Here at GearLab, we take our testing seriously. While we may start by trying on all these down jackets in the comfort of our own homes, we spend months testing every single contender in the outdoors. We have taken down jackets to Russia and Japan, to Antarctica and Iceland, up frigid mountain peaks, and through gusty town squares. Over the past decade, we have put jackets through their paces–sometimes to their breaking points. We test and evaluate every model's performance in five different metrics. We want to ensure that these jackets not only have your back on every adventure but also withstand everyday use without any problems.
Warmth
We exposed these jackets to frigid belays on ice climbs in Montana and Colorado, as well as inclement weather in the Pacific Northwest (think wet and heavy snow). We toted way (way) too many down jackets on every adventure so we could compare them in similar field conditions. Considering the temperatures and conditions, we evaluated the warmth of each jacket relative to the others, ranking them on a scale. Then we compiled the information from each jacket's technical specifications, notably the quality of the down and the thickness and protection of the external material, to complete the picture of how warm each jacket feels. We noted points of heat loss and features that make us feel warmer. We tested hood adjustability, cuff security, and layering ability, both over and under other clothing.
Comfort
Testing comfort involved asking as many friends and family members as possible to try on each jacket and share their feedback. Over the decade-plus of testing down jackets, we have ensured to test a range of different sizes to ascertain how each design suits different body shapes and sizes. We considered the interior fabric's feel on bare arms, how well it moves over the top of a thick fleece, and how it fits under a shell. We evaluated each jacket's touch-point features, such as soft cuff elastic, fleece-lined pockets, or felt chin guards. We moved in them, looking for features that can keep our wrists and torsos covered as we push kids on the swingset or reach up for the next hold on our route.
Portability
To gauge portability, we first weighed each jacket and considered its absolute weight in relation to its warmth. We then packed them in as many ways as we could. We timed and tested packing pockets, stuff sacks, and roll-top bags, cramming them in backpacks, suitcases, and day bags. We also considered the effects of those actions on each jacket's materials and how that may affect their longevity. And we asked that crucial question of every model: in what situation would I actually bring this with me?
Weather Resistance
To test weather resistance, we focused on wind and water repellency. We took jackets out to windy mountaintops and compared them in side-by-side lab testing with a high-powered fan. We considered features that help you batten down the hatches, like cinch points and adjustability. We wore them out in the rain and wet snow whenever possible, and then compared those observations to our laboratory water testing results. We considered the fabric properties and treatments of their products and evaluated their effectiveness. From the dry, cold of the Rockies to the bone-chilling humidity of New England, we want to ensure these jackets keep you warm and dry.
Breathability
To test breathability, we put these jackets to the test by doing strenuous work while wearing them. We wore them snowshoeing, skiing, hiking, walking the dog, climbing, and exploring new cities. We noted features that may facilitate breathability, including key venting areas and two-way zippers. To double-check this test, we also conducted a reverse airflow test using a high-powered fan to determine where each jacket allowed air to escape.