The Outdoor Research Coldfront Lt Hoodie is a lightweight insulated jacket designed for active use in cold, damp environments. Blending 700-fill RDS-certified down with moisture-resistant VerticalX™ synthetic insulation, it offers a hybrid approach to warmth: lofty insulation where it counts, and fast-drying performance in moisture-prone zones.
Ideal for hillwalkers, alpine scramblers, climbers, and winter trail runners, this hoodie-style jacket delivers adaptable comfort with dependable weather resistance — and packs small enough for serious missions.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | ~430g (Men’s Medium) |
| Insulation | 700-fill down (130g) + VerticalX™ synthetic (150g) |
| Shell Fabric | 100% recycled ripstop nylon (bluesign® approved) |
| Fit | Standard (athletic layering profile) |
| Hood | Insulated, adjustable, helmet-compatible |
| Pockets | 2 handwarmer + 1 internal chest stash |
| Cuffs & Hem | Low-profile elastic cuffs + drawcord hem |
| Price (RRP) | £175 (often discounted to £140–£155) |
Construction and Materials
The Coldfront Lt Hoodie uses a strategic insulation map that puts down where you need loft (torso, back, shoulders), and synthetic fill in zones prone to sweat and moisture buildup (underarms, lower sleeves, hem).
- Down Insulation: Responsibly sourced 700-fill goose down with high warmth-to-weight
- VerticalX™ Synthetic: Quick-drying, breathable, and slightly stretchy
- Outer Fabric: Lightweight ripstop with a DWR coating for water resistance
- Inner Lining: Soft nylon with excellent glide over layers
All materials are bluesign® approved and PFAS-free, keeping sustainability front of mind.
Fit and Mobility
Designed for active movement, the Coldfront Lt Hoodie offers a tailored athletic fit:
- True to size with room for a baselayer or light fleece underneath
- Articulated sleeves and gusseted underarms allow unrestricted motion
- Elastic cuffs stay in place without binding or gap
- Helmet-compatible hood cinches well for cold belays or windy walks
Whether you’re scrambling a ridge or layering under a shell, the jacket moves with you without riding up or bunching.
Warmth and Weather Resistance
Hybrid insulation ensures warmth without bulk:
- 700-fill down in the core traps heat efficiently on cold starts and summit breaks
- Synthetic fill zones breathe during ascents and resist moisture buildup
- DWR finish sheds light precipitation and snow
- Hood insulation protects ears and neck from biting wind
Comfort range is around -2°C to +10°C, making it ideal for UK winters, shoulder-season missions, and alpine layering.
Packability and Trail Use
At just 430g, the Coldfront Lt Hoodie strikes a balance between insulation and compressibility:
- Stuffs into internal pocket or small dry bag
- Compresses to ~1.2L volume — great for summit packs or bike packing
- Quick-drying fabric rebounds well after rain or sweat exposure
We tested it across:
- Lake District hill walks in February
- Snowdonia scrambles with mixed snow patches
- Gravel bike packing trips in the Cairngorms
Every time, it performed reliably — keeping us warm when stationary and regulating heat during exertion.
Durability and Long-Term Use
- Fabric shows solid resistance to abrasion from rock, gear straps, and rough brush
- No feather leaks after repeated packing
- Zippers and hem adjustments function smoothly with gloves
Though not bombproof, this jacket is made to be used regularly in rugged conditions — without fear of premature failure.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Smart hybrid insulation: warm + breathable
- Lightweight and packable
- Helmet-compatible hood
- PFAS-free, recycled materials
- Great warmth-to-weight ratio
- Ideal for layering or active use
Cons
- Not waterproof — needs shell in heavy rain
- Slightly slim in the hips for some users
- No external chest pocket
Comparison Table: Coldfront Lt Hoodie vs Alternatives
| Jacket | Insulation | Weight | Best For | Price (RRP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OR Coldfront Lt Hoodie | Hybrid (Down + Synthetic) | ~430g | Active layering, damp hikes | £175 |
| Rab Cirrus Alpine Hoody | Synthetic (Cirrus) | ~470g | Cold wet climates | £150 |
| Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody | Synthetic (PrimaLoft) | ~370g | Lightweight warmth | £200 |
| Arc’teryx Atom Hoody | Synthetic (Coreloft) | ~415g | High-output activity | £230 |
The Coldfront strikes a unique balance: true warmth and wet-weather adaptability without sacrificing comfort or weight.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Coldfront Lt Hoodie?
If you’re looking for a lightweight insulated jacket that works across damp UK climates, changing conditions, and active movement — the Outdoor Research Coldfront Lt Hoodie is a standout.
It’s warm where it matters, breathable where needed, and built with ethical materials. It’s not your deep-winter puffer or your ultralight summit shell — but as a go-to midlayer or outer piece for shoulder-season hiking, alpine scrambles, or chilly commutes, it’s tough to beat.
Rating: ★★★★☆ 9.3/10
Best For: Hillwalkers, alpine scramblers, active outdoor users
Avoid If: You need waterproofing or ultralight specs
