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atom lt pullover/hoody vs. patagonia nano pullover

Original Post
Brian Croce · · san diego, CA · Joined Aug 2011 · Points: 60

I recently lost my nanopuff pullover, and instead of going right out and buying a new one ive been debating switching to either an atom LT pullover or the atom LT hoody.

I primarily used my nano to throw over my soft-shell in cold cold conditions while on the move , or as a light belay jacket.

Has anyone used both an has a preference? Can the atom LT hoody fit over a shell? can the atom lt pullover? (I read that the fit is a lot tighter and may be difficult to layer under?)

Also the atom lt is labeled as wind resistant and have heard differing accounts as to its ability to actually block wind, while the nano is windproof.

Lets hear some opinions.

Max Tepfer · · Bend, OR · Joined Oct 2007 · Points: 2,513

The Atom is the best puffy I've ever owned. I've climbed in it for over a year now and had multiple occasions where it's scraped or caught on rocks and bushes and I thought for sure that it'd ripped, but it still looks like new. It is cut to be layered under shells as opposed to over, but you could just size up.

I've found it to be fairly wind resistant. The only part that isn't are the vents under the arms which are just straight polartec fleece, presumably for more breathability.

mugsy · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Nov 2011 · Points: 0

I just went through this same comparison.

  • The Atom has a much more athletic fit - the Nano is very boxy.
  • Atom fits better under shell. Nano would probably be better if layering over your shell.
  • For me, the Atom's hood fit much better (but I have a big head).
  • Atom is not as packable, but is much more durable.
  • Atom is noticeably more breathable (+ for me, I run very hot).
Scott McMahon · · Boulder, CO · Joined Feb 2006 · Points: 1,425
Max Tepfer wrote:It is cut to be layered under shells as opposed to over, but you could just size up. .
I tried that and found the drape in the back to be pretty long for me (L-XL) at 5 9'. That being said the atom is all everyone says it's cracked up to be.
Ryan N · · Bellingham, WA · Joined May 2009 · Points: 195

I don't have experience with the LT or the patagucci, but I do own the Atom SV and out of all my jackets it's my favorite fit. I'm 6'0" 165lbs and I have it in the medium. The jacket is great for an extra layer on cold days.

Patrick Mulligan · · Reno, NV · Joined Oct 2011 · Points: 995

I had both as well as an Atom vest. The Nanopuff got sold on eBay. The Atom is the bomb. Its as warm but breathes better providing a broader range of comfort and is much tougher.

I climbed Hospital corner this past weekend with no sun, high winds and it snowed on us a couple of times while wearing a T-shirt, a windproof and warmer Zip-t, and the Atom vest. While late in the belay on top of the 2nd pitch I was a bit chilled, I was more or less comfortable.

Kevin · · California · Joined Jan 2012 · Points: 0

Arc'Teryx Atom all the way.

It's not windproof - under the arms is breathable hardface fleece. The rest of the jacket, though, is.

Just as warm as the Nano for belays, but much more usable while moving. Just like everyone says, I've found. In the summer, it often served as my sole second layer--belays, stops at night, alpine starts--and I couldn't be happier with it. Lightened up my clothing system and made me more comfortable (boom!).

The hoody is cut a bit more generously than the pullover, FWIW.

Ray Pinpillage · · West Egg · Joined Jul 2010 · Points: 180

Atom lt. No question.

Neil R · · Denver, CO · Joined Jun 2009 · Points: 200

The Atom hoody is probably the best light puffy ever made! Plus the sleeve cuffs make you feel all warm and toasty inside.

Scott McMahon · · Boulder, CO · Joined Feb 2006 · Points: 1,425

Agree with everyone...Probably one of the greatest pieces in the quiver.

Brian Croce · · san diego, CA · Joined Aug 2011 · Points: 60

okay good bye patagonia then

Dane · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Jun 2008 · Points: 562
superkick wrote:okay good bye patagonia then
Naw, don't ditch the ratty fit of the Patagonia stuff! What you really want is a Atom Lt hoody and a Nano Puff pullover to add when you need more warmth in addition to the LT. Awesome winter climbing combo I think.

Saw the newest Patagonia Micro Puff hoody today. Really, REALLY reminds me of the chinese knock offs in Bejing clone alleys. In this case Patagonia did a nasty copy of the Atom SV. Sad to see them go there and then do it so poorly.
Brian Croce · · san diego, CA · Joined Aug 2011 · Points: 60

I actually ended up buying both anyways dane, to test out the exact system you just mentioned!

TheIceManCometh · · Albany, NY · Joined Aug 2011 · Points: 621

anyone have the Marmot Baffin Hoody? How does it fit? How does it pack? Better or worse than the Nano Puff?

climbskihike · · New Mexico · Joined May 2011 · Points: 250

Haven't used the Baffin but have tried it on. It's closest to the MHW compressor hoody - warmer than the nanopuff but not as packable.

I have the Compressor hoody, which is a good all-around puffy. The nanopuff pullover is a good lightweight puffy for summer use or over another one in cold weather. The Atom LT/SV are probaby the best out there but any of them will do the job.

Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

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