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When winter hits, you need a jacket that does more than just keep you warm. The best down options combine high-loft coziness with a lightweight build that packs down small, shrugs off light wind and snow, and regulates heat well enough for everything from high-output climbs to casual evenings around town. With so many choices available, it can be tough to know which one will actually perform well when the mercury drops. That's where we come in.
We have been testing down jackets for over a decade, putting more than 70 women's down coats through their paces to find the very best options. We spent months in them, weathering blizzards while climbing and skiing in the high mountains of the American West, taking them on expeditions to Alaska, Norway, and Japan, and simply pulling one on to walk the dog around the block.
Out of the down jackets featured in our lineup, our top everyday jacket recommendation is the REI Co-op Magma 850 Hoodie. This jacket is ridiculously warm for its weight and thoughtfully designed with adventure-ready features, striking a nice balance between price and performance. It's a great option for adventure seekers and city strollers alike.
For those looking for a jacket that goes that bit further, the Rab Neutrino Pro is a standout performer. This burly puffy stops just short of an expedition parka, sporting wide baffles packed with hydrophobic 800-fill goose down, and encased in a weather-resistant shell. This time-tested classic delivers reliable warmth and protection in serious cold.
If you want to buy a lightweight down jacket at a bargain, the Decathlon Forclaz MT100 Hooded Puffer is the best value around. Even though it's not as stout as other top options, it offers decent warmth and outstanding packability for a fraction of the cost of directly comparable jackets.
Editor's Note: We updated this review on October 24, 2025, to add jackets from Eddie Bauer, Patagonia, Outdoor Research, Rab, and Cotopaxi.
The REI Co-Op Magma 850 is an ultralight, impressively warm down jacket that costs significantly less than other jackets of a similar caliber. Designed with premium 850-fill-power goose down, the Magma 850 is highly compressible yet still delivers an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. It has a trimmer fit that layers well under a shell, and thoughtful details like an adjustable hem, variable-sized baffles, elastic cuffs, and a draft tube around the collar, trap heat where you need it. “The Magma isn't as thickly insulated as the Rab Neutrino Pro or the Patagonia Fitz Roy Hoody,” our lead tester noted. “But I was impressed by how seriously warm this jacket is for its weight and price.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Down Fill
850-fill-power goose down, treated with DWR
Responsible Down Standard (RDS) Certified
Yes
Outer Fabric
100% recycled ripstop nylon shell, DWR treated
Measured Weight
11.5 oz ( size L)
Hem Type
Drop hem (small)
The shell and the stuffing are both treated with a DWR finish, which provides the Magma 850 with some pretty solid weather protection (at least as far as down jackets go). However, testers noticed that the latest iteration of this jacket seemed less weather-resistant than previous versions tested. As far as coverage goes, the drop hem on the Magma 850 is a bit short, which unfortunately leaves your bum a bit exposed when bending or reaching. Longer jackets like the Stio Hometown Hooded and Rab Neutrino Pro offer better coverage, but they're not as packable. No other jacket better balances weight, warmth, and portability, making the Magma 850 an ideal choice for everything from backpacking trips to crisp morning commutes.
If you're seeking the absolute warmest down jacket in this category, the Rab Neutrino Pro remains a peak performer, year after year. Just shy of an expedition parka, this thickly-filled puffy features premium hydrophobic 800-fill goose down, extra-wide baffles, and a durable, weather-resistant shell, providing extra protection from even the coldest storms. The Patagonia Fitz Roy Hoody and Feathered Friends Eos are comparatively puffy, with the latter sporting an impressive 900+ fill down. However, the Neutrino takes the biscuit for its greater fill weight, its superior ability to handle damp conditions, and its belay-ready, two-way zipper.
SPECIFICATIONS
Down Fill
800-fill-power European goose down, Grangers fluorocarbon-free hydrophobic treatment
Responsible Down Standard (RDS) Certified
Yes
Outer Fabric
20D recycled Pertex Quantum Pro PFAS-free DWR finish, ripstop
Measured Weight
19.9 oz (size L)
Hem Type
Drop hem (large)
Thanks to over a decade of refinements, it's hard to find fault with this time-tested classic. If anything, testers wished the hood had a toggle adjustment instead of a velcro strap for a snugger fit. That said, the Neutrino Pro may be overkill unless you live somewhere truly cold. The Stio Hometown Hooded is a slightly less lofty, less technical, and significantly cheaper alternative. Similar to the Neutrino, the Hometown jacket employs hydrophobic 800-fill down and a water-resistant shell — though the quality, design, and cut fall short, particularly when on the move. The Neutrino's superior weather resistance and two-way zipper make it far better for technical pursuits like ice climbing or mountaineering. If you want a jacket that keeps you warm, dry, and comfortable wherever you roam, the Neutrino Pro delivers.
The Neutrino Pro has been updated for winter 2025/2026, switching its down treatment from Nikwax to Grangers. An internal dump pocket has also been added, and the baffles are now straight and uniform, unlike the old models, which were slanted and twisted. The older model is still available in some stores and often can be found heavily discounted, offering a great opportunity to get a top-notch jacket at a reasonable price.
The Decathlon Forclaz MT100 Hooded Puffer is a packable, lightweight down jacket that punches well above its price point. This jacket costs one-third of the price of the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer, yet it only weighs one-third more than our favorite ultralight option. “The Forclaz is a great example of how low cost doesn't have to mean low quality,” attested Sara James, our lead tester. Like the Ghost Whisperer, its standout feature is compressibility. The 800-fill-power recycled down packs easily into its own hand pocket, making it a convenient companion for travel or the trail. With an athletic cut that layers comfortably and a featherlight feel, the MT100 is ideal for those who value portability without paying a premium.
SPECIFICATIONS
Down Fill
800-fill-power down
Responsible Down Standard (RDS) Certified
Yes
Outer Fabric
100% 15D polyamide (35 g/sqm)
Measured Weight
11.3 oz (size L)
Hem Type
Drop hem (small)
Even though the Forclaz is decently warm, our test team all commented that it's better for cool-weather hikes than truly cold weather. The thin outer shell is prone to wear and tear, and without a durable water-repellent (DWR), its weather resistance is minimal. “The Forclaz lacks basic features, like waist cinches and any sort of hood adjustment, so it's not my top pick for extreme wind or cold,” our lead tester pointed out. The even cheaper Wantdo Down Hoody offers slightly better protection against the elements, but it's not quite as warm as the Forclaz. If you need a jacket for a cold climate, the REI Magma 850 is the best value for a very warm, fully featured down jacket. However, if you live in a milder climate or want an extra down layer to pack, then the Decathlon Forclaz is a standout option at a very reasonable price.
The Decathlon Forclaz has been renamed the Simond. The Simond jacket offers the same design and quality, just with a new name.
Performance outerwear is typically prohibitively expensive. The Wantdo Packable Down Hoody aims to change that. “This basic, wallet-friendly down jacket will do the trick for occasional cold outings,” one tester commented, adding that it wasn't nearly as warm as other jackets she tested. Claiming to be fully windproof and water-resistant, the Wantdo actually comes suprisingly close in practice. It does an upstanding job of blocking the elements, especially water and wet precipitation. Moisture beads up and doesn't soak into the exterior fabric, not even through the seams. Though it has a boxy — and for some, unflattering — fit, the Wantdo comes in an inclusive size range (XS to 3XL) and a wide variety of colors and doesn't inhibit movement.
SPECIFICATIONS
Down Fill
90% duck down
Responsible Down Standard (RDS) Certified
Yes
Outer Fabric
20D nylon taffetta
Measured Weight
8.8 oz (size S)
Hem Type
Straight hem; hip length
During testing, the Wantdo performed well in certain metrics, but some notable flaws decreased its performance in others. “The water repellency works extremely well, but a bit too well on the inside, as it also trapped any of my perspiration,” one tester noticed. While the Wantdo's square cut makes this jacket a better, less restrictive fit for most, it lacks adjustability. If you're after a more lifestyle-oriented budget down jacket with a slimmer cut, check out the Lock and Love Ultralight. Our main gripe with the Wantdo, though, is with the sleeves. They're a couple of inches too short for most of our testers, frequently sliding back and exposing wrists to the cold. If you can live with these shortcomings, we think you'll find the Wantdo is a decent down jacket for milder climates or less frequent use.
For those of us who love to know precisely how many ounces our pack weighs, the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer is a dreamy addition to your cold-weather kit. This ultralight down jacket is thinner than most other jackets we tested, but at just 8.3 ounces in size large, it's also the lightest. Despite its ultralight weight, this jacket still packs impressive warmth. Its elastic-rimmed hood fits effortlessly over most beanies or a helmet, allowing the Ghost Whisperer to shave weight and forgo an adjustment tab. With narrow baffles and less insulation, it's also one of the most breathable models in our lineup, perfect for throwing on during a climb, to warm up during a ski tour, or for a quick walk to a yoga class.
SPECIFICATIONS
Down Fill
800-fill-power, 90% goose down
Responsible Down Standard (RDS) Certified
Yes
Outer Fabric
10D recycled ripstop nylon
Measured Weight
8.3 oz (size L)
Hem Type
Drop hem (small)
As you might expect, certain features are sacrificed to reach this shockingly low weight. The Ghost Whisperer is made of delicate 10-denier outer material, features no chest pocket, and has just a single hem adjustment cord. “It also lacks some of the mobility I've seen in other activity-specific models,” noted our lead tester, as her wrists were often exposed to the cold when reaching. Still, when every ounce counts, we'll gladly pack the Ghost Whisperer. If you're after something light and packable but on a budget, the Decathlon Forclaz MT100 is a great option, weighing just 11.3 ounces in size large. For a superior warmth-to-weight package in a truly cozy down jacket, check out the REI Co-op Magma 850 Hoodie, which clocks in at a modest 11.5 ounces (size large) and is generously filled with 850+ fill-power down.
Flurocarbon free water resistant down. Fleece lined hand warmer pockets, internal chest pocket. Interior draft flat on centre zip. Brushed tricot chin guard and interior collar. Hanging loop.
Draft neck tube. Raglan sleeves. Variable baffles. Bluesign approved material in Fairtrade Certified factory, REI is Climate Neutral Certified
Helmet-compatible hood, synthetic insulation in "areas where moisture may buildup"
Sewn through construction
Two-way center zipper. Extra comfy soft and stretchy material. Fleece lined pockets
The lightest option of the lineup, with high quality down and fill power. First baffles by the cuffs is synthetic fill to avoid wetting out when ice climbing, digging pits, shoveling snow, etc. Hanging loop on the inside and outside.
Helmet compatible hood, stretch-knit cuffs, reverse-coil zippers (water resistant), raglan sleeves for mobility. Deep pockets, internal, external and chest. Shoulder baffles countored for better warmth
Stuff pocket has double-sided zipper with pull tab. Clip loop for attaching
Synthetic insulation over shoulders, two-way center zipper, chest pocket, fleece lined chin guard . 7 Color options. Helmet compatible hood
Two way zipper, water resistant, pockets are meant to be both backpack and harness compatible
Felt chin guard, 2 hand and 1 chest fleece-lined exterior pockets, waterproof external shoulder and hood material, webbing reinforced zipper guard, key clip in L hand pocket, blue design approved,
Adjustable hem with bungee & cordlock, interior zipper guard, elastic rimmed hood
Made in Fairtrade Certified factory, REI is Climate Neutral Certified
Shell, lining, and insulation made with recycled materials. Elasticated waist
Balaclava-style hood, comes with 2 repair patches
Available in Petite, Tall and Regular Fit, sizes XS - 3 X, bluesign approved
N/A
N/A
N/A
Sizes available
XS-XL
XXS - XXL
XXS - XXL
XS- 3X
XXS - XXL
XXS - XXL
XS-XL
XS-XL
XS-XXL
XS - 2XL
XXS - XL
XS - XXL
XS - XL
XXS - 3XL
XS - 4X
XS - 4X
XS - 3XL
XS-3X
XXS - XXL
XS - 3 X, Petite, Regular and Tall Fit
XS- 3XL
S - XXL
S - XXL
Size XL Measured Weight
21 oz (size XL)
17.8 oz (Size XL)
17 oz (size XL)
12. oz ( size XL)
N/A
N/A
17.6 oz (size XL)
8.9 0z (size XL)
16,1 oz (size XL)
11.4 oz (size XL)
19.8 oz (size XL)
N/A
N/A
N/A
15.6 oz (size XL)
11.9 oz (size XL)
N/A
16.3 oz (size XL)
N/A
9.4 oz (size XL)
N/A
N/A
N/A
How We Tested
Every season, we comb the market for the latest updates and most promising new jackets. We then purchase each contender and put them through our rigorous battery of field and lab testing. We wore them skiing, climbing, snowshoeing, camping, backpacking, and hiking. We also wore them for running errands, walking the dog, touring foreign cities, and meeting friends for coffee. We assess how each one fits a range of body types, how it moves, breathes, and insulates, and how well it stands up to wind, moisture, and daily use. Through extensive field time and controlled lab tests, we identify even the smallest differences to find which jackets truly perform best.
We tested each jacket across 5 different metrics:
Warmth (30% of overall weighting)
Comfort (30% weighting)
Portability (15% weighting)
Weather Resistance (15% weighting)
Breathability (10% weighting)
Year after year we test these jackets to see which is the best on the market.
Credit: Kaylee Walden
Why Trust GearLab
This in-depth women's review is brought to you by a team of top GearLab testers. Senior Review Editor Maggie Nichols grew up in the sub-zero winters of the upper Midwest and has over 15 years of experience as a backcountry guide. Now based in the Sierra Nevada foothills, she tests gear through frigid camping trips and deep winter snow. A seasoned traveler who's braved Arctic winter trips to destinations such as Iceland and Svalbard, Maggie knows exactly what makes a down jacket perform. She is an expert on what goes into a high-quality and warm jacket that'll perform throughout the seasons. Since joining GearLab in 2016, she's tested dozens of gear categories worldwide, from Oregon to Norway and beyond.
Kaylee Walden adds her expertise to this review. Born and raised in Montana, she has spent the better part of the past decade guiding expeditions in Alaska, leading backcountry skiing trips in southwest Colorado, and teaching avalanche courses at around 10,000 feet — all very cold environments. From the summit of Denali to spending time digging into the nuances of the snowpack, down is her omnipresent and necessary companion.
Sara James rounds out this review team, bringing her experience as an expert paddler, multi-day adventure lover, and long-term gear tester for Gear Lab. Sara has spent countless nights sleeping out in the backcountry, including self-supported multi-day river trips and extended ski tours across the California Sierras. On rivers or up mountains, in town or traveling around, Sara almost always has a down jacket on hand.
We've tested these jackets in all kinds of conditions, from everyday jaunts to backcountry missions.
Analysis and Test Results
We put every jacket through extensive, real-world testing, pushing them hard to reflect how you'd actually use (and abuse) your favorite down layer. Each model is given an overall score that reflects its performance relative to others in our tests. In the sections below, we delve into our five testing metrics and provide a detailed analysis of the performance of these coats.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Down jackets come with a wide range of price tags, features, and functions that we can help you match to your lifestyle and your budget. The Decathlon Forclaz lands right at the intersection of quality, versatility, and value, costing a third of what many of its competitors charge. If you're hunting for an option that performs well across the board and costs less than many others, we'd also recommend the REI Co-op Magma 850 Hoodie. It has the perfect combination of warmth, weight, and packability, making it an excellent choice for most winter days. If that is still a bit out of your price range and you just need a down layer for light or infrequent use, the Eddie Bauer CirrusLite is a warm jacket that we enjoy for casual wear.
The REI Magma 850 delivers an exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
For those looking for a highly packable down jacket on an extra tight budget, check out the Lock & Love, Rokka and Rolla, and Wantdo jackets, all with very affordable price tags.
The Decathlon Forclaz MT100 offers great value for those wanting to stay active in cold weather.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Warmth
The most important aspect of any down jacket is that it keeps you warm, which is why we assigned it the highest weight in our testing metrics. We tested the warmth of each model in challenging conditions, including snowstorms, predawn mountain mornings, and late nights in the high desert winter. We noted the quality of the down used (fill power), how much was used (fill weight), the width of the baffles, as well as their type of construction (sewn through baffle v box baffles). We also evaluated how well each jacket works as part of a complete cold-weather system, layering it under a shell and over other garments like fleeces. We noted the adjustability factors and points of heat loss, then compared the warmth of each jacket in different wind conditions to see what they're built to withstand.
One common misconception about down jackets is that higher fill power (FP) automatically means a warmer or higher-quality jacket. In truth, fill power measures loft—the volume one ounce of down occupies—rather than total warmth. Higher fill power (say, 800–900) indicates larger, more efficient down clusters that trap more air and provide better warmth for their weight. But warmth also depends on fill weight, or how much down is actually packed into the jacket. A thick puffy with 650-fill down can feel warmer than a lightly insulated jacket with 900-fill down simply because it contains more total down. In short, fill power tells you about efficiency, while fill weight tells you how much insulation you're getting. The baffle thickness and construction style also impact the overall warmth of a jacket.
Comparing down jacket loft, which in our testing lineup ranged from 550-fill to 900+ fill power.
Credit: Sara James
The warmest jacket we tested, the Rab Neutrino Pro, is also the thickest. This seriously cushy puffy jacket is filled to the max with 800-fill-power hydrophobic goose down, which is spread out in wide sewn-through baffles. The Neutrino Pro is packed with details and features that further contribute to its exceptional warmth. It sports a long drop hem that you can cinch tight over your backside and a thick, puffy hood with a wire-stiffened brim and velcro volume adjustment, which works well over beanies, a bare head, or a helmet. The fleece-lined pockets and brushed chin guard help keep you feeling extra cozy. One of our favorite features in the Neutrino is the Velcro-adjustable cuffs, offering true wrist protection in any condition or activity —a feature lacking in almost all the other down jackets we tested.
In cold conditions, we were happy to have the warmth of the Rab Neutrino Pro to keep us cozy.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Patagonia Fitz Roy Hoody is comparable to the Neutrino in that it features high-quality 800FP down fill, stitch-through baffle construction, and a high draft collar. The Fitz Roy contains more down than most jackets we tested, but not quite as much as the Neutrino Pro. In addition, the Neutrino's Pertex Quantum Pro shell provides superior weather resistance, keeping you warm even on damp and blizzardy days.
The high collar and adjustable hood help you to seal in the warmth on the Patagonia Fitz Roy.
Credit: Sara James
The Arc'teryx Cerium isn't as thick as some of the other jackets that scored high marks in this metric, but it has an impressive warmth-to-weight ratio. A medium-thickness jacket with superior 850-fill down, the Cerium manages to pack a lot of additional warmth in a slimmer, more streamlined package. It also features synthetic insulation in key areas prone to moisture buildup, helping you stay warm even if certain parts of your body get a little wet. The Cerium is a great option for a daily driver jacket in cold winter climates, especially for outdoor activities.
The Arc'teryx Cerium keeps us nice and toasty while backcountry skiing in single-digit temperatures.
Credit: Kaylee Walden
The Feathered Friends Eos is another very warm jacket, thickly insulated with the highest fill power down (900+) of any model we tested. This coat is less technical than others, but it offers great coverage, elastic cuffs, and an adjustable hem and hood, all of which contribute to added warmth. It's super cozy and lofty, and quickly became a go-to option among our testing team when heading out around town on extra cold days. The North Face Summit Breithorn is another notably warm model, with wide baffles that are thickly filled with 800-fill ProDown. Its slim fit, long torso with a drop hem, and stretch-knit cuffs help to seal in the warmth to your body.
The elasticated cuffs and overall snug cut of the Breithorn makes it very effective at trapping in heat.
Credit: Sara James
The Stio Hometown Hooded was also quite warm. It features large sewn-through baffles with a medium amount of 800-fill down. However, the large baffles made it somewhat prone to cold spots, as the down migrates around. It has a thick draft flaps behind the central zipper, extended wrist cuffs, and a longer cut with an adjustable hem, fleece-lined pockets, and a chin guard, all of which help protect you from the chilliest of winter storms.
The longer elasticated wrist cuffs on the Hometown Hooded help to protect the back of your hands from the elements and prevent breezes going up your jacket sleeves
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Fjällräven Expedition Pack Down Hoodie and the Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Hoody both utilize 700-fill-power down. However, both jackets performed well in our warmth tests thanks to their thoughtful designs. These jackets have longer drop hems than many other jackets we tested, offering more coverage and helping to keep you warm, even in the chilliest conditions.
The bungee cinch on the Fjällräven Expedition jacket allows for a great seal on the hood, effectively trapping in warmth. .
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Comfort
Since we all have differently shaped and proportioned bodies, we enlisted as many friends as we could to help us evaluate the fit and comfort of each jacket. We looked at their shape and noted how much or how little space was left inside. We put them over bulky underthings, like thick fleeces and under shells, to see if they were easy to wear and if we could still move freely. We played, climbed, and skied in them, noting whether they raised up and exposed our midriffs or wrists to the cold. We wore them over bare skin to see how the material felt. We examined their additional features, such as pockets and adjustability. We wore them for various pursuits to see where they performed at their best.
The most comfortable jacket we tested is the Rab Neutrino Pro, with the Patagonia Fitz Roy Hoody, Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Hoody, and Stio Hometown coming in closely behind. Each of these jackets has a soft interior to add to its puffiness and make us feel like we're wearing clouds. The Neutrino Pro stands out for its excellent range of motion, which is unmatched by any other model in our lineup. Twisted sleeve baffles facilitate arm movements without exposing our wrists or torsos, and velcro cuffs ensure our arms don't get cold when we reach for things. This means that whether we're on an ice climbing expedition or giving underdogs on the swing set, the Neutrino Pro stays put and doesn't restrict our movements.
The Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Hoody stood out for its comfort, thanks to a stretchy construction and well thought out details such as fleece lined pockets.
Credit: Sara James
The Neutrino Pro, Expedition Pack Down Hoodie, and Stretchdown Hoody all feature a two-way zipper, making them well-suited for adventure. This design enhances the range of motion of a jacket, allowing for easy access to gear or pockets underneath. This makes them more comfortable to wear with a climbing harness and provides adjustable ventilation. Additionally, this feature was popular among testers with curvier hips. Despite advertising itself as a belay hoodie, the Patagonia Fitz Roy Hoody lacks a two-way zipper, which we believe prevents it from truly functioning as a belay jacket for rock climbing. It is, however, very comfortable in other regards thanks to its cosy puff, elastic cuffs, and high-loft tube collar.
We compared all jackets side by side analyzing the fit, warmth, materials, length, and all unique features.
Credit: Sara James
The Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Hoody features a stretch-woven fabric that provides excellent freedom of movement, making it well-suited for climbing and offering greater overall comfort. The Eos and Hometown Hoodie don't have these mobility-enhancing features, but they do have just the right combination of length, soft fabric, and adjustability that our entire testing team loved. The Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoodie, Neutrino Pro, Fjällräven Expedition, and Hometown Hoodie all sport fleece-lined pockets and chin guards, which are bonus features during those extra cold days. However, some testers noted that these materials can feel sharp against chapped hands.
The external chest pocket and the two waist pockets are lined with microfleece, adding a touch of extra comfort and warmth to this jacket.
Credit: Sara James
The North Face Summit Breithorn has an exceptionally slim cut that our testers found very narrow through the torso and especially tight around the hips. Some of our testers chose to size up in this jacket and found the resulting fit to be very comfortable, offering a full-body hug as you zip it up. As an upside, the slim fit is very effective at trapping heat. The raglan sleeve design supports a great range of uninhibited movement, and if the clouds decide to open up, the slim-fitting Summit Breithorn is much more comfortable to pair with a rain shell than many of the other thicker, bulkier jackets we tested.
The articulated cut of The North Face Breithorn Summit helps it to move well with your body.
Credit: Sara James
The Arc'teryx Cerium isn't quite as “cushy” as some others we tested, but it is still a comfortable jacket to wear. Its small underarm gussets help with range of motion for less-restricted movement. The Cerium also features one of the thickest lining materials of our test jackets (20D fabric), so the down quills don't poke through so readily. The Patagonia Down Sweater offers classic comfort for everyday use. Their latest version runs narrower through the hips than previous versions, but once we found the right size, we enjoyed the comfort of this casual jacket. Its elastic cuff is sewn comfortably inside the cuff, and a tall chin turns it into a balaclava-style hood. It also has five total pockets (three of which are internal) and comes with two repair patches. The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer is decently comfortable, in part because it's a thin, ultralight model. Even without mobility-specific features, we enjoyed the feel of this jacket and almost forgot it was on -– especially for high-output activities.
The Ghost Whisperer is comfortable to wear for movement, with just a touch of stretch and a good fit overall.
Credit: Kaylee Walden
The Marmot Highlander is another favorite for comfort, with a soft, malleable, and cushy exterior that makes this jacket enjoyable to wear. It features a stylish, hip-length cut and a well-sized hood, making it perfect as a mid-layer under a shell. This jacket was among the most versatile of models we tested and could easily and comfortably take us from activities to a night on the town. Look good, feel good, as they say, and we enjoyed how this down hoody added a pop of color to every outing.
Combining plush down insulation with a flexible shell, the Highlander delivers dependable warmth and standout comfort for long days in cold, snowy conditions
Credit: Kaylee Walden
The Eddie Bauer CirrusLite is a comfortable, casual jacket. Its construction is nothing exceptional, but it stands out for its wide range of sizing and fit options. It's available in sizes XS to 3X, and comes in regular, petite, and tall fits. The petite and tall options adjust the sleeve and body length by two inches shorter or longer, making it easier to find a truly dialed-in fit for different body types.
The CirrusLite is available in an impressive range of sizes and fits.
Credit: Sara James
The Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded and the Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoodie are also available in a broad range of sizes, and are the only two jackets in our lineup that extend up to a women's 4X (US women's size 26-28). This makes them great options for adventurers who've often been excluded from technical outerwear sizing.
There is no adjustability on the Cotopaxi Fuego's hood, making it hard to get a decent seal to trap in warmth.
Credit: Sara James
The Subjectivity of Comfort
At GearLab, we're aware that the comfort of a particular jacket is inextricably tied to the overall fit--which is inherently subjective. The perceived comfort of a jacket largely depends on a person's body type relative to a jacket's cut. Some jackets in our review have fits that don't necessarily work for every body type, and thus had conflicting comfort ratings amongst testers. These differences are particularly notable between the men's and women's versions of certain jackets. The Marmot Highlander appears to be a great fit for those with wider hips and a slightly curvier figure, although it didn't perform particularly well in terms of comfort in the men's review. Male testers seemed to favor the Patagonia Down Sweater for superior comfort, while our female testers did not. It is worth noting that we have recruited a diverse range of testers with different body sizes to help provide a variety of perspectives. However, bodies come in all sorts of proportions, and our team may not necessarily account for everyone, which may lead to discrepancies in comfort ratings.
Portability
One of the main perks of a down jacket is its lighter weight and packability, making it superior to synthetic options when pack space is limited. We weighed each model for comparison, and then stuffed them into their designated pockets or stuff sacks, timing how long this took our testers. We also clipped them to our backpacks and stuffed them in our suitcases to see how easy they were to tote around. We considered their overall size and shape as we packed them away. We examined the materials they're made of — including their down quality — to assess how well they'll withstand being packed and unpacked over years of adventures and outings. We asked our testing team the crucial question: In what circumstances would you bring this jacket?
Taking the proverbial cake in this metric is the ultralight Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer. This seriously impressive jacket weighs just 8.3 ounces in a size large. It packs down into its own pocket, giving you a package smaller than a 16-ounce can to carry or clip to your harness or backpack. When even fractions of an ounce matter, the Ghost Whisperer is the ideal just in case layer for situations where you don't want to pack a bulky, heavy jacket, such as when backpacking or on a spring vacation.
When you're heading out for a long outing but need some extra warmth, the Ghost Whisperer is the most packable option.
The North Face Breithorn Hoody was the only jacket we tested that could be packed quicker than the Ghost Whisperer, thanks to its impressively compressible fill and its exceptionally large stuff pocket. Its stuff pocket is particularly well-designed, with a very large opening that helps you stash away this jacket in a flash. The Breithorn weighs a fair bit more than the ultralight Ghost Whisperer, but it remains an excellent and portable option for when you need added warmth that packs away handily. One of our testers took the Breithorn on a two-week journey through Japan in early springtime and found it was an ideal layer for mountain snow while still stashing away easily to take the bullet train.
The North Face Summit Breithorn was the quickest and easiest jacket to pack into its pockets and comes with an integrated loop to clip onto a backpack.
Credit: Sara James
Thanks to its wide pocket opening and compressible material, the Decathlon Forclaz is another jacket that you can pack away in a flash. Weighing in at a very reasonable 11.3 ounces, the Forclaz's exceptionally low cost makes it a great option for ultralight backpackers on a tight budget.
Thanks to a number of small but helpful features, the Decathlon jacket is quick to pack and easy to carry.
Credit: Sara James
Considering the loftiness of the Patagonia Fitz Roy Hoody, we were impressed by how quickly and easily it packs away and can be stashed into a pack for transport. However, this was one of the heavier jackets we tested, weighing in at 16.7 ounces (size large).
The Fitz Roy stashes away easily into its left hand pocket.
Credit: Sara James
The Lock & Love, Rokka and Rolla, and Wantdo all received high marks in the portability department. All are lightweight and extremely packable, with each of the three packing into a stuff sack that comes with them. The lightest of the three is the Rokka and Rolla, which weighs in at an impressive 8.5 ounces (in size small) and still provides acceptable warmth and weather protection on mild winter days.
The Arc'teryx Cerium and Feathered Friends Eos may not be ultralight, but they both weigh less than their levels of warmth and extended coverage might suggest. In size small, they weigh 10.2 and 10.3 ounces, respectively. The Eos manages this combination of supreme thickness and low weight by using extremely high loft down — 900+ fill-power, for the best warmth-to-weight ratio of any jacket we tested. The Cerium also uses high loft down (850-fill) but is thinner and densely packed, sticking to the warmer side of average rather than shooting for intense cold usage.
The cozy Eos is quite lofty, with 900-fill RDS goose down.
Credit: Kaylee Walden
The Mammut Broad Peak IN Hooded also impressed us with its low weight and high packability, conveniently stowing into a hand pocket. It packs down into a very svelte package, quickly regains loft, and provides pretty outstanding active insulation for a low weight of 11.6 ounces in size small. While the REI 650 Down is among the lightest of all jackets we tested at 9.9 ounces, it has an unfair advantage due to its short hem length and lack of a hood. The updated version now sports a properly designed stuff pocket with a dual-sided zipper to help keep it contained.
We weighed each jacket, timed how long it took to pack each, and noted any additional features that supported portability, like double-sided zippers, pull tabs, and clip-on points.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Weather Resistance
Though down jackets aren't designed to block all wind and precipitation, they sometimes have to brave the elements when we're stuck without a waterproof shell. A solidly protective down jacket should have at least a modest level of water repellency and wind resistance. We checked these jackets' moisture-stopping properties by wearing them through wet snowstorms and spraying them with water, even rubbing it into the fabric. We headed into the mountains on blustery days in high winds, and got granular by testing them all for weak points in front of a high-powered fan. We considered fabric technologies and treatments that help resist the elements. We also looked at certain features that can offer additional protection, like adjustable cuffs, hood brims, cinchable hoods and hems, and longer bottoms.
The Outdoor Research Helium Down stood out for its thoughtful fabric construction. The main shell is constructed from a 30 x 15 denier fabric made of Pertex Quantum with Diamond Fuse technology, designed to be water-resistant and provide wind protection. In addition, along the tops of the sleeves, shoulders, and hood, the Helium Hoodie placed a thicker 2.5L 30D Pertex shield, which is waterproof and more resistant to wind (and abrasions). For good measure, the whole jacket is coated with DWR treatment.
Outdoor Research uses thicker, more water and weather-resistant material on the upper arms, shoulder, and hood of the Helium Hoodie
Credit: Sara James
The Rab Neutrino Pro performed impressively in this metric and came in a close second for weather resistance. The well-stuffed baffles meant we didn't feel the wind chill even on the most blustery days. Additionally, the adjustable hood, cuffs, and hem help seal out any cold breezes in this cozy jacket. Furthermore, when the weather gets wet, the Pertex Quantum Pro 20D ripstop shell and Grangers-treated hydrophobic down outperform most of the other jackets in our lineup, beading the water away.
Water beading off the Neutrino Pro's material.
Credit: Sara James
Many of the other jackets we tested also use a (slightly inferior) standard Pertex Quantum. Although not as water-resistant as the Pro or Shield versions, it still delivers notable performance. The exteriors of the Patagonia Fitz Roy Hoody, Mammut Broad Peak, Feathered Friends Eos, and Rab Microlight Alpine all use this material. When sprayed with water, the droplets beaded off these jackets, and even when fluid was poured on a targeted spot, none of these jackets felt damp on the inside.
We poured half a liter of water on each jacket in a focused area and noted how the shell and down responded.
Credit: Sara James
Most of the jackets we tested treat the shells with a hydrophobic, durable water repellent (DWR). Taking things one step further, the REI Magma 850, Rab Neutrino Pro, The North Face Summit Breithorn, Marmot Highlander, Stio Hometown Hooded, and Cotopaxi Fuego all are stuffed with down that's also been treated with some form of DWR. This means that if any of these jackets do get soaked, the down will absorb less water, helping these jackets maintain at least some of their loft (and therefore insulation).
Jackets that use water-resistant materials and hydrophobic treated down are better suited to keeping you warm when the weather turns nasty.
Credit: Sara James
The Patagonia Fitz Roy Hoody doesn't treat its down, so it's not great in wet weather. However, they do perform well in cold, windy conditions, thanks to the high-loft draft collar, elasticated cuffs, and zipper storm flap, which all help to seal the wearer off from the elements.
Warm and windproof, this Fitz Roy Hoody's tall draft collar and snug cuffs seal in heat when temps drop, but without treated down, it's best kept dry.
Credit: Sara James
The Arc'teryx Cerium exceeded our expectations for weather resistance. The 15D Arato ripstop nylon was impressive at stopping the wind from whipping through even the baffle seams of this jacket. It's adjustable at key points (like the hem and hood volume) with elastic at the cuffs and hood rim to keep you protected without having to tighten too much. The DWR repelled water like magic all throughout our testing. The Cerium is also one of just a few down jackets in our lineup to strategically replace down with synthetic insulation (which retains its loft — and, therefore, its warmth — when wet) in key areas to keep you warm even in trying conditions. The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer also features smartly placed synthetic insulation for the first couple of baffles at the cuffs and in the hood. This helps keep your jacket from wetting out for the rest of the day if you're shoveling snow, alpine climbing, having snowball fights, or digging snow pits in the backcountry.
The Ghost Whisperer continued to bead wet snow well several hours into a soggy multi-pitch ice climb.
Credit: Kaylee Walden
Breathability
Down jackets are not typically designed to be highly breathable — their primary function is to provide warmth by trapping air between the feathers. However, one of the core principles of getting outside safely in the winter is to regulate your body temperature — both in the cold and as you work up a sweat. Whether you're wrangling toddlers at the park or scaling a wall of ice, it's important that your sweat doesn't ultimately make you colder when you inevitably stop moving. We tested the breathability of each jacket by wearing them during reasonably sweaty endeavors like skiing, climbing, hiking, and brisk walks. We considered features that aid ventilation, like two-way zippers, armpit vents, and cuffs that can be pushed up your arms.
In general, thinner jackets that aren't as warm are more breathable. The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer is one such jacket. This ultralight layer vents excess body heat more easily than other thicker or warmer options. It also has an elastic lining inside the cuffs, allowing us to push the sleeves of this lightweight jacket up our wrists. On the other hand, some models employ breathability features to help when you really need them. The Arc'teryx Cerium has slightly thinner insulation in the underarm area, which may make a small difference, but not anything truly amazing that we noticed during our testing.
Despite being one of the thinnest and most breathable jackets on the list, the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer will still protect you from the cold, especially if you're on the move.
Credit: Kaylee Walden
As baffle seams often become a point of heat loss (especially over time), many manufacturers sew thinner baffles onto the sides of their jackets to help moderate body temperature without including overt heat loss features. The Rab Microlight Alpine, Patagonia Down Sweater, and The North Face Breithorn all employ this strategy. While it doesn't have any specific features, the soft and more permeable exterior of the Marmot Highlander also makes it nicely breathable for active use in cold conditions.
The Rab Microlight Alpine sports nano baffles under the arms to help vent excess heat while preserving core warmth.
Credit: Maggie Nichols
The Rab Neutrino Pro and Mammut Broad Peak both have a two-way main zipper, which can be useful for venting your core without loosening the jacket around your shoulders. We also found that the large pockets on the The North Face Summit Breithorn were helpful features for venting when we got too hot.
Other Notable Down Jackets
Patagonia Fitz Roy Hoody - If you can handle the price tag, this jacket is a great companion for overnight missions where warmth is important and so is weight. The Fitz Roy is one of the coziest jackets we tested, stuffed with a generous helping of 800 fill-power goose down. Wide baffles, a high-loft draft collar, thick elasticated cuffs, a storm flap-backed center zipper, and a large drop hem all work together to keep the cold out and trap warmth in. The jacket is not the lightest we tested, but it performs very well considering its warmth-to-weight ratio. It also packs down easily into its own pocket, making it a great option to throw into your pack.
Eddie Bauer CirrusLite - If finding the right fit has always been a challenge, the CirrusLite stands out for its exceptionally inclusive size and fit range. Available in regular, petite, and tall options from XS through 3X, it's designed to fit a wide variety of body types comfortably. Combined with its lightweight warmth and accessible price, this no-nonsense jacket is a great everyday choice for those who value fit over features.
Other Types of Jackets to Consider
If you live in a wetter winter climate, you may want to pair your down jacket with a rain jacket or hardshell for serious precipitation protection. Some of the parkas in our winter jacket review provide amazing warmth along with more robust rain protection. And if you're exercising in damp conditions or want something more breathable, a synthetic insulated jacket may suit your needs.
Conclusion
There's an overwhelming amount of down jackets on the market to choose from, designed for specific use or everyday wear. Some are better in the backcountry, while others are more adept around town. Most are a significant investment, and our aim is to help you make a selection you'll be happy with for years to come by selecting the optimal choice for your particular climate, budget, and lifestyle. We hope that our research, comprehensive testing, and thorough analysis of this year's best down jackets will help you zero in on which one is precisely the best fit for you.
Wherever your travels take you, a great down jacket should keep you cozy regardless of the conditions.
