Arc'teryx Thorium Hoody vs Columbia Amaze Puff Puffer Jacket

The Arc'teryx Thorium Hoody is the technical pick: 750-fill RDS goose down with Coreloft 80 in wet zones, a helmet-compatible StormHood, a two-way zip for harness access, and a 30D ripstop shell that shrugs off rock. The Columbia Amaze Puff is the casual pick: a women's down-feather puffer with a fleece lining and a detachable hood, built for town and light winter wear. Owners of the Thorium praise its warmth-to-weight and packability; the Amaze Puff wins on comfort and everyday styling rather than alpine durability.

• Choose the Arc'teryx Thorium Hoody if you climb, hike or travel in real cold and want maximum warmth in a light, packable, abrasion-resistant layer.
• Choose the Columbia Amaze Puff if you want a warm women's everyday winter puffer with a soft fleece lining and a hood you can take off.