Black Diamond First Light Hoody

Field Notes: At home in colder alpine environments, the First Light Hoody is an homage to dawn patrollers everywhere. Whether that means early morning winter runs, pre-work ski-touring, or waking up on a portaledge a few thousand feet off the deck, the First Light Hoody is built for you. We put it to the test on some of the coldest hikes of the season on one of the Green Mountains’ highest peaks, with 40 degree temps plus the added chill of solid winds throughout the day. Swiss-made, stretch-woven Schoeller face fabric treated with Nanosphere technology repels water and dirt, and is your first line of protection from the elements. An insulated windflap was appreciated when frigid gusts swept across exposed ridges, and a hood generous enough for climbing helmet added to this jacket’s alpinism compatibility. On the inside, the newly developed PrimaLoft Sliver Active insulation is breathable, which helps regulates temperature. Packable and lightweight, this is one jacket there is always room for in your kit. The First Light’s design-material match is why we can confidently say this is one of the highest performing technical hoodies out there.

Pros: Lightweight at only 1 pound 2 ounces attributed to PrimaLoft insulation, which also allows it to be packable without losing loft or become compact like natural down. The synthetic insulation is also water resistant.

Cons: A little too much jacket for everyday and casual lifestyle wear, or three season use

Tester Comments: “Black Diamond knows its audience and its hardcore customers, and they deliver products its customers love. This is a top performer for serious activities, a jacket mountaineers and ice climbers will praise—high quality materials mean this is definitely a top performer in the outer-layer hoody category.”

Key Attribute: Function