READERS COMMENTS

tried this baby on at ice-fest in Ouray, CO. So warm, not too puffy, flattering on the shoulders (none of that sloping hunched look some puffies give you), easy to move in and feels good on.

just don't get it near anything too hot. the rep burnt it on the gas heater in 2 seconds. oops.

definitely recommend over any others - you can't beat the price/product combo...

[i'm 5'7", 135lbs and the medium fit nicely over my hoodie and patagonia down sweater vest...]
Posted: Jan 12, 2010 louise

I just got this jacket and love it! It is part of my layering system for skiing and ice climbing (smartwool base, arc'teryx fleece, this, then an Alpha SL for the shell, add and subtract based on temp). I am borderline between M/L and had to go with the large because of shoulder cut. If you are using it as part of a layer system I would size up if you are borderline sizes. This is definitely not a "Michelin man" jacket, the baffles have just the right amount of down and it gives a much flatter appearance than the standard overstuffed cheaper puffy. Besides, this is a technical piece geared mostly for having a shell over it and not as a runway fashion piece anyhow, although the pockets make it useful as outer ware, something the montbell jacket lacks. My standard mens large weighs in off the rack at 353.9 gm (12.48 ounces) which is almost a full ounce less than the website claims and no tags or zipper pulls have been removed. The Montbell was my first pick at retail prices but I managed to score the Eddie Bauer downlight for $114.99 with their current sale and a $25 off coupon which made it a no brainer. I need to shed a few ounces (or pounds) off my waistline before I need to fret over 6 or 7 ounces in my down midlayer...All in all I feel they nailed building a lightweight layer that will withstand use (not abuse) without sacrificing durability like most lightweight gear does.
Posted: Dec 18, 2009 John

Love my First Ascent Downlight Sweater. Fits perfectly and it's so very comfortable.
Posted: Nov 19, 2009 Josie

I am 5'3.5" and 130 pounds (female). I ordered a petite medium DOWNLIGHT SWEATER and I am very happy with the fit. The sleeves rest comfortably at my wrists but could be pulled down to my knuckles. The back of the top goes just short of half way down my butt with the front sitting where a low-rise style jean would. The jacket/sweater is clearly cut with the women's form in mind as I have enough room in the chest and a comfortably flattering waist. With the top on less than a minute I immediately felt its warming properties at work. Weighing the jacket for myself it came in at an almost not there 9 ounces! Out of curiosity I put my Marmot Precip (size s/p) jacket on over the sweater to see if this could be a complete, weatherproof system without causing the down to lose is heat-trapping loft. It worked great! I have not field tested this seemingly wonderful new piece of gear but by all accounts I am extremely pleased with my purchase.
Posted: Oct 29, 2009 Elisa

The 9oz is wrong unless they measured a wmn's XS. A men's medium is 13oz.

The best down jkts (that unfortunately weren't tested) are the Montbell E.X. and U.L. Down Inner Jacket and Parka. They use 7 or 15 denier fabrics and a minimalistic design to weigh an awesome 5-9oz. They are also quite reasonably priced ($160).
Posted: Oct 16, 2009 Dan

Kristin,

Your article says the First Ascent down light sweater weighs 9oz but there website claims it weighs 13.39oz. Can you please explain?
Posted: Oct 15, 2009 Dustin

Sceptical about buying new brands online! :/ But Eddie Bauer is a nice brand so idk what is the thoughts of the people out there!?
Posted: Oct 09, 2009 CODY

its a shame you will look like the Michelin man every time you wear this...
Posted: Oct 08, 2009 Sarah

The First Ascent Downlight Sweater is my new favorite puffy. It really is light and really warm. I went up a size though just to accomidate layers underneath better. Also, it was cheaper than both Patagonia and The North Face versions. And I'm happy to see Eddie Bauer back in the game.
Posted: Sep 19, 2009 DJ

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