The iconic Patagonia Nano Puff jacket reviewed

The Nano Puff has had something of a cult following since its inception over 10 years ago. Actually, ‘cult’ probably does it a disservice. From hikers to climbers, and general outdoors types, Patagonia’s iconic insulated mid-layer has had widespread appeal, and plenty of Nano Puff jacket owners have sworn they’ll never wear anything else. With such a beloved product on its hands, it would be easy for Patagonia to sit on its laurels and leave the Nano Puff untouched. After all, why fix what ain’t broke?

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But that’s not Patagonia’s way. In 2016 Patagonia increased the recycled content. In 2018 it reduced material waste through patterning improvements. In 2020 it reduced carbon emissions as it transitioned the Nano Puff into using PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco with P.U.R.E. (Produced Using Reduced Emissions) technology.

In fact, it has been refining the Nano Puff for over a decade; not in the way it looks or performs, which are areas in which the jacket needs no tinkering, but with on-going improvements within its supply chain and product design developments to reduce the environmental impact of one of its most adored products.

Live For The Outdoors takes a look at the iconic jacket and everything you need to know below.

What you need to know about the Patagonia Nano Puff jacket

Practical design

The brick quilting pattern isn’t just for show. The narrow horizontal quilt lines on side panels stabilise the insulation and uses durable thread for abrasion resistance.

Touches of comfort

The main zip has a wicking interior storm-flap and zipper garage at the chin for next-to-skin comfort.

Performance pockets

The two handwarmer pockets have zip-closures with zipper garages. The zipped internal chest pocket doubles as a stuffsack with a reinforced carabiner clip-in loop.

Sealed-in warmth

The drop-tail hem with a drawcord seals in heat to stop that lovely warm air from escaping.

A+ environmental credentials

The Nano Puff uses synthetic PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco, which is made from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester with P.U.R.E. (Produced Using Reduced Emissions) technology, wrapped in a 100% recycled polyester shell and lining. The fabric is bluesign approved and Fair Trade Certified sewn.

Trail verdict

While the actual performance advances are limited (and to be fair, they were already excellent), the continuing environmental improvements mark Patagonia and the Nano Puff out as something special.

Features of the Patagonia Nano Puff jacket

• Shell fabric 1.4oz 20-denier 100% recycled polyester ripstop with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish

• Lining fabric 1.3oz 22-denier 100% recycled polyester with a PFC-free DWR finish

• Men’s sizes XS-XXL

• Women’s sizes XS-XL

• Insulation 60g PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco, 100% post-consumer recycled polyester with P.U.R.E. (Produced Using Reduced Emissions) technology

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