PAKA Mayu jacket review: High-quality outerwear for bike commuters

By Henry Howard

As someone who bikes to work daily, I’ve tested my fair share of jackets, but the PAKA Mayu has quickly become my go-to for morning commutes and evening rides home in cooler weather. This ultralight powerhouse punches well above its weight class.

PAKA is a Peruvian-based company that creates warm, comfortable and stylish clothing out of alpaca fiber. For a jacket that keeps me warm, it is incredibly light at 9.2 ounces, less than the full bottle of water that accompanies me on my rides to work.

While the jacket is warm, this is pretty cool: The fiber insulation is traceable, ethically sourced, and now officially patented — a milestone for PAKA in performance-driven, sustainable outerwear.

Previously, I had the opportunity to try out their Mountain Crew sweater and a pair of socks, designed for rugged outdoor adventures. Previously I tested a pair of PAKA underwear. In each of these, I found the durability in alpaca fiber to be exceptional.

In this PAKA Mayu jacket review, I focus on its warmth, durability and other qualities that make this high-quality outerwear for bike commuters, hikers and others.

Is the PAKA Mayu jacket good for winter commutes?

The Mayu’s standout feature is its innovative PAKAFILL® insulation, made with 50% traceable alpaca fiber blended with recycled polyester. Unlike traditional down or synthetic fills, this 70gsm insulation delivers exceptional warmth without the bulk.

The alpaca fiber also manages moisture naturally, preventing that clammy feeling you get with some synthetic jackets when you’re pedaling hard.

Additionally, the recycled nylon shell is genuinely water-resistant and wind-resistant — critical for unpredictable weather. I’ve been caught in light rain and drizzle multiple times, and the jacket sheds water effectively without feeling stiff or plasticky. Do note that because it is water-resistant — not water-proof – prolonged or strong rainstorms may be problematic.

The tall collar provides excellent protection for my neck and face against biting winds, while the kissing welt zipper design (no bulky storm flap) keeps cold air from sneaking through the front. The interior cinch system at the hem is brilliant for locking in warmth when temperatures drop.

Is the PAKA Mayu durable?

PAKA’s attention to detail is evident throughout this jacket.

Its construction prevents fiber leaks, and I haven’t experienced any fill migration even after regular use. The zippers are smooth and reliable, with glove-friendly pulls that actually work when your hands are cold.

Set-in sleeves provide excellent mobility for reaching handlebars without restriction. The PFAS-free construction also gives me peace of mind about environmental and health impacts.

Is the PAKA Mayu comfortable?

This jacket layers beautifully — going over a shell if needed, is doable. It also is warm enough to wear solo in most conditions. The minimal construction means no bunching or awkward seams digging into my shoulders when wearing a backpack.

A large inside pocket allows you to pack it into its own chest pocket. That is a game-changer. On days when it is cold during my morning commute, I can wear the jacket; and after it warms up during the day, I can pack it in and stuff it in my bag. The same applies to a longer ride when I warm up and no longer need the warm layer.

Conclusion

The Mayu jacket ($249) weighs 8.8 ounces for women and 9.2 ounces for men. Both styles are available in black, burgundy, and fossil, and the jacket is finished with PAKA’s signature Inca pattern subtly embossed on the cuffs, adding heritage-inspired detail. 

The PAKA Mayu jacket has transformed my commuting experience as for the first time I am biking to work in temperatures 40 degrees and lower.

The jacket keeps me warm without overheating, dry in wet conditions and comfortable throughout. The thoughtful Peruvian-inspired design touches, like the Chakana zipper pull, add character without compromising function.

For fellow urban cyclists, travelers, or anyone seeking an ultralight layer that doesn’t sacrifice performance, the Mayu is exceptional. It’s not just a jacket I like, it’s one I genuinely can’t imagine commuting without.

Frequently Asked Questions: PAKA Mayu jacket

Q: How warm is the PAKA Mayu jacket in cold weather? 

A: The Mayu is surprisingly warm for its 9.2-ounce weight. I’ve comfortably worn it in temperatures down to the mid-30s°F as an outer layer during active cycling. For stationary activities or colder temps, layer it over a shell. The PAKAFILL alpaca insulation provides excellent warmth-to-weight ratio.

Q: Is the PAKA Mayu jacket actually waterproof? 

A: It’s water-resistant, not waterproof. It handles light rain and drizzle excellently, but won’t keep you dry in heavy downpours. For serious rain, pair it with a waterproof outer shell.

Q: How does alpaca insulation compare to down? 

A: Alpaca insulation performs similarly to down but with key advantages: it manages moisture better, maintains warmth when damp and is hypoallergenic. It’s also more sustainable and doesn’t require the animal harvesting concerns associated with down.

Q: Can you really pack the jacket into its own pocket? 

A: Yes! The Mayu packs completely into its interior chest pocket, becoming about the size of a grapefruit. It’s perfect for stuffing in a backpack or pannier.

Q: How does the Mayu fit? Should I size up? 

A: The fit is true to size with a slightly athletic cut that’s perfect for layering. The set-in sleeves provide excellent mobility without excess fabric. I wear my normal size and can comfortably layer a base layer and light mid-layer underneath.

Q: Is the PAKA Mayu good for activities other than cycling?

A: Absolutely! While I use it primarily for bike commuting, it’s excellent for hiking, travel, camping and everyday wear. The packable design makes it ideal for any activity where you might need an extra layer or need to switch between various layers.

Q: How do you wash the PAKA Mayu jacket? 

A: Machine wash cold on gentle cycle and tumble dry low. The PAKAFILL insulation holds up well to washing. I’ve washed mine multiple times with no issues or loss of loft.

Q: What makes this jacket sustainable? 

A: The Mayu uses traceable alpaca fiber, 100% recycled nylon for both shell and lining, and recycled polyester in the insulation blend. It contains no intentionally added PFAS chemicals, making it better for you and the environment.

Q: Is the PAKA Mayu worth the price? 

A: For anyone who needs a reliable, ultralight and packable jacket for commuting or travel, yes. The quality construction, sustainable materials and performance justify the investment.

Q: Does the jacket have any smell (like some wool products)?

A: No noticeable smell. The alpaca fiber blend doesn’t have the odor issues sometimes associated with wool products, even after sweaty bike rides.