Engearment

Even though it is a regular fit, it definitely isn’t cavernous, and it presents a more tailored, form-fitting look that similar mid-layers do not. Additionally, the horizontal stitching provides a slimming effect the same way that horizontal stripes on a shirt do. To summarize, it looks like it was actually made for me.

At a time when a lot of outdoor companies are leaning towards the boxy, retro trend (definitely not a good look on middle-aged me), the Black Diamond Solution Hoody looked really nice on.

Ever since I saw this at the Outdoor Market Alliance show last summer, I have been obsessing over it. Mostly because I liked how it looked on me. Now that I’ve had the opportunity to wear it outdoors, I can confirm my obsession was legit.

Cooler Temps Arrive

Although fall has only just officially arrived, early morning frost has been present for weeks. It has even snowed a couple of times in the county since the hoody arrived.

To me, the Black Diamond Solution Hoody is a three season mid-layer hoody.

In the mountain community where I live, we have a short summer, a medium fall, and a very long winter/spring season. In other words, while the Front Range is still wearing shorts and tank tops, those of us who live in mountain communities are wearing heavier joggers and mid-layer jackets. And we regularly wear those mid-layer jackets most of the year because they add a warm, insulating layer when the temperatures drop, but can be removed during high-output recreation. Temperatures change so quickly in the mountains, mid-layers just make sense.

Features

Let’s jump into the features. The Black Diamond Solution Hoody’s construction alone says that it was designed for mountain life.

Constructed from 20D Recycled, micro-ripstop nylon, the hoody is filled with 60g PrimaLoft Gold Eco Synthetic Insulation. The strategically sheeted PrimaLoft Gold prevents the insulation from shifting or clumping.

I initially wore it hiking and walking the dogs. However, it performed so well that I brought it along while mountain biking on chilly, windy days. How could something so light provide so much warmth? I often asked myself.

Another added bonus of synthetic insulation is that it doesn’t leak the way down filling does.

Additionally,, the recycled materials and PFC-free DWR finish are both good for your conscience and the environment.

The Black Diamond Solution Hoody was so lightweight and flattering, it became the jacket I grabbed nearly every time I left the house.

Key features:

• 2 zippered hand pockets and 1 external zippered chest pocket

• Packs into left hand pocket with a carabiner clip loop

• Stretch knit cuffs

• Protective hood

• Cordlock adjustable hem

Despite the slim fit, I could wear another layer underneath somewhat comfortably.

The only things I would add are shorter sleeves and an inside zippered pocket, just because I prefer to stow my wallet, etc. in the inside, rather than the outside.

Overall impression? The Black Diamond Solution Hoody is light, warm, packable and is the most flattering midlayer I have worn to date.

After years of wearing ill fitting mid-layer jackets, I’m relieved to have finally found one that looks good on my petite frame, and not something whose style I settled for because it happened to have the features I wanted.

Available in five sizes (XS to XL) and four colors (Black, Tundra, Creek Blue, and Fig), the Black Diamond Solution Hoody is currently available exclusivelyat Black Diamond in hoody, jacket and vest for both men and women. All models can pack down into the chest pocket for maximum portability.

The low-profile Black Diamond Solution Hoody also comes with a two-year warranty. Learn more here.

Kate Agathon

Dr. Of Stoke

Freelance writer, bicyclist, outdoor recreation enthusiast, social justice advocate, and mom to her furbaby, Sansa.

A Colorado native, Kate considers the outdoors her mother ship. She brings her passion for bicycling, the environment, and issues of diversity to her writing. Her primary outdoor recreation activities are mountain biking, road biking, nordic skiing, alpine skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, and peak bagging Colorado’s 14ers.

Kate earned a bachelor’s degree in History from Colorado State University and later an MSEd and Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Purdue University. In addition to her education, Kate’s background serving on the Mayor’s Bicycle Advisory Committee and experience working for non-profits and bicycle sales well position her to bring depth and understanding to the complex changes currently taking place in the outdoor recreation industry.