Premium Down-Filled Outerwear Keeps You Toasty

Premium Down-Filled Outerwear Keeps You Toasty

The same way goose down keeps geese warm, premium down-filled outerwear traps pockets of air near the body to keep you toasty.premium down-filled outerwear It’s also usually lighter, more packable, and more affordable than synthetic insulation options like PrimaLoft or ThermaPro. It’s important to note, though, that even the best down jacket won’t perform as well if it gets wet. That’s why you need to be prepared for rain, snow, and other weather extremes by packing a waterproof shell to go with your down jacket or sleeping bag.

When choosing a down jacket, you should look for one with a high fill power and fill weight rating.premium down-filled outerwear The former measures quality, with top brands using 800-fill or higher, while the latter signals quantity. Some manufacturers and retailers put a lot of emphasis on fill power, putting it in bold font and sewing the number to a jacket’s cuff, but it’s important to note that fill weight is equally as important.

Fill power measures the space an ounce of down takes up, giving it its loft. The higher the fill power, the more warm a piece of gear will be. A high fill power will also make a jacket lighter and more compressible, as less down is needed to create the same amount of warmth. Fill ratings range from 400 to 900. Macpac, for example, uses responsibly-sourced, high-quality RDS goose down with a fill power of up to 800 in its lightweight jackets and sleeping bags.

Another important consideration when shopping for a down jacket is whether or not the down is ethically sourced. The Responsible Down Standard (RDS) has emerged as a universal criteria that most outdoor brands abide by. It requires that all duck and goose down be sourced from animals that were killed humanely, had no injuries, and were mature. While the RDS is a great step in the right direction, many outdoor brands have gone further by creating their own criteria for traceable and sustainable down. Patagonia and Feathered Friends, for instance, have their own advanced Global Traceable Down Standards.

As with all insulation, the shell fabric of a jacket or sleeping bag is essential. It dictates everything from the insulation’s durability and wind resistance to its warmth and breathability. Look for jackets with a tight, durable weave and fewer coatings for the most effective warmth.

When it comes to choosing a jacket, you should consider your needs, climate, and budget to determine which type of insulation is right for you. Keep in mind, though, that while down is the most affordable option and the best for colder conditions, synthetic insulation can be an excellent choice when you need a more versatile jacket that’s also good for wet weather. And when it comes to wet weather, there’s nothing that beats a waterproof shell to go with your down or synthetic jacket.