I believed I had experimented with every type of natural-based insulation available. However, my perception changed when I discovered Jetty and its oyster shell-blended insulation.
The innovative material, named Oystex, is a blend of crushed oyster shells and recycled plastics. It is distinct from traditional down and synthetic insulation. Having tested it over the past month, I can confidently say that it provides excellent warmth in cold conditions. Despite initial skepticism about using calcium carbonate shells for insulation, after experiencing the Jetty Puffer Oystex Jacket in the frigid Colorado Rockies, I am convinced that Jetty may be onto something with this new material.
During testing, the jacket kept me warm without requiring a large carbon footprint to produce, which is a definite win. While the long-term performance of the Jetty Puffer Oystex material is still uncertain, it has performed well during the testing period, showing no signs of the issues that often plague other naturally sourced materials.
In summary, the Jetty Puffer Jacket ($140) is constructed from recycled oyster shells and polyester, resulting in an eco-friendly natural insulation material called Oystex. The fall 2023 Puffer Jacket that I tested is filled with 150 GSM Oystex fill, which is claimed to be equivalent to 600-fill down. This jacket kept me warm on winter hikes and even during a 30- to 40-degree Fahrenheit NFL football game. While it is heavier than most insulated jackets, and I don’t believe Oystex will ever completely replace down, it does offer a warm and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic insulation.
If you are in the market for insulated jackets, consider comparing this one to GearJunkie’s Best Synthetic Insulated Jackets and Best Down Jackets.
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Size
XXL -
Shell
100% Recycled polyester -
Fill
50 GSM Oystex Fill -
Weight
22 oz. - Hooded zip-up
- Chest pocket
- Hand pockets
- Packs into pocket
Jetty Puffer Jacket Review
Oystex Technology
So, what is Oystex exactly? According to Jetty, the 100% recycled polyester and 150 GSM Oystex Fill is an eco-friendly combination of calcium carbonate and recycled polyester, likened to 600-fill down. The eco-friendly blend is said to be soft, breathable, and also flexible and durable.
GSM stands for “grams per square meter” and is commonly used to rate the weight of puffer jacket fabric. At 150 GSM and 22 ounces, the Puffer Jacket is significantly heavier compared to many on GearJunkie’s Best Synthetic Insulated Jackets and several of the Best Down Jackets. Jetty rates the Puffer for temperatures ranging from 30 to 40 degrees.
Creating Oystex is a four-phase process that involves reclaiming the oyster shells and pulverizing them into a calcium carbonate powder. Subsequently, the oyster powder or Oystex powder is combined with recycled plastic, molded into small pellets, melted, spun into yarn, and finally filled into the jacket.
According to Jetty, the benefits of Oystex insulation are its breathability, quick-dry, anti-odor, anti-static, and natural eco-friendly qualities. In terms of performance, it is similar to synthetic insulation like PrimaLoft, but leaves behind a much smaller carbon footprint throughout its lifespan.
Jetty Puffer Jacket: Impressions
In the Wild
The Jetty Puffer performed well during outdoor testing. It is heavier than most synthetic or down-insulated jackets, yet surprisingly warm for a naturally-based material. It provides ample pocket storage and can be packed into one of its own pockets, creating a small pillow.
During a sunny but cold hike just outside of Rocky Mountain National Park, I found myself overheating quickly in the jacket. While hiking uphill in 40-degree temperatures, the insulation was excellent in the shade but too much once exposed to sunshine.
When removed, the jacket folded up and fit easily into my pack. Its size and weight were barely noticeable in my pack.
The Puffer is not waterproof. However, it does dry quickly and does not retain odors due to the natural materials used.
At the Stadium
During another test, I wore the Jetty Puffer to a New Year’s Eve Denver Broncos football game where the temperatures fluctuated around 30 degrees. I layered under the jacket, and it kept me warm while sitting in the stands for several hours.
However, it did not withstand the wind. A cold breeze would cut right through the jacket. Despite its oyster makeup, the Puffer is certainly not impenetrable. In rain or wind, it would work best as a midlayer under something more weather-resistant.
