Review-Patagonia Micro Puff Jacket

I ran last week’s Love the Run You’re With 5k in my new Patagonia Micro Puff Jacket.  While not a “running jacket” per se, I was pleased with the performance and would definitely recommend…especially since Patagonia is now running a 50% off sale on all Fall 2011 gear.

I’ll start by saying that the morning was quite cold: about 25 degrees with gusty winds.  Patagonia bills the Micro Puff Jacket as a “water-resistant, windproof polyester shell with super warm, highly compressible PrimaLoft® One polyester insulation”, but I have to admit I was skeptical.   The jacket is incredibly lightweight and super packable, so it was hard to imagine that it would offer the warmth and wind protection I needed. 

I was pleasantly surprised.  The Micro Puff was warm and provided more than adequate protection against the wind.  Though highly breathable, I was most comfortable during the first 2 miles of the race (I unzipped the collar slightly as I was sprinting to the finish line).  The jacket includes 2 outer pockets and an inner compartment perfect for an iPhone or credit card/ID.     

My verdict: the Micro Puff is an excellent 3-season jacket. It’s light enough for moderate activity on cool spring/fall mornings, but offers enough warmth and wind protection to withstand tough winter runs.  Plus at $89.50 (that’s 50% off the normal price), it’s a super deal!   Happy Running!