Black Diamond is a stalwart outdoor brand best known for its climbing hardware, including cams and quickdraws. But it also offers an extensive apparel line and recently launched its new flagship jacket: the Solution Hoody. We tested this insulated jacket to see if it deserves a spot in our crag bag and closet. 

Product Specs
The Solution Hoody is ultra-light — well under a pound for both the men’s and women’s versions — and features 60 grams of PrimaLoft Gold Insulation. It also boasts PFAS-free water-repellent treatment and a recycled ripstop nylon shell and lining. The jacket retails for $279 and is available in six colors.

How We Tested
I wore the jacket in October and November in Des Moines and while climbing in Southern Illinois. On a blustery day in Iowa, with temperatures in the mid-30s and just a T-shirt underneath, I was surprised at how toasty I felt given how lightweight the jacket was. While actively moving, I was comfortable and not at all chilly. The stretch knit cuffs on the sleeves help keep heat in while being soft on the skin.

With the hood on and the jacket fully zipped up, most of my neck and lower face were covered, a welcome protection from the bracing wind. I typically wear a Patagonia Nano Puff Air Hoody as my outer layer, but the Solution was definitely warmer. I found the Solution Hoody quite durable; I scraped up against rock, my dogs clawed against it, and the jacket showed no significant wear or tear. It was easy to spot clean with some water and a towel.

(Black Diamond)

On the Fit
I tested the women’s Solution Hoody in size medium. Like many women’s jackets, the Solution has a narrow, tailored fit. According to the brand’s size chart, I should be a medium, but I found the fit quite snug in the shoulders. I couldn’t wear more than a T-shirt underneath without restricted movement. If you want to be able to add a fleece or other mid-layer, I recommend sizing up. 

Other Features
The jacket includes two zip-up pockets on each side and another pocket on the chest. I wish the pockets were larger; trying to fit my iPhone X into any of them was a struggle. The jacket stuffs into one of its pockets, condensing to quite a small size. If I were flying or backpacking and space was at a premium, I would bring the Solution.

(Black Diamond)

A Note on Price
The Solution Hoody’s retail price of $279 is actually on the lower end for comparable insulated jackets. Patagonia’s Nano Puff Air Hoody retails for $289, Arc’teryx’s Atom Hoody costs $300, and Mountain Hardwear’s Ghost Whisperer is $360. 

Conclusion
Black Diamond’s Solution Hoody is a great choice for climbers or backpackers looking to have warmth without weight. For the best experience, size up so you can layer up.

Author: Mary Andino is a frequent contributor to Terrain.

Top image: Courtesy of Black Diamond.