Down jackets are essential parts of hiking gear, especially when trail conditions consist of low temperatures or harsh winter. Similar to a good pair of hiking boots, you will only enjoy your time in the wilderness, once you have the right accessories.
Don’t let the name of the site fool you. I darn well realize that, next to boots, there are plenty of other important accessories that a hiker needs in order to truly enjoy his/her walk in the wild. You can have a high-end set of boots on your feet, but if you’re going for a winter hike without a proper jacket to keep you warm… then good luck having fun!
Summing it all up, good hiking gear can save you from serious conditions. A warm jacket can create all the difference between going all the way to the peak, and turning back due to biting cold. So what exactly is a down jacket?
What Is A Down Jacket?
A down jacket is simply a jacket that has been insulated with warm or soft feathers from geese or duck. Their outer layer or shell is usually created with materials such as polyester or nylon. Down is one of the best materials when it comes to insulation and providing warmth. The loft or fluffiness of this material traps warm air while retaining heat, to ensure that the person wearing the jacket remains warm throughout. Goose down is usually the warmer and lighter material between the two. However, a combination of the two helps to push prices down.
Down versus Synthetic
The first decision to make when looking for a down jacket, is choosing between down or synthetic. Down is preferred since it is much warmer, compresses better and has a better breathing ability. However, once it becomes wet, its warmth retention abilities become highly compromised. On the other hand, synthetic jackets tend to be more durable in terms of holes and cuts. Holes and cuts in the down jacket often lead to a leak of feathers. Synthetic jackets don’t experience this kind of leak. Taking that into consideration, synthetic jackets last at most 10 years while down jackets can serve you for up to 20 years.
Tips for Buying Down Jackets
You don’t just walk into a store and buy any down jacket, just because it is on offer. It is important to select the one that suits your lifestyle. There are different factors to consider when selecting a down jacket. For example, men and women have varying needs and preferences. Additionally, if you are more of an outdoor person, then your down jacket will be different from someone who spends a lot of time in the city. Consider the following tips when purchasing a down jacket.
Consider the Fill Power
The fill power of a down jacket refers to the loftiness or fluffiness as well as its insulating properties. A jacket with a higher fill power has more air pockets. This translates to a higher insulating power. Apart from insulation, fill power also indicates the down quality used. Jackets with higher fill power are usually filled with high quality down.
Weight of the Jacket
A down jacket for hiking and backpacking should be obviously light. A heavy jacket might wear you down, which might reduce your hiking speed. Jackets with a higher fill power tend to be much lighter. High quality down will usually be needed in smaller quantities, to provide the same amount of warmth as compared to lower quality down.
Material Used
Apart from the materials used for insulation, shell materials are equally important. The lining and shell of the material plays a very vital role on the warmth, durability, water resistance and weight of the jacket. You should also determine whether the shell is treated for water resistance, especially since you will be hiking in wet or cold conditions. Polyester and nylon are some of the most common materials used in making the outer shell.
Best Down Jackets For Hiking For Women
1. Orolay Thickened
- Shell/Lining Fabric: 100% polyester; Body/Sleeve...
- Polyester with a density 60% higher than usual in...
- The bottom of the eiderdown garment adopts unique...
- Featuring warm fleece lined hood, special side...
- KINDLY BE NOTED: The warm down coat will be folded...
Hit the trails with assured protection against all types of weather, with this thick down jacket for hiking. The choice of materials is excellent and the workmanship is solid, giving you one of the best weather protection jackets for hiking. Whether you are facing persistent showers or blustery winds, you can always rely on the warm embrace of this jacket, keeping you comfortable and warm. When you combine these qualities with excellent stitching, you get a jacket with a charming appearance. The adopted polyester used to make the jacket is 60% denser than conventional materials in the market. This gives the jacket warm-keeping quality and excellent wind-proofing abilities. Although the jacket appears puffy, it is definitely lightweight, unless you encounter very heavy rainstorms. The fit is perfect, there is no tightness and the material does not shrink or stretch unnecessarily. It has roomy pockets that can be used to store a camera, purse, hiking gloves or even your phone. If you don’t want to wear it at the end of your hiking day, you can just fold it up to form a pillow, and have a comfortable night. It is versatile, comfortable and the quality is great.
2. Marmot Women’s Jena Fill Power Goose
- Stay Warm Without Feeling Weighed Down - This...
- Built To Withstand The Elements - To keep you warm...
- Fashionable And Functional - The Jena Jacket’s...
- Innovating To Improve The Human Experience -...
- We Have You Covered - With Marmot, we warrant...
Marmot are known for their high-quality, lightweight, and comfortable down jackets. And they didn’t disappoint with this one. If you are looking for a no-frills down jacket that you can use as your main insulation layer when trekking in the mountains or as a stand-alone jacket to use for your warm-weather camping trips, this one will work perfectly.
This down jacket for travel, trekking, and urban trips is made of ripstop fabric, which is ultra-lightweight and water-resistant. It will protect you against the elements, thus keeping you warm and dry. Whether you are using it for cold winter hikes, casual urban treks, or warm weather camping, this down jacket will keep you warm and cozy in all conditions.
It also comes with interior zipper pockets, which you can use to store small items such as your cell phone, keys, and other similar accessories. It’s highly compressible and only weighs approximately 11oz. Therefore, it will not add any considerable weight to your backpack or consume too much space. It’s incredibly lightweight, well-made and extremely versatile for a wide range of uses. It’s also designed in a way that it will not limit your mobility in any way.
3. Wantdo Hooded Packable Ultra Light Weight Short
- Travel in Style - Made of 20D 400T nylon, our...
- Windproof & Warm - Battle strong winds without...
- Exceptional Quality - This fully-zippered and...
- Practical Light Weight Travel Jackets for Women -...
- Made with Care - This clothing is a quilted jacket...
This down jacket is designed for the hiking woman who wants to stay fashionable and stylish, even in the wilderness. It is super light but padded with innovative material to keep you warm. It is designed with a compact silhouetted, to maintain that feminine appeal. It is lightweight and thin enough, which means that it can be worn even under another layer of clothing. The raglan sleeve, the hood and the zip closure, all come together to give the jacket a sporty look. It is treated with a water repellent coating. This ensures that water does not penetrate inside, thus ensuring that you remain cool and dry throughout. The stretch taps fitted inside the hem and cuffs are very suitable for wind protection. It packs compactly, and even comes with pouch that ensures easy carrying. You can still remain warm without appearing bulgy or bulky, thanks to this down jacket.
4. Calvin Klein Women’s Chevron-Quilted Packable Down Coat
- FUNCTIONALITY: Featuring a center front zipper...
- EASY TRAVEL & STORAGE: The jacket conveniently...
- WARMING FEATURES: Featuring down insulation...
If you are looking for a stylish and cozy down jacket that will keep you warm during the cold season, then the Calvin Klein Packable Downcoat is a great choice. As much as it’s a dowcoat, it’s insulation is top notch, making it an excellent option for early winter and later autumn. This down jacket for cold weather comes with a windproof and water-resistant outer shell, making it ideal for windy days and mild raining. However, you should note that this packable down jacket comes without a hood. Therefore, it might not provide adequate protection during heavy rains.
It comes with a high collar, which closes via the main zipper. The zipper is one-way, full-length and water resistant. As much as the sleeve cuffs are wide, it will not allow cold to get through, since they are tapered at the elbows. On the other hand, the Chevron quilting makes the jacket look stylish while creating the impression of a thinner waist. Some people avoid down jackets due to their bulkiness. However, this down for jacket travel remarkably light.
This down jacket for women is furnished with two outer pockets, which are warm and easily accessible. Thanks to its versatility, you can combine it with skirts, dresses or even formal outfits, and you will always look stylish and trendy. And since this jacket is packable, it will save you a great amount of space, whether you are storing it away or traveling with it. Also, it comes with a color-matching pouch, which you can use to carry it.
5. The North Face Women’s Thermoball Full Zip Jacket
- Whether you’re putting up your tent or kicking...
- Developed in partnership with Primaloft, Inc.,...
- The North Face products are warrantied to the...
- The North Face's fundamental mission remains...
- The North Face was built on a love for the...
Getting a good jacket should be an important priority. Consider the North Face Womens Full Zip jacket as an excellent recommendation as well. While the jacket is primarily for women, its unique design also makes it suitable for men as well. Whether you are outdoors around a campfire, hiking or just walking to a local store, this durable jacket is perfect for your needs. It will ensure you stay toasty warm around the clock, and without any unnecessary weight around your body.
It features a unique bottleneck quilting pattern and ThermoBall insulation, which helps eliminate cold spots. Plus, such a unique design offers an exceptional warmth to weight ratio, thus making the jacket perfect for use in cold settings. When it comes to the finish quality of the jacket, you will be pleased that its available in many types for your needs. You can opt for the camouflage finish, or perhaps go for the unique matte black, of black fold finish. All these jacket finishes are durable and ensure longevity.
The Thermoball is a revolution in insulation technology, and it’s unlike the conventional synthetics you will find on the market. Why? Well, this jacket features small and round PrimaLoft fibre clusters, which are perfect for trapping heat within. This way, the weather might be freezing cold outside, but you still have the confidence to go to the local store or take out the trash.
Best Down Jackets For Hiking For Men
1. Marmot Stockholm Men’s Down Puffer Jacket, Fill Power 700
- Men's down puffer jacket ideal for casual,...
- Lightweight, high ciré, down-proof fabric adds...
- Moisture-resistant Down Defender treatment on 700...
- Zip-off hood lets you adjust for comfort and style
- Zippered hand pockets, zippered sleeve pocket,...
If you are looking for a stylish and warm winter jacket that can get you through the cold months, then the Marmot Stockholm is a reliable choice. It combines style, warmth, and comfort. This down jacket for cold weather comes with a shell made of 100% polyester. Therefore, you can rest assured that this jacket will keep you cozy for many years. It’s lightweight and easily compressible, making it perfect for camping and hiking.
Most down fibers tend to clump together when wet, leading to loss of warmth. Luckily, this jacket is equipped with the proprietary Marmot down defender technology, which makes the down fibers water resistant while preventing them from clumping. The hood is generously insulated, fully adjustable and warm. Therefore, you can choose to keep the hood on or off, depending on the weather. On the other hand, the sleeves cover your wrists completely, minimizing body exposure.
Inside, it’s equipped with a zippered pocket, which you can use to secure valuable items such as a phone and keys. The hand pockets are also zippered. It’s designed to provide adequate warmth and comfort during inclement weather. Also, it comes with a concealed cord, which you can use to tighten the jacket around the waist.
2. Marmot Men’s Fordham Jacket
- This winter Jacket for men is a rugged outer layer...
- 700 fill-power-down provides exceptional warmth in...
- Removable zip-off hood is there when you need to...
- Flap chest Pockets and Zippered hand pockets stow...
- Micro fleece interior cuffs provide comfort and...
The cold winter days are around the corner, and it’s good if you are well prepared. Thus, the Marmot Foldham Jacket might be an excellent addition to your wardrobe for this coming winter. The jacket is perfect for when the cold is biting, and the winds are blustery. Once you put it on, you will be covered in a “700 fill power down”, jacket that offers optimal comfort regardless of the cold weather. It also features a unique elastic drawcord hem, that helps maintain the warmth of the jacket close to your body. You will also find it easy to adjust to help lock in heat in the body. To back this feature up are the Velcro cuffs, that ensure a snug fit and also help prevent condensation for escaping to the inner layers. As far as the cuffs go, the ones on the interior section of this jacket will provide optimal comfort, even in freezing temperatures. The convenient two-toned fabric complements the rugged aesthetics of the jacket – making it the perfect pair for anything in your wardrobe. For convenience, the jacket comes with two exterior chest pockets, which you can use to keep small items. The “icing on the cake” would be the removable hood on this unit. It works well when you have to use it to shield your head from rain, snow, debris and more. That said, if it weighs you down, or compromises your daily activities – zip it off, and store it in your backpack.
3. Marmot Men’s Tullus Hoody Winter Puffer Jacket
- Men's hooded down puffer jacket ideal for chilly,...
- Moisture-resistant Down Defender treatment on 600...
- Attached hood with elastic binding provides better...
- Zippered handwarmer pockets for added warmth
- Elastic-bound cuffs and hem maintain secure fit...
Owning a good jacket should be an important priority for your wardrobe. Consider the Marmomt Men’s Tullus Jacket, which features 100% nylon for comfort and durability. Even more, the jacket has a hooded puffer design to make it ideal for various applications. These include hiking, climbing, regular wear, and more. While the features on this jacket are geared for warmth and comfort, it still makes up for a stylish addition to your wardrobe. The jacket is available in four primary colors, including black, green, blue, and grey. It also has a stylish finish, which means you can pair it with various types of clothing.Thanks to the moisture-resistant material construction and unique “Down Defender” treatment, you are sure of a jacket that stays warm in wet conditions.
Even more, the attached hood, which has an elastic binding, ensures your face is fully covered at all times. The makers of this jacket have also done well to include benevolent features such as the zippered handwarmer. According to the Marmot brand, this jacket has a unique “600 Fill Power Down” rating. It’s a metric which means the jacket can displace 600 cubic inches per ounce. The benefit of this feature is that it makes the jacket light without compromising warmth. Yes, that’s right! And the zippered handwarmer ensures your hands are warm and comfortable as you walk around. You will also be pleased with the elastic-bound cuffs, that provide a secure fit and also helps to ensure cold air stays out.
4. The North Face Thermoball Full Zip Jacket
The North Face Thermoball is a compressible and lightweight synthetic jacket. It features Thermoball insulation, which traps and retains heat, for that exceptional warmth during wet and cold weather. Featuring a relaxed cut, this full zip jacket is very comfortable. It provides a nice fit, while still allowing sufficient room inside for layering. The drawcord hem and the elastic piece provide an airtight seal, keeping wet and cold weather elements outside. It has been designed with a high collar, thus protecting the neck from windy and cold conditions. Unlike other down jackets for hiking, this one does not limit mobility in any way. The generous upper arm cut allows a good amount of overhead reach. The fabric can handle a lot of abuse, but this does not mean you go through thorny hedges! The entire jacket can also fit inside one of its pockets, for easy carrying. The main problem of adding many layers, is breathability. However, that is not the case with this one. It breathers well, even during exercises without the retention of sweat and moisture.
5. Tommy Hilfiger Packable
- WARM FEATURES: 100% down feather padding giving...
- PRACTICALITY: A favorable front zipper extending...
- STYLISH AND POLISHED: The Tommy Hilfiger logo is...
- EASY TRAVEL AND STORAGE: The packable feature...
Packable jackets are very popular with backpackers. They are easy to fold and fit inside without taking too much space. This is the same case with this packable down jacket from Tommy Hilfiger. The thin and lightweight material might make you think that the jacket will fall apart easily. However, despite being lightweight, the material is very durable. It can withstand all manner of outdoor activities without needing a replacement any time soon. It has a wide climate range. It can be worn comfortably, even to temperatures of around 100 F, allowing you to avoid the bulky of conventional winter jackets. Breathability is another feature that makes the jacket suit different weather conditions. It does not get overly hot, or retain moisture and perspiration. It performs exceptionally well, even in windy conditions. It is stylish, allowing you to match it with different outfits. It is true to size, without appearing too bulky. The standing collar keeps your neck warm, while the draw string included provides a convenient means of carrying it.
