Overview

The Nano Air Light is the lightest and most breathable synthetic insulated jacket we tested. Its objective is to provide adequate warmth for high exertion pursuits in cold weather. To this end, it performs exceptionally well. The whisper-thin, stretchy insulation combined with soft, supple, and stretchy fabrics combined with minimalist features (no handwarmer pockets or any adjustment cords) make this the most comfortable synthetic insulated jacket we have ever used. It is the Ferrari of active insulation jackets; very high performance and very specialized.

For some background on this jacket, read Ryan Jordan’s recent First Looks review of this jacket. From that review, Ryan’s video commentary:

The Arcteryx Proton LT Hoody is our favorite all-purpose synthetic insulated jacket. Though not as light or as comfortable, it’s more durable, warmer, and more versatile than the Nano Air Light.

Features & Specifications

• 10.4 oz (295 g) in men’s medium
• 1.4 oz/yd (47 g/m) FullRange stretch insulation
• 1.6 oz/yd (54 g/m) 30-denier fabric with exceptional breathability
• Hooded anorak

Review Context

We tested this jacket as part of our Synthetic Insulated Jacket State of the Market Report (to be published on March 25, 2018), which sought to answer the following questions:

1. What’s the best all-purpose synthetic insulated jacket?
2. What’s the best lightweight windproof synthetic insulated jacket?
3. What’s the best active insulation jacket?
4. What’s the best synthetic insulated parka?

Description of Field Testing

We tested this jacket for 18 months! Hiking, climbing, mountaineering, skiing–we used it for all high exertion cold weather activities where saving weight was a top priority.

Performance Assessment