[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Have worn the First Light Stretch Hoodie for three months now, including on a few winter hikes & a XC ski in the Cascades. Couldn’t find another jacket that, at this high level of breathability and range of motion, also offers solid warmth & wind-resistance, great durability, and stylish looks for everyday use. A few jackets may be as breathable as this one, but none of them also offer good warmth + good wind-resistance + excellent durability. Only the Arc’teryx Proton LT seems to come close. The durability is due to a robust shell fabric (40-denier) and the Primaloft Silver insulation, which is more durable than Gold and very close to it in warmth. Also, this jacket is fully featured, with an adjustable, well-fitting hood that doesn’t block the view, an internal zippered pocket, and two well-placed external zippered pockets. Everyone has to make their own calculation, but I think the three ounces this jacket weighs more than some of the less durable, less featured jackets, are well-worth it. Also, this jacket packs down well. I have a large and it compresses to about 2 liters. Super versatile, comfortable jacket for anything from hardcore outdoor uses, including high-output activities & campside use, to everyday wear.
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