Indeed, I felt like a true Michelin Man in the Flex Down Jacket, which retails for $249. The company (https://sierradesigns.com) calls it “supremely warm,” and I would not disagree.
Like the Rab, it is insulated with 750-weight goose down. Unlike the Rab, its face fabric, a recycled polyester, has a tougher feel and is quite tear resistant.
Sierra Designs borrows sleeping-bag tricks to let the jacket “move with you while eliminating heat-robbing dead air space.” It seemed to work outside and in the extreme cold for me.
The jacket has an insulated hood, two zippered hand pockets lined with fleece, and big internal pockets for gloves, hats and other items. For transport, it packs down to about the size of a football if rolled tight.
Both the Rab and Sierra Designs jackets are solid performers. The Rab is more of a specialty item, with fewer features and a closer fit. The Sierra Designs jacket is versatile across a range of activities, skiing, winter camping, and ice fishing included.
Each company makes its puffy available in men’s and women’s versions. This winter, to stay warm, embrace your inner Michelin Man. Pull on a down puffy. You might never go back to the slim fit again.
—Stephen Regenold is founder and editor of www.gearjunkie.com.
