Introduction
One of the topics I’m exploring in 2020 is fastpacking, and Goosefeet Gear agreed to take on the challenge of making an insulated top that pushed the limits of warmth while maintaining a weight that was as low as possible. Therein lies the motivation behind this particular down-insulated sweater.
Here’s a brief video overview:
This is a first look at new gear that recently entered our review pipeline, and hasn't yet been subjected to rigorous field use. Learn more about the types of product reviews we publish.
Highlights
- features:
- insulated hand warmer pass-through pocket
- upright collar
- neck zipper
- elastic hem and cuffs (drawcord adjustable hem)
- weight: 5.83 oz (166 g)
- fabrics: 8d nylon ripstop (0.63 osy), calendered (charcoal gray exterior, brick red interior)
- down fill
- fill type: 950 fp 90/10 DownTek ZeroPFC
- fill weight: 2.75 oz (78 g)
- average loft: 1 in (2.5 cm)
- overfill spec: 20%
- baffle width: 2.75 – 3.0 in (7.0 – 7.6 cm)
- type of baffle: sewn-through
- insulated pocket: yes
- measurements:
- approximate jacket size: medium
- zipper length: 18 in (46 cm)
- collar: 2 in (5.1 cm)
- back length: 25 in (64 cm)
- sleeve length: 33 in (84 cm)
First Impressions
- This sweater may be the warmest sub-6 oz (170) insulated garment I’ve ever worn.
- I specified a generous back and sleeve length. I’m pleased about that! The generous sizing makes it a more comfortable garment, especially in cold conditions.
- I specified a slim profile. So as long as I can keep the “Covid 15” away, I can layer this under my rain shell if needed!
- Packed size is tiny, which is perhaps my favorite feature, especially in the context of fastpacking, where I’m using a small (30L) backpack.
- I can fit the sweater easily into a 5 in x 8 in (13 cm x 20 cm) stuff sack, and it could almost certainly go into one a little smaller.
Photos
More Info
- This is a custom made-to-order product available from Goosefeet Gear. Price and weight may vary depending on custom sizing, materials, and design choices.
- Questions? Hit us up in the forum below, and we’ll do our best to answer them based on our brief experience with this product.
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Discussion
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This first look at the Goosefeet Gear Custom Down Sweater summarizes features, specifications, and photo details of an ultralight down garment that weighs less than 6 oz (170 g).
Whoa that is sweet!!!! Fits perfectly too.
Looks for similar, including color, to my Brooks Range Alpini Anorak.
And very similar to the mont bell anorak. https://euro.montbell.com/products/disp.php?cat_id=25010&p_id=2301351&gen_cd=1
Although the mont bell has a added hood, which I can confirm is very nice indeed:)
Surprised that the sewing quality was not mentioned?
I say Jordan what are your impressions after a couple of months use?
I have contacted Goosefeet Gear about getting one.
They have sent me a request for some dimensions. I usually take a medium and your jacket’s dimensions are probably similar to what I want. I am 39″ chest, 35″ waist, 36.5″ hips and 15.5″ neck. I measured my sleeve length as they instructed and it is roughly 33″.
The back length is a problem. Ben says from soft spot between collarbones down to desired hem. A bit vague. Is that how you did yours?
Also when you say slim fit did this mean only layer over a shirt (base layer) or does it include a light fleece as well?
missed the original posting- whoops :)
I like the looks of it and specs, but I would have take the small hit and added a hood!
Yes, for me, the hood is key, as I use hood less quilts. But I am sure Ryan has thought about that ;-). He must prefer a hat.
And if you want the hood, either get  the MB Anorak, or if you get GooseFeet, just ask for one.
I have never understood the appeal of anoraks. Perhaps it is only my personal challenge but my body temperature ranges wildly and the ability to unzip completely while doing an activity is very important. Similarly I have come to love vests as I can keep my core warm or unzip as needed but do not have to suffer overly warm arms. I have traded emails with Ben about a custom vest. But another topic is pockets, which some of the MontBells don’t have. I think that at least one zipped pocket is important.
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