Black Diamond First Light Hybrid Hoody reviews?

[DisplacedHusky]

Does anyone have any experience with the Black Diamond First Light Hybrid Hoody as an active insulation piece for hunting? I almost always have a backpack in while hunting so the merino wool backpanel and side panels are intriguing. However, if the back panel gets wet from sweat or rain, I’m guessing it will not dry quickly.

I have an old BD First Lite (non-hybrid) hoody that I have essentially worn out with 5 years of heavy use and while it breaths much better that I thought it would have an dries quickly when wet, it does not breath as well as an old Mt. Hardware Polartech Alpha jacket I have.

 

[Poser]

Its pretty sweet. I've worn it during spring turkey season and quite a bit ski touring. The pack panel does get sweaty for me, but I don't tend to notice it. I just see visible sweat stains after a 2-3 days of use. I also live in the Southwest where things tend to dry out quickly.

You can achieve a very comparable layering option by combining the the BD First Light (non insulated) jacket over a First Lite Sawtooth. That combo offers just a bit more versatility since you can add or remove the shell layer, though heavier, but you still have targeted insulation that relies on the pack to insulate your back. I use this combo more than the insulated BD jacket, but I'd go with the insulated version if I expect to not take it off all day due to wind and or light precipitation or sustained colder temps.

 

[DisplacedHusky]

I think FL may be discontinuing the Sawtooth. If doesn’t come up on their website.

BD has the Alpine Start Insulated Hoody that actually had mapped Polartech Alpha is certain portions but I’m not sure it’s warm enough for what I am looking for because the non insulated portion is just the thin shell material. It tried it on and it seems like it would be great for morning scouting trips where it will get into the low 60’s during the day.