful fun design, scuba hood for locking in warmth, knit side panels & sleeves for added mobility
Pockets: 3 (2 zippered handwarmer pockets, 1 internal zip pocket)
Shell fabric: 100% recycled 20D ripstop nylon with PFC-free DWR finish

Pros

Solid warmth mixed with breathability
Fabric combo allows for maximum mobility
Sustainable construction
Offers wind and water-resistance
Fun colors make it fashionable
Excellent fit
Affordable

Cons

Not windproof

Looking to change the way you layer? Then the Cotopaxi Capa Hybrid Insulated Hooded Jacket ($180) is the piece for you. The hybrid fabric combo is unique and thoughtfully placed. Knit panels on your sides and sleeves add mobility, making climbing, running, and using ski poles a breeze.

At the same time, cozy PrimaLoft Gold P.U.R.E. insulation on your chest and back adds warmth to your core, where you need it most (and nowhere you don’t!).

We wore this jacket daily in the Tetons throughout the transition from fall to winter and continued wearing it on active days in the mountains through winter and into spring. When worn over a baselayer, it offers the exact protection we need, even on cold and stormy days while backcountry skiing, nordic skiing, or snowshoeing.

Due to its perfect and flattering fit, it also works well under a down puffy or shell on particularly frigid days or the downhill portion of backcountry ski adventures. In more forgiving weather during the shoulder season, we throw it over a T-shirt for bike rides, trail runs, and hikes.

As an active layering piece, the Capa Hybrid does it all for a very reasonable price. We tested this jacket on adventures where temperatures ranged from the mid-teens to the mid-40s, and it’s the one layer we could keep on during wild temperature swings.

Its thoughtfully placed insulation and breathability mean less stopping to adjust layers or remove a jacket. Less stopping and messing with layers means more time for fun and more efficient movement throughout the mountains, which is a huge plus for us.

As for features, the folks at Cotopaxi nailed this one: they gave us everything we wanted and nothing we didn’t. The PFC-free DWR finish helps fight off dampness during flurries or light rain. The “scuba hood” hugs our noggin to keep warmth in and wind out, and works well over a baseball hat or under a ski or climbing helmet when needed.

Thumbholes and elastic at the hood, cuffs, and hem keep warmth in, and ensure a seamless barrier between us and the elements. It’s also extremely packable and lightweight. All these touches, coupled with an amazingly comfortable jacket that moves with us no matter what we’re doing, make this our favorite new jacket of the season.

We also feel good about wearing the Capa Hybrid Insulated Jacket thanks to Cotopaxi’s sustainability efforts. It’s made with recycled nylon, PrimaLoft Gold P.U.R.E. (Produced Using Reduced Emissions) Insulation, and Bluesign-approved fabric.

The only downside to this jacket, and we’re reaching here, is that it’s not completely windproof. The insulated chest panels block a light breeze, but you can feel wind permeating the soft sleeves and side panels.

If this jacket were windproof, it probably wouldn’t be as breathable and, therefore, wouldn’t perform as well during vigorous activity. However, if you’re looking for a warmer, windproof piece at a similar price point, look at the REI Co-op Stormhenge 850 jacket.

This inspired jacket, which fits perfectly, comes in fun color schemes, and can act as an outer or midlayer, is now our go-to for every adventure where we’ll be pushing it in the mountains. Its comfort, versatility, packability, and stylish look also make it ideal for traveling and around-town errands.

Most Versatile Synthetic Insulated Jacket

8.0

How we rate products ⓘ

Specifications

Insulation: Ventrix/Polyester
Weight: 14.8 oz.
Key features: Helmet Compatible, Zipper Pockets
Pockets: 3 (2 zippered hand pockets, 1 internal mesh pocket)
Shell fabric: Nylon/Elastane with non-PFC DWR treatment

Pros

Stylish
Warm yet breathable
Lightweight

Cons

A bit fragile and prone to snags

The North Face’s Casaval Hybrid Hoodie ($260) is a redesigned technical layer that’s perfect for your next mountain adventure. Summit Series apparel is specially designed to prove functional and formidable in extreme conditions, and the Casaval truly exceeds our expectations when put to the test.

The Ventrix insulation is extremely lightweight yet warm, and the stretchy fabric allows you the freedom to take on just about whatever the mountains throw at you. Whether you’re climbing in sendy temps or taking on a cold summit, the Casaval really does excel when you’re mobile.

The helmet-compatible hood is stretchy and snug without impeding peripheral vision, and the jacket is breathable enough not to heat up when the sun pierces the clouds.

Other than a lack of internal storage, we couldn’t really find anything bad to say about this jacket. We took it on several trips to Tuolumne Meadows in unseasonably cold temperatures and hiked, bouldered, sport climbed, and scrambled up a dome. Perhaps the only downside to the jacket is that it’s so nice we were afraid to get too close to the rock.

The Casaval not only excels in the wild, though. When hanging out in Mammoth Lakes, we received numerous compliments on the Cave Blue color scheme. The near-matte finish tones down the bold colorway, making the purple-leaning hue a daring win for The North Face’s men’s line. The style, functionality, versatility, and light weight made the Casaval Hybrid Hoodie an easy challenger to the Best Overall award.

It’s a bit heavier than our top pick, and while this may be subjective, the color and feel just don’t look quite as adventure-ready. It performed otherwise in our testing but didn’t quite outshine the Arc’teryx Atom jacket.

Perhaps this has to do with brand identity; The North Face trends toward more fashion-forward ventures while Arc’teryx to its formidable roots. Either way, you look at it, the Casaval is one of the best insulated jackets of the season.

Warmest Synthetic Insulated Jacket

8.2

How we rate products ⓘ

Specifications

Insulation: 133 and 40g PrimaLoft Gold Insulation with aerogel technology
Weight: 19.6 oz.
Key features: Weather-resistant fabric, helmet-compatible hood, two-way front zipper for easy belaying and climbing
Pockets: 5 (Two zippered handwarmer pockets, one zippered chest pocket, two deep internal dump pockets)
Shell Fabric: 0.8 oz. 10 denier Pertex Quantum Pro recycled nylon with polyurethane dry coating and DWR finish

Pros

Super warm
Phenomenal weather and wind resistance
Climbing-specific design

Cons

Pretty heavy
Bulky
Expensive

Patagonia’s warmest synthetic jacket, the DAS Parka ($449), has been a staple with alpinists and outdoor enthusiasts for years. From freezing belays to snowy mountaintop ascents, it has kept adventurers warm and protected since its debut in 1992, with its newest model carrying on the torch, offering even greater warmth and packability.

“DAS” stands for “Dead Air Space,” referring to the way in which the jacket traps air in two different densities of PrimaLoft Gold Insulation (top-notch stuff), which has been fused with aerogel technology to boost softness and warmth. Its 133g insulation runs throughout the jacket, with an extra layer of 40g insulation placed along areas that require more warmth.

We immediately noticed and appreciated the DAS Parka’s stellar weather resistance in light precipitation and heavy winds. Its 10-denier Pertex Quantum Pro shell is treated with a polyurethane dry coating and a hefty DWR finish. It’s not a rain jacket by any means, but moisture beads up and runs off the jacket well, and you feel kind of invincible in wild gusts of wind.

Negatives? It’s quite heavy, at 19.6 ounces, and doesn’t pack as small as we would like into the large included stuff sack. One of our tester’s friends thought it was actually their sleeping bag while unpacking from a particular trip.

We also found the front pockets to be somewhat annoying. They are quite shallow and don’t extend to the bottom of the jacket like the internal dump pockets do. This could be for easier use while wearing a harness, but we thought it was harder than usual to warm our hands in them when the temps plummeted or store a bunch of stuff while on the go.

All in all, this is still one of the best synthetic insulated jackets you can buy for epics in the alpine or nippy winter temps around the campfire. It’s a legacy piece from a quality brand that just keeps delivering.

Best Lightweight Synthetic Insulated Jacket

8.7

How we rate products ⓘ

Specifications

Insulation: VerticalX™ SuperStrand Insulation
Weight: 10.9 oz.
Key features: 2 zippered hand pockets, left hand pocked doubles as stuff sack, 2 internal drop-in pockets, insulated hood, elastic cuffs, light and packable
Pockets: 2 zippered handwarmer pockets, 2 internal drop
Shell fabric: bluesign® approved, 100% Nylon 12D Rip Stop Shell

Pros

Lightweight
Extremely packable
Durable
Warm for its weight
Windproof & water resistant
Ideal for 4-season use

Cons

Poor zipper quality
Lacks breathability

The Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoody ($235) is a light, airy, adaptable jacket that effortlessly fits in your pack while providing down-like warmth and solid weather resistance.

We took this sleek performance hoody straight to the wild, putting it to the test in various conditions — from sunrise ski tours to mellow nordic adventures. It truly shines during active pursuits, providing the perfect amount of warmth during below-zero, fast-paced dawn patrols.

This lightweight layer is versatile enough to wear over a baselayer on dry days or under a shell to protect against the elements when the weather turns snowy and wet. During late summer and early fall mountain bike rides, it became our go-to for chilly descents, providing just the right amount of wind resistance.

The weight-to-warmth ratio is simply outstanding, and its ability to compress to the size of your hand makes it extra versatile. Plus, with two inside stuff pockets and two secure outside pockets, it’s designed to keep your essentials close at hand.

The Super Strand LT Hoody is undeniably a standout item; however, it’s not the most breathable synthetic jacket available, so you’ll want a piece like the Black Diamond First Light Stretch Hybrid for warmer days.

We were also disappointed with the zipper quality — after a few months of use, the teeth of the main zipper separated, rendering it unusable. We sent it in for repair, and Outdoor Research remedied the situation, but we hope they’ll improve the zipper quality moving forward.

This versatile hoody, with ample storage and an exceptional weight-to-warmth ratio, deserves a place in every outdoor adventurer’s collection. The protection it offers for its size is invaluable, and it can keep up with your high-energy adventures, no matter the season. Even if you don’t use it daily, having it in your gear kit is wise.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who values adventure and prioritizes safety, don’t hesitate to add the Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoody to your arsenal. You’ll be amazed at how often you find yourself reaching for it year-round.

Best Active Synthetic Insulated Jacket

8.3

How we rate products ⓘ

Specifications

Insulation: Migration-resistant PrimaLoft Gold Active Insulation
Weight: 14.3 oz.
Key features: Body-mapped insulation, underarm gussets for better range of motion, light and packable
Pockets: 3
Shell fabric: 20D nylon ripstop with PFC-free DWR coating

Pros

Highly breathable
Great for "start-stop" activities like climbing and backcountry skiing
Phenomenal mobility for active use

Cons

Some premature pilling
Not the warmest out there

We adored our original First Light Stretch Hoodies at GearJunkie, so when we read that “the fit and overall design has been entirely overhauled for ’23” — we had some trepidation. Don’t fix what isn’t broken! Well, after a proper season of big wall battles in Yosemite, some alpine romps in the Cascades, and months of abuse at our local Chattanooga crag, our fears were put at ease. The First Light Stretch ($295) is back, and we’ll confidently say it’s better than ever.

This active midlayer has been a staple for backcountry alpine climbs, winter cragging, and blustery ski touring with its breathable four-season insulation and stretchy silhouette. Black Diamond describes this jacket as the ideal “start-stop” piece, providing warmth when you need it and airy breathability when you don’t.

This sounded just about perfect for Senior Editor Chris Carter, who wore this layer more than anything else on a recent fall ascent of El Cap. Whether huddling with his partner in frigid squalls at uncomfortable hanging belays or pulling hard on endless hand jams, the First Light kept him at a cozy homeostasis through all manner of chilly conditions and activity levels. He’s convinced this is the crème de la crème of active insulation comfort.

A few notable upgrades from this jacket’s previous iteration make it an even more potent tool for the active adventurer than before. Where once was silver, there now is gold — and PrimaLoft Gold Active insulation is hard to beat. It breathes efficiently and stretches with each movement but somehow traps an absurd amount of heat when static.

Body-mapped insulation along the body, shoulders, and arms packs more heat in targeted zones and allows greater breathability in areas that need it most.

The update also culls a few ounces from the last model, but seems to be a warmer layer than before. It also packs up small into a zippered hand pocket and easily clips to your harness. A cherished feature that is often eschewed on synthetic jackets.

While we were pleasantly surprised with this new design in most areas, a few cons did surface. Durability was a standout feature of prior models, but we noticed some premature pilling with this iteration, and a good number of picks and frays after just a handful of trips, and we’re scared a bit of tenacity was sacrificed when cutting weight.

Now granted, these trips included shoving our bodies up sharp granite chimneys, bushwhacking through briers, and taking a few spicy lead falls on rough slabs — so there’s a chance we’re being too critical. But, for a jacket that’s designed for technical mountain terrain, we would like to get several seasons out of it at least.

Also, if you’re looking for a jacket that offers the greatest weather/wind resistance, this isn’t the one for you. It insulates fine, but heavy gusts cut through it easier than others. Pair it with a light windbreaker, though, and it’s a power combo in heinous wind.

For start-stop activities where ventilation is needed while cranking hard, and warmth is required when static, the First Light Stretch Hoody is about as good as it gets. It won’t keep you as warm as others on this list but is a phenomenal technical layer for missions that have you constantly on the move.

Need even more breathability? Check out the similar First Light Hybrid (also reswizzled in 2023), which features breathable Merino insulation on the back panel and sleeves. While this won’t keep you near as warm, it boosts the A/C during those awkward shoulder-season temps where the weather just can’t make up its mind. And, the soft breathable back panel makes it a prime pick for backpacking.

More Synthetic Insulated Jackets We Loved

Specifications

Insulation: 60g PrimaLoft Gold Eco synthetic insulation
Weight: 11.9 oz. (men’s medium)
Key features: Comfortable front zipper garage at chin, elasticated cuffs, stuffs into its own chest pocket, drawcord-adjustable drop-tail hem
Pockets: 3 (Two zippered handwarmer pockets and one internal chest pocket which doubles as a stuff sack with a harness attachment loop)
Shell Fabric: 1.4 oz. 20-denier 100% recycled polyester ripstop with a DWR finish

Pros

Stylish design looks good in the mountains and around town
Highly compressible given how warm it is
Slippery fabric makes layering easy

Cons

Extensive stitching adds some breathability but also allows rain to soak insulation faster
A little heavier than similar lightweight layers
Loose-fitting cuffs often let some heat escape

An absolute classic, the Patagonia Nano Puff ($239) is probably the most recognizable synthetic jacket on the market. As one of the first jackets to offer premium synthetic insulation with a lightweight but durable design, it has a heritage unlike many in its category.

It features a stylish design that looks good around town, yet boasts surprising warmth and durability, making it a reliable layer for the backcountry. The versatility of this piece contributes to its reputation, and the newest model definitely stays true to its legacy.

The Nano Puff delivered middle-of-the-road results and proves to be a solid do-it-all jacket despite not being the lightest, warmest, or most breathable option out there. It has a pretty competitive warmth-to-weight ratio, though if you need a super warm puffy for winter pursuits, this isn’t the one for you.

This model performs well in shoulder-season adventures, or as part of your layering system for colder forays in the mountains. The PrimaLoft Gold Eco insulation used in the current model does deliver impressive warmth for how thin it feels and does a great job of retaining its insulating properties when wet.

The Nano Puff is somewhat breathable, given the amount of stitching it has, but the solid sheet lining limits airflow, and feels pretty clammy when sweat builds up. This reduces ventilation, but does help with wind resistance when temps start to drop. Its slim design and premium insulation make it one of the more compressible synthetic jackets out there, which is one of the areas it shines the most.

If you need maximum warmth for chilly adventures or lightweight breathability for fast and light missions, this probably isn’t the jacket you want. However, as a functional yet stylish crossover layer for use around town, or deep in the mountains, the Nano Puff remains one of the best synthetic insulated jackets out there.

Specifications

Insulation: 60g PrimaLoft Gold Eco
Weight: 12.8 oz.
Key feature: Helmet compatible, zipper pockets
Pockets: 3 (2 zippered hand pockets, 1 zippered chest pocket)
Shell fabric: Micro ripstop nylon with with DWR finish

Pros

Functional
Warm yet breathable
Very lightweight

Cons

Stitching is delicate
A bit pricey

The new Solution Hoody ($279) from Black Diamond is an excellent addition to any cold-weather adventurer’s closet. The Primaloft Gold Eco insulation is warm when you need it and breathable when you’re too lazy (or busy) to take it off in more moderate temperatures.

A protective hood performs well over a helmet, and the DWR treatment was confidence-inspiring when the weather looked like it could turn at any moment. The two zippered hand pockets are large enough for just about whatever you need to cram in for a long day, and the addition of a zippered chest pocket allows for easy access to items if you happen to be wearing a harness.

As former residents of the Pacific Northwest, we’ve always been big fans of Primaloft Gold insulation. It recovers well if the DWR treatment gets overwhelmed and soggy, and doesn’t get stinky when you stretch the time between washes. For that reason, the Solution Hoody is a great choice for long-distance ventures when it might get overused and then stuffed in a pack for a while.

At just 12.8 ounces, the Solution Hoody disappears inside a pack (although we wouldn’t recommend cramming it up in long-term storage). While it didn’t quite reach our superlatives list, it’s up there with all of the best insulated jackets available today.

Specifications

Insulation: 60gsm PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Active+ through front, back, top of sleeves, and collar; 40gsm PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Active+ through sides, underarms, spine, and top of hood
Weight: 10.3 oz. (men’s medium)
Key features: Under helmet hood, elasticated gusset at cuffs, stuffs into its own chest pocket, body-mapped insulation to aid in breathability
Pockets: 3 (Two concealed zippered handwarmer pockets and one internal chest pocket which doubles as a stuff sack with a harness attachment loop)
Shell fabric: 20 denier Pertex Quantum Air nylon with a DWR finish

Pros

Super breathable
Lightweight
Durable
Packs down small

Cons

Hood design makes wearing it under a helmet a little awkward
Not the warmest jacket out there

Rab has done it again! Ticking all the boxes of a solid active insulator, the Xenair Alpine Light Jacket ($225) is breathable yet warm, and crazy comfortable, per Rab’s long-standing reputation. For start-stop activities in mixed conditions where stellar breathability is needed, but warmth is also a concern, this jacket stands out as a quality layer for the dedicated outdoor athlete.

The jacket has thoughtful features, but retains a sleek, stylish look. Raised zippered handwarmer pockets accommodate backpack hipbelts, and an internal zippered pocket doubles as a stuff sack. Soft elastic cuffs and a single hem adjustment help maintain warmth and reduce cold spots.

The hood is elasticated on the front and back, ensuring a snug fit, but did give us some issues when worn under a climbing helmet (as it isn’t quite big enough to fit over one). When wearing it under a helmet, the elastic banding, flat front brim, and slippery fabric caused the hood to often cover our eyes and obscure our vision when looking up or side to side.

One of the most notable features of the Xenair is its breathability. It regulates temperature and deals with moisture buildup with ease. Rab has thrown a good deal of cutting-edge technology into this jacket, including two densities of PrimaLoft Gold Active+ synthetic insulation, some of the warmest, most breathable insulation on the market, combined with a weather-resistant, permeable Pertex Quantum Air outer fabric.

This allows for maximum warmth, while greatly reducing moisture and vapor buildup. Additionally, two weights of insulation are strategically mapped around the body, with lighter, more breathable insulation placed on areas of the body, such as the underarm and center back, that require more ventilation.

For the active mountain athlete looking for a lightweight, breathable midlayer for colder climates, or a standalone outer jacket for summer pursuits, the Rab Xenair Alpine Light Jacket may just be the perfect option.

Specifications

Insulation: PlumaFill
Weight: 10 oz. (men’s medium)
Key features: Helmet-compatible hood, elasticized cuffs, stuffs into its own pocket, plentiful zippered and drop-in pockets
Pockets: 4 (two welted, zippered handwarmer pockets and two internal drop-in pockets; left pocket doubles as a stuff sack with a reinforced carabiner clip-in loop)
Shell fabric: 10-denier Pertex Quantum 100% nylon ripstop with a DWR finish

Pros

Lightweight
Quite wind-resistant for its weight
Versatile

Cons

Expensive compared to similar options
Minimal stretch
Shell could tear easily

Read Review: Patagonia Micro Puff Hoody Review: First Look

Patagonia’s Micro Puff Hoodie ($329) has drawn accolades and awards from users and media since its release in September 2017. Though the price point is on the higher end, the Micro Puff Hoodie is the perfect just-in-case insulating layer that’s barely noticeable in the pack.

With just a base layer, the 10-ounce Micro Puff Hoodie kept us warm during moderate-level activities down into the 30s. It was surprisingly wind-resistant for such a light garment. Consequently, though, breathability is on the lower side.

The DWR treatment is exceptional and continues to bead water after a few wash cycles. The fit is snug, and the sleeves keep our wrists covered — except when our 34.5-inch arms are overhead.

A lack of stretch and the just-to-the-waist torso length allow a little gapping during long reaches. The jacket is very compact, and the slick outer surface makes it ideal for layering underneath shells or heavier layers.

Stuffing down to about the size of a cantaloupe, the Micro Puff Hoodie fits into a handwarmer pocket with a clipping point. This ability, combined with the best-in-class warmth-to-weight ratio of Patagonia’s PlumaFill, makes it a great insulator we are always throwing in our packs.

The Pertex Quantum GL face fabric proved durable during the test period but does require care, as the wispy fabric is prone to tearing on sharp objects. Compared to some of the others, this shell may not hold up well to brutal bushwhacking or scrambling over sharp rocks in the alpine.

However, the Micro Puff’s lightweight, wind-resistant versatility makes it ideal for adventurers who need reliable warmth without sacrificing space or weight in their packs. It’s one of the best synthetic insulated jackets out there.

Specifications

Insulation: 60g Toray stretch insulation
Weight: 12.8 oz.
Key features: Zippered front pockets are compatible with pack straps and climbing harnesses, elastic cuffs, adjustable hem
Pockets: 2
Shell fabric: 20-denier Pertex Quantum Air

Pros

Very warm for an active midlayer
Thoughtful features

Cons

A bit bulky

The Rime Light IN Flex ($249) has a very snug fit when still, but class-leading elasticity allows free movement. The sleeves and lower hem are a tad short for overhead reaches, but the fit around the shoulders feels ample regardless of arm movements.

The Rime Flex is on the warmer and bulkier side of the active insulation category. The Pertex Quantum Air shell and OTI Stretch insulation provide breathability and warmth that works well for loaded hiking down to the upper 20s.

It keeps you warm during breaks, even in moderate winds. As long as the main zip was vented, the jacket performed well into the 30s. We found it excellent for lounging into the lower 50s.

The Rime Flex has two handwarmer pockets in the high position, an adjustable lower hem, dual-zipper pulls, and an insulated helmet-compatible hood.

For the space-conscious hiker focused on an ultralight setup, this may not be the best choice, but if you are looking for maximum warmth without sacrificing breathability, the Rime Flex is a solid pick.

Specifications

Insulation: PrimaLoft Gold Active+
Weight: 1 lb.
Key features: 2-way stretch fabric, DWR coating, flat brim hood
Pockets: 3 (Two zippered handwarmer pockets and one internal chest pocket)
Shell fabric: 100% Polyamide (shell 1); 95% Polyester, 5% Elastane (shell 2) with a DWR coating

Pros

Breathable but durable face fabric and insulation
Stellar mobility while climbing or hiking with articulated elbows
Vented underarms
Extremely comfortable lining fabric

Cons

On the heavy side
Niche, performance-oriented design isn't for everyone

If it’s going to be named after the Norse god of war, it had better be a stalwart layer. After a season of putting a number of Helly Hansen’s Odin collection through technical mountaineering trips, long multipitch climbs, and extended backpacking trips, we’d say these pieces truly live up to their name.

The Odin Stretch Hood Insulator 2.0 ($260) is one of the models we had the pleasure of testing, and for full-on backcountry missions in brutal conditions, it’s up there with the best of the best.

For a jacket specced out with so many pro features, it boasts a surprisingly approachable price point. Performance-oriented details like a flat-brimmed contoured hood, articulated elbows, wide elastic cuffs, and ventilated underarms make this a power player in the mountains, without the sticker shock of other high-end jackets.

Helly Hansen’s Odin collection was tested by Search and Rescue and mountain guides from around the world, and was built to handle demanding mountain terrain in the most gnarly conditions possible. These pieces are vetted and trusted by professionals on a global scale — and it shows.

The Stretch Hood Insulator is a bit warmer and thicker than Black Diamond’s First Light Stretch Hoody, our top pick for breathability, but still regulates temperature fine, and responds well when you pick up the pace.

The ventilated pits, permeable polyamide shell, and inherently breathable nature of PrimaLoft Gold Active+ join forces to keep you cozy in moderate activity, but appropriately warm when you slow down.

The fit is slightly athletic, without being too form-fitting to limit layering underneath. As a bulkier/warmer jacket than others on this list, we like to pair this with a thin fleece underneath, and a windbreaker, softshell, or hardshell overtop to form a truly formidable barrier against rain or heavy wind.

Our favorite feature? The silky smooth, stretchy lining fabric has the best next-to-skin comfort we’ve tested in a while. Though we usually have a base layer underneath, the almost fleece-like lining had us throwing this on over our T-shirts around camp, and even sleeping in it without a shirt on. It’s that cozy.

We wish the weight was a bit lower, that it had an over-the-helmet hood, and that it packed into one of its pockets for convenient transport on a harness, but aside from a few grumbles, this jacket is one of the very best synthetic pieces we tested.

It moves and breathes with you as you contort your body on desperate winter rock climbs or parkour over boulder-strewn river beds, but hunkers down and keeps you surprisingly warm when static. For the active mountain athlete needing a premium, mega-comfy insulating layer at a respectable price — look no further.

Specifications

Insulation: 2 oz/yd² CLIMASHIELD APEX insulation
Weight: 8.2 oz. (size medium, 7-denier inside and outside fabric, standard torso, standard hood)
Key features: Zippered handwarmer pockets, no sewn-through seams, shock cord adjustment at the hem, and elastic cuffs
Pockets: 2 (Two zippered handwarmer pockets)
Shell Fabric: 7, 10, or 20 denier options for both inside and outside fabric

Pros

Fully customizable
Phenomenal warmth-to-weight ratio
Packable

Cons

Long lead times for custom orders
Fabric not super durable
Boxy, unflattering look

Here it is — the gold standard of lightweight warmth and what seems like every ultralight thru-hiker’s jacket of choice for their pilgrimage on long trails. The Torrid Jacket ($200) is a king in the world of synthetic insulation. Starting at just 6 ounces, most elements of the Torrid are customizable and can be altered to fit each person’s unique style and goal.

Who would have thought that down jackets would slowly be knocked off the backpacking pedestal by a synthetic piece from a small (though not so much anymore) company in Minnesota? Made with premium CLIMASHIELD APEX insulation, the jacket is almost see-through but somehow traps heat like a beast. No sewn-through seams eliminate cold spots, and a shock cord adjustment at the hem and elastic cuffs seal in warmth.

One of the authors of this guide wore a single Torrid for the duration of an 8-month thru-hike of the CDT and AT, and it retained its loft, warmth, and stitching the entire time. While it’s designed as a three-season layer, it was put through its paces in freezing whiteouts in the San Juans and winter squalls through the Smoky Mountains.

Often paired with a fleece midlayer or rain shell, it kept him plenty toasty. Since it’s synthetic, it also retained its warmth during weeks of dreary rain when nothing stayed dry.

Can there be cons to such a jacket? Well, the 8.2-ounce weight (7-denier outer and inner fabric with hood) of the Torrid we tested comes with a pretty steep cut in durability. You don’t want to battle off-trail with this thing. It also isn’t form-fitting at all (designed to be layered underneath), with a basic, boxy design. It’s not the stylish Arc’teryx jacket you love wearing around town.

Regardless, if you are looking to minimize base weight without sacrificing warmth for an epic journey across the country, or occasional fast and light forays in the woods, it’s one of the best synthetic insulated jackets you’ll find.

Synthetic Insulated Jacket Comparison Chart

Synthetic Jacket	Price	Insulation	Weight	Pockets	Shell Fabric
Arc’teryx Atom Hoody	$300	Coreloft 60	13.2 oz.	3	Tyono, 100% nylon shell with DWR
Cotopaxi Capa Hybrid Insulated Hooded Jacket	$180	Recycled synthetic PrimaLoft® Gold P.U.R.E. (40gsm)	24 oz.	3	100% recycled 20D ripstop nylon with PFC-free DWR finish
TNF Casaval Hybrid Hoodie	$260	Ventrix/Polyester	14.8 oz.	3	Nylon/Elastane with non-PFC DWR treatment
Patagonia DAS Parka	$449	PrimaLoft Gold with Aerogel	19.6 oz.	5	Pertex Quantum Pro with DWR
Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoody	$235	VerticalX™ SuperStrand Insulation	10.9 oz.	4	bluesign® approved, 100% Nylon 12D Rip Stop Shell
Black Diamond First Light Stretch Hoody	$295	Migration-resistant PrimaLoft Gold Active	14.3 oz.	3	20D nylon ripstop with PFC-free DWR
REI Co-op Stormhenge 850	$279	850g Goose Down Fill and Synthetic Insulation	29.6 oz.	5	HydroWall 2-layer waterproof/breathable nylon shell
Patagonia Nano Puff	$239	60g PrimaLoft Gold Eco	11.9 oz.	3	100% recycled polyester ripstop with DWR
Black Diamond Solution Hoody	$279	60g PrimaLoft Gold Eco	12.8 oz.	3	Micro ripstop nylon with DWR finish
Rab Xenair Alpine Light Jacket	$225	PrimaLoft Gold Active+	10.3 oz.	3	Pertex Quantum Air with DWR
Patagonia Micro Puff Hoodie	$329	PlumaFill	10.0 oz.	4	Pertex Quantum with DWR
Mammut Rime Light IN Flex	$249	60g Toray stretch	12.8 oz.	2	20-denier Pertex Quantum Air
Helly Hansen Odin Stretch Hood Insulator 2.0	$260	PrimaLoft Gold Active+	16.0 oz.	3	100% Polyamide with DWR
Enlightened Equipment Torrid Jacket	$200	CLIMASHIELD APEX	8.2 oz.	2	7, 10, or 20 denier options

Best Synthetic Jackets — Synthetic jackets tend to be more breathable and versatile, making them perfect for activities like multipitch climbing; (photo/Honey McNaughton)

How We Tested Synthetic Insulated Jackets

Our Testing Grounds & Process

ATP09773 — Weather-resistant, breathable, and comfy, the Xenair impressed us on multiple fronts; (photo/Emily Malone)

Our Expert Testers

Senior Editor Chris Carter putting the **EE Torrid** through its paces in the snowy San Juans on the CDT; (photo/Chris Carter)

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Synthetic Insulated Jacket

What Is Synthetic Insulation?

Warm yet breathable, active insulation jackets like the Arc’teryx Atom LT are perfect for cold ascents at the crag; (photo/Honey McNaughton)

best synthetic insulated jackets — The **Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoody** kept editor Chris Kassar toasty warm on a -20 degree nordic adventure in Grand Teton; (photo/Elk Raven Photography)

Testing synthetic jackets in the Northern Cascades — Different terrain and levels of activity demand different types of synthetic insulation. The **Helly Hansen Odin Stretch** thrives in the cold alpine; (photo/Chris Carter)

Intended Use

The Arc’teryx Atom shines on high-output, chilly activities like rock climbing; (photo/Honey McNaughton)

Breathability

EE Torrid — Rocking the adequately breathable Torrid through mid-May snow on a thru-hike of the CDT; (photo/Chris Carter)

Durability

ATP04596 — A durable synthetic jacket is key for cold night romps up sharp rock; (photo/Chris Carter)

Water Resistance

Testing synthetic jackets in the rain — A primary selling point of synthetic insulation: reliable warmth when the weather takes you by surprise; (photo/Emily Malone)

Pack Size

Key Features: Pockets, Hoods, and More

The Patagonia DAS Parka excels in freezing temps and has features that cater to rock climbers and alpinists; (photo/Honey McNaughton)

Price & Value

Budget

Mid-Tier

Premium

ATP04736 — The revolutionary EE Torrid fits perfectly with an ultralight backpacking setup, keeping pack weight to an absolute minimum; (photo/Emily Malone)

Frequently Asked Questions

Synthetic jackets are used in all sorts of situations where comfortable and reliable warmth is needed. From the ski hill to the jogging path, synthetic jackets are a modern and effective tool in the fight to stay warm.

Compared to down jackets, synthetic jackets tend to be slightly heavier and less vulnerable to moisture-related warmth loss. Elite mountaineers use synthetic jackets, as do city dwellers on their way to buy groceries.

On this list, we’ve divided our recommended jackets into two unique categories. For maximum warmth, check out our synthetic insulated jacket category. If you’re looking for a jacket that can regulate your temperature and breathe during active use, check out our active insulation category.

Testing synthetic jackets in the N. Cascades — While synthetic jackets may not be as light and packable as down jackets, they don’t have to be babied quite as much; (photo/Heather Rochfort)

Compared to down, synthetic insulation is slightly heavier, slightly cheaper, and less likely to lose its effectiveness in a rainstorm. Unlike down, synthetic insulation is able to retain its warmth when wet.

When dry, however, synthetic insulation cannot quite match the miraculous warmth-to-weight ratio of down. In other words, synthetic jackets need to be a little heavier to achieve the same level of warmth.

Many skiers wear synthetic insulated jackets as a midlayer beneath their waterproof outer shells. On cold days at the resort, a warm and puffy jacket can be the difference between comfort and misery.

For backcountry skiing, breathable layers are the way to go. During uphill hikes along the skin track, you’ll want layers that can let some of your body heat escape in order to stay cool and prevent sweating.

A reliable active insulation synthetic jacket offers warmth and breathability during high-output activities; (photo/Honey McNaughton)

Apparel

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