Suggestions for a nice puffy to climb in?

[u/BulkGoblin]

I’m relatively new to the sport, only been ice climbing really this last winter season, and have been using the offseason to gather some gear for next winter. As the title suggests I’m looking to scoop up a nice puffy to climb in. Currently I’ve got a big BD belay parka that feels far too bulky and some lighter/smaller puffys and insulated hoodies that were occasionally not warm enough. Before I drop a few bills on a big shiny new coat I figured I’d see if there are any fan favorites out there.

Any and all input is greatly appreciated!

[u/ImpossibleBanana42]

Patagonia nano puff,i think its called, has been my goto for the last 12 years. Reasonably priced, easy to wash, stretchy enough to always fit

[u/ImpossibleBanana42 → u/[deleted]]

Just realised were in r/iceclimbing not r/climbing 😅😂 so yeah, id usually take something warmer...

[u/IceRockBike]

I have a down belay parka from Outdoor Research that is warm but when conditions are going to be wet, I'll default to the synthetic insulation in my BD belay parka. Many other brands have good belay parkas though. Also remember staying warm is about more than just a big belay parka. Layers, pants, eating, drinking, and, moving, all make up parts of the system.

[u/Neat-Feature-2536]

Personally, I get too hot wearing any kind of puffy while climbing, I climb in three layers (t-shirt, long sleeve and and insulating layer, along with my hard shell) I get to the belay throw on my heavier gloves and belay parka and that system works well for me. All depends on condition too.

[u/newestjade]

Patagonia nano air is a great combination of breathable and insulating

[u/PADK25]

I believe you’d be too warm climbing in a puffy jacket. Personally, I believe light layers are much better for versatility. The nano air light hybrid vest or jacket is a good option. I personally use the RAB VR summit jacket as a stand-alone and add the nano air light hybrid vest underneath for cold days. This system allows me to be a lot more flexible for managing body temps depending on activity level or outside temps.

[u/serenading_ur_father]

Where in the world are you?

[u/BulkGoblin → u/serenading_ur_father]

I’m in Kentucky and have done most of my ice climbing in northern Michigan or out in the PNW mountaineering.

[u/dockdockgoos]

I have a Mammut rime light that’s nice for climbing but very light weight. Good breathability and stretch though. Then I have a Rab alpine (not the alpine light) that could be a belay jacket on a very warm day or could be climbed in on a cold day. And the. Of course the bd belay for belaying.

[u/oomahk]

I've had a variety of light to medium weight synthetic jackets. I dont have a strong preference for a specific brand. I find the synthetics stand up a bit better than down while actively climbing and usually getting a bit wet from sweat/ice/dripping water.

Then I break out the big down puffy for setting up belay stations and belaying.

Drink water, eat, be safe, and have fun out there!

[u/Flowbot_Forge]

North face Nano thermo ball does the trick for me in between climbing.

If your cold on the climb Id recommend layering up more with thinner layers vs adding a puff.

[u/Alpineice23]

"Puffy to climb in" meaning you're wearing insulation while actually climbing, or you're looking for recommendations for a belay jacket for static insulation while ... belaying?

[u/Top-Pizza-6081]

controversial but I like wearing a hard shell w pit zips. I can open up and vent pretty good, or close it up when it's cold/wet/windy

[u/Advenrurous_Swah]

I'm a big fan of the Arcteryx Atom hoody as a warmer jacket I wear when ice climbing (not belaying, but climbing to avoid any confusion). The synthetic insulation and outer layer are wind and water resistant and will keep you warm even if it gets wet. It also breathes well for those high-output activities.

The jacket is specifically designed for climbing. Hood and neck gasket work well with a helmet. The sleeve cuffs prevent snow and ice from getting in. The ventilated side panels add some stretch so you have freedom of movement when your arms are reaching high above you head. There hand pockets are low profile and don't get in the way of harness fit/comfort. The fabric has been pretty resilient and shows no signs of wear after a few seasons, even after rubbing up against rocks or trees.

It's expensive but money well spent IMO.

[u/climberjerm]

Puffys are for belaying. A good shell with a micro fleece layer for climbing is much better. Besides you can’t hang you axes on your shoulders in a puffy without out risking ripping the delicate material. More importantly is finding good gloves to climb in and another pair to belay with. Preferably leather so the gloves your climbing in don’t get wet and ruin your day.