Enlightened Equipment Apex Insulated Puffy
My Price: $185.00
Manufacturer: Enlightened Equipment
Made In: Winona, MN USA
Availability: Website Only www.englithenedequipment.com
Weight: 8.5oz for size Large
Season use: All
Non-affiliate Link: Torrid Apex Jacket
Review:
The very first “puffy” jacket I bought for backpacking was an REI Co-Op Magma Jacket. It was warm enough although it lacked a hood and I got it for around a $100 on sale. At the time I had picked up a backpacking quilt from Enlightened Equipment so I was familiar with the brand but at that point they did not make any clothing.
After seeing the Torrid Apex Synthetic jacket on Darwin On the Trail’s YouTube channel I decided I should keep an eye open for a good deal on the jacket since the synthetic would help keep me warm even when it got wet. I do the majority of my backpacking in the Pacific Northwest which is known for its rain. Because of this I was frequently worried about having my down get wet and lose its ability to keep me warm. Around Thanksgiving a closeout jacket came available in the size I was after. I wasn’t supper thrilled about the orange and purple colors but a deal is a deal.
Since that purchase all those years ago this jacket has gone on nearly every trip with me. The only time I do not bring it is on short overnights where the temps are not forecasted to be below 50 degrees at night. On nights where I’m not wearing it to bed it can be rolled up into its hood and added to my pillow for extra comfort and warmth. I love that the jacket has a hood and zippered pockets. To me its only downfall is that it does not stuff into its own pocket but it does cram down nicely into my clothing bag.
My Rating: Buy it! This jacket has been on nearly every trip with me. Any time I want some insulation even when its warmer this is my go-to jacket.
May the miles you hike be filled with wonder and the glasses you raise be filled with whiskey.
Cheers!
Rating scale:
-Bypass: This isn’t worth the money.
-Borrow: Handy but may or may not be worth your money.
-Buy: Get one. You’ll love it!
A lightweight and compact way to keep you warm into those freezing temps!