The North Face Prism Optimus Jacket

Let me start this off with saying I'm not the biggest North Face fan, but I am a fan of whoever builds the best "mousetrap". TNF has done it all in this one all-be-it expensive package. If you are looking for the one and only puffy this is it. \

Water-resistant shell? Check! combines the advantage of synthetic and down insulation? Check! Minimal stitching to prevent feather loss? check! Insulated, attached and stowable hood? Check x 3! Multiple pockets? Check! Packs down small and light? Check!

The single best insulated jacket I've ever come across!!!

This may be one of the most comfortable jacket out there. After trying on other down jackets, I found this jacket to be much more comfortable. It is very light and warm. The hood is very functional but too bulky when folded in. I don't think you can fit a helmet in there. The fit, unlike typical TNF jackets, is tighter. I am 5'7" and 160lb and it's a perfect fit. My only complaint is the arms are way too bulky. I can't tell how many times I scratched it on something.

I have to say this is a very good down jacket with only one drawback. The hood. It is not very well insulated and in short is too thin. Also when you face the wind it tends to get blown back not completely off your head but 15% off your head. You can wear a climbing helmet under the hood very comfortably. The jacket is very warm, nice and light, rain resistant, and has a great cut thus feeling very nice to wear. If it only had a better hood, dame it.

This is an awesome jacket. I got a good deal at $162, but it is well worth the $250-300 it normally goes for.

I have packed this jacket many times into its stuff sack as a backup in cold weather and it still lofts as much as when it was new. This is a very lightweight jacket.

Nearly waterproof even in the rain. I like the cuffs, they are just a thin elastic that works well with the drawstring shell-type mitts.