Best Mid Layer for Hiking & Backpacking [2024]

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This is a gear review about the Best Mid Layers for Hiking and Backpacking for 2024.

Good mid-layers are an important item of clothing, particularly when backpacking and hiking in colder conditions. There are many options of clothing to use as mid-layers. Lightweight Down Jackets and Fleece Jackets are the best options with several synthetic insulated jackets available. This means there are hiking mid-layers that are perfect for every scenario.

Keep reading to find which one is right for you.

How We Tested

All the Mid Layers in this review have been extensively evaluated and researched by the expert author who has many years of experience in Thru-Hiking, Backpacking, and Hiking. Some of the Mid Layers were purchased and some were supplied by the manufacturer. They have been rigorously tested by the author in all kinds of weather. The research, testing, and experience of the author have combined to come up with the best hiking mid layers for 2024. Read the Review Policy for further details.

Best Mid Layers for Hiking and Backpacking 2024

The Best Mid Layers for Backpacking and Hiking for 2024 are:

Best Mid Layer 2024 – Overall

Patagonia R1 TechFace Jacket

Weight: 11.5oz / 326grams
Material: Recycled Polyester Blend Fleece
Pros:
> The dual-adjust cord-lock system at the hem to trap heat.
> Slim fit to reduce bulk and sag
> 69% of the polyester has been recycled.
Cons:
> Due to the slim fit make sure you get the correct size.

The Patagonia R1 TechFace is the next generation of their Regulator fleece with its warm, stretchy material that is exceptionally breathable. The unparalleled comfort of this fleece has had a revamp, benefiting from weather and abrasion resistance.

The overall sleek and low bulk design, complete with snag-resistant cuffs, means this hiking midlayer will not restrict movement when worn under your outer layer. The fit of this backpacking mid-layer is particularly slim to prevent bulkiness, so make sure you check the sizing guides to find your perfect fit. The dual-adjust cord-lock system at the hem can be tightened to sit snugly against the waist to trap in heat and prevent chilly wafts up the midriff. Everything has been done to ensure this jacket fits close to the body to trap warmth.

This fleece layer is a good option for those who like to be environmentally conscious as 69% of the polyester it is made with has been recycled.

There is a choice of styles, there is one without a hood and half zip or full zip and hood.

Overall, this is one of the best mid-layers for backpacking, casual wear, and travel on the market.

Best Synthetic Mid Layer 2024

Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody Jacket

Weight: 12.8 oz / 363 grams
Material: Synthetic
Pros:
> Windproof
> Good pockets
> Windproof
> Good use of recycled materials
Cons:
> Would be good if it was a bit lighter

The Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody Jacket is one of the best windproof mid-layers made with quality synthetic material.

The Patagonia Nano Puff uses Primaloft Gold Eco insulation which is made from 100% recycled synthetic material. I think this is the best synthetic insulation material for insulation on the market at the moment. Add to that the good windproof polyester shell which is also made from 100% recycled material. It also comes with two zippered hand pockets which are well situated.

It comes in a hoody and non-hooded version and also a vest so you can choose whatever suits you best. I prefer the hooded version.

Overall, the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody synthetic mid-layer jacket is very popular and one of the best backpacking jackets in this review. You will see hikers in this jacket in all the corners of the world.

Best Down Mid Layer

Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody Review

Down Fill Weight – unknown
Total Loft –  unknown
Down Fill Power  – Responsibly sourced, non-hydrophobic 850 loft down
Outer fabric – Weather-resistant Arato 15D fabric with DWR
Hood – Yes
Pockets – Yes
Stuff sack – Yes
Pros:
> Ultra lightweight.
> 850 fill down.
> More fragile material than the other jackets reviewed
Cons:
> Hydrophobic down be an improvement for this down jacket

The Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody is a super lightweight down jacket that is much warmer than it looks. This updated model has a slightly thicker outer shell than the previous model which has increased the weight by almost one ounce, but it is still very lightweight and warm.

Although the Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody 850 fill-down jacket does not use hydrophobic down, it does have a water-resistant outer with DWR Treatment. Some of the high moisture areas use synthetic insulation instead of down. This leads to a good level of water resistance but the lack of hydrophobic down will keep this jacket from being a favorite wet environment.

The outer material of the jacket is a very lightweight fabric that is windproof and strong enough to withstand mild abuse. But it is a bit more fragile and care is needed to make sure it is not destroyed by sharp sticks on the trail. For hiking on trails, it is perfect. Bashing your way through an unmarked trail with sharp sticks in the middle of nowhere, maybe not.

Overall, this lightweight down jacket for men and women uses high fill power non-hydrophobic down and is one of the better down jackets. It is ultra-light and warm enough for thru-hiking all but the wettest of trails. The Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody would be close to the perfect ultra-light-down jacket for hiking the Pacific Crest Trail.

Best Ultralight Down Mid Layer

Zpacks Goose Down Jacket

Weight – 7.4 oz / 211 grams
Down Fill Weight – 3.8 oz / 108 grams
Total Loft –  3610 cubic inches
Down Fill Power  – Hydrophobic 950+ loft down
Outer fabric – 7D fabric with DWR
Hood – Yes
Pockets – Yes
Stuff sack – stuffs into the chest pocket
Pros:
> Ultralight and best warmth to weight
> 950+ Hydrophobic Down
> Very warm
> Good weather resistant material and DWR
Cons:
> No zips on the pockets
> 7D fabric is not designed for any off-trail hiking
> Not the cheapest

The Zpacks Goose Down Jacket is an impressively light down jacket. It is not only one of the lightest down jackets on the market but the total loft and warmth of this jacket make it better than almost all the other jackets in this review!

The Zpacks Goose Down Jacket is stuffed with 950+ hydrophobic down. The baffles on the jacket are generous enough to allow the down to loft up nicely and provide a good level of warmth.

To keep the weight down Zpacks have used a very thin and lightweight 7 Denier fabric. While this does an excellent job of keeping the overall weight of the jacket to a minimum it should be noted that it makes the jacket rather delicate, and therefore best suited to hiking on trails or for use at camp. Wearing this jacket for any off-trail hiking is not recommended.

The combination of the 7D fabric coated with a DWR and the use of hydrophobic down gives this jacket a good level of water resistance. While I would not recommend that you use this jacket in the rain, I tested this jacket in light rain and it retained its warmth and loft. Good to know if you ever get caught out in poor weather. But please bring a lightweight rain jacket for bad weather!

During testing, I noted that the fit of the jacket is good, with enough room to layer a fleece jacket underneath if needed. Be very sure to follow the sizing guidelines on the Zpacks website, as they are very detailed about what size you should buy. At the moment they do not have women’s specific sizing, so women should take note of the hip size when buying. And if you happen to be curvy then this jacket may not be for you.

The Zpacks Goose Down Jacket comes with 2 hand warmer pockets that do not have a zip. The lack of zips keeps the weight down, but storage of anything will not be a good idea. They do a good job of keeping hands warm and positioned so they don’t interfere with hipbelts when backpacking.

It comes with a decent hood that has a toggle adjustment. The hood is not the best in comparison to others in this review, but it serves the purpose of keeping the head warm while keeping the weight down. It also has a toggle to adjust the waist which is a handy feature does the job well.

The down jacket is stored in the zippered chest pocket which is generous enough in size to make packing and unpacking easy.

Overall, the Zpacks Goose Down Jacket is the best ultralight down jacket for 2024. Stay tuned for a full in-depth review of this as I test the jacket for long-term durability.

Best Lightweight Mid Layer 2024

Patagonia R1 Air Jacket

Weight: 10.2oz / 289grams
Material: Hollow Core Fleece
Pros:
> Large range choice.
> 100% recycled polyester fleece.
> Lightweight
Cons:
> No pockets for hands, just a very small chest pocket

Patagonia’s prestige and superior quality guarantee them multiple spaces on the list of the best mid-layers available.

The Patagonia R1 Air range is made from 100% recycled polyester, perfect for lowering your carbon footprint. It is a lightweight and breathable technical fleece, perfect for high-exertion activities in colder conditions. The fleece is also quick-drying with woven binding at the hem and cuffs which gives added stretch for a superior fit.

The range extends to a full-zip hoody, a zip-neck option, and a crew neck so you are bound to find the best fleece mid layers that suit your needs.

Overall, this is one of the best lightweight mid-layers for backpacking.

Best Ultralight Mid Layer 2024

Macpac Nitro Hoody Jacket

Weight: 4.9oz / 140grams
Material: Polartec Alpha Direct Fleece
Pros:
> Ultralight
> Fast wicking material will transfer moisture away from the skin
> The lightweight fabric is machine washable and fast drying
> Elastic thumb loops
> Best in class warmth to weight ratio
Cons:
> Only available in Australia and New Zealand
> The hood feels best when worn under an outer layer.
> Feels delicate (but is stronger than it looks)

A Macpac Nitro mid-layer is a good choice as the company works with the New Zealand Alpine Team, so you know that your mid-layer is going to be the best around.

I have been using and testing the Macpac’s Nitro mid-layer for several years as part of a long-term test of the durability of this product. Weighing in at only 4.9 oz / 140 grams this super lightweight jacket is made with military-grade insulation. It is the lightest, most insulated fleece layer I have tried. A big statement but that is how highly I rate this hiking fleece jacket.

It features a small zip pocket at the chest for easy storage and thumb loops to keep the sleeves in the right place. It also features a hood that is nice when worn underneath a rain jacket or down jacket when you really need insulation from the cold.

The Polartec Alpha Direct fibers are so efficient that the need for a backing fabric is gone and are suitable for wear directly against the skin if you choose. But it is better to use one of the Best Lightweight Base Layers that you can afford underneath it.

The Polartec Alpha fabric is incredibly light and has the best warmth to weight ratio of any jacket other than a down jacket, but with significantly better breathability.

Durability is a major issue with this material. So to really test it out I have been regularly using this jacket for more than 2 years of use when hiking, backpacking, and general winter use. It certainly is delicate and more care needs to be taken with this material but it is still going strong after all this time.

Overall, this is the best ultralight mid-layer for backpacking. Unfortunately, this product is only available in Australia and New Zealand, but other manufacturers take note, that this is what all ultralight mid layers should look like.

Best Budget Mid Layer 2024

REI Co-Op Trailmade Fleece Jacket

Weight: 12.7 oz / 360 grams

Material: Midweight Fleece
Pros:
> Comfortable
> Durable and well made
> Affordable
Cons:
> It is a relaxed fit which means it can feel a bit oversized for some people

The REI Co-Op Trailmade Fleece Mid Layer is a very affordable fleece jacket.

This is a durable jacket that will last you a couple of years of hard wear. You can wear this jacket all year round in a range of temperatures and weather conditions.

This mid layer jacket is more of a relaxed fit and not a tight body-hugging design like some others in this review. So there will be plenty of room to move and plenty of room inside the hand warmer pockets.

Overall, the REI Co-Op Trailmade Fleece Jacket is well-built and comfortable to wear. If you want to save a bit of money, this is the best budget mid layer jacket for 2024.

More Mid Layers for Backpacking

Arc’teryx Kyanite Hoody Jacket

Weight: 13.4oz / 380grams
Material: Polartec Power Stretch Pro
Pros:
> Great comfort and mobility.
> Two hand pockets with zippers
> Stretchy fleece fabric
Cons:
> Slim fit so check sizing

The Arc’teryx Kyanite Hoody offers stretch fleece with enough insulation to make it perfect to use as a layering piece during cold conditions, or as a standalone piece when the climate is milder.

The breathable and lightweight design is incredibly soft, meaning it can be worn next to the skin. But like most mid layers it is best to be used over a quality backpacking base layer.

With enhanced moisture-wicking properties and stretch technology for ergonomic freedom, you are guaranteed all-day comfort with this fleece mid layer.

Comfort is also a given with the chin guard to stop chin and neck zipper chafing, as well as a low-profile hood to limit bulking under your outer shell layer. There are also two hand pockets with zippers that are secure enough to store all small essentials or are perfect for warming up chilly fingers.

Overall, this is another awesome fleece mid-layer for hiking and backpacking. If you are a fan of Arc’teryx, you will love this jacket.

Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody Jacket

Weight: 6.9oz / 195grams
Material: Merino Wool and Capilene Polyester Blend
Pros:
> Responsible Wool Standard certified material
> The high collar and seamless hood with its shape that mirrors the contours of the head to ensure warmth.
> Knit with elastic at the cuffs and hem to make for comfortable extended use and recovery.
Cons:
> Not best suited for milder climates.

Patagonia’s prestige is such that they are featured again on the list of mid layers, this time with a hoody which would be a perfect mid layer for cold climates or would make a good stand-alone layer.

The three-dimensional knit structure of the Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody gives incredible comfort range and amazing warmth. Its seamless design offers supreme comfort and minimal bulking under any outer shell layer.

The merino wool used in the jacket is sourced from Responsible Wool Standard certified farms, ensuring the protection of the animal and the land they graze and making this mid-layer the perfect sustainable purchase.

The fabric is made from a mix of merino wool and recycled polyester and wicks moisture, but it is quick drying properties mean you are bound to remain odor free. The material is also soft against the skin and stretches for all-day comfort.

Overall, this is a great mid layer that is light in weight and warmer than it looks and lives up to Patagonia’s ethos on responsibly sourced materials and commitment to sustainability.

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 Hooded

Total Weight – 249g / 8.8oz
Material: Down
Pros:
> Ultralight
> very small pack size
> Perfect for the ultralight thru-hiker
Cons:
> No hydrophobic down
> No adjustments in the hood

The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 is one of the most popular Lightweight Down Jackets among the ultralight thru-hikers of the world. A brilliant combination of some of the lightest fabrics and no-frills designs combine to make this one of the top picks.

The updated Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer 2 down jacket does not use hydrophobic down as it had previously. In my opinion, this is a move backward but it has brought the price down a little which is positive.

Despite the lack of hydrophobic down, it does have a good DWR finish but overall this jacket does not fare well in damp conditions.

Another thing used to keep the weight down is the elastic on the hood rather than an elastic draw chord. This helps keep the overall weight. Overall the jacket works well and is a top pick for the ultra-light thru-hiker.

I would love to see the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 return to using hydrophobic down as was the case on the previous model before this update.

The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 is one of the best ultralight down jackets for backpacking in 2024. It is also one of the most packable as it stuffs into its own pocket.

Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody Jacket

Weight: 428g / 15.1oz
Material: Down
Pros:
> Reasonably priced considering it is Patagonia
> Warm
> Environmentally friendly
Cons:
> Not the lightest down jacket
> Bulky pack size

The Patagonia Down Sweater is one of the most popular down jackets in the world. A combination of environmentally friendly design and manufacturing, combined with a good lightweight fit makes for a great down jacket.

I used and tested the Patagonia Down Sweater over a 2 year period as part of a long term test. It always performed as expected and I liked how warm it kept me.

As you would expect with Patagonia, they use a recycled nylon face fabric coated with a DWR. The down is ethically sourced 800 loft.

The combination of the quality down, good face fabric, functional fit and a good set of hand pockets and chest pockets make for a good down jacket. With the exception of the environmentally friendly heritage, there is nothing special about this jacket. And that is what makes it great. No frills, no marketing hype. It just works.

Overall, this is one of the best down mid-layers without the frills and marketing hype. It just works. If you are heading off on the trails or traveling the world, this is one of the best backpacking down jackets on the market in 2024.

Arc’teryx Atom Jacket

Weight: 13.2 oz / 375 grams
Material: Synthetic
Pros:
> Good side stretch panels
> Wind resistant
> Looks stylish
Cons:
> A bit heavy

The recently updated Arc’teryx Atom LT now has a better level of insulation and the outer face fabric is a bit better than the previous model.

While it is not as warm as a down mid-layer it has a good wind-resistant fabric and enough insulation for most conditions. It looks quite nice and is one of the most stylish jackets in this review. The Arc’teryx Atom LT would be a good choice for heading out in damp cool weather and while it will not be as warm as a down layer it will keep you warm. The side stretch panel helps with movement when active.

Overall, the Arc’teryx Atom LT is one of the best synthetic mid layers in this review and well suited for use backpacking, hiking, skiing, traveling, or around town on those cool days.

Patagonia Nano Air Jacket

Weight: 11.2 oz / 318 grams
Material: Synthetic
Pros:
> Comfortable
> Good Stretch
> Nice Pockets
> Wind-resistant outer shell
Cons:
> Not as warm as some of the fleece or Down Jackets

The Patagonia Nano Air is a good jacket in almost every respect but doesn’t reach perfection in any area. And the fact that it is good at everything is one of the best things about the jacket, there is not much to fault.

The synthetic puffy jacket gives a good level of warmth and breathability. Add to that the windproof outer material and it keeps the warmth in when needed. But it will not compete with any of the down jackets for warmth or any of the Polartec Alpha jackets for breathability.

It has nice accessible pockets, and full-length zip, and comes in a hooded jacket option.

Overall, the Patagonia Nano Air Jacket is one of the best windproof layers with good breathability and performance in bad weather.

Mid Layer Comparison Table

Hiking Mid Layer

Mid layers are worn between the base layer and outer layer and are the layer that provides any actual warmth. The warmth provided by your hiking mid-layer depends on the ‘loft’ which is an indication of the layer’s ability to trap warm air.

As such, the importance of picking a good mid-layer cannot be overstated. Preferences will vary depending on the activity and buyer, making finding your perfect layer a daunting task, but there are some key things to bear in mind.

Types of Fabrics

One of the most important factors to consider is the material that your mid layer is made of as not all materials are suitable for all conditions.

Down

Goose and duck down, for example, is the best insulating material by weight available for mid layers but only works when dry so is unsuitable for any wet conditions. Unless you are going into extremely cold areas I don’t recommend down mid-layer. It works best as the layer to use over the top of the mid layer or as the outer layer unless it is raining.

Fleece

Fleece is a common choice as it is incredibly soft, comfortable, lightweight, and insulating. Fleece is a unique fabric in that it keeps its insulating properties even when wet but is also unable to absorb moisture.

It is machine washable for easy care and is breathable for all-day comfort. The only possible downside is that fleece can clump together in unattractive pills which eventually affects insulation.

Fleece and all its latest upgrades such as Polartec Alpha are leading the way in lightweight insulating layers. I believe these are the best mid-layer materials.

And fleece is generally made from recycled plastic water bottles, it’s good to recycle and reuse.

Merino Wool

Merino wool is another popular option for mid-layering pieces and can be used for good base layers too.

Merino wool has antimicrobial properties which will limit unpleasant odors, as will its breathability, and is considered to be more sustainable as it is a natural fiber. But the downside is that it is quite heavy for the weight and can be fragile unless used as a blend.

If you are purchasing your mid-layer pieces for more intense activities involving unpredictable weather, a softshell jacket may be for you.

Softshell

A softshell is usually woven from polyester and is worn between a waterproof outer layer and a fleece on an inner layer.

When worn as part of a layering system, a softshell will prevent any moisture that is penetrating waterproof outer layers from hitting your skin and lowering your temperature.

They are more durable and offer better protection from the elements than just fleece or merino wool alone, hence their popularity amongst those partaking in intense outdoor activities. 

Softshells generally are not the best materials for mid-layers but they can be used as an outer layer in winter.

Synthetic Insulation

Synthetic Insulation is generally a little warmer than many fleece jackets and performs better in damp weather than down. As yet synthetic insulation is unable to provide the warmth weight of down, nor is it as packable as down. But it is only a matter of time before technology will produce something to rival down insulation. They are also very breathable which is great when hiking and backpacking.

Feature of The Best Mid Layers

There are several features of mid layers that you should take into consideration.

Hoods

Almost all the jackets in this review come in several versions and almost all offer a hooded version.

Pockets

Chest pockets, hand pockets, or no pockets. Those are the usual choices.

Chest pockets are usually quite small and not that practical. Most are small and not even big enough for a smartphone, but they will fit keys or small things.

Hand pockets are good on these middle layers but if your goal is to be an ultralight hiker then you will look for something without pockets.

Zippers

Some of the ultralight layers have no zips to reduce weight but most have either a full zip or half zip. If opting for a zippered jacket it is usually better to have a full zip for more versatility when it comes to venting heat when needed.

Mid Layer for Cold

If you’re purchasing mid-layers for extremely cold days, opt for an insulated jacket. They are the warmest and most insulating mid layers available and work by trapping air between fibers.

These fibers are either down or synthetic, with synthetic being the better option for wet environments or if you intend on wearing your mid layer during intense activity due to the fibers’ moisture resistance.

Fit

The fit of your jacket is important as improper sizing will not give you the benefits of wearing the piece. Ideally, mid layers are worn tight enough that body heat is retained but are loose enough that you are still able to wear base layers underneath. 

Weight

As part of a layering system, mid layers need to be light enough that they do not add unnecessary bulk as this will limit your freedom of movement.

Mid layers that have polyester, Lycra, or Spandex as part of their composition for additional flexibility.

Breathability

Breathability is also important to consider here as mid layers with low breathability will make you feel uncomfortable throughout the day and keep any perspiration close to the skin which should be avoided.

At the opposite end, mid layers with low absorption will block any water penetrating the outer layer from hitting your body.

Durability

While most of the gear in this review will last you a very long time it should be noted that some will last longer than others. Fleece will slowly shed its fibers over time until eventually there is not much left. If you manage to look after your fleece jacket and get 10-15 years out of it you will see there is not much left. And they are prone to getting holes as the fabric is not the strongest.

Polartec Alpha is a delicate fabric and for those who are tough on their clothing, you may want to choose something else. If you are wearing this as an outer layer and hiking off trail Polartec Alpha will get holes quite easily.

Down jackets and Synthetic insulation jackets tend to have a delicate outer fabric that is not the most durable if hiking off-trail.

Overall, when hiking on trails all the fabrics are quite durable but when off the trail and exposed to sharp rocks or tree branches your gear might suffer.

Price

One of the good things about using a middle layer for hiking is the price. They are certainly not the most expensive clothing item. But the price comes with value as most of these layers will not only serve the purpose of layering when backpacking and hiking but can be used skiing, traveling, or around town.

Conclusion

The best hiking mid layers for 2024 are:

Frequently Asked Questions

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