How to Choose the Best Down Coats

A down coat (often called a puffer jacket in the fashion industry) is a quilted layer that’s filled with goose or duck feathers to keep you warm.down coats The feathers form air pockets that provide insulation in the same way as cotton.down coats Down is favored by hikers and backpackers because it packs extremely small, stays warm when wet, and provides the best warmth-to-weight ratio of any insulated fabric. It can also be more expensive than synthetic options, and it requires careful care.

Most of the jackets on our list are down, though we’ve included a couple of hybrids as well.down coats Regardless of the material, the key is choosing a jacket that fits you.down coats A down jacket that’s too snug or tight will squish the loft and reduce its insulating ability. You want a fit that’s slightly roomy so you can wear a light layer underneath, and to prevent the cold air from blowing between your body and the jacket.

The other major factor is how much warmth you need.down coats For most people a lightweight down jacket—that is, one with around 3 to 4 ounces of 800-fill power down—will be sufficient for temperatures above freezing and for use as a midlayer when snowshoeing or skiing.down coats If you plan on going deeper into winter or spending more time outdoors, we recommend looking at the heavier weight designs.

Another factor in the choice of a down jacket is its durability.down coats A down jacket can be made to withstand heavy use, especially if you treat it gently and wash it often.down coats It should be waterproof and have a sturdy outer shell that can resist punctures and tears. It’s a good idea to choose a jacket with removable, replaceable hoods and zippers, so you can buy replacement parts if necessary.

Historically, down has been more durable than synthetics, but as synthetic insulation has improved over the years the gap is closing.down coats Synthetic jackets are better suited for damp environments and pursuits that can damage gear, like climbing and hiking, but down remains the best option for keeping you warm in dry conditions.down coats

We hope that this guide makes the process of selecting a down jacket easier for you.down coats If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to the GearLab team. Maggie is a gear tester who loves to test new apparel and gadgets that will help her get outside more. She’s a long-distance hiker and backcountry skier, and she has spent the last decade guiding avalanche safety courses and backcountry ski trips in Alaska. Sam is a backpacker and mountain biker who has backpacked the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Arizona Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, and Colorado Trail. He's also a big fan of ultralight backpacking and minimalist gear. He's currently working on finishing the Appalachian Trail.