REI Co-op Microtrek Hoodie - Women's Review

Likes

If durability and affordability are your top desires in your insulated jacket, you'll like the REI Microtrek Hoody. This jacket can take a beating and will stand up to the abuse of being crushed in packs and suitcases, traveling across the world, and coming with you for a wide variety of activities. That is, as long as you're not looking for maximum breathability, absolute top-of-the-line materials and construction, or insane warmth-to-weight ratio.

With the DWR-treated exterior, the Microtrek sheds water better than most insulated jackets in the test. It was nearly the best for keeping out precipitation when the snow turned to rain at lower elevations. We went out to walk the dog in a light but consistent drizzle, and the exterior of this jacket holds its own longer than most. Since it has a DWR treatment (durable water repellent), you'll want to make sure to wash it with waterproofing detergent to keep it as watertight as possible.

While this jacket doesn't necessarily excel at one specific thing, it was easy to reach for in a wide variety of climates and situations. The slightly oversized fit is easy to pull on over bulky layers, but the jacket is still low-profile enough to layer under an outer shell. While it isn't the most breathable for active use (more on that below), it does integrate well into a winter layering system. Thanks to the durability of the materials and lower cost, we didn't mind subjecting it to the rigors of everyday use.

Dislikes

There wasn't anything particularly wrong with the Microtrek. It simply got out-performed by other jackets in the lineup. While it's half the price of more premium jackets, it's also a bit heavier without being warmer, isn't constructed specifically for movement, and lacks adjustability in a few key areas.

It's better for keeping the weather out, but on the flip side, the Microtrek was one of the least breathable insulated jackets we tested. It has a slick interior that's easy to slide on over base layers, but tends to quickly trap heat and start to feel sticky when you're going uphill. While the material is great for blocking wind, it also keeps the warmth you're generating inside, for better or worse. It felt a bit like wearing a plastic bag when trying to run uphill on days that were cool, but not cold. For slower-paced activities in colder temperatures, though, the Microtrek has fine breathability. It just isn't the best of the lineup here.

While the Microtrek has a forgiving boxy fit with adjustability at the hem, but it otherwise doesn't come with a lot of extras. If the jacket were ultralight, we could forgive it for being barebones, but the Microtrek is on the heavier side, and for the weight, we expect to be able to cozy into our jacket and take advantage of extra features like fleece linings and cinchable hoods. The cuffs also leave a bit to be desired: The elastic is thinner and less comfortable than the cuffs on other jackets we tested. They also don't have a particularly snug fit and can allow weather to sneak in.

Should You Buy the REI Microtrek?

If you're looking for a highly durable insulated jacket, the Microtrek, and it's much more affordable than premium options. However, we still don't know if the average performance is worth the price. Maybe if it were $50 less we'd be singing a different tune. It's still a reliable option for stormy weather that costs a bit less. This jacket would be our top pick for an activity like car camping, where weight matters less and durability matters more. If you're looking for the most packable option for outdoor adventures, or a sleek-looking layer that you can wear around town, there are other better options.

What Other Women's Insulated Jackets Should You Consider?