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Hey folks, thank you for both of your thoughts. I might end up going the Alpha Direct route then with a shell, but Nic, you've given me something to consider. It seems that bigger brands like 7mesh have made products with Primaloft but AD seems to be a bit more bespoke, at least here in Canada.

I‘m a big fan of Alpha Direct - I have 90 and 120 hoodies, and 90 hat, pants and socks. I’d say the hoodies can be a substitute for a puffy jacket, but only in combination with some kind of windproof shell. For me, that combination is more versatile than a puffy, and I think it’s typically lighter too. On the bike, Alpha 90 plus a wind vest or jacket is comfortable for me down to the 20s F; Alpha 120 is too warm for me to ride in above, say, 20°F.

Hey Stu, I wouldn't say it replaces a micro puff. I have owned and used both Alpha Direct and Primaloft; the latter is my preference, and where they shine is as breathable insulating layers. Seems a contradiction, I know, but I suppose the best use case I feel is for when you're pushing hard and generating heat, but the temps are still at or below freezing. It does a good job of keeping you warm without being overly hot. At camp, they keep things warm-ish, but I would still bring a puffer for when body temps drop from not moving for a while. Hope this helps.