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We purchased and tested the best down jackets available, taking them near and far on all our cold-weather adventures, camping, and strolls around town.
We tested the very best down jackets for men and women.
Credit: Sam Schild
By Maggie Nichols ⋅ Senior Review Editor ⋅ Updated May 24, 2025
When the temperature drops and the wind picks up, few pieces of gear offer a good down jacket's instant, reliable warmth. The right puffy can make the cold feel like an afterthought, whether heading into the mountains or just trying to stay cozy on your morning commute.
Our gear experts have bought and tested hundreds of down jackets over the last decade. We measure their warmth in lab-style trials and during months of real-world testing.
The best men's deal right now is the Decathlon Forclaz MT100 Hooded Down Puffer. It offers all the performance most people need at a fraction of the cost of premium models.
For a true bargain for women, the Forclaz MT100 Hooded Down Puffer punches way above its price tag, costing one-third the price of many of its competitors.
Alternatively, our insulated jacket reviews cover synthetic fill options that are often not as warm or lightweight as down but are better at managing moisture and the washing machine. If you want a coat with a parka-like outer layer, see our winter jacket review that covers warmer jacket options.
Editor's Note: Many products have sold out for the season, so we updated our award recommendations on May 24, 2025.
Who it is best for: The The North Face Summit Breithorn Hoodie is perfect for anyone prioritizing cozy warmth and comfort in cold conditions. This jacket keeps you snug, whether you're heading out for winter backpacking, casual cold-weather outings, or snow-filled family adventures. If you want a jacket that feels more like a warm sweatshirt with technical performance, the Breithorn's soft lining and knit wrist cuffs set it apart from typical elastic cuffs, making it a go-to for those chilly days.
Why we love it: Our lead tester said, “This is the one I reached for when I wanted the coziest jacket available. Every time I put it on, it just makes me smile.” The jacket features a soft, comforting lining and wrist cuffs crafted from knit fabric reminiscent of a well-worn cotton sweatshirt — worlds apart from the usual elastic bands—the hood's simple, single-toggle adjustment seals in warmth more effectively than multi-adjustment hoods. We also appreciate the thoughtful pocket setup: zippered hand pockets, an internal zippered check pocket, and two elastic drop-in internal pockets, all designed for practicality and comfort.
Should you buy it? This is heavier and less packable than many other jackets, weighing 15.2 ounces for a men's small, which may be overkill for summer backpacking or ultra-light adventures. It's also on the pricier side. One tester noted, “But it's fantastic for everything from winter backpacking to snowman-building adventures with the kids.” This jacket is great if your priority is warmth and comfort in cold weather.
The 2024-2025 version of the Breithorn has been updated with vertical shoulder baffles rather than horizontal ones. We tested this new version and found it virtually indistinguishable from the previous one.
Who it is best for: The Decathlon Forclaz MT100 Hooded Puffer is ideal for budget-conscious backpackers and travelers who want a lightweight, packable down jacket without sacrificing quality. Its ultralight 10.3-ounce weight and high compressibility make it perfect for those who prioritize easy packing and comfort on the go.
Why we love it: Our lead tester praised it, saying, “This jacket is super comfortable, incredibly lightweight, and feels as high-quality as other jackets I tested that cost more than twice as much.” Despite its budget, the Forclaz MT100 offers a refined design and excellent warm-down fill. It's noticeably lighter than many ultralight jackets we reviewed. The jacket's excellent compressibility and fit make it a reliable and versatile choice for various activities.
Should you buy it? The Forclaz MT100 runs very small, so sizing up is important. Our lead tester, who typically wears small or medium, found the medium fit like a small in other brands and recommended buying one or two sizes larger for a looser fit. Still, for an affordable, versatile down jacket from the trails to the grocery store or pub, the MT100 is tough to beat for value.
Who it is best for: The Decathlon Forclaz MT100 Hooded Puffer is perfect for budget-conscious adventurers seeking a lightweight, warm, and packable jacket for cool-weather hikes, travel, and everyday use. Its athletic cut and compressibility make it a great choice for those prioritizing portability and layering. If you want an affordable alternative to ultralight puffies, this jacket offers comparable performance at a fraction of the price.
Why we love it: Our lead tester remarked, “It's a prime example of how affordability doesn't mean you have to sacrifice quality.” The Forclaz features 800-fill-power recycled down that delivers solid warmth for three-season wear. Its standout compressibility lets you quickly stuff it into its pocket, making it highly convenient for on-the-go use. The lightweight design and athletic fit make it easy to layer without adding bulk, which is ideal for those who value versatility and packability.
Should you buy it? The MT100 has some tradeoffs: its thin outer shell is prone to wear and offers minimal water resistance. One tester observed, “Without a durable water-repellent [DWR] finish, this jacket struggled in damp conditions.” It also lacks features like hood adjustments and waist cinches, making it less suitable for extreme cold or high-exposure activities. While cheaper options like the Wantdo Packable Down Hoody exist, the Forclaz outperforms other budget puffies without costing much more, making it a smart buy for milder, dry conditions.
Who it is best for: The REI Co-op Magma 850 Hoodie is ideal for outdoor lovers who want one versatile down jacket that can handle various activities and seasons. Whether on a mid-winter ski trip or a summer backpacking excursion, this jacket offers a balanced blend of warmth and packability. It's especially great for those who prefer a single jacket to cover everything from casual walks to backcountry adventures. If you want a reliable all-season layer that's easy to pack and wear, the Magma 850 fits the bill.
Why we love it: Thanks to its 850-fill-power down, the Magma 850 delivers impressive warmth without weighing you down. Our lead tester praised, “I loved wearing this jacket for everything from walks around the neighborhood with the dog to backcountry expeditions and everything in between. It's incredibly compressible and soft, yet warm enough to keep me comfortable throughout all my activities. The sleek design and comfy fit made it a go-to for travel, and stuffing it into its pocket made packing a breeze.” The jacket also features DWR treatments on the outer shell and down insulation, providing solid weather resistance in light rain and helping maintain loft even when damp or sweaty. Plus, it's priced significantly lower than many comparable high-end jackets, often with great sale deals.
Should you buy it? This strikes a smart balance between warmth and portability. Our lead tester explains, “This jacket is moderately warm, which our team agrees makes it perfect for folks who want one versatile jacket that does it all. It's warm enough for mid-winter when layered, yet light and breathable enough to wear comfortably on a chilly summer night around the campfire.” This jacket is a stellar all-season choice if you prioritize versatility and value.
The men's Magma 850 is seasonally sold out right now. We also recommend the Rab Microlight Alpine as a similar alternative.
Who it is best for: The REI Co-Op Magma 850 is ideal for anyone seeking a lightweight, warm, and packable jacket for a range of cool-to-cold-weather activities. “This jacket is just as perfect for multi-day backpacking trips deep in the backcountry as for casual evening strolls about town,” our lead tester explained. “It's one of the few jackets I've worn that does it all without feeling like a compromise.”
Why we love it: Its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, thanks to 850-fill-power RDS-certified goose down wrapped in a recycled nylon shell with a DWR finish. It doesn't offer the full insulation or length of heavier jackets, making it feel nimble and wearable. “I wore this jacket through misty mornings and drizzly evenings, and while the shell repelled light moisture well, I'd still throw a shell over it in sustained rain,” noted one tester. Smart features—like a draft collar, hem drawcord, elastic cuffs, and an adjustable hood—help trap warmth where it matters, while the trimmer fit means it layers easily under a waterproof shell.
Should you buy it? You should consider the Magma 850 if you're looking for a down jacket that delivers high-end performance at a mid-range price. While it doesn't have the expedition-level warmth of bulkier models, it's more affordable, more versatile, and easier to stow. “It's one of the few jackets I've worn that I don't feel guilty stuffing into a backpack or suitcase—because I know I'll use it constantly,” one tester said. If your adventures balance trail time with city living and you want a sleek, no-fuss jacket that's genuinely warm without the weight or cost, the Magma 850 is a top pick. For rainier or colder conditions, you'll want to pair it with an outer shell or look to more insulated alternatives—but for general 3-season use, this one's a winner.
Who it is best for: The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer is ideal for fast and light adventurers who need an ultralight down jacket that won't weigh down their pack. This jacket is a top pick if you prioritize minimalism and packability for backpacking or high-alpine missions. Its athletic cut fits broader shoulders well and allows a full range of motion, making it great for climbing or any activity where mobility matters. This is the one if you want a minimalist jacket without extra features weighing you down.
Why we love it: Our lead tester praised it, saying, “This jacket packs into its pocket and compresses to a smaller size than any other men's down jacket I've tested, making it an absolute staple for my pack. It's so lightweight and comfortable, I've even worn it around the house during chilly days.” The Ghost Whisperer breathes better than most down jackets, so you stay comfortable without having to shed layers constantly. It layers easily without bulk, providing warmth without restricting movement.
Should you buy it? Remember, the Ghost Whisperer takes a minimalist approach with only two zippered hand pockets and no hem drawcord or chest pockets. As one tester noted, “While this minimal approach to features does make it lighter, sometimes I think an extra chest pocket would be nice.” Overall, the Ghost Whisperer delivers exceptional lightweight performance for those who want to keep their gear lean.
Who it is best for: The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer is perfect for lightweight packers who want to keep their load minimal without sacrificing warmth. This jacket is an excellent choice for high-output activities like alpine climbing, ski tours, or hiking, where breathability and low weight matter most. It's also great for those who want a casual-looking jacket, which they can easily wear around town or to yoga.
Why we love it: Our lead tester said, “This model has less down insulation than many other jackets I tested, but at only 8.3 ounces in a size large, it's the lightest by a long shot. Despite its featherweight construction, it still provides very good insulation for its weight.” Another tester added, “This jacket was perfect for high-alpine missions where I worked up a sweat but needed lightweight warmth. It's breathable, and the elasticized hood fits easily over winter hats or helmets. The ultra-thin 10-denier shell makes it incredibly light and packable, which I appreciated when clipping it to my harness during climbs or wearing it on ski tours.”
Should you buy it? The Ghost Whisperer does make some compromises for its low weight: it has only a single hem adjuster cord, no chest pocket or hood adjustments, and the shell material isn't the most durable. Ultimately, if you're counting grams and want the lightest down jacket that still insulates well, the Ghost Whisperer is a standout option.
Who it is best for: If you need the most insulating down jacket for extreme cold, the Rab Neutrino Pro is your best bet. This jacket is built for the gnarliest winter weather, featuring huge baffles and a deep drop hem that provides extra protection against the cold. It's ideal for those facing cold temperatures or demanding winter conditions, whether ice climbing or working outside. However, it may be too warm and bulky for milder climates or high-output activities.
Why we love it: Our testers praised the jacket's adjustability and fit, especially the ergonomically cut sleeves that offer an excellent range of motion. One tester said, “Whether working on a home project outside or ice climbing, I was more comfortable in the cold while wearing this jacket. It kept me warm without feeling bulky, and the deep hem gave me that extra coverage against harsh winds.” The Neutrino Pro also stands out because it maintains a flattering fit despite being highly lofted — it doesn't make you look like a stuffed animal like some other bulky jackets do.
Should you buy it? While the jacket delivers outstanding warmth and protection, it might be overkill unless you face cold conditions. Our lead tester notes, “Warmer isn't always better, so I don't think this is the best option for milder climates or more high-energy activities.” Also, though we appreciate the hem and cuff adjustability on the Neutrino Pro, we wish the hood had a toggle instead of simple velcro for easier adjustment. Bottom line: If maximum warmth and comfort in brutal cold is your priority, the Neutrino Pro will keep you cozy and dry wherever you go.
The Neutrino Pro was one of the few jackets we tested that sports a two way zipper, great for when wearing with a climbing harness or if you just want more movement or ventilation
Who it is best for: The Wantdo Packable Down Hoody is perfect for budget-conscious buyers who want a lightweight, packable down jacket without breaking the bank. This jacket works well if you need a simple, affordable layer for mild temperatures, like chilly morning commutes or walks in the park on cool winter afternoons. It's also great as an emergency or backup layer since it's inexpensive and easy to stash in a pack or bag.
Why we love it: Our testers appreciated how affordable and packable the Wantdo is. One tester said, “You can buy four of these jackets for the price of one down jacket from a big outdoor brand, which makes it an incredible value. It's lightweight but still surprisingly warm for mild conditions. Plus, it easily stuffs into its sack, so you can bring it anywhere without worrying about bulk.” The jacket features 90% duck down insulation, a water-shedding lightweight shell, and a cozy interior lining, all contributing to its solid performance on casual outings.
Should you buy it? While the Wantdo is a steal for the price, it lacks some of the convenience and durability features of higher-end jackets. There are no adjustable cords for the hood or waist, and testers found the small hand pocket zippers hard to operate while wearing gloves. It's also one of the least warm jackets we tested, so it won't cut for cold or wet weather. Still, since it costs less than a lift ticket, it's an excellent choice for anyone needing a simple, lightweight down layer for mild weather, or just as a backup “just in case” jacket.
Who it is best for: The Wantdo Packable Down Hoody - Women's is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who want a simple, lightweight down jacket for chilly outings and everyday wear without spending a fortune. It fits various sizes (XS to XXXL) and offers many color options. Its boxier fit provides freedom of movement, making it suitable for casual activities and layering.
Why we love it: Our lead tester shared, “During testing, I was surprised by how wind and weather-resistant this jacket was. Moisture beads off the shell keep me dry and comfortable inside.” The Wantdo defies expectations for an ultra-budget jacket by offering protection from light wind and moisture. The breathable boxy cut lets air flow freely, which helps when moving but can affect warmth retention. This jacket packs a lot of value for the price, especially for those who want a basic, lightweight down layer.
Should you buy it? While affordable, the Wantdo has some noticeable drawbacks. It lacks adjustability features, so you can't cinch the hood or waist to trap heat. One tester observed, “The inside of the jacket often got wet with sweat when I wore it for high-output activities like ski touring.” Also, the short sleeves posed a problem for those with longer arms—many testers found the sleeves didn't reach their wrists, exposing them to the cold. If you want a super lightweight, packable jacket and can overlook these downsides, the Wantdo is a surprisingly good budget pick.
Surprisingly good weather protection and easy packing make the Wantdo an exceptional value.
Credit: Kaylee Walden
How We Tested
Since 2012, we've tested over 300 down jackets of all shapes and sizes. We've worn them on adventures near and far, from walking our dogs on chilly mornings to traveling the world living out of a backpack. We wear down jackets daily. We wear them to work while hanging out on a coffee shop patio. We've carried them on 3,000+ mile thru-hikes on America's long trails and worn them on walks through our local park. We've taken them winter camping, worn them to the grocery store, and relied on them while ice climbing. We've packed them for vacation and brought them on multi-day ski tours.
For this review, we compiled test results from all the most popular and promising down jackets currently available. Then, we purchased them at retail price. Our testing team rated and quantified these jackets for different activities. We tested warmth by wearing them with various layer systems and comfort by assessing the fit on multiple body types. We scored packability using our home scales and stuffed them inside pockets or stuff sacks. Then, we evaluated their weather resistance and breathability by pouring water on them and timing how long it took them to dry out. We hiked, skied, camped, packed them in our travel bags, and wore them during freak summer snowstorms. In short, we put every jacket through the wringer to find the best of the best.
From chores around the house to backcountry ski tours, our team has put in the work to find the best down jackets.
Credit: Kaylee Walden
Why Trust GearLab
The test team for this review is led by Maggie Nichols. Maggie grew up in the frigid upper Midwest. She has more than 15 years of experience guiding in the backcountry. She now calls the Sierra Nevada foothills her home, and she's often in the Sierras pushing her gear to the limits while camping late into fall and winter. She's constantly traveling when not working, and she's been to some seriously cold places over the years. She got married in Iceland during winter and spent her honeymoon in Svalbard. With all that cold-weather experience, she knows exactly what makes a high-quality and warm jacket. Maggie regularly gets many of her friends and family members to help test gear, including these jackets. Maggie has worked at GearLab since 2016. Over the years, she's tested countless categories of outdoor gear everywhere, from Japan to Norway, Alabama, and Oregon.
Unfortunately, the hood lacks the same interior lining as the rest of the jacket, making it a bit more susceptible to consistent winds.
Every jacket was tested in the field and our test labs.
Maggie is joined on the testing team by Kaylee Walden. Kaylee has spent her whole life in the chilly mountains, from being raised in Montana to guiding expeditions in Alaska. She has spent years guiding backcountry ski trips and avalanche safety courses in the Rockies, and in the spring, you can find her on the slopes of Denali. As an adventurer in the coldest climates, she knows the importance of a down jacket. Sam Schild led the men's down jacket testing team. Sam is a long-distance thru-hiker, backpacker, mountain biker, and trail runner from Colorado. He has backpacked the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Arizona Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, and Colorado Trail (three times!). He has bikepacked more miles than he's thru-hiked and always carries a down jacket to stay warm on any adventure. Sara rounds out this testing team, bringing her keen eye for detail, tough touch for testing, and a passion for overnight adventures on the rivers and mountains across the California Sierra.
We tested our jackets in the depths of winter and during a range of activities.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
How To Choose the Best Down Jacket for You
Getting the right jacket could be the difference between staying warm and being uncomfortably cold all day. Ultimately, you're seeking the right jacket to suit your needs and lifestyle. If the many choices of down jackets seem intimidating, relax—we're here to help. We'll explore what makes a great down jacket and unpack the differences between down, synthetic, winter, softshell, and hardshell jackets, just in case down jackets aren't the right type for you.
Its important to consider the different environment and activities you will be using your jacket for.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Jacket Genders
It's rare to find a jacket sold as “unisex.” However, the specific features, proportions, and measurements (and even colors) that manufacturers change to make a men's and a women's version all differ. We've tested many of them, asking friends and family to add input to each model's fit. In the below chart, we break down several of the key metrics we use to rate and rank women's down jackets:
Breaking down the four most highly weighted metrics in our women's down jacket testing.
Not all models perform the same between the men's and women's versions. In some cases, the men's fit seems to be better suited to a wider range of “average” body types, and in some cases, the women's version fits our testing team better. The chart below shows key metric scores of men's down jackets in our current lineup:
Key Metric Scores of Men's Down Jackets
Product
Warmth
Comfort
Portability
Weather Resistance
REI Co-op Magma 850 Hoodie
8.5
8
7
8
The North Face Summit Breithorn Hoodie
9
9
5
8
Stio Pinion Hooded
8
8.5
6.5
8
Rab Electron Pro
9
9
4
8.5
Rab Microlight Alpine
8
8.5
5
9
Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer
6
6.5
10
7.5
Jones Re-Up Recycled
9
7.5
5.5
7.5
L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Hooded
8.5
6
6
8
Decathlon Forclaz Men\'s MT100 Hooded Down Puffer
6
7
8.5
7
Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Hoody
8.5
10
3
6
REI Co-op 650 Down
5
7.5
8.5
6
Feathered Friends Eos
8.5
5.5
7
6
Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody
6
9
6
6
Arc\'teryx Cerium Hoody
8
4.5
7.5
6.5
Marmot Highlander Hoody
6
7
5.5
7
MontBell Superior Down
5
5.5
9.5
5
Rokka and Rolla Ultra Lightweight Puffer
5
4.5
9
5
Fjallraven Expedition Pack Hood
8
6
3
6
The North Face Hydrenalite Hoodie
8
5.5
3
6
Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded
6
4.5
6
6
Wantdo Packable Down Hoody
5
4.5
8
5
Columbia Delta Ridge Hooded
9
3.5
4.5
5
Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoodie
6
4.5
4.5
6
Camel Crown Packable Puffer
4
3.5
7.3
6
Four of the five metrics we use to put every men's down jacket to the test.
What Kind of Jacket Do You Need?
There are many kinds of jackets, and they all have specific use cases. Here, we'll outline some of the most common types of jackets for cold weather.
Testing the Ghost Whisperer in our outdoor lab. Super light down jackets can be perfect for runs in the cold.
Credit: Sam Schild
Down Jackets
Use Cases: Everyday wear, hiking, backpacking, climbing, mountaineering
REASONS TO BUY
High warmth-to-weight ratio
Great for travel
Compressible
Works well with layers
REASONS TO AVOID
Can be expensive
Not the most durable type of jacket
Not great in wet weather
Down jackets are insulated with the fluffy plumage and feathers of waterfowl. Thanks to its light weight and ability to trap air, down excels in its warmth-to-weight ratio. No other insulation material compresses as much as down, but it still insulates. This insulation is soft, light, and incredibly lofty to trap heat. There's a vast difference between an expedition-weight down parka and a lightweight down jacket for backpacking. That difference is mostly in weight and warmth. You wouldn't want to carry the same down jacket you'd use when climbing Denali when you're running out to your car on a cold morning (unless your heater doesn't work; in this case, maybe you do!). That big, thick down jacket for alpine conditions will be too hot and heavy for everyday use or chilly summer nights by the fire.
Weighing each down jacket gives us a better idea of how packable and lightweight each jacket truly is.
Credit: Sam Schild
The puffier a down jacket looks, the warmer it will be. This is the case with all insulated jackets. So, don't get the puffiest down jacket you can find unless you need maximum warmth. If you're carrying a down jacket on your back or packing it in a suitcase, you should also consider getting a more lightweight and packable model. If you only plan to wear the jacket and not carry it often, then weight and packability shouldn't be as significant a concern.
We weighed every jacket and timed how long it took to pack them into their pockets or storage pouches.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
There is a lot of variability in the features and adjustability of down jackets. If weight is your top concern, you might want less features because they will add up. But if you want to cinch the drawcord hem and hood to seal in as much warmth as possible, you should look for a down jacket with those adjustment features. You'll find they're worth the added weight when that hood is cinched tight around your head and is happily warm inside.
Our feature heavy jackets weighed more than the more basic straightforward designs.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Down is an excellent insulating material, but it's not the best insulation for every application. As mentioned, down is incredibly warm for the weight and packs down to a very small size. However, it doesn't retain its loft when wet. So if your down jacket gets wet, you'll be left cold, wet, and shivering. For this reason, down isn't always the best option for damp conditions, such as backpacking in rainy and humid climates. You can carry a down jacket in wet conditions, but you'll want to ensure it stays dry so you won't be able to wear it.
A great synthetic insulated jacket will keep you warm even when wet, so they're great for high-output activities and damp climates.
Credit: Maggie Nichols
Synthetic Jackets
Use Cases: Daily wear, cold and wet conditions, climbing, running, hiking, backpacking, mountaineering
REASONS TO BUY
Retains loft longer when wet
Dries quickly
Good for layering
Inexpensive
REASONS TO AVOID
Not as compressible as down
Heavier than down
Synthetic jackets are similar to down jackets but use insulation spun from non-natural materials. Synthetic insulation is usually made of polyester or nylon, but can also be made with other human-made fibers.
Synthetic insulation has excellent moisture resistance. It retains its loft even when wet, so it will continue to insulate longer in wet conditions. It also dries quickly, so it won't stay wet for as long if it does get soaked. Synthetic insulation jackets are also usually more affordable than down. They are heavier than down, though. And it doesn't compress as much. With this in mind, a synthetic insulated jacket won't be as packable as a down jacket.
A good winter jacket has lots of insulation to keep you warm in snowy, wintery weather.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Winter Jackets
Use Cases: Daily winter wear, winter camping, snow activities, anything in cold weather
REASONS TO BUY
The warmest kind of jacket
Usually waterproof or highly water resistant
Good for layering underneath
Durable
REASONS TO AVOID
Big and bulky
Heavy
Not great for high-intensity activities
Winter jackets are designed to keep you warm in cold weather. There are many types of winter jackets, but they are generally the warmest type of jacket available. Most jackets designed for winter have a waterproof (or at least water-resistant) shell material and a lot of insulation. They tend to be longer cuts, covering more of your core. There are winter jackets designed for skiing, snowboarding, casual use, outdoor trades, and more.
A softshell jacket is stretches as you move and is highly breathable, making it a great jacket for moving in the mountains.
Credit: Ryan Huetter
Softshell Jackets
Use Cases: Skiing, winter running, snowboarding, hiking, climbing, mountaineering
REASONS TO BUY
Versatile
Breathable
Allow for great mobility
Water-resistant
Works as a mid-layer or shell layer
Durable
REASONS TO AVOID
Not as packable as lightweight insulated jackets
Not as warm
Softshell jackets are a versatile and breathable type of jacket made from stretchy, breathable, and water-resistant materials. They are a comfortable and flexible layer that conforms to your movements, so they're great for active pursuits in cold weather. Softshell jackets are usually somewhat water resistant, so they'll repel snow and light rain, but they aren't waterproof.
The outermost layer, hardshells, are aimed at keeping you dry and protected from the elements.
Credit: Kaylee Walden
Hardshell Jackets
Use Cases: Cold and wet weather, city commuting, mountaineering, climbing, hiking, backpacking
REASONS TO BUY
Resists tears from abrasions
Fully waterproof
Breathable
Great for layering underneath
REASONS TO AVOID
Expensive
Not insulating
Stiff material
A hardshell jacket is the heavy-duty waterproof layer you wear when the weather turns foul. They are typically made from technical fabrics such as Gore-Tex, eVent, or other waterproof and breathable materials. These fabrics are designed to be lightweight, durable, waterproof, and breathable. Hardshell jackets are typically used as the outer layer in a layering system to protect the most from the elements and keep the layers underneath dry.
Hardshells are lightweight, thin, and made to go on the exterior of your layering system.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
How To Layer With a Down Jacket
Knowing how to layer clothing to keep warm is essential for anyone outside, whether walking to a restaurant in your neighborhood or summiting 14ers in the winter. Combining a down jacket with a base layer, mid-layer, and outer shell jacket creates a versatile system that allows you to put on or shed layers to stay comfortable as conditions change.
Base layer
You wear a base layer as the first layer next to your skin. Base layers are tight-fitting and should wick sweat off your body so it can evaporate. Base layers are usually made of synthetic materials or wool. These materials won't make you cold when they get wet with your sweat.
Mid-layer
A mid-layer is the next layer you wear as part of a layering system. Midlayers are typically made of fleece, a thicker wool, or other synthetic materials that still insulate when wet. They should fit tightly, but not as tightly as a base layer. After all, you wear a mid-layer over a base layer.
Down Jacket
Next in your layering system is your down jacket. This layer provides the bulk of your insulation, but the base layer and mid-layer you're wearing underneath will make that down jacket feel even warmer.
Shell Layer
On top of your down jacket goes a shell layer. Here, depending on the conditions, you can use either a hardshell or softshell jacket. If it's cold and wet, you'll probably want a hardshell. But if it's simply cold and windy but not wet, then a softshell will probably be best. Either way, the shell layer goes on top of the other layers we discussed above, and it's your first line of defense against the elements.
A baselayer and fleece can go a long way to keep you warm.
The Feathered Friends Eos over the right layers will keep you warm for your next hike or mid-winter grocery store run.
A shell over a down jacket can help keep in body heat while protecting from the elements.
Layering for your climate is as important as choosing a down jacket.
What Else to Look For in a Down Jacket
There's a lot to consider when looking for the perfect down jacket for you: for some users pocket positions and functions can be an important determinate.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Down Fill Power
Down insulation is rated according to its fill power, a measurement used to indicate the quality and loftiness of down. The fill power quantifies the volume of one ounce of down in cubic inches. For instance, an ounce of 650-fill power down will take up less space than an ounce of 900-fill power down.
Higher fill power doesn't necessarily mean the jacket will be warmer, but the same quantity (measured in weight) of 900-fill-power down will insulate better than an equal weight of 650-fill down. This is because the 900-fill down has more loft than 650-fill down, and more loft means more warmth.
Higher fill power is going to be more expensive, too. Get a lofty, lower-fill-power-down jacket if you're looking for an inexpensive yet warm jacket. It will keep you warmer than a higher-fill power jacket that doesn't look as puffy.
Higher fill power means more compressibility and more warmth for the weight, but it's also more expensive, and a higher fill power jacket with less down won't be as warm as a lower fill power model with more insulation.
Credit: Sam Schild
Warmth
If a down jacket doesn't keep you warm enough for your specific activity, then what's the point? We tested warmth by wearing these jackets in various winter activities, switching between jackets to get an idea of relative warmth. The more insulation a jacket has, the thicker it will be. This is a good indicator of warmth. But it isn't the only indicator, so we thoroughly field-tested every jacket in side-by-side comparison testing in multiple activities.
We also examined every jacket's type and weight of insulation, overall thickness, and loft. We wore every jacket as part of a layering system to evaluate how well we could layer with it. We looked at whether they had helmet-compatible hoods and other layering features. We examined every jacket for points of heat loss and paid attention to those spots when wearing them in the field.
If you like spending time outside in the depths of winter, this Neutrino Pro is a great option to keep you warm.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Comfort
We evaluated comfort by wearing every jacket with only a t-shirt underneath to understand how the lining felt against our skin. We also noted all touchpoints and how they felt against our chins, wrists, and heads. We moved around in every jacket and noted which models allowed the most movement freedom. We also looked at how well each jacket could accommodate different body shapes by having multiple testers wear each model.
Comfort is key, because if a jacket isn't comfortable you might not wear it at all.
Credit: Sam Schild
Portability
For portability, we weighed every jacket on our home scales. We also looked at compressibility features, such as whether they packed into their pocket or came with a stuff sack. We stuffed these jackets repeatedly, noting which models were easier to pack away and which weren't. We also asked ourselves, "Would I bring this with me during any activity?"
A packable jacket makes life easier when shedding a layer on the trail, managing space in your pack, or during travel.
Credit: Sara James
Weather Resistance
While these aren't waterproof hardshell jackets, a down jacket should protect you from the elements. To test this, we sprayed every jacket with water, rubbed the water into the material, and then noted which jackets stayed dry the longest. We also tested these for wind resistance in the field and using a fan in our lab.
While not a hardshell, a good down jacket should protect you from snow and light precipitation.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Breathability
Breathability is crucial if you're using a down jacket for intense activities. If you overheat quickly and your jacket doesn't have a way to manage that heat, then you'll start to sweat and get cold. We field-tested all of these jackets in high-output activities to test this. We ran, biked, climbed, hiked, and skied in these jackets, noting that they kept us comfortable for the longest while we exercised.
If you plan on using your jacket for high-output activities like biking or running, it should be breathable.
Credit: Sam Schild
Conclusion
Hopefully, this guide will help make your down jacket purchasing decision easier. Rest assured, this list of down jackets for women and men is the best of the best. The GearLab testing team thoroughly evaluated all of these jackets, so you can't go wrong with any of these models. Choose the jacket that best fits your needs and budget, then return to your adventures! We'll keep buying, using, and reviewing the best down jackets in the industry to keep this list current.
We have tested many options to keep you warm and dry all year. Our winter boots review can keep your feet toasty in cold weather. Check out our reviews of rain jackets and umbrellas to keep you dry when the clouds begin to rumble.
We hope this guide helps you find the best down jacket to suit your specific needs. Stay warm out there!
Credit: Natalie Kafader
—Maggie Nichols, Sam Schild, Kaylee Walden, and Sara James
