Black Diamond Coefficient Storm Hoody Review

The Black Diamond Coefficient Storm Hoody is a super versatile, technical midlayer that bridges the gap between performance and lifestyle wear – at least that’s how I’ve noticed it performing really well.

It is primarily designed for alpine pursuits like ski mountaineering and climbing, but the Coefficient Storm Hoody’s combination of lightweight materials, thoughtful features, and sustainability credentials also makes it fantastic for everyday use.

After about 8 weeks of wearing it in various settings, here’s my take.

Key specifications

• Price: $135 at Black Diamond
• Weight: 11.1oz (315g) for size small – which is ultralight and packable
• Materials: Bluesign-approved fabrics with a PFC-free DWR finish
• Design Features: Grid fleece interior, helmet-compatible hood, abrasion-resistant exterior
• Intended Use: Midlayer for alpine conditions or standalone outer softshell for milder weather
• Notable Pockets: Chest, 2x hand pockets, and 2x internal mesh pockets
• Fit: Regular fit but nice and form fitting, with stretch for unrestricted movement

About the Black Diamond brand

Black Diamond is well-known for creating technical gear that’s trusted by climbers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts worldwide. Their commitment to sustainability and functional innovation sets them apart from the competition.

If you’re curious about other products from Black Diamond, check out my recent reviews of their Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trail Running Poles, and Solution Hoody.

What makes this hoody so special?

The dual-purpose design of the Coefficient Storm Hoody allows it to work as both a midlayer and standalone softshell, giving it versatility for a wide range of activities.

Here are some of the key features that make it pop from the competition right now:

• Water resistance: The PFC-free DWR coating keeps light rain and snow at bay while staying environmentally conscious.
• Windproofing: Exceptional protection in exposed conditions.
• Thermal efficiency: The grid fleece interior traps heat efficiently while aiding moisture management – this was perhaps the biggest performance surprise for me considering how thin and stretchy the layer is.
• Packability: Compresses into its own pocket, making it ideal for travel or backcountry excursions.

What’s good

One of my favorite features of the Coefficient Storm Hoody is its lightweight design and stretchy fabric. At just 11.1oz, it’s barely noticeable in your pack (or on your back), yet it provides performance when the weather turns. The material’s stretch provides amazing freedom of movement, no matter what activity you are doing.

The wind resistance and durability far exceed expectations for a midlayer that has a soft, non-shell exterior. It has held up to rugged use, including scraping against my backpack – some tops like this get bobbly, or wear down where straps contact with them but not this one.

I also like the thoughtfully placed pockets, including an internal mesh pocket, that provide ample storage without adding any bulk.

Sustainability is another strong point as the Bluesign-certified materials and PFC-free DWR treatment align with eco-conscious practices, making this hoody a responsible choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

Finally, odor resistance means you can use it intensely, for multiple days in a row without worrying about your sweat adversely affecting freshness – a handy feature for extended trips or active lifestyles.

Areas for improvement

While the Coefficient Storm Hoody excels in many areas, it’s not without its limitations. Breathability could be better, especially in high-exertion activities. During uphill climbs, I noticed moisture build-up in the armpits, this could be solved with a venting zip.

And finally the insulation works wonders in the cold but can feel overly warm if you’re active in milder conditions.

My verdict

The Black Diamond Coefficient Storm Hoody is a top-tier technical midlayer that combines functionality, comfort, and sustainability. The hoody’s overall performance makes it an excellent choice for alpine adventures and everyday wear alike – I’ve been wearing mine for 8 months and I’m still loving it.

If you’re after a lightweight, versatile, and eco-friendly midlayer that won’t let you down in unpredictable weather, this one is worth considering.

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Let me know what you think! Have you tried this jacket, or are you considering it? Drop a comment below. If you enjoyed this review, subscribe to my newsletter and check out my YouTube channel for more gear insights!