I had a Nano Puff, which was not very warm (about as warm as a mid weight fleece). I added 20 lbs of muscle and ended up tearing the back of the shoulders while riding my bike in the Nano Puff. Considering the current sales everywhere, and my check from uncle sam just came in, I’m wanting to replace it. Ideally something 5-10 degrees warmer.
From wasting time online today:
Micro Puff – very light, very packable, very expensive, very ugly, very fragile
Rab Xenon – warmer, uglier, almost as light, just as packable, quite wind resistant. $146
Arc’teryx Atom LT – Looks good, also pretty light, comfortable (supposedly), but doesn’t pack into pocket. I hear it can pack into its hood or sleeve. Can get it for $194 minus 10% coupon.
Altra Uintah Micropuff – not much info online. 100g primaloft silver, looks kinda ugly but it’s only $126 at REI outlet minus %20 coupon.
My fleeces are fine for every day use and cycling around town. I’d like something that can keep me decently warm camping in the low 40s without needing to bring my fleece hoodie as well. The weight of all of these are comparable within a few oz. I am a bit worried the Micro Puff isn’t much warmer than the Nano Puff. Also it isn’t on sale. I could use my REI full price coupon, but it’s still pricey. The Uintah just has no info online. It’s only got cheap going for it. I suppose I could return it if it sucks, but knowing me I’d just keep it forever as backup if I don’t like it.
This leaves Atom LT and Rab Xenon. Almost the same price.
Atom could be used on my bike and around town, which I doubt I would ever do wearing the Xenon garbage bag. The Xenon seems far superior for sitting around camp on chilly evenings and mornings, and packs smaller. I like to imagine getting more serious into backpacking and bikepacking, but in reality I only have the time for a few weekends per year.
