Is the Athena puffer warm enough for winter?

It has lightweight thermal padding, a high padded collar, a padded hood and knitted inner cuffs. That suits cold, dry days and layering; deep-freeze conditions call for a heavier down jacket.

The ripstop taslon shell is water repellent, so it sheds light rain and snow. It is not a fully waterproof, seam-sealed shell for sustained downpours.

The padding is synthetic polyester, not down. It stays warm when damp and is easy to care for, but it is less warm for its weight than a good down fill.

Yes. The hood is padded and has a drawcord adjustment.

How do the pockets work?

There are two side pockets with concealed zips and one inside pocket with Velcro fastening.

How does it compare with a down puffer?

The Athena offers a tougher ripstop shell, a storm flap and a two-way zip. A down puffer of similar bulk will usually be warmer and lighter, but less resistant to abrasion and damp.