Synthetic technologies are becoming more eco-friendly each passing day. They provide higher warmth-to-weight ratio and helps in maintaining insulated properties even when wet. And one other plus point is that synthetic jackets can be transformed from an active layer to a warm layer for camp. They are well built with breathable material in the face fabric, lining, and insulation. It allows the wearer to use it as a breathable mid-layer without drowning in a puddle of sweat and decimating the insulating properties.
Sportandoutdoorhq has listed some of the various options for synthetic-filled jackets available in the market. And it is necessary to keep in mind some features before buying one, like it should be under 16 ounces in weight. It is best to buy a medium fit. There should be a fitting base layer and/or a fleece layer underneath.
There should be a durable, DWR- treated shell on top. The garment should be movable and free to work and not restricting especially the shoulders. The jacket should have at least 2 hip pockets. It should be high enough to be accessible under a hip belt and make sure that the hood of the jacket is form fitting so that there is no chance of having a closed peripheral vision while trekking or the hike.
Some good examples of such jackets would be one, the Rab Nimbus that costs around $215, weighs 21 ounces and is filled with cirrus blown 3M featherless insulation or the Patagonia Nano Puff priced at $249, weighing 10.8 ounces and filled with 60-g PrimaLoft Gold Eco or there is the fine Arc’teryx Proton LT Hoody at $299, 11.3 ounces weight and a body filled with core-loft Compact 80 polyester fibers.
Whichever jacket one chooses it should be as close in feel and provide a serious hit of warmth when paired with an outer shell, the lining should be breathable and should not saturate from sweat-induced exertion.
