Of course, there’s the wet weather advantage over down that synthetics can boast.

We were hit by some very drizzly weather during the testing of this jacket and it still kept us warm. It’s not by any means a substitute for your waterproof jacket, but if you ever find yourself caught out, this’ll do a much better job for you than a down jacket, even those with hydrophobic treatments.

As we’ve all come to expect with Patagonia, they’ve taken steps to make sure the Macro is produced in an ethically and environmentally-friendly way. The PlumaFill might not be recycled but the outer nylon is, there’s also fairtrade sewing throughout. It’s a shame the water repellent treatment still contains PFCs though. Patagonia are forward thinking when it comes to the environment, but it’s strange they haven’t joined brands like Vaude in eradicating these nasty chemicals from their products.

As a jacket for climbers and alpine mountaineers, this should be up to scratch for most people, not just because of that lightweight warmth but thanks to the smaller details as well. These include a two-way zip that means you can throw it on and still have use of your harness, and also pockets that can be accessed if you’re wearing the harness over your jacket. There are also cuffs that are stretchy enough to let you pull it over already gloved hands, inner pockets for storing your gloves or perhaps your climbing skins, and finally to top it all off (quite literally) there’s that hood that can cinch right in via a toggle on the back for a very, very snug fit. Oh, and if you’d prefer a hoodless version, that option will be available also.

Tester’s Verdict

Will Renwick, Outdoors Magic Editor

“We had a number of different jacket to use from during our Outdoor 100 testers’ week in Wales, and this became the one I turned to when the temperatures were at their coldest. There was icy wind and stinging rain and this provide some great respite from it all.

“It is remarkable how warm this is actually when you consider how light it feels. It’s also impressive how lofty it gets – it’s as snug as my favourite down jacket, for sure.

“As with the Micro Puff, the baffle design is an interesting one, and I can see what Patagonia are getting at in terms of keeping the stitching low. During my period of testing, the seams have all stood up well, with none looking like they’ve snagged or frayed.

“That brings me onto the main outer shell fabric. As with the Micro Puff, it’s a thin 15D nylon, and it does feel very thin. I haven’t had any problems with it through my use, but it does seem a little vulnerable – something to look after carefully.

“As for the trim, I really liked the longer cut to it. I’ve got to send this review sample back to Patagonia (these are in short supply due to popular demand apparently!) and this has made me realise there’s a gap in my gear closet that needs filling with a longer insulated jacket! Compared to the Micro and Nano, I’d say there’s also a bit more volume to this, which is no bad thing. Patagonia, send me another one when you’ve got more in, will ya?”