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Ultralight Down Alternative
Patagonia Micro Puff and Macro Puff

Patagonia’s Micro Puff collection received excellent reviews when it was launched back in 2018, with consumers commenting on how much warmth the jackets offered for their light weight. With Patagonia’s PlumaFill synthetic insulation technology, the wearer can also enjoy the benefits of down-like warmth but with an alternative filling. Now the brand has also released the Macro Puff – a similar design that delivers even more water-resistant warmth – alongside its new-and-improved Micro Puff. 

Patagonia’s Micro Puff is more than sufficient for Hong Kong’s mild winters. Filled with 65-g PlumaFill made from 100% polyester, the lightweight insulation replicates the structure and packability of down, but with improved warm-when-wet performance because of its synthetic nature. The quilting construction also uses minimal stitching which helps to stabilize and maximize the loft of the PlumaFill strands. The ultralight nylon ripstop Pertex Quantum shell is windproof and treated with a durable water-repellent finish to ensure the wearer stays completely protected. 

The Micro Puff collection includes a hoodie, jacket and vest, all featuring a centre-front zipper extending all the way up to the chin, with elasticised hems that seal in warmth. The two welted, zippered handwarmer pockets and internal drop-in pockets are well-sized, while the left pocket doubles as a stuff sack for handy travelling. The hood of the hoodie is also helmet-compatible, which is especially useful during outdoor activities. 

The Macro Puff Hoody is the best choice for snowy weather, using 135-g PlumaFill for its main body panels and 90-g PulmaFill for the side panels and sleeves. Both are made from 100% recycled polyester, and even the DWR finished shell and lining uses 100% recycled nylon. The elasticised cuff closures can also be found on the Macro Puff Hoody, while the dual-adjust cord-lock system at the hem helps block out the snow and wind. The hood design is slightly different here, featuring a custom fit for covering an alpine helmet, while the jacket itself can be stuffed into the right-front pocket for easy storage.