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REI Revelcloud Jacket - Men's Review

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REI Revelcloud Jacket - Men's Review
Credit: REI
Price:  $150 List
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Manufacturer:   REI
By Chris Simrell ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Apr 8, 2013

Our Verdict

Of all the jackets we tested, this was the least expensive. It gets our Best Buy Award because it offers quality materials, great functionality, light overall weight, and good looks in a final package less expensive than the front-runners. It will work great both day-to-day running errands and as a light insulating layer in the backcountry. It is offered in both a hooded version, and as a non-hood jacket.
REASONS TO BUY
Less expensive than competition
Lightweight
REASONS TO AVOID
Doesn't pack into own zippered pocket

If you're looking for the highest performance in a light insulated jacket, we recommend the Rab Xenon X.

REI has discontinued the Revelcloud jacket. Head over to our best insulated jacket review to see our current lineup of favorites!

Our Analysis and Test Results

Warmth


The Revelcloud jacket has 60g/m2 of Primaloft ECO. ECO is Primalofts more ecologically conscious insulation, made partially from recycled bottles. ECO can be praised for being a bit more “green” than Primaloft ONE, but unfortunately, it is not quite as warm. This is something to be aware of if you are looking for maximum warmth. Like all jackets that are offered in hooded and non-hooded versions, go with the hood if you need warmth. It will add a large amount of warmth and weather protection while adding only a small amount of weight overall.

Weight / Compactness


The non hooded jacket version is only 12.5oz, which makes it the same weight as a Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket (also non-hooded). The hooded version is a couple ounces more. The only issue in terms of weight and packability for the Revelcloud is that it does not pack into its own pocket and clip to you harness for climbing applications (or other situations where this comes in handy). REI advertises this jacket as stuffing into its own internal pocket, and it does (barley), but it is not zippered and thus there is little point in ever doing it.

Weather Resistance


The weather resistance of the Revelcloud is very similar to all the other light insulated jackets. Overall we find the Rab Xenon X to offer the most weather protection in the light insulated jacket category.

Features


This jacket is simple: Two hand pockets (zippered), and an external chest pocket. the waist hem is adjustable, which we like for keeping warmth in, and the wrist cuffs are elastic. They do add in a cool headphone slot in the chest pocket. This allows you to easily listen to music while routing the headphone cord in a convenient spot. We find this to be a great feature if you're using this jacket around town.

Best Application


All-around use. This jacket works well for just about everything: skiing, backpacking, hiking or bike commuting. If you're a climber, consider that the Revelcloud lacks the “pack into own pocket, clip to harness” feature that the Xenon X and Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody have.

Value


The Revelcloud is a pretty fantastic value. For most applications, and for most people, it will perform just as well as the more expensive competition.

Chris Simrell