Patagonia has a jacket. Actually, they have many jackets. The Micro Puff Hoody jacket, however, is one of a few that I wear year round. Part of that is due to where I live (in the mountains) and part of that is due to where I travel (everywhere).

Just by the name alone, Micro Puff Hoody, you’d think it was only a winter jacket. It has winter like features such as a ripstop, windproof and Deluge water repellent shell. The hood can be tightened (or loosened) by the side of your face or the back of your head, and can even fit over a helmet.

The warmth factor is key, and the polyester insulation keeps you warm without clumping even when it gets wet. I feel comfortable wearing this jacket as an outer layer in snow or rain, but remember it’s water repellent, not water proof. I always wear a waterproof shell over this if I’m going to be getting wet for an extended period of time.

The Micro Puff is versatile because it’s light weight (21 ounces), it fit’s the niche between down jacket and windbreaker, and it‘s also fashionable. I tend to wear it daily, besides taking it on every trip I go on. From backpacking in Patagonia, to camping in the desert, to walking the streets of New York City, the high zip collar keeps the wind off my neck, no matter where I go.

Everybody, including myself, loves pockets. Can’t do without them. The Micro Puff Hoody has two interior mesh ones, an outside left chest one, and two hand warmer pockets that also zip close.

At the bottom of the Micro Puff, you’ll find a draw cord hem. I tend to leave my wide open. I wonder anyone uses this feature, but someone must or it wouldn’t there. Patagonia tends to the “less is more” philosophy, so I have to believe this must be a worthwhile feature.

And what to do with your jacket when it’s too hot to wear? Stuff it in it’s own stuff sack (included with the jacket) and toss it in your pack.

It’s also greenish. With recycled polyester in both the shell and the insulation. Recycled from what you might ask? Soda bottles, worn out garments and unusable second quality fabrics. If that doesn’t make you feel good all over, I don’t know what will.

If you are looking for a jacket you can wear year round, the Micro Puff Hoody is a great investment.