I hate being cold. And while growing up in the Northeast may have given me a chilly disposition, I’ve never really acclimated to those frigid days—but I do have a collection of go-to puffers for when the temp drops below 32 degrees.
I've tried puffers of varying lengths from hip to mid-half, and I've always thought my longer coats to be the warmest, especially when winter winds start whipping. But this winter, I've been reaching not for my parka, but for a puffer that stole my heart (and the main spot on my coat rack): the Cloud Shell mid-length unisex puffer from Tentree.
Not only is it made from recycled materials, but the brand also plants ten trees (hence the name) for every item purchased. Ten! The company’s sustainable practices are a huge plus, but I’d still reach for this jacket even if it didn’t help offset carbon emissions, because it is simply a great coat.
Warmth
Let’s start with how incredibly warm it is. Despite the fact that it’s made without down (hello vegans), it is toasty warm even when I don’t layer up underneath—and it promises to protect you from the “chilliest chills” (I’m serious, that’s actually printed inside the coat). The insulation is made from PrimaLoft’s recycled material synthetic insulation, called Black ThermoPlume, which is a respectable and cozy alternative to down.
It also feels—I would imagine—like wrapping yourself in marshmallow fluff if it weren't sticky, or being hugged by a cumulus cloud. You know the feeling I'm talking about. It's just really, really, really soft—and since it is made from synthetic fill instead of down, there aren't any poky feathers.
Fit
This coat is oversized, but still flattering. While you may look a bit puffy in it, it’s a stylish puffiness (and if you want a more snug fit, you can size down—I like mine bigger for layering purposes). The puffiness is also part of what makes it so comfortable, and when fully zipped and hooded it is so warm that I don’t miss the extra length of my other puffers.
Features and Design
One of my favorite features is the stretchy internal cuffs, which are long enough to cover my hands down to mid finger, keeping me warm if I forget my gloves. They also help to prevent cold air from sneaking up the sleeves.
The jacket is also a very neutral design, matching well with athleisure clothes for a walk around my neighborhood or jeans and a sweater for that slouchy, casual street style. Since that's just about all I wear out and about, it's no surprise that I have absolutely lived in this jacket this winter, and I will continue to do so until it's 55 degrees and the tulips are popping up.
The Tentree Cloud Shell Puffer, Reviewed
While this may seem like a praise-heavy review, I honestly gave this jacket my most critical look—I just couldn't think of a single shortcoming for this coat. This is coming from someone who reviews products all day, every day and someone who has a lot of experience bundling up in the winter, so it's not for lack of a critical eye. But this coat really hits all the marks I look for in a great jacket: It’s warm, stylish, comfortable, and even has the benefit of being sustainable and climate neutral. Plus, we love the unisex fit—it’s truly the people’s puffer.
Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.
