I had the opportunity to test out the Women’s Enlightened Equipment Torrid Pullover on the Pacific Crest Trail this year. I wore this jacket in Washington through cold, wet and snowy conditions and at night to stay warm while setting up camp and cooking dinner.
First thoughts-
I love the color of this jacket. I chose the “Yellow 10D” fabric, which was surprisingly much more pleasing to the eye than I thought it would be. Typically I choose a neutral or earth tone, but I love that EE offers vibrant, unique colors for outdoor adventures.
The pullover was so lofty when I opened the package. I could not believe how fluffy it was (and still is) for being a synthetic layer. I actually started using it as my camp pillow every night as it was more comfortable than my inflatable pillow.
How light is it?
The jacket is lightweight but durable. The weight of my size Small Yellow 10D Pullover is sub 7oz (I still need to weigh this thing for real).
Since EE custom makes each garment with your preferred color combinations, the weight will vary based on the fabric you choose. The weights range from around 5-11 oz depending on size and hood addition.
If you’re looking for ultralight, go for the 7D. Moderately durable but still light, go for the 10D. And ultra durable, try out the 20D fabric.
But how warm is it?
I was impressed with the warmth to weight ratio. This EE Pullover was replacing my well worn Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer. And guess what? The Enlightened Equipment Pullover is MUCH WARMER than the down jacket. It could be because it has a hood that traps in more heat, or because the pullover doesn’t unzip all the way (allowing for lost heat through the zipper), but I didn’t know that synthetic jackets could be this warm.
A pleasant surprise was how well the pullover cut down on windchill. Since there are no baffles, there is no chance for the wind to move through the seams like many down jackets with baffles. AKA you get warm and stay warm. :)
Cord adjustments on the hood and waist of the jacket trap in heat. A relaxed fit allows more room to layer other garments underneath, but doesn’t lend to a particularly attractive look. On the PCT temperatures dropped down into the high 20’s, but I was never cold with a combination of my fleece and EE pullover.
Great for cold and wet conditions.
The main reason I wanted to try this pullover was because I knew the Washington section of the PCT could get cold and wet in September, and synthetic jackets (unlike my old down jacket) stay warm when wet. My pullover got wet after a day of sleet and snow, yet I stayed warm and cozy. I wore the jacket overnight in my quilt and it was dry by morning.
Do you actually use the kangaroo pocket?
Yes, yes, and yes. I did not bring a single other piece of clothing that has pockets on this thru hike. I can still remember trying to put my hands into my non-existent rain jacket pockets, but my hands just slid into the air. Sad moments. When the temperatures started to drop, I found myself using the pocket to quickly warm my hands. I also used the pocket to store miscellaneous items while setting up camp, such as my phone, beanie, snacks and more.
The Downsides
(but barely)
WEIGHT-
Sure, my down jacket weighs less, but not by much. I could have picked the ultralight 7D fabric throughout the pullover to match the weight of my down jacket, but I wanted a unique color and slightly more durable fabric. I also chose to include a hood on my pullover, and for that I am happy even though it does add weight. It keeps me so much warmer in frigid temps than a jacket with no hood.
PACKABILITY-
My old down jacket packs down to nothing, which saves space if you’re trying to minimize your pack. I’ve found that synthetic does not pack down as small, but since its a smaller piece of gear, it really doesn’t take up that much more space. The peace of mind I get being warm in wet conditions wins over packability.
A few other options, recommendations and links:
Another reason to love this pullover?
Enlightened Equipment is a small business creating custom handmade products in Winona, Minnesota. Being a small business owner myself, I love supporting other small businesses. They are doing what they love and the quality of the product shows.
Disclaimer- I was gifted a sample of this product in exchange for an honest review. Linked items are affiliate links from which I may or may not receive a small commission.