Warmth
The combination of Polartec Powerstretch panels on the sides of the arms and body and 800-fill Hutterite white duck down everywhere else gives this jacket a solid combo of warmth and breathability. Throw in the helmet compatible hood and the two way front zip and the Hybridge can be regulated like a thermostat.

Fit
As we expect from a $600 jacket, this one has a feel of luxury. The glossy exterior hints at a level of class beyond the other jackets on this page. The down is sourced from one of the highest quality producers. Frankly, we’re a little worried about using this jacket in the backcountry for fear of staining or ripping it.

The cut is trim. With the Powerstretch panels, there’s plenty of stretch for layering over baselayers and under shells. Expect the sleeves to be longish to work with thumb loops. The rest of the jacket fits smaller than usual; I usually wear a medium, but found the large a better fit here.

Compressiblity/Weight
Despite its impressive down puffiness, with a little effort you can pack the Hybridge into one of its two zipper pockets—making a package about the size of a grapefruit. Considering the large stretch panels, the weight is astounding—just eight ounces. (The Rab jacket, with similar stetch panels, one less pocket and no hood, weighs twice as much.)

Features
Four pockets, two hand warmers, thumb loops, and two Napolean are a nice touches. Like with the Rab jacket, this is a highly versatile jacket. The stretch panels may dump a little warmth, but the added breathability means we’ll be using this jacket in situations where a regular down sweater would be relegated to the pack.

Value
While this is the nicest jacket on the page and probably the most versatile, too, we’re not nearly convinced it’s worth an extra $300 more than most other jackets in this class.