Thanks, Ganga.

Hi James,

The two Rab down jackets in this review are the only Rab insulated jackets I’ve used and can give you an informed opinion about. And I chose those two jackets based on their design, weight, and features and how I generally use down jackets. Just because Gear Lab calls it “like a sleeping bag” doesn’t really tell me how warm it is or whether it’s too warm for walking in (except in very frigid temperatures), but I don’t think that sounds like a choice for what you want. I think you probably want a relatively light jacket but also need to consider what level of exertion you’ll wear it for and in what temperature range. This may not be the answer you were hoping for but you also don’t want to spend a lot of money on a jacket and then discover it’s not right for how you want to use it.

Perhaps late with the question but I’m looking for a new rab down jacket and I’m torn as they have about 14 jackets lol
I’m looking at the rab electron pro simply because gearlab said it’s like wearing a sleeping bag it’s so Cosy and light, however same as most down jackets it’s not waterproof and it rains a lot in Ireland so I’m thinking it might be too bulky to stretch a shell over it , which brings me to the rab mythic g , do you know much about that ? And then I see there is a rab mythic alpine and a rab microlight and a rab argon hoody so now my heads in a spin on which to get. Activity wise I’m just talking random hikes , walks in the village and I’d like to climb irelands tallest mountain 1,038.6 metres mainly I want something that feels pure luxurious with warmth and feel and good not too bulky for changeable weather to chuck a shell over. Thanks Mike

Hi Mike,

That’s a good question and I have reviewed the Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket, it’s a good value. But I think it has a major drawback in that the hood is not adjustable, meaning it doesn’t turn much when you turn your head and can get blown off by wind, especially if it’s not zipped up all the way. I preferable adjustable hoods that provide a snug fit when you want it.

I hope that helps. Good luck.

Thank you for investing your time to help others, like me, learn about all these aspects of down and synthetic jackets. I’m in the market for my first one and in doing research, I stumbled across this article.

Any reason Cotopaxi is not listed on here? I thought I had the one I wanted picked out, maybe I should go a different direction though? I have a big heavy bulky jacket from Lands’ End and want something more packable for camping.

This is what I looked at. https://www.cotopaxi.com/products/fuego-down-hooded-jacket-mens?variant=40962462122045

Any opinions?

The Ghost Whisperer 2 is an excellent jacket and only slightly lighter and less warm than the others I suggested. It’s not really a jacket for high activity/exertion levels because it’s not breathable; it just has a bit less insulation than heavier down jackets. You certainly know your own warmth needs better than I do and you probably create some warmth inside your clothing layers even on a leisurely walk. I would avoid getting a down jacket that’s too warm because you can always add a slightly warmer shirt under a light down jacket (like the Ghost Whisperer) when needed, but you can’t make a down jacket less warm.

Thank you!

I really like the ghost whisper 2 as well do you think that will be to cold. Most of the time I will be wearing it just to walk rhe dog or run errands. It looks like it’s a jacket though for high activity

Thanks

Hi Andrew,

For easy hiking or walking in temperatures from -5 C to 5 C, I’d suggest one of the lighter of these jackets and layering under or over it as needed, like the Black Diamond Approach, Feathered Friends Eos, Rab Mythic Alpine, or the Patagonia Micro Puff. Any one of those will be warm enough when you’re moving in those temps and if it’s very windy, you could layer a lighter insulation piece or warmer base layers under it.

Good luck.

Hi CJ,

Valandre does make high-quality down jackets, but I don’t agree with the sweeping assertion that no other company makes comparable down jackets; one can look at the specs to compare jackets and see that. Based on your comment, I’m wondering if you work for Valandre, but nonetheless, I’ll address your recommendation fairly and point out that the Valandre Immelman G2 has a retail price of $545 US at European outlets like Telemark Pyrenees (a reliable online retailer where I have purchased products before) and weighs 2.2 pounds/1,000 grams in medium. It’s a jacket intended for severe cold in expedition conditions but far too warm (and heavy and bulky) for most backcountry users or around-town use. Plus, Valandre products are hard to find in the U.S.

Thanks, Beylikdüzü. I like to give the same advice to my readers as I would to my friends.

Canada Goose uses inferior down while at a luxury price point. You’d expect 900+ with their prices lol.

Hi Mark,

I choose insulated jackets to review based on my experience with the different types of materials and designs out there and I get new jackets to test as I get opportunities to test them. I’m not sure I see the reasoning behind your suggestion that I list in this review all of the insulated jackets I’ve reviewed and why they’re not in this review; the purpose of this review is to focus on the best down and synthetic insulated jackets and I don’t want to clutter this story with comments about jackets that didn’t make this review. Immediately above this comments section, at the bottom of the review, is a link to all my reviews of insulated jackets if you’re interested in seeing those.

Perfect, thank you!

Hi Ed,

Thanks. Yes, for summer on many Western mountain trails, including the JMT/High Sierra, the Patagonia Micro Puff will be excellent. I had a down jacket of similar weight on the JMT last August and we had one night so cool and windy that I had to augment that with a midweight long-sleeve base layer and my rain shell to help block the wind (plus a wool hat). That combination was enough.

Good luck with your plans for that big adventure!

Sorry, I’m not familiar with that jacket and -40 is extreme cold whether you mean Celsius or Fahrenheit.

Hi Ezra,

I’m sorry but I focus this article on lightweight insulated jackets for carrying and wearing in the backcountry, so I have not used the kind of heavier, long coats you’re looking for. Good luck.

Hello Brian,

These seem like great options. I’ve recently purchased the Katabatic Tincup Puffy. What are your thoughts on it? It has a lot of premium features including the pertex. I had it down to 0°F in windy conditions and was warm.

Thanks, Brian. I’ve looked at some Canada Goose down jackets that are relatively lightweight for backcountry use but have not yet seen a model that compares with jackets reviewed here, especially on value: Canada Goose jackets seem more expensive, for the same design, features, and materials, than even the highest-priced jackets in this review.

Hi Marcel,

The Black Diamond Vision Down Parka is the warmest jacket mentioned in this review but you’d want want layers underneath it, too. I’d suggest you find a jacket that’s significantly bigger and heavier, like the Marmot WarmCube GORE TEX Golden Mantle Jacket.

Good luck.

Hey Dylan,

Sounds to me like you just want a very warm insulated jacket and down is generally warmer per ounce than synthetic. Good luck.

Hi Fred,

That’s a fair question but that this review spotlights my picks for the best down jackets, which are, not surprisingly, more expensive. See this menu of all insulated jacket reviews at The Big Outside, including the See REI 650 Down Jacket, which is $100 for the jacket version and $119 for the hoody.

Good luck and thanks for the question.

Hi Monia,

Yes, any one of the three synthetic jackets, really depending on how much warmth you need for the temps and conditions you climb in and your body (see tips above on that). Those will hold their warmth better when damp than the down jackets.

Good luck and happy holidays to you.

Hi Monte,

None of these insulated jackets are rain jackets. My review of the best rain jackets has several waterproof shells, but they’re not insulated. You’ll need either one insulated jacket and one rain jacket or an insulated rain jacket, and I haven’t reviewed anything in that last category. Good luck.

You’re welcome, Mary. Good luck.

You’re welcome, Glen, thanks for the comment.

Hi Saurabh,

Thanks for the question and congratulations on your upcoming move. While much depends on where you’ll be living—Spain and Italy and other southern countries are much warmer than, say, the U.K. and Scandinavian countries—I’m sure you’ll find it feels much colder than India. I suspect you meant 10 degrees Celsius rather than Fahrenheit, too. You’ll mostly need an insulated jacket for fall, winter, and spring and I would suggest one of the warmer midweight jackets like the Feathered Friends Eos, Mammut Meron IN, or Rab Microlight Alpine. The Feathered Friends Helios is a bit heavier and warmer than all of those, perhaps a better choice for northern Europe. The RAB Neutrino Pro is significantly heavier and presumably warmer than all of those and may be more jacket than you want; you can always wear a sweater or another layer under one of the jackets I recommended for exceptionally cold days, which gives you more versatility than a jacket that’s too warm for many winter days.

Good luck with your move. Thanks again for the question.

Thanks, Kash. I wish I could be more helpful with suggestions for gear for the Gulf countries but I have not been to the Middle East. I would only assume you’d want the most breathable materials and best sun protection, like my review of the best sun shirts. Good luck.

Hi Nate, thanks for asking for asking a legitimate question. Here’s some of the research and other information I’ve found:

This mountain-equipment.com blog post goes deep into explaining why the company mostly does not use hydrophobic down in its sleeping bags and it comes down to tradeoffs. The article acknowledges that hydrophobic down does provide some water repellency and protection until it gets soaked, but hydrophobic coatings do not have as much durability as standard down—and, simply put, most users will not encounter conditions where they would notice any difference in performance between hydrophobic down bags and standard down bags. Most of us don’t tend to lay our bags down in water or sleep outside in the rain.

In this forum at sectionhiker.com, many users exchange observations about their experiences, or lack thereof, with hydrophobic down in sleeping bags and jackets. Read through enough responses and you may draw the conclusion that in some situations, hydrophobic down made a significant difference in someone’s comfort and warmth: In one example of a bag getting fairly wet from dripping condensation inside a tent, users found the hydrophobic down worked very well at maintaining the bag’s loft; but, as another example, sustained rain on a hydrophobic down jacket rendered it as useless as a non-hydrophobic down jacket.

In this post a nikwax.com, the company that makes Nikwax Hydrophobic Down reports that it “is the first and only hydrophobic down to exceed 10,000 minutes on the industry IDFB 18a Shake Test. That’s 7 days constant exposure to water.” The post also claims “it will not wet out from rain, snow, and condensation produced whilst exercising or camping.” That article concludes that “Keeping down free from moisture allows it to be effective for longer when in use. Additionally, it is protected from microbial action which can cause breakdown of damp down, therefore increasing the usable lifetime of your item. Nikwax Hydrophobic Down prolongs the effective life of your down gear.” That link also shows a video depicting a tester floating in a glacial lake in Iceland (one I have been to) inside a sleeping bag filled with Nikwax Hydrophobic Down and the video shows the person literally floating atop the water in a bag for what appears to be some minutes at least, without the bag becoming soaked and overwhelmed by the water. There’s no indication of whether the bag’s shell is waterproof. Granted, this information source has a clear self-interest; nonetheless, it’s an impressive visual demonstration.

Frankly, all of these observations above are consistent with most claims I’ve read and heard about hydrophobic down. As I state in the tips on selecting an insulated jacket (above), hydrophobic down is best chosen when you expect to regularly encounter circumstances where your jacket (or sleeping bag) may be exposed to some moisture or light precipitation but not get soaked by it. If you don’t expect to have much direct exposure to moisture, get standard down for its warmth-per-ounce and durability.

Hi Jason,

Good question. I’m glad you found my blog and congratulations on your move to Toronto, although I’m sure it’ll feel frigid compared to Dubai! If you strictly want a very warm jacket, look to some of the fattest and heaviest, although the quality of the down matters a lot: an 800-fill or higher down rating indicates that jacket’s much warmer than a 600-fill jacket that weighs overall about the same. And down is generally warmer per ounce than most synthetic insulations.

I just happened to open backcountry.com after reading your question and there’s a really good 40% price on a very warm, good-quality down jacket, the Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Jacket. I think you’d like that one in Toronto. Much heavier, maybe not quite as warm (I think the Coldfront is a better jacket), but a bit cheaper is the Columbia Horizon Explorer Insulated Jacket.

Those are affiliate links so you can support this blog (at no extra cost to you) by making your purchase through those links.

Good luck with your move!

I’m not familiar with Mountain Warehouse or Decathlon, but regarding the former, I’m immediately suspicious of a claim the jacket’s rated to -60 C, because that’s absurd. And they offer no indication of the down-fill quality/rating, which is a key way to judge the quality and warmth of the jacket, as well as the jacket’s total weight. I don’t want to make the sweeping claim that price directly corresponds with quality, but there’s a pretty close correlation. You should read my story “How You Can Tell How Warm a Down Jacket Is.”

Thanks a lot for the really prompt reply. Unfortunately your link to RAB microlight jacket has no shipping to Canada. I will search google for other sellers.
On the other hand, there is a popular store in Calgary: Mountain warehouse.
How are these jackets?
https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/ca/031540-pacific-crest-down-padded-jacket-p25935/Navy/?rrec=true
(claimed -60 degree), and
https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/ca/031540-pacific-crest-down-padded-jacket-p25935/Navy/?rrec=true

And for my wife: https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/ca/isla-ii-womens-down-jacket-p16835.aspx/black/

How are decathlon jackets? E.g. Mt 500 hiking down jacket

Hi Jatin,

Congrats on your move and don’t listen to your friends, keep on walking to work, you can dress for it and will get more used to it over time.

As you know, walking generates heat in your body so you actually want to be careful not to overdress. You can always layer a rain shell over a down jacket or a lighter layer under it when needed. I think you would like a down jacket that’s as warm as the Mammut Meron IN Hooded Down Jacket and perhaps even better, have the warmth and moisture resistance of the Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket.

Good luck to you and thanks for the question.

Hi Matt,

Congrats on your plans to climb Kili. I have not used the Eddie Bauer Evertherm 2.0 Down Hooded Jacket but I just looked it up. As I’m sure you’ve read, Bauer says the jacket uses a new Thindown fabric, which replaces traditional, high-loft down clusters with ultrathin down sheets, eliminating the need for quilting or channels and creating maximum thermal efficiency without bulk. The jacket weighs 12.6 ounces in medium.

First of all, I’d be skeptical of virtually any down jacket that’s rated to -20 F. That’s extreme cold and I would expect you’ll need multiple layers to stay warm in that temp—if indeed it may get that cold on Kili, perhaps not. Still, even teens or single digits is plenty cold, requiring multiple layers top and bottom. See my story “How You Can Tell How Warm a Down Jacket Is,” which covers this topic, albeit not the technology that jacket apparently uses.

I’d normally look for a hooded down jacket weighing 20 ounces or more for deep cold like you may face on Kili, and still wear multiple layers. That said, maybe this technology really does provide that level of warmth. I just don’t know. But I would try it out before your trip.

Sorry I can’t provide first-hand knowledge about that jacket but I hope this has helped. Good luck.

https://www.eddiebauer.com/p/38832324/mens-evertherm%26reg%3B-2.0-down-hooded-jacket

I’m glad to hear that, Gabriella. Good luck.

Thanks for the suggestion, Tom.

Thanks, Chris. The warmest down jacket I’ve reviewed is the Black Diamond Vision Down Parka. But that doesn’t mean it’s what you need. Read the section above “How Warm a Jacket Do You Need?” The choice comes down to personal circumstances. No one can tell you what’s perfect for you without knowing more than what you wrote in your comment.

Hi Kellie,

If you’re looking for something breathable for being on the move in sub-freezing temps, look at the Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody or even The North Face Summit L3 Ventrix Hoodie, which will be warmer than the Atom LT (possibly too warm for being active, unless you’re in temps well below freezing or just get cold easily).

But if you want something for three-season temps, those will be too warm to wear while active and probably not as warm as you want for in camp in evenings and mornings in the mountains. Read my tips above under How Warm a Jacket Do You Need? It really depends on your body and what you want the jacket for. Think about your layering system as much as your specific puffy jacket.

See also my reviews of the best rain jackets and of the best base layers.

Thanks for the question. Good luck.

You’re welcome and good luck, Kartik. Tell us how it turns out for you.

Thank you so very much! I will give a try and let you know.

Hi Kartik,

Check out the Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket (above). It might not be quite enough for the most frigid days in a Michigan winter, but you can always add a layer under it. Assuming you warm up a little when walking, I think you’ll find it good for your purposes and a good value. Thanks for asking.

Hi,

Thanks for your response. No I am not into any adventurous activities but just for walks during winter time. Can you please recommend a good jacket in the range of around $300

Hi Kartik,

Well, that depends on what you do in Michigan winters. What will you use the jacket for? If it’s not for an activity that involves some level of exertion, then get the warmest jacket you can find (which often but not always correlates with the jacket’s weight).

Good, thanks John.

Yes, I was referring to the baffles, thanks for the info, makes sense and did help.

Thanks for the good question, John. I assume you are referring to the baffles on a jacket, or the “pockets,” sometimes shaped like diamonds or in horizontal rows, where insulation is sewn into the jacket. Some of those are wider or larger than others, and some of those designs are more style-focused than others.

But in short, baffles that are in smaller segments or pockets trap insulation in specific locations, whereas as continuous baffles allow some types of insulation to migrate on its own, or for the wearer to move insulation to where they believe it’s more needed. That’s more common with down, which consists of small feathers, than with some types of synthetic insulation, which sometimes consists of larger fibers or solid pieces of material that would not migrate.

Fewer baffles also translates to fewer seams, which can improve a jacket’s durability and reduce cold pockets along seams.

So it really matters what type of insulation the jacket contains.

I hope that helps.

Thanks for that suggestion, Jack. It looks like a warm hooded down jacket, but at nearly 20 ounces, it’s much heavier than the other jackets you mentioned, and at $450, it’s more expensive. The Gore-Tex Infinium shell contributes to that high price tag, and many three-season backpackers don’t need a down jacket that warm or water-resistant. As Rab advertises, it’s made more for mountaineers. I can see why you’d like it for winter hikes, though.

I’ve been wearing the Rab Infinity for the last six weeks in the mountains of Western North Carolina. I’ve hiked in 20+ degree temperatures with 30mph winds across 6,000 feet open summits while wearing the Infinity hooded jacket. Usually, I just wear a good base layer under it. When it’s really cold and windy, I add a lightweight Arc’teryx vest. The Infinity hasn’t leaked down, has good zippers, great pockets, a very adjustable hood and an easy to use hem adjuster. It’s a very cozy, very lightweight hooded jacket that’s also very breathable. Check it out.

Hi Victoria,

I think you’d like something with the warmth of the Mammut Meron or Rab Microlight (which has water-resistant down, if it gets damp). The Outdoor Research Helium is a good value and may be warm enough, especially over a light fleece, but the other two are definitely warmer.

Good luck.

Thanks for the suggestion, Sam. I looked at the jacket’s details and would agree that it seems like a good price. Not having used the jacket, I can’t comment on its construction quality, but I’ll say that, at 10 ounces, it’s highly improbably that down jacket is comfortable in temps much below the mid- to high 30 F unless you’re wearing a couple of warm layers underneath it.

Thanks for the suggestion, Jeff. I just looked briefly at the Fjallraven Expedition Pack Down Hoodie version and I’m intrigued enough to look into it.

Yea, I understand, Chris. I’ll give that some thought.

Hi Rachelle,

Good question, I’m sure a lot of people experience the same thing. Sitting on a lift is cold and it’s easy to heat up and sweat going downhill. And a down jacket isn’t very breathable, so that compounds your problem.

I suspect that your layering system just has too many nylon jacket shells built into it to really move moisture out effectively. That may be a major contributing factor. You might even consider a very warm, heavier fleece layer under your shell, like the Fjallraven Women’s Abisko Trail Fleece Jacket. A fleece doesn’t have a nylon shell, so it’s quite breathable, and you have a shell over it to block wind and falling snow. You could even pair the fleece with a vest to add some core warmth.

Among the jackets in this review, you should get one with maximum breathability, like the Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody, which has breathable side panels, or the even warmer The North Face Summit L3 Ventrix Hoodie.

I hope that helps. Good luck.

I have an Arc’teryx Ski shell and have been wearing a down jacket underneath my shell with all the appropriate layers beneath that (synthetic or wool base layer, sometimes a synthetic vest on top, then my North Face Summit series 800-fill hooded down jacket or a Stio Azura hooded jacket–not bad but not breathable).

I go from hot to cold quickly with that moisture building up. I know I should start ‘cold’ but it gets too cold on the lift. I don’t need a hood because my helmet helps me with that. I’d like to use the jacket for hiking and backcountry too. I’d only throw it on at the top. I have Raynaud’s so have to do a scramble as soon as I stop moving in order to prevent the full on white-out. I find that the advertised warmth for sleeping bags and jackets aren’t what they say they are.

What is the most breathable, warmest insulating layer for the PNW rainy ski season for women? Would love to get rid of a layer if I can as it all gets so bulky. THANKS!

Hi Kyle,

That depends entirely on what you want a shell jacket for. You should read my stories “The 5 Best Rain Jackets for Hiking and Backpacking” and “5 Expert Tips for Buying a Rain Jacket for Hiking.”

Good luck and thanks for the comment.

Kyle

Hi Caio,

That judgment seems a little arbitrary and vague. The Dynafit Radical Down Hooded Jacket ($280, 15 oz.), available in men’s and women’s sizes, is designed for four-season use with water-resistant Downtek. That’s good for that type of user. For the price, a three-season backpacker can find a down jacket that’s lighter and/or has a higher down-fill rating than the Radical 800-fill, as some of the above jackets have. For four-season use, you might also consider a synthetic insulation and possibly save money.

Hi Josh,

Thanks for asking about Rab. Yes, I’ve worn a variety of apparel pieces from them and I particularly like their insulation. I’ve been field-testing and will review soon the Rab Hooded Microlight Alpine Jacket. Watch for it.

Good suggestion, Scott, thanks.

Arc’teryx Proton FL Hoody should check all of your boxes.

Hi Paula,

Thanks for the question. With the caveat that none of these jackets has a hood that rolls into the collar, the lightest jackets on this list meet your warmth needs and have relatively unobtrusive hoods (that you could conceivably tuck inside the collar, but that’s a matter of personal comfort). For a light drizzle, I’d recommend one of the lightest synthetics: the Patagonia Micro Puff, which comes in hoodless jacket and vest versions. or the Arc’teryx Atom LT, which comes in a hoodless jacket version.

Good luck.

Thanks for that suggestion, Slade.

Hey Scott,
Also check out Arc’teryx Proton. It’s very durable and longer than the atom so when you’re reaching up its not going to expose your belly. It breathes so well you are not going to get too warm in the middle of a climb. I wear it climbing and hiking all the time. It’s definitely worth the money. Plus it looks nice enough you can go from the woods into town and not look like a goof.

Hi Scott,

It sounds like you’re talking about a three-season puffy jacket. If so, I think the Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoody and Feathered Friends Eos are two of the warmest, especially for their weight. I’ve used the “Patagonia Down Sweater,” and it’s nice, but not quite as high-quality down as the Cerium or Eos and perhaps not quite as warm, even though it’s slightly heavier and bulkier. If you’re looking for a really warm puffy for winter temps, see the Feathered Friends Eos or the Black Diamond Vision Down Parka (mentioned below the Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Jacket review). All of those jackets are well constructed, though I always recommend being a little careful with lightweight fabrics; belaying and sitting around camp in them, but not climbing in them.

Thanks for the comment and keep in touch.

Thanks for that recommendation, Cordell.

Jake, that Rab Hooded Microlight Alpine Down Jacket (that’s an affiliate link) may be good for your purposes. I’d suggest you consider one that’s breathable, like the Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody, which may be the best for walking in temps in the 20s, especially because you can adjust base layers as needed. The North Face Summit L3 Ventrix Hoodie and Outdoor Research Refuge Air Hooded Jacket are similar but heavier and possibly warmer than you’re looking for.

I hope that’s helpful. Thanks again for the good questions and buying through my affiliate links. Good luck.

Hi Michael I couldn’t reply to your last question (maybe too many “levels” of reply were reached?) but I admit what I want is a goldilocks… Something that I can easily throw over a sweater and take walks in the city while its not *bitter* cold (so at least 20s+ when you realistically feel like you want to take a walk with a friend) and maybe stand in line to buy coffee (or get a vaccine!), but also that is packable and durable enough to use as my lunch-stop or camp when I’m out hiking or cross country skiing in upper 20s-30s weather.

I know I can just go “big” and get a Helios (or even just a massive down parka for real bitter winter temperatures) but I was hoping there was something a bit more packable and smaller that would work for me, like the Rab.

Thanks for the compliment about my reviews and buying through my affiliate links, Jake. Are you looking for a puffy that will serve as a camp jacket in very cold temps or in summer, as well as for being active in very cold temps? Do you want something that’s somewhat breathable?

Thanks Michael! I already have a nano-air (plus various baselayers) for active winter pursuits (eg cross country or hiking) but I want something that can be my cozy ‘at camp’ jacket OR active for very cold temps (eg a short-medium bike ride in very cold weather). I’m puzzled at the right down jacket to get here…

And thank you for all your great reviews, don’t listen to the trolls in the comments. I’ve bought a few things through your links in past years and will continue to do so.

Thanks for the question, Jake. I’m getting a Rab Hooded Microlight Alpine Down Jacket and plan to test and review it. Watch for that.

Chris, I’ve been eyeing this jacket too. Do you feel like this would do well as an outlayer, but over a sweater, in freezing temps walking around or sitting on a park bench for a reasonable amout of time.

Great choice, Jeff, and thanks for the comment.

Thanks, Chris. I’ve been curious about that and you’re now the second reader who’s recommended it to me. Much appreciated.

You’re welcome, Robert. I’ll add that a hood boosts a puffy jacket’s warmth in greater proportion than the small amount of weight and bulk it adds to a jacket. And the Helios is a fat jacket with a fat hood. Good luck.

Hi Michael – Thanks so much for the quick reply. I’ll definitely check out the article on layering and look into the Helios Hooded Jacket – I think the hood will be a big plus as I just use a beanie with my current hoodless down jacket.

Best regards,
Robert

Hi Robert,

For times when you’re hiking to a location, as I’m sure you know, you need a layering system that balances adequate warmth with avoiding overheating. See “The Best Clothing Layers for Winter in the Backcountry” and How to Dress in Layers for Winter in the Backcountry.”

For those long periods standing around, you’ll want extra warm layers from head to feet, but I’d recommend the fattest and warmest down jacket reviewed in this article, the Feathered Friends Helios Hooded Jacket. It packs some powerful heat-trapping power.

I hope that’s helpful. Keep in touch.

Hi Tom,

I think hydrophobic down works, although it’s probably not as efficient at trapping heat once soaked as the best synthetic insulations. But down is warmer per ounce than synthetics. I’d recommend hydrophobic down to people who sometimes go to wet destinations, especially if there’s no significant price diff.

For you, as someone not likely to get your down jacket wet, I’d say find the best deal on the warmest down jacket you want. If it happens to be hydrophobic down, nothing wrong with that.

Good to hear from you and thanks for the good question.

Do you have any opinions on treated vs non-treated goose down. I am trying to decide on a down jacket for BC Skiing and backpacking. I have it narrowed down to the Montbell Alpine Light and the REI Plasma 850. Montbell has about an extra ounce of down vs REI, (even though the overall jacket is about an ounce lighter). But the REI jacket has hydrophopic treatment on the down. Not a huge price difference.

So it seems to come down to more down vs treated down. Even though I have never used it, I kind of like the idea of the extra insurance that treated down provides, but on the other hand I don’t see a lot of precip as I rarely go anywhere outside of ID and UT.

Thanks a bunch.

Thanks, Sandra. Good question. I’ve cross-country skied in Yellowstone several times and it can get very cold there (and it’s a wonderful place to explore in winter). Snowshoeing, like cross-country skiing, involves a moderate level of exertion that produces plenty of body heat while you’re moving, and you can also cool off very quickly when you stop.

I suggest you go for one of these jackets with breathable insulation, so that you don’t overheat and perspire too heavily while on the go, which means either of the Outdoor Research models: the Air Refuge Hooded Jacket or the heavier and significantly warmer Refuge Hooded Jacket. The lighter Air Refuge can be augmented with other layers, making it more versatile for a wider temperature range.

And, yes, I do recommend you get a winter shell jacket and pants. Check out my review of “The Best Clothing Layers for Winter in the Backcountry” and my “12 Pro Tips for Staying Warm Outdoors in Winter” and expert tips on “How to Dress in Layers for Winter in the Backcountry.”

I hope that’s helpful. Thanks for the good question and get in touch anytime.

You’re welcome, Alex. Good luck. If you find a jacket you like, please tell us about it.

Hi Ron,

Water-resistant down certainly gets wet and loses some of its ability to retain warmth, as does synthetic insulation, of course. But water-resistant down does better than standard down in that regard. I’ll look at Sitka, thanks.

It was “warmest-per-ounce” and you have answered at it clearly.
Thank you for the clarification, Michael!

Hi Jason,

You raise a good point that all buyers can consider. But everyone should also realize that there has been a growing awareness in the outdoor industry about harming animals used for apparel production. The Responsible Down Standard (RDS) “aims to ensure that down and feathers come from animals that have not been subjected to an unnecessary harm.” A growing number of brands have embraced the RDS and promote that when they do so.

And the reason consumers can consider the choice between down and synthetic is that high-quality down (800-fill and higher) is still generally warmer per ounce of insulation than synthetic-insulation puffy jackets.

Thanks and keep in touch.

Hi Alex,

Thanks for the compliment. I suppose the answer to your question depends on whether you mean the purely warmest of all of these synthetic-insulation jackets, or the warmest-per-ounce. The warmest overall would also be the heaviest (it has the most insulation), the Outdoor Research Refuge Hooded Jacket. If you’re talking about the most efficient, i.e., the warmest-per-ounce of jacket weight, I would say the two OR jackets (including the Refuge Air) and the Patagonia Micro Puff are comparable, although the Micro Puff is much lighter and not nearly as warm as the other two (but it’s also much lighter).

Does that answer your question?

Thanks.

Hi Jeff,

Thanks for the comment and I’m glad you found my down jackets review and The Big Outside. The Feathered Friends Eos is definitely an excellent down jacket for warmth, especially for its weight, and packability, because of the high-quality down. Depending on how much of a heat engine your body is, I suggest considering whether you want a puffy like the Eos, which will trap heat most efficiently but not breathable, or one of the warmer breathable synthetic jackets, like the Outdoor Research Refuge Air or the (even warmer) OR Refuge.

I remember our Olympus climb well; what a great time with a fun group of people. Glad to have met you there and it’s really nice reconnecting with you. I’m glad you’re getting out on more adventures. Please keep in touch.

By the way, Michael, I had the pleasure of getting to know you years ago in a charity hike of Mt Olympus. You were generous with your wisdom then and I’ve since read lots of your stuff (particularly on New England). I’m glad to stumble onto this site and just bookmarked it! Hope you and your family are well!

Hi Kate,

Good question and always difficult to figure out. As someone who does not get cold easily, I find the Outdoor Research Refuge too warm to wear while moderately active except in a combination of ambient temperatures and wind that create the equivalent of temps below about 10° F. It’s quite warm. However, for instance, with an activity like downhill/resort skiing, when I’m alternately exerting at a moderate level (skiing downhill) and sitting for several minutes inactive (riding the lift up) and possibly in wind, I find the Refuge ideal either by itself or, more often, under a shell, for its degree of warmth and breathability.

I believe the high level of insulation provided by the Refuge was the motivation behind OR following it with the Refuge Air, which is still warmer than the lighter synthetic jackets in this review. I think it’s probably a better choice for many people—especially since, as you point out, you can add a layer if needed. However, I would add either a hard shell over it or a midweight base layer under it for breathability. Adding another insulated jacket would significantly reduce breathability.

The Refuge Air seems like a good choice for bike commuting and cross-country skiing in the Pacific Northwest, where you winters are damp but not often frigidly cold.

I hope that’s helpful. Thanks for the comment and good luck.

Thanks for sharing that, Grace. Moosejaw and the other online retailers that I provide links to as affiliate partners of The Big Outside do often have various discount offers and sales. You’ll always find those links in my reviews, and buying through them helps support my work on this blog, so I appreciate that.

Hi Tom, actually, take a close look at the example of the Rab Microlight that Ryan suggested. The hooded version is $280, the non-hooded version is $250, and they have 750-fill power, hydrophobic down. By comparison, for $220, you can get the Outdoor Research Refuge Hooded Jacket, which has breathable synthetic insulation and will be just as warm and has a hood. Or if you don’t need a hood and want a puffy jacket that’s warm enough for three-season camping, even when wet, The North Face ThermoBall Jacket is $199 (and there are various versions, including with a hood).

Some of these synthetic-insulation jackets now have warmth-to-weight ratios that compare with 750-fill down, and often have more seasonal versatility, and often at a better price.

I know some consumers will buy one jacket and deciding that they like it, and that’s fine. But my recommendations are based on having tested a lot of down and synthetic insulated jackets over the years and looking closely at the differences between them.

These are more technical outdoor brands, whereas Canada Goose, while warm, is more of a fashion brand.

Hi Ryan,

I have tested Rab down jackets and other apparel. Thanks for the recommendation on the Microlight, I’ll look into that one.

Thanks Karen

Hi Sean,

Good question, thanks for the comment, and congrats on exploring the Whites in winter. That’s where I began hiking (many moons ago), and I love hiking there still, year-round, including in winter. Very rugged and adventurous there, especially at that time of year, not to mention really beautiful.

The Feathered Friends Eos is one of my favorite, pure down jackets for three-season insulation in camp in the mountains. The Helios is certainly much warmer and what I would certainly recommend if you anticipate being stationary for any significant length of time. It’s also a nice piece of safety gear in an emergency to have a really warm down jacket.

I suspect many have puffy jackets of the Eos weight largely because a bigger, warmer jacket is more expensive. However, there’s something to be said for having a puffy like the Eos in winter when you have other layers you can combine it with when you need added warmth.

One other consideration: Pure down jackets like the Eos and Helios do not breathe, so while you can hike in them if needed (in extreme conditions), if you start overheating, they’ll get uncomfortable. For winter, you may want to consider a jacket made with breathable insulation, like the Outdoor Research Ascendant Hoody, which would provide good warmth for hiking in freezing temps, or the Outdoor Research Refuge Hooded Jacket, which is warmer and would provide good warmth on short periods standing around, as well as be something you could wear on the move in colder temps than you could wear the Ascendant. Again, you could combine other layers with either of these.

For warmth comparisons, I’d say the Helios is by far the warmest of the jackets I’ve mentioned, the Eos and Refuge are comparable (even though the Refuge is heavier, because of the high-quality down in the Eos), and the Ascendant is definitely for being on the move in winter, not for standing around for very long.

I hope that’s helpful. Thanks for writing.

Hi Donna, it’s a little hard to judge without more information, like how much you’re moving, your activity level. Are you walking, running, snowshoeing, hiking, working? Is your body core very warm or even sweating a lot? I don’t think a heated coat will help you because that will keep your body core warm but not your arms and hands.

But to address your question, it depends on your exertion level. Look at my buying tips at the top of this story, and then narrow your choices in the jackets based on what type of jackets you’ve already tried that weren’t warm enough. The Mountain Hardwear StretchDown is a traditional down jacket in that it’s not breathable; if you overheat in it, it will trap sweat and make your base layers wet. Most of the jackets in this review are not breathable, so they are not intended for a high level of activity.

The two jackets that are breathable are the Outdoor Research Refuge and the Outdoor Research Ascendant. The Refuge is significantly warmer, but make sure it’s not too warm for how you intend to use a jacket. Also, you should not just rely on one jacket to keep you warm, but develop a layering system that you can adjust as needed. See my story “How to Dress in Layers for Winter in the Backcountry.”

Hope that’s helpful. Good luck.

Hi Saleem, down and synthetic insulated jackets do not have temperature ratings, partly because people are different, so what’s warm enough for one person isn’t warm enough for another. So instead of giving readers temp ratings that would be entirely subjective and often inaccurate, you can see that this story offers some expert tips on how to figure out approximately how warm a jacket is (in the section above with the sub-head “How Warm a Jacket Do You Need?”). Scroll back up and read that. Also, I think it’s clear this review is comprised entirely of top brands that are well known to many consumers, especially outdoors enthusiasts, but thanks for your suggestion about Canada Goose.