Choosing the Best Down Coats

When it comes to cold weather gear, there are few pieces that keep you as toasty as a down coat.down coats These jackets combine premium, warm-for-the-weight insulation with durable and weather resistant outer shell fabrics and thoughtful design features.down coats They're great for winter hikes, camping trips and other outdoor excursions, but it's important to select a high-quality model that combines superior insulation, an appropriate shell fabric, and responsible sourcing. This article helps you do just that by guiding you through the best down jackets available to suit your specific needs.

What to Consider When Choosing a Down Jacket

All down jackets provide warmth, but not all are created equal.down coats The quality of a down jacket depends on the fill power, weight and shell fabric, and it's important to understand these factors before making a purchase.down coats Fill power is a measurement of the amount of space that an ounce of down takes up when compressed, meaning that higher fill powers allow for more air pockets to trap body heat and thus offer more warmth for their weight.

A lightweight jacket is ideal for cold temperatures, but if you're going to be wearing the jacket for extended periods of time or in conditions where water resistance is an issue, consider a heavier option.down coats The key is finding a balance between warmth and comfort, since heavy down jackets will add extra bulk and can be uncomfortable to wear.down coats

The shell fabric is also a consideration, as a waterproof option is essential for activities that may get you wet or damp.down coats Most down jackets are not fully waterproof, but they can be treated to improve their ability to resist moisture.down coats Look for jackets that feature hydrophobic down, which is a water-resistant coating that prevents water from penetrating the insulation and maintaining its warmth.

If you're looking for an ultralight down jacket, you'll find plenty of options from top brands like Arc'teryx, Patagonia and Mountain Hardwear.down coats These models tend to use premium 800-fill down and thin shell fabrics, which help them deliver amazing warmth-to-weight ratios for backpacking, climbing and backcountry skiing.down coats

The most common down jackets are sewn through, but there are also some that use heat seamed baffles or other bonded techniques to improve durability and waterproofness without adding too much weight.down coats For example, the Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoodie uses bonded baffles with Pertex's Diamond Fuse technology to improve abrasion resistance and a Pertex Shield rain-resistant finish on the shoulders to protect you from light snow and rain.

In addition to considering the fill power, weight and shell fabric, consider whether you want a hood and any extra features, such as wrist cuffs and drawcord hem adjustments to keep warm air inside and cold air out.down coats Finally, look for jackets that are responsibly sourced and have a variety of color options, as recycled down can sometimes cause visible clumping or yellowing in light colors. For these reasons, we recommend the REI 650 Down, which offers a classic down jacket style for a fair price.