What to Look For in a Down Jacket

A down jacket is an important piece of gear for any outdoor adventurer.down jacket They’re incredibly warm, compress into an insanely small space and help you stay comfortable on cold hikes or alpine climbs. They’re also a great option for everyday wear in the winter, when you just need a layer to keep you warm on your way to work or for chilly dog walks around town.

The insulation in down jackets is derived from the plumage of waterfowl, such as ducks and geese.down jacket The feathers are made up of soft, fluffy, wispy filaments that trap air to provide warmth. This is a very effective form of insulation and down has become a go-to for backpackers, campers and mountaineers because it’s lightweight, easy to pack, long-lasting and breathable.

However, down has one drawback: it loses its heat-trapping properties when wet.down jacket This is why many high-performing down jackets are treated to be water-resistant. This treatment is usually applied to the face fabric of the jacket and helps water bead up and slide off the garment, rather than being absorbed into it.

Another option for those who don’t want to use down is a synthetic jacket, which typically uses polyester fill for insulation.down jacket These are less expensive than down and tend to dry quicker than down jackets, but they can be a little more bulky and less comfortable.

Many companies make hybrid down/synthetic jackets that offer a happy medium between the two. Some feature down in key areas, like the core, for warmth and synthetic insulation in other parts of the garment that need to be able to withstand wet weather. These jackets can also be a better choice for people who are allergic to the dust that can gather in cheaper down.

The insulation in these types of jackets is categorized by its "fill power." This number is the amount of cubic inches one ounce of down fills. Generally, higher-fill jackets are warmer than lower-fill jackets. They can also be differentiated by whether they’re goose down or duck down and whether they use a box construction (which is warmer than sewn-through baffles) or simple baffles (which is lighter weight but not as warm).

When choosing a down jacket, you should also think about how you intend to wear it. For example, if you plan to be wearing it hiking in the backcountry, look for a jacket that’s rated for cold-weather conditions and has a ripstop nylon shell that’ll hold up well to abrasion.

A down jacket will last longer if you take care of it correctly. Wash it according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and consider using tennis or dryer balls to fluff up the down and prevent it from clumping together. You should also replace your puffy when it starts to lose its warming ability or if you notice that the outer shell is getting worn or dirty. For more information on caring for and replacing your insulated jacket, read our Expert Advice article, How to Get the Most Out of Your Insulated Jacket.