Nano Puff Vest from Patagonia: Lightly insulated all-round waistcoat in a practical test

In the latest version, Patagonia has further improved the fit of the Nano Puff Vest, which should now offer even more freedom of movement and can still be used perfectly as a mid-layer under a rain jacket, for example. Improved thread tension is intended to make the jackets and waistcoats in the Nano Puff series even more abrasion-resistant. Patagonia fills the quilted chambers with 100 per cent recycled Primaloft Gold Eco insulation. The outer fabric and lining are also made from 100 per cent recycled polyester.

The Nano Puff Vest is equipped with two zipped hand warmer pockets, an inner zipped chest pocket that doubles as a pack sack and a front zip with inner wind flap and slider cover. The waistband can be adjusted with a drawstring.

The Patagonia Nano Puff Vest in the test

The chic quilted waistcoat costs a hefty 160 euros, so of course we expected first-class workmanship - and we can tell you this much: we were not disappointed. All the seams fit perfectly, there are no protruding pieces of fabric or protruding thread ends. All zips run smoothly and are easy to operate, even while travelling.

Because the Nano Puff Vest (>> available here) is designed as an all-rounder, you have to accept slight compromises in terms of fit on the bike. There is no extended back section to protect against splashing water or to cover the lower back in the riding position. But because the Patagonia has a longer cut overall, the fit is perfectly OK if you're not in an overly sporty position.

If you are looking for high insulation performance for cold days, this is the perfect choice, as the Nano Puff West keeps you cosy and warm all around and also closes high and snugly around the neck. The other side of the coin: sporty rides quickly end in a steam bath because the heat also builds up on the back under the insulation. Trail and enduro tours on an e-bike are therefore more the domain of the expensive waistcoat than muscle training laps.

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Patagonia Nano Puff Vest - Info & Price

• Weight: 237 grams (size M)
• Two zipped hand warmer pockets
• Zipped breast pocket inside, which also serves as a pouch
• PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation Eco
• Lightweight ripstop fabric made from 100% recycled polyester
• DWR impregnation without the use of PFAS
• Drawcord adjustable hem
• Price: 160 Euro >> available here

Conclusion on the insulation waistcoat from Patagonia

The Nano Puff Vest from Patagonia is not the ideal choice for sporty rides that you tackle under your own steam, as the waistcoat is too heavily insulated and has no zones on the back where body heat can escape. On an e-bike, however, the waistcoat keeps you cosy and warm and scores points with its comfortable fit and excellent workmanship. If you also use the Nano Puff Vest as a multisport product for hiking or ski touring, you can live with the price of 160 euros - especially as Patagonia offers an excellent repair service for its clothing

Advantages

+ high insulation performance
+ excellent workmanship
+ Can be used for many sports
+ Fair and environmentally friendly production

Disadvantages

- quickly too warm on the analogue bike
- No vapour-permeable material on the back
- no specific bike cut

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>> Also read our article on autumn clothing