What to Look For in a Down Jacket

A high-quality down jacket is an essential piece of gear for cold-weather outdoor adventures.down jacket It should provide warmth in temperatures below freezing, be highly packable for easy storage and toting on your excursions and have good water resistance in case you get caught in light rain or snow.

A down jacket consists of a lightweight shell and is filled with natural down insulation that traps air pockets to create warmth for the wearer.down jacket The insulation is very lightweight and highly compressible, making it an ideal addition to your hiking backpack or travel bag when you anticipate cold weather. The insulation is also highly breathable, allowing you to regulate your temperature in hot or humid conditions.

When shopping for a down jacket, look for one with high fill power (the number of air pockets per ounce of down).down jacket The higher the fill power, the more insulating the jacket will be for its weight. In general, you want to aim for a fill power of 800 or higher.

In addition to fill power, look for a jacket with a high ratio of fill weight to total weight.down jacket This will give you a better idea of how far the manufacturer has gone to reduce the overall weight and packed size. For example, Stio's Hometown Down Hooded Jacket packs 3.7 ounces of 900-fill down into a compact 10.8-ounce build, delivering exceptional warmth for its weight.

Consider the jacket's shell fabric and level of water resistance, as well.down jacket While down is incredibly warm when dry, it can lose its insulating properties when wet. For this reason, it is important to find a down jacket with a waterproof shell fabric, such as a water-resistant goose down. Many manufacturers have started treating their down with a hydrophobic polymer to make it more water resistant. This process prevents the water from saturating the down, which is key to keeping it warm when wet.

You should also look for a jacket that is durable, and will last for a long time. This is especially important if you intend to use your down jacket for climbing, mountaineering or other high-impact activities. In general, a heavier jacket will be more rugged than a lighter option, as it will be less susceptible to snags and abrasions.

Lastly, check for extra features such as compatible hoods, lined cuffs and drawcord hem adjustments to help you keep cold air out and warmth in. It is also a good idea to consider the manufacturer's commitment to sustainable and responsibly sourced down, as well as their reputation for customer service. The more research you do ahead of time, the easier it will be to find a jacket that will be an excellent companion for your outdoor adventures.