The Enlightened Equipment Torrid Apex Pullover is minimalist in all the right areas while trying to retain as much warmth as possible for the weight. It uses an efficient and durable synthetic insulation, is lofty enough for inclement seasons on either side of summer in the more temperate areas of the Continental US, has a pullover design with a reasonably deep zipper, and a cozy hood and handwarmer pocket. For its weight, there’s probably no other jacket on the market that is as warm except for the Nunatak Gear JMT Pullover, which has a smaller cut for trimmer body types and thus is less capable of layering over other insulating layers.
I’m entering my third winter wearing the Englightened Equipment Torrid APEX Pullover. I take care of it (no aggressive stuffing or laundering), and continue to remain impressed by its ability to retain loft over the long term – it’s proven to be much more durable than I anticipated. At 8.5 oz, it’s light enough for summer backpacking but lofty enough as a day-use insulating layer for our Rocky Mountain winters. – Ryan Jordan
