Patagonia’s synthetic-insulated Nano Puff needs little introduction. It is adored worldwide and is as ubiquitous in town as it is on a mountainside. A key aspect of the Nano Puff’s success is its lightweight design, which makes it extremely versatile. 

Patagonia decided, however, that the Nano Puff needed a burly sibling: the Hi-Loft Nano Puff Hoody. The two look similar, but given that the Nano Puff weighs 370g and the Hi-Loft 760g, clearly substantial changes have been made.

The insulation in the Hi-Loft is considerably heavier. The Nano Puff uses 60g synthetic insulation; the Hi-Loft uses 170g under the arms and down the sides, and 200g elsewhere. The Hi-Loft still employs 20D polyester brick-shaped baffles on the torso, but the fabric in other areas has been upgraded to increase durability.

With additions such as a helmet-compatible hood, a two-way zip and some nice colourways, Patagonia has ensured the Hi-Loft will be as useful for technical wear as it is for day-to-day usage.

Features we like

Tougher fabric

The fabric on the back, outer sleeves, yoke and shoulders has been upgraded from 20D to 50D polyester, which means less worry about damage from abrasion and general wear and tear. 

Weather-resistant features

The outer fabrics are windproof and water resistant, and the main zip runs well past the chin and has an internal storm flap (albeit a small one).

Body-mapped insulation

The Hi-Loft is much warmer thanks to the substantially heavier 200g PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Eco. It’s a proper winter jacket, this. To assist mobility, the insulation is slightly lighter (170g) under the arms and down the laterals.

Cosy pockets

The handwarmer pockets are lined with a brushed tricot material that feels soft and cosy on the skin. There is also a decent-sized chest pocket for extra storage.

Eco and ethical

Every fabric on the Hi-Loft – outer shell, inner lining, insulation, pocket lining – is 100% recycled, and the water-repellent finish on the outer material is PFAS-free. Patagonia produces this jacket in a Fair Trade-certified factory.

Wilderness verdict

The heavier insulation and fabric tweaks of the Hi-Loft Nano Puff Hoody make it a full-on winter jacket with the same versatility as its lightweight sibling.

Trail specs

Price $619

Weight 760g (m), 697g (w)

Sizes Men’s XS–3XL, women’s 2XS–2XL

Insulation Recycled PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Eco (170g under the arms and side body, 200g in the hood, and front and back body)

Fabric 20D and 50D recycled polyester ripstop