Article by Dominique Winebaum
Cotopaxi Solazo Down Hooded Jacket (on sale for $168 from $240)
Cotopaxi’s Solazo down hooded is a “lofty puffer” made with responsibly sourced 600-fill power down to keep you warm and cozy in cold and wintry conditions. Cotopaxi’s mission is to “sustainably designed outdoor gear that fuels global change” – something to feel good about the brand. Both wind and water resistant, the jacket also features a ripstop shell with a DWR finish.
Designed for everyday wear in urban settings or ski towns, more so than for Alpine excursions, the Solazo jacket weighs just under 15 oz/425 grams in my size small sample. As part of Cotopaxi’s winter sale, it is currently on sale in all three colors and sizes, at $168 (from $240). The jacket is available in black, but also in two different color combos: Woods/Drizzle and Chestnut/Spice. Mine is the Woods/Drizzle,
I received the jacket “second hand” from another reviewer @ roadtrailrun for whom the jacket was not a good fit. As a result, I did not receive the jacket in my regular size medium, but as a size small. It is too tight for me (not enough range of motion in the arms), however I am able to wear it and zip it comfortably, even with two lightweight layers underneath. A number of reviewers on the Cotopaxi website have commented that they purchased a larger size than their normal size in order to layer up underneath their jacket.
I am really enjoying the feel and the warmth of the Solazo. Mind you, u Cotopaxi has a line-up of down jackets worth checking out, such as the Fuego, which has a higher 800 fill down and is currently on sale for $207 (from $295). Just hinting I think the Fuego is a better investment than the Solazo if you are looking for the ultimate insulation layer. To boot, the Fuego is packable and is available in 15 different bold colorways! Oh, but I am digressing here…
Back to the Solazo which I have been testing on the Seacoast of New Hampshire in below freezing temperature - 24ºF with an actual 7ºF feel along with 14 mph wind and 24 mph gusts - wearing two lightweight layers (merino and fleece) underneath as shown below.
I was plenty warm and very comfortable under my jacket but realized that I needed more protection around my face as air would come through the front sides of the hood. I like the high collar which wraps nicely around my neck, however the 3 panel hood is not as protective against the elements due to its design and lack of a drawstring.
There are two large size zippered pockets on the front along with an inner zippered pocket. In short, excellent pocket access and capacity along with being secure.
The Solazo is quite lightweight for a “middle ground puffer” and provides plenty of warmth with responsibly sourced 600-fill power down. For sure, it is cozy! I find that the bulky look is offset by the lightness of the jacket and its comfortable fit.
To make up for the loose hood, I wear a hat and a neck warmer in cold and windy weather conditions.
To be noted, the jacket is intended for casual wear and not for hardcore alpine excursions. It is a good time for a Cotopaxi purchase as winter is just getting started and prices have come down. Cotopaxi’s mission is to “sustainably designed outdoor gear that fuels global change” – something to feel good about the brand.
The Cotopaxi Solazo (also for men) is available at
Amazon SHOP HERE
Backcountry SHOP HERE
Moosejaw SHOP HERE
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