How to Select a Down Jacket

Whether you’re climbing, hiking or backpacking in cold weather, a lightweight down jacket is an essential piece of gear for any adventure.down jacket These jackets can pack down to the size of a water bottle and are extremely insulating for their weight. They are also more durable than synthetic alternatives and can be repurposed for other activities.

When selecting a down jacket, there are a few key factors to consider: insulation type, fill power and fill weight, shell and lining fabrics, and features like hood, wrist cuffs and cinch cords.down jacket However, the most important factor is a jacket’s warmth-to-weight ratio. There are a few different ways to calculate this, but the most accurate is to divide the jacket’s overall weight by its insulation, or fill. This will give you the precise warmth-to-weight ratio of the jacket, which is a critical measure of its utility.

The best down jackets offer an incredible warmth-to-weight ratio, and the premium options on this list are no exception.down jacket The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer, for example, helped define the ultralight down category and has been a staff favorite for years. It recently underwent a retooling to focus on sustainability, using recycled nylon and Responsible Down Sourcing (RDS) certified down. This new design offers the same exceptional packability, warmth-to-weight ratio and lightweight features as before, but with a greater emphasis on environmental responsibility.

Another factor to consider is the fit of your jacket, especially when considering a lightweight option.down jacket For active pursuits like climbing and backcountry skiing, it is important that your down jacket allows for full range of motion. In general, this means a more athletic silhouette and a tighter fit in the chest and shoulders. This can help prevent cold air from settling in these areas, a common symptom of poor insulation in these jackets.

A jacket’s baffles and construction method will also have a significant impact on its warmth.down jacket Sewn through or box baffle are the two most common construction methods, but a third style, heat seamed baffle, is rapidly gaining popularity. This technique bonds the outer and inner fabrics together without stitching, creating chambers in which warmth can be trapped. This is a great way to keep your jacket warm, even when it gets wet.

Serious alpinists love Montbell, a small outdoor brand that doesn’t spend much money on paid athletes or flashy marketing campaigns. Instead, they focus on making top-notch gear and have a strong reputation among climbers and skiers. Their Plasma 1000 down jacket is the lightest on this list, weighing in at an unbelievable 4.9 ounces all-in. Using ultra-premium 1,000-fill power down and paper-thin 7-denier shell fabric, this jacket is the ultimate in lightweight insulation.