REI Magma 850 Down Hoodie Review

Bottom Line

The REI Magma 850 Down Hoodie (men’s / women’s) is an excellent choice for those seeking a balance of performance, value, and sustainability. Packed with high-quality 850-fill-power down and featuring variable baffles, this jacket provides a nice level of warmth for shoulder-season adventures while maintaining a lightweight, packable design. 

We were comfortable down to a breezy high 30’s as a stand-alone layer and were able to extend it into lower temps with solid mid-layer. We also loved thoughtful features like an adjustable hood, wind flap, and zippered hand and chest pockets,

The recycled nylon shell is less durable than some competitors, and the jacket’s fit—while improved in this latest version—might feel a bit short or baggy for some users. It’s not the lightest down jacket in its class, but it remains competitive, given its high-quality insulation and sustainability features.

The Magma is an excellent option for adventurers who prioritize a solid mix of comfort, performance, and affordability. For more top-performing jackets, check out our guide to the best down jackets.

How We Tested

We tested the REI Magma 850 Down Hoodie over several months in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, wearing it on everything from backpacking trips along the Continental Divide Trail to windy hikes in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. It saw crisp mornings at camp, blustery ridgelines, and everyday wear around town. 

Comfort

The Magma 850 Down Hoodie is a comfortable option, though it has some design quirks that won’t suit everyone. The recycled ripstop nylon shell and lining are smooth against the skin, and the 850-fill down insulation gives the jacket a lightweight, cozy feel for everyday wear and backcountry use. 

The semi-baggy fit provides enough room for layering lighter base and mid-layers, but the design tapers out slightly toward the bottom, which may feel less snug than expected for those used to more athletic cuts.

One notable drawback is the short length, which can cause the jacket to ride up when bending or crouching, exposing your lower back to the cold. 

That said, the adjustable hood does a solid job of sealing in warmth, and the jacket’s light, flexible build makes it easy to move in for most activities. The Magma 850 hits a pretty good balance between comfort and functionality, but the fit and length might not work for everyone—especially if you’re looking for more coverage in really cold conditions.

Warmth

Shoulder-season adventures and mild winter conditions are ideal for this jacket. The 850-fill-power goose down provides an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, with variable baffles ensuring insulation is concentrated around the core while reducing bulk in less critical areas.

During mid-winter testing in Colorado, the Magma kept us comfortable in temperatures down to the high-30s with just a lightweight base layer underneath. As the mercury dropped closer to freezing, however, adding a mid-layer became essential for maintaining warmth, especially when stationary. It’s worth noting that our tester, who ran these trials, tends to run warm, so those who run colder may need more substantial layering to stay comfortable in similar conditions.

The design has some solid heat-retention features, but it’s not perfect. The adjustable hood does an okay job but doesn’t seal in warmth as well as some pricier alternatives. The drawcord hem helps block cold air, but the slightly roomy fit and shorter length can let warmth escape when crouching or bending.

While not as warm as heavier midweight options,  the Magma does a great job balancing weight and insulation for cooler weather. If you’re heading into below freezing temps regularly, a heavier jacket might be a better call. But for three-season use, it’s a great lightweight option.

Weight & Packability

The REI Magma 850 Down Hoodie hits a nice sweet spot between weight and packability, making it a great pick for backpackers and anyone who wants a lightweight jacket without going full ultralight. At 12.5 ounces for the men’s version (our tested men’s large came in at 12.9 ounces).

Packability is another strong point of the Magma. The jacket compresses easily into its left-hand pocket, which doubles as a stuff sack with a two-sided zipper. This compact size makes it simple to stash in a daypack or backpack without taking up much space. That said, the Magma’s recycled ripstop nylon shell, while durable, feels slightly bulkier compared to jackets with thinner, lighter fabrics. Still, the Magma offers a great mix of weight, packability, and durability for its price.

Weather Resistance

We found the REI Magma 850 Down Hoodie to perform well in light precipitation and moderate wind, but like most down jackets, it didn’t like severe weather. The recycled ripstop nylon shell is treated with a non-fluorinated DWR (durable water-repellent) coating, which helps moisture bead up and roll off the surface. 

Additionally, the down insulation is hydrophobic, meaning it resists clumping and retains some insulating properties when exposed to damp conditions. These features make the Magma suitable for light rain, snow flurries, or damp environments, provided you don’t expect prolonged exposure.

However, during testing in Colorado’s unpredictable weather, we noticed limitations. While the shell holds up against mist and brief showers, heavier rain quickly penetrates the fabric, requiring a waterproof shell for adequate protection. The adjustable hood, while a nice addition, falls short compared to premium competitors—it allows drafts to enter and doesn’t fully seal out the elements.

In terms of wind resistance, the Magma provides adequate protection for most outdoor activities, but the semi-baggy fit and shorter cut allow some cold air to sneak in, especially when bending or crouching. 

For those planning to spend time in truly wet or windy conditions, pairing this jacket with a high-quality rain shell is essential. Despite its shortcomings in extreme weather, the Magma delivers respectable performance for shoulder-season adventures and mild climates.

Breathability

The Magma 850 Down Hoodie offers decent breathability for a down jacket, but it’s the wrong tool for the job of high-output activities. Down jackets generally prioritize insulation over airflow, and the Magma is no exception. 

During testing, we found that the recycled ripstop nylon shell does allow for some air exchange, helping to minimize overheating during moderate activities like hiking or setting up camp. However, when the pace picked up—such as during uphill climbs or sustained movement—the jacket’s breathability became less effective, and we noticed a buildup of moisture inside.

The semi-baggy fit of the REI Magma 850 Down Hoodie allows for some unintentional airflow, offering slight relief compared to more form-fitting jackets. However, the lack of venting features, such as pit zips, makes it less suited for high-intensity activities in variable weather. That said, down jackets like this one are not designed with ventilation in mind; their primary focus is delivering maximum warmth, which this one does well in cool weather.

Should You Buy the REI Magma 850 Down Hoodie?

The REI Magma 850 Down Hoodie is a solid pick for anyone looking for a warm, packable, and reasonably priced down jacket. It’s great for backpackers, hikers, and anyone who needs a reliable layer for moderately cold adventures. With 850-fill down, a lightweight build, and useful features like a drawcord hem and hood, it works well for backcountry trips and everyday cool-weather wear. Plus, it’s made with recycled materials and meets bluesign® criteria, which is a nice bonus for eco-conscious buyers.

That said, it’s not the most durable option out there. The recycled ripstop nylon shell isn’t as tough as premium fabrics like Pertex Quantum, and the fit is a little loose, which might not work for everyone. The hood and DWR finish help with light weather protection, but the non-adjustable cuffs and shorter cut can let in drafts.

If you’re after a versatile, well-priced down jacket that balances warmth and packability, the Magma 850 is a great option. But if you need something ultra-durable or super light, there are better choices out there.

What Other Down Jackets Should You Consider?

If you’re considering the REI Magma 850 Down Hoodie but want to explore other options, here are a few similar products to check out. For a deeper dive into our top picks, see our guide to the best down jackets.

Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie Review: A standout for warmth and durability, this jacket offers slightly more insulation and a tougher 20D shell. It’s a great choice for those who prioritize reliability in harsher conditions but are willing to sacrifice some affordability.

Rab Microlight Alpine Review: Similar in warmth, the Microlight Alpine boasts a more technical fit and better weather resistance, thanks to its Pertex Quantum shell and hydrophobic down. It’s a great option for climbers and mountaineers seeking added durability and comfort. 

REI 650 Down Jacket Review: A highly budget-friendly choice for those seeking a simple and affordable down layer for casual, non-technical activities. While it lacks advanced features and a hood, it delivers solid warmth at an unbeatable price, making it a practical option for everyday wear and light outdoor adventures.