Men's/Women's REI Co-op Flash Insulated Hybrid Hoodie (various colors/sizes)

REI is a no name brand?

Not necessarily speaking to this item, but a lot of us think of REI-brand stuff as being very high quality. And it's usually cheaper than the high-end brands at MSRP with similar quality.

I think, in my mind at least, anything that's a major discount off MSRP for REI-branded feels like a good deal.

Again I don't know anything about this jacket, but just a general explanation of why people felt it was a good deal.

I have the non-hoodie version of this, picked up on another SD deal for like $30 a year ago. I like it a lot. I use it as a midlayer for skiing, take it on trips, use it compressed as a pillow, wear it around town, etc.

Packability and warmth to weight ratio are both great, it layers well, and is excellent for hiking and active sports. I prefer primaloft over down insulation for sweaty activities because it a) keeps warmth when wet and b) holds up to washing better. I run hot but I think I can wear this comfortably from roughly 35F-65F depending on activity level. It is surprisingly warm.

I have mountain hardwear ghost whisperer, patagonia nano puff, etc. IMO this jacket is pretty much on par with all of them for a fraction of the price (w/ this deal).