How to Get the Most Out of Down Coats

A down jacket is one of the most important investments a hiker or backpacker can make.down coats They pack small, last for ages, and provide great insulation for cold and dry conditions.down coats However, they can lose their insulating value when wet and can be more difficult to clean and maintain than synthetic jackets. We've got tips to help you get the most out of your down jacket, so you can use it for as long as possible.

When shopping for a down jacket, look for one with a high fill power.down coats This is measured in cubic inches per ounce and refers to the ability of the down to bounce back and 'loft' when compressed, and it indicates how warm and compressible a particular jacket is.down coats A higher fill power means less down is needed to achieve the same warmth as a lower-rated jacket, and it also tends to be lighter and more compressible.

The down used in outdoor gear comes from geese and ducks, which can raise ethical concerns.down coats But while issues like live-plucking and abusive treatment have plagued the industry in the past, a growing number of manufacturers are adhering to the Responsible Down Standard (you'll see RDS or Traceable Down references on many product pages) or even going as far as using only their own brand of traceable down, which reassures consumers that the down came from animals raised under humane conditions.down coats

If you're buying a down jacket, check for a waterproof membrane.down coats Most brands use a DWR coating or hydrophobic down on their shell fabrics, which is a layer that prevents water from penetrating the fabric and soaking through to the inside.down coats Many jackets, including some of our picks, also use hybrid construction, which combines a down fill with synthetic insulation in areas prone to moisture. For example, the Arc'teryx Cerium collection uses down fill throughout the body of the jacket, but uses a heavierweight synthetic in the shoulders and hood to keep moisture at bay.

A down jacket isn't perfect for all situations, but it's ideal for most mountain adventures and everyday commutes.down coats It's warm for its weight, compresses easily, and is very durable. But remember, no down jacket is completely waterproof, so if you're headed out in wet weather, you'll want to pair it with a rain or hardshell jacket. If you do get a tear in your down jacket, you can usually patch it with matching duct tape or technical repair patches that stick to the fabric without adding extra bulk. If you're not able to patch the hole yourself, you can send it in for professional repairs. Fortunately, there's no shortage of jackets to choose from, so you can find the perfect down coat for your needs. Good luck and happy hiking!