Hold on to your bridle leather belts and brass buckles, Filson is about to dip its 127-year-old toe in the world of ultralight midlayers.
This week, the brand known for old-school materials and handmade craftsmanship will launch three pieces in a new “Ultralight Series.” Dropping on March 29, the collection includes three synthetic-insulation tops — a vest, hoodie, and jacket. And that last item, the aptly named Ultralight Jacket, bears a striking similarity to Patagonia’s massively popular Nano Puff.
Both use 60g PrimaLoft Gold insulation, carry a ripstop shell, and are marketed as lightweight midlayers that pack into their own pocket. Patagonia claims the Nano Puff weighs 11.9 ounces (337 g). When asked, Filson said the Ultralight Jacket weighs 16 ounces.
But while competitively priced — the jackets are $24 apart — you might be surprised to learn Filson is the value option between the two.
Filson Ultralight Jacket vs. Patagonia Nano Puff
Functionally, the jackets — at least on spec; we haven’t tried Filson’s — are pretty darn similar. The PrimaLoft insulation is identical performance-wise. (Patagonia uses P.U.R.E. manufacturing, which reduces emissions.) There are only a few key areas where the jackets differ.
Though both use ripstop nylon for the outer, Filson opts for 1.5-ounce CORDURA, while Patagonia uses 100% recycled nylon and Fair Trade Certified sewing. Patagonia also advertises a PFC-free DWR, while Filson’s Ultralight Jacket makes no DWR claim.
As is typical for Filson, little pieces of luxury find their way into otherwise utilitarian gear. On the Ultralight Jacket, Filson lined the collar with 100% cotton Moleskin, “so there’s never the feeling of cold nylon against your neck,” according to the brand.
In short, both are premium jackets and you pay for a little something extra for both brands. Patagonia has been early to invest and modify its production protocols to be ahead of environmental and social standards around the industry.
Meanwhile, Filson has never shied away from a little sticker shock (thousand-dollar duffel, anyone?), but the brand points to its largely USA-based manufacturing, high-quality materials (tin cloth, brass fittings, Mackinaw wool, leather), and lifetime guarantee as pillars of its products’ value.
Regardless of which jacket you choose — the $239 Nano Puff or the $215 Ultralight Jacket — you’re investing in a well-made product designed to accommodate a modern, active lifestyle.
