What to Look For in Down Coats

A down jacket can be a lifesaver on winter hikes and camping trips, keeping you warm and insulated as you go about your outdoor activities.down coats Whether you are choosing a down or a synthetic puffer, you want to consider the jacket's fill power, weight, shell fabric durability and features, in order to make the best choice for your winter adventures.down coats

The down jacket has come a long way since Norma Kamali's wearable sleeping bag coat, but its basic principles remain the same.down coats The warmth of a down coat is provided by the soft under feathers of a goose or duck, which are lighter and less prickly than regular feathers.down coats Because of this, down is very efficient at trapping air and retaining heat. It is also incredibly light and compressible, which makes it easy to pack into a backpack or other outer storage space.

When selecting a down jacket, the most important factor to consider is its fill power.down coats This measures how much air an ounce of down can hold, and is a good indicator of the quality of the insulation and its ability to retain warmth.down coats Generally, higher fill powers offer better performance and a greater warmth-to-weight ratio. The higher the fill power, the more expensive the jacket will be.

While most down jackets feature a water-resistant finish, it's best to avoid getting wet in cold weather conditions.down coats The water-resistant coating will keep moisture from soaking through the down and losing its insulating properties.down coats

Another important consideration when selecting a down jacket is its shell fabric durability (denier).down coats A well-constructed shell fabric protects the down insulation from wind, snow and rain while allowing air to pass through for ventilation. A high denier rating indicates a tough, durable fabric.

If you're worried about the environmental impact of purchasing a down jacket, consider a jacket made with recycled down.down coats This type of insulation is made from recycled feathers from dead birds that would otherwise be discarded as waste. It can still provide the same warmth as natural down and is less costly than some alternatives.

A down jacket is one of the essential pieces of equipment for any rock climber, and it's especially necessary when ice climbing or belaying on a route.down coats Climbers need to stay warm while resting between redpoints or holding ropes for a long belay. Climbing-specific down jackets often have spacious fits to accommodate layers and are made with tough shell fabrics that can withstand abrasion and abuse.

A jacket's insulation will lose its fluffiness and begin to collect in clumps after prolonged use, making it less effective at trapping air and providing warmth.down coats This is why it's important to purchase a down jacket with a warranty or return program, which will allow you to exchange it for a new model if the insulation loses its loft. REI's guarantee covers all products, including down jackets, for a year for members and 90 days for non-members. While normal wear and tear is not covered by the warranty, manufacturing defects are.