Belay Jackets

During my climbing trip in the Black Hills I ran into high winds at the crag that made it cold to climb. Now I've been looking at what there is in the way of lightweight packable warmth for the everyday climber.

So what do you want in a jacket for wearing at the crag? A hard shell jacket is great for rain or snow but I never climb in the rain or snow. Also I already have a couple of rain jackets. What I want is wind resistance and warmth and for that I really look at the nano puff jacket with down or synthetic fill.

North Face Verto Micro Hoodie

The North Face has many great jackets that can be pricey. If I had the money to spend on it I would get the Verto Micro Hoodie which runs $250 on their website. A less expensive North Face option is the DNP Hoodie which retails at $180, and both jackets look nearly identical.

Patagonia also has many great options which can be found but are even pricier. The Nano Puff Hoody ($250) and the Ultralight Down Hoody ($350) are super warm and comfortable but if you want a Patagonia jacket for less you'll have to go without a hood.

Mont Bell Thermawrap Pro

I know that I want a hood. Even though I don't always use one, it is nice to have when it is blasting cold winds outside and you need extra protection and warmth.

Mont Bell has slightly cheaper hooded down jacket options with the Thermawrap Pro ($175). It is synthetically filled. I think this is a great option but if you want to spend a couple dollars more you can buy the North Face DNP Hoodie.

Here is a review by Outdoor Gear Lab on down jackets for 2013
OGL Jacket Review