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When hiking to glass points and stands, you can easily work up a sweat. In cold temperatures, stopping to move can make you cold from sweat. That’s where a lightweight puffer jacket comes in handy – throw it on over your base layers and you’ll stay much more comfortable. I’ve been testing the Browning Packable Puffer Jacket to see how easy it is to pack and how well it integrates into my layering system. Here are my impressions so far:
Weight: 1 lb, 3.9 oz (actual measurement) Packed size: 10 x 6 in (actual measurement) Polyester micro-ripstop fabric PrimaLoft Silver down blend (650 fill power), fluorocarbon-free down water repellent Handwarmer pockets Silvadur odor management
Testing Browning’s Packable Puffer Jacket
I hate the cold. It doesn’t matter if I’m perch fishing in February, turkey hunting in April, or sitting in a tree stand in October. Because of this, I usually pack a parka or light jacket even when the temperatures are on the edge. That’s where the Browning Packable Puffer Jacket comes in. It won’t keep you warm in sub-zero temperatures, or be your primary source of insulation in the winter, but it’s easy to pack as a light layer and adds comfort.
With a bass boat cruising the water, calm mornings can turn chilly in an instant. So when I went to test rods, reels, and lures with OL contributor Pete Robbins this spring, I wore the Packable Puffer during an early-morning run. Once the sun was high, I tucked it away in my tackle bag and it stayed out of the way for the rest of the trip. I also wore it during an early-morning archery practice session this spring, when temperatures were in the mid-40s. It didn’t restrict my movement or get in the way of my bowstring, a big plus for archery hunting.
Browning Packable Puffer Jacket packed into its built-in pouch.
Scott Einschmann
I think this jacket is best for activities in the 40 degree range, or stationary in the 50 to 70 degree range. It also works well as a mid-layer under a shell. As a nice bonus, although not the intended design, I’ve also found that the Packable Puffer makes a great pillow for sleeping on the plane and on the ground.
What’s best about the Browning Packable Puffer Jacket and what could be improved?
The Browning Packable Puffer Jacket is a versatile layer that packs up small. While not as quiet as the Browning Hydro Fleece, there are packable down jackets on the market that have a higher fill power and are half the weight.
Read next: Primaloft vs Down
Final thoughts
From steep climbs to long sit-downs, it’s good to have some extra layers in your backpack, and the Browning Packable Puffer is an excellent option that does just that, making it a great jacket for everyday use.
