The Cocoon line of jackets and pants is manufactured by Bozeman Mountain Works, a leading boutique manufacturer of ultralight backpacking gear. Their UL 60 Vest, shown here, uses Polarguard Delta insulation, a lightweight synthetic material that along with Primaloft, became popular last year with mainstream manufacturers like the North Face.

The UL 60 is a very functional garment designed to provide core warmth during active cold weather activities under a breathable shell. The size large vest only weighs a scant 5.9 oz. and stuffs down to the size of a navel orange. A pull down zipper provides ventilation and the high collar insulates the neck. Elastic arm hole and waist hems preserve warmth.

I frequently use this vest when hiking or snowshoeing in sub-30 degree weather layered over a Patagonia Capilene 3 jersey and under a Goretex shell. The lack of sleeves is not an issue under these circumstances because I’m generating plenty of heat.

I’ve also used this vest as an insulating layer under a storm shell in cold rainy conditions. I originally purchased it to replace a Montbell down vest because I was concerned that the insulating properties of a down garment would degrade when my base layer became saturated in very humid, but chilly weather. The weight, cost, and perceived warmth differences between these garments is negligible and although I still adore my Montbell down vest, I prefer my Cocoon in high consequence, wet environments.

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Related posts:

1. Montbell U.L. Down Vest
2. Hiking in the Rain: Backpack Liners
3. Patagonia Capilene Base Layers
4. Vapor Barrier Clothing and Sleeping Bag Liners
5. Intro to Lightweight Backpacking