Cooler temperatures shouldn’t be an obstacle to your hiking adventures. Whether you are preparing for winter or planning a trip in the high mountains, buying a good down jacket is the best thing you can do to be safe from the cold. The best down jackets are lightweight but highly effective even the harshest situations.
With hundreds of models available on the market you’ll be spoiled for choice, with cuts, colors, and unusual combinations of materials all competing for your attention. We have carefully selected the ten best down jackets out there to make the shopping process a little easier, picking models for every budget and possible use.
For more of our top hiking apparel recommendations, check out the Best Down Jackets for Kids.
Quick Answer - The Best Down Jackets
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Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie
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REI Co-op Stratocloud
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KUHL Arktik
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Cotopaxi Fuego
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The North Face Stretch Down
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Rab Valiance
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Burton GORE-TEX Edgecomb
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686 Ether Down Thermagraph
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Patagonia Silent
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Dynafit Radical
Comparison Table - Best Down Jackets
| Picture | Name | Best For | Weight | Hood | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie | Multisport | 15.1 oz. | Yes | $$ | 4.8 |
 |
REI Co-op Stratocloud | Hiking | 18 oz. | Yes | $ | 4.8 |
 |
KUHL Arktik | Casual Use | 3 lbs. 4 oz. | Yes | $$$ | 5.0 |
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Cotopaxi Fuego | Multisport | 0.87 lbs. | Yes | $$ | 4.8 |
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The North Face Stretch Down | Multisport | 1 lb. 3 oz. | No | $$ | 4.7 |
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Rab Valiance | Mountaineering | 1 lb. 7.2 oz. | Yes | $$$ | 4.5 |
 |
Burton GORE-TEX Edgecomb | Multisport | 2 lbs. 3.2 oz. | Yes | $$ | 4.7 |
 |
686 Ether Down Thermagraph | Snowsports | 2 lbs. 9 oz. | Yes | $$ | 4.9 |
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Patagonia Silent | Hiking | 1 lb. 4.8 oz. | No | $$ | 4.4 |
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Dynafit Radical | Backcountry Skiing | 0.93 lbs | Yes | $$ | 4.6 |
| Picture | Name | Best For | Weight | Hood | Price | Rating |
Reviews - The Best Hiking Down Jackets
Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie
Specs
- Best For: Multisport
- Fabric: Recycled Ripstop Polyester
- Insulation: 800-fill Traceable Down Goose Down
- Weight: 15.1 oz.
- Hood: Yes
Features
- Tough, Windproof And Water-resistant Shell
- Zippered Handwarmer Pockets
- Comfortable Nylon-bound Elastic Cuffs Seal In Warmth
BEST FOR: THE ACTIVIST
The Patagonia down sweater hoodie starts off this list on an environmentally friendly note. Not only is it made with 100% recycled ripstop fabric but it has also been verified in using ethically sourced goose down. These sustainable materials are also backed up by water-repellent finishes, resulting in a tough and weather-proof jacket. Plus, you can stuff the jacket into a pocket sack to save space in your backpack.
As for the more minor details, this jacket has plenty. For instance, its zippered pockets have a hand-warming quality to them. Also, there is a cord in the pockets that you can pull to tighten the hem of your jacket for a snugger fit. If you need more warmth, the nylon-bound cuffs will seal it in but if you need a breather, the front zipper’s stormflap will wick away excess heat. Overall, this is a cozy and lightweight jacket with many features and care for sustainability.
REI Co-op Stratocloud
Specs
- Best For: Hiking
- Fabric: Pertex Nylon
- Insulation: 600 Fill-power Down
- Weight: 18 oz.
- Hood: Yes
Features
- Insulating Material Is Treated With A Durable Water Repellent Finish To Repel Moisture
- Wind Resistant Up To 60 MPH
- Front Zipper Is Equipped With An Inner Draft Tube To Help Retain Warmth
BEST FOR: SEALING IN WARMTH
If you’re a fan of various seals, draft tubes, insulation, and other such features, then the REI Co-op Stratocloud down hoodie may catch your eye. It is made with water-repelling down and nylon. The nylon is treated with a finish that sheds snow and rain, as well as withstands wind gusts up to 60 miles per hour. Yet, all this protects against major sources of the cold – and what about more minor ones?
Well, the Stratocloud has that covered as well. Its front zipper is equipped with a draft tube for more insulation. Plus, the zipper is snag-free. The jacket’s hem has a drawcord that provides a tighter fit and keeps cold air out. The sleeves also offer protection with their stretch cuffs. Finally, the hood can be the weak point in some jackets, but this one has a 2-point adjustability feature, so you can make it fit you just right.
KUHL Arktik
Specs
- Best For: Casual Use
- Fabric: Waxed Cotton, Polyester, Nylon
- Insulation: 800-fill Goose Down
- Weight: 3 lbs. 4 oz.
- Hood: Yes
Features
- Water-resistant Fabric Is Waxed To Withstand Rain And Snow
- Italian Faux-leather Trim Creates A Distinctive Look And Reinforces The Stress Points
- Extended Inner Cuffs With Kuhl Signature Thumbholes Seal Out Cold
BEST FOR: THE STYLISH HIKER
The KUHL Arktik down parka manages to combine two different things: style and practicality. It has several types of fabric, such as waxed cotton, polyester, micro-suede, and faux fur, to create a unique look. However, these fabrics not only look nice but they also serve specific purposes like reinforcing stress points and adding to the captured warmth. Although, undoubtedly, the main reason for the jacket’s warmth is its ethically sourced down.
The jacket has a water-resistant coating for protection against snow and rain. Plus, the wire-inforced hood can be adjusted for a snug fit. As for the sleeves, their inner cuffs with distinctive thumbholes eliminate the ingress of cold. For more practicality, the jacket includes many pockets: 2 chest, 1 inner, and 2 hand-warmer ones. And for more style, it includes a quality stitched crest patch on the shoulder, and a faux metal zipper that is more lightweight than real metal.
Cotopaxi Fuego
Specs
- Best For: Multisport
- Fabric: 20-denier Giant-ripstop Nylon
- Insulation: 800-fill-power Goose Down
- Weight: 0.87 lbs.
- Hood: Yes
Features
- Durable Water Repellent Finish Protects Against Moisture And Stains
- Water-resistant Goose Down Retains Warmth In Colder Environments
- Two Interior Stash Pockets And Zippered Hand Pockets To Store Small Items
BEST FOR: LIGHT WEIGHT
As opposed to other men’s jackets so far, the Cotopaxi Fuego hooded down jacket is positioned as your year-round companion. It features a durable water-repellent finish, a ripstop nylon shell, and certified goose down, which together result in a warm, weather-proof, and stain-proof product. This, of course, is great for cooler times of the year. And during the warmer times, this jacket has breathable underarm panels that wick away excess heat, so you always feel comfortable.
A scuba hood offers more space and adjustability to secure its fit. The hem also features flexible adjustment, so you can seal in the warmth or make it more loose for ventilation. The Fuego is equipped with 2 stash pockets as well as hand pockets, giving you enough space for your essential and valuable belongings. Plus, the jacket comes with its own separate stuff sack so packing it away and taking it with you wherever you go is a cinch.
The North Face Stretch Down
Specs
- Best For: Multisport
- Fabric: Nylon, Elastane
- Insulation: 700-fill-power Goose Down
- Weight: 1 lb. 3 oz.
- Hood: No
Features
- 700-fill-power Goose Down Offers Phenomenal Warmth While Being Highly Packable
- Stretch-woven Fabric Combines Mobility And Comfort
- Zippered Hand Pockets For Keeping All Your Essentials
BEST FOR: MOBILITY
If you are looking for a multisport jacket, take a look at the North Face stretch down jacket. It is made with a special fabric – a mix of nylon and stretch-woven elastane – that gives you unrestricted movement for any activity, be that hiking, climbing, or yoga. This fabric is further treated with a durable water-repelling finish that sheds off raindrops, snow, and stains. Plus, the cuffs are elastic-bound, giving you comfort and sealing in warmth. The hem can also seal in warmth with its cinching cord.
This slim-fit jacket is not only comfortable but also warm and packable. Its 700-fill goose down proves to be very warm and compressible, enough so that you can use one of the hand pockets as a built-in stuff sack. The 700-fill down is a high rating of warmth and compressibility, yet the jacket only weighs barely more than a single pound. Also, this is a low-maintenance jacket, so it can be machine washed!
Rab Valiance
Specs
- Best For: Mountaineering
- Fabric: Nylon
- Insulation: European Goose Down
- Weight: 1 lb. 7.2 oz.
- Hood: Yes
Features
- Ethically Sourced European Goose Down Insulation
- Durable, Waterproof, Fully Taped Outer Shell
- Comes With A Stuff Sack For Easy Packing
BEST FOR: THE ANY-WEATHER EXPLORER
Inclement weather often puts a hold on hiking and mountaineering plans but the Rab Valiance down jacket claims to shield you from that. It is equipped with a nylon lining and 800-fill, ethically sourced down. Both work together to repel water and provide warmth during rainfalls and thunderstorms. Plus, a 3-layer waterproofing treatment is sure to keep any moisture out.
Other features of the jacket add to its practicality. It has 5 different pockets, so you can store all your essentials on your body without worrying about carrying a pack. The hand pockets also have a hand-warming quality to them.
If you need to wear a helmet for biking on the trails or climbing, the jacket offers a helmet-compatible hood with a wired peak, like a cap, and insulating synthetic fibers, keeping you safe and warm. For more comfort, the drawcords at the hem and the rear of the hood are oversized, so they are easier to grab onto when you are wearing gloves, providing maximum adjustability and comfort.
Burton GORE-TEX Edgecomb
Specs
- Best For: Multisport
- Fabric: Polyester
- Insulation: 650-fill-power Duck Down
- Weight: 2 lbs. 3.2 oz.
- Hood: Yes
Features
- Gore-tex Shell Provides Breathable Waterproof Protection
- Shell's Adjustable Drop Hood, Cuffs, And Hem Cinch To Reduce Heat Loss
- Comes With A Removable Liner Jacket
BEST FOR: VERSATILE USE
The Burton Gore-Tex Edgecomb down insulator 3-in-1 jacket was made for the practical, no-nonsense guy. It’s essentially two jackets put together to create something new. The Edgecomb features a waterproof, rugged exterior jacket, and a down interior jacket. You can wear the outer shell during summer thunderstorms, the liner jacket during chilly fall and spring camping, and combine the two during cold winter hikes. The 3-in-1 versatility gives you many options.
Not only is the shell waterproof, but it is also rugged, durable, lightweight, and easy to stow away into your backpack. This shell also has an adjustable drop hood, a cinching hem, and cuffs to secure your fit and seal out any cold drifts. To further the waterproof quality, all the seams are taped, and the liner jacket has a water-resistant coating. As for the down, it was certified to the Responsible Down Standard, so you can be sure that the geese were treated humanely.
686 Ether Down Thermagraph
Specs
- Best For: Snowsports
- Fabric: Polyester
- Insulation: 600-fill-power Duck Down
- Weight: 2 lbs. 9 oz.
- Hood: Yes
Features
- Waterproof And Highly Breathable
- Inner Audio Pocket With Audio Cord Outlet For Easy Access To Your Music Device
- Spandex Thumb Wrist Gaiters And Adjustable Cuffs To Seal Out Snow
BEST FOR: THE SNOWBOARDER
The 686 Ether down Thermagraph jacket has the biggest amount of features of all the jackets on this list, and the two categories of features it has are weather-sealing and storage. Starting with the first category, this jacket is made of a waterproof stretch fabric and body-mapped insulation of duck down to keep you warm. Plus, wrist gaiters, welded cuffs, adjustable hood, fleece mouth flap, and water-resistant zippers all work together to seal away cold moisture, snow, and wind. However, if you are finding it too warm during your activities, the jacket has mesh-lined underarm and mouth vents to keep some ventilation going.
As for storage, the jacket has chest, inner, and even sleeve pockets, which you can use for passes and to keep all your sporting and personal essentials. As a bonus, there is an inner audio pocket with an audio outlet and anti-tangle headphone loops so you can spice up your winter adventures with music.
Patagonia Silent
Specs
- Best For: Hiking
- Fabric: Polyester (70% Recycled) Taffeta
- Insulation: Recycled Duck And Goose Down
- Weight: 1 lb. 4.8 oz.
- Hood: No
Features
- Water-repellent Shell Protects You From Both Rain And Snow
- Insulated With 100% Recycled Down
- Handwarmer Pockets Lined With Soft Microfleece For Extra Warmth
BEST FOR: UNIQUE DESIGN
The Patagonia Silent down shirt jacket has the look of an office shirt but the comfort of a winter jacket. It is made with 700-fill duck and goose down for warmth and polyester with a durable water-repellent for protection against rain and snow. Plus, both the down and the polyester are partially recycled, giving the jacket sustainability points. The resulting fabric is stretchy and quiet, as opposed to many other winter jackets that creak and rustle when you move.
The shirt-like collar is made to stand up, shielding the back of your neck from cold wind. The two side-entry pockets have a micro-fleece lining, warming up your hands and giving you comfort even in the bitter cold. Furthermore, there are two large chest pockets where you can stash any necessities. Finally, this jacket has adjustable sleeve cuffs with snap-tab closures that will seal in the warmth. Overall, this is a basic down jacket but it does have some hidden gems.
Dynafit Radical
Specs
- Best For: Backcountry Skiing
- Fabric: Nylon
- Insulation: 800-fill-power Downtek Goose Down
- Weight: 0.93 lbs
- Hood: Yes
Features
- Downtek Prevents Heat Loss While Staying Highly Packable
- Stretch Inserts Under The Arms Ensure Maximum Freedom Of Movement
- Reflective Details Add Visibility In Low Light
BEST FOR: SKIING IN THE BACKCOUNTRY
If you have plans to hike or ski in the outskirts of a rural place, the Dynafit Radical down hood jacket should be in your list of considerations. It has 800-fill hydrophobic goose down that resists water and maintains its loft and other qualities even in rain or snow. The nylon shell adds extra water-resistance to the jacket as well. And if your hands get cold during your adventures, the fleece-lined hand-warming pockets will fix them right up. Plus, a large chest pocket provides enough space for your traveling essentials.
This jacket also has plenty of athlete- and explorer-oriented features. For example, there are stretch inserts included under the arms for an ergonomic fit and freedom of movement, as well as ventilation. To protect you from cold drafts, the cuffs and hem are made with silicone elastic that maintains its fit even as you move around. Finally, some reflective details make you visible to other people, such as drivers, at night.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A DOWN JACKET
WEIGHT
One of the first things to consider when buying a down jacket is its weight. Considering that you will often have to carry the jacket in your backpack as you start to heat up, it is important to keep in mind how much pressure it will put on your shoulders. Here are some tips on what to wear hiking.
While down is generally a lightweight material, jackets can vary a lot in terms of weight. Ultralight jackets tend to come at a higher price, however there are no strict rules that determine when this label should be employed.
PACKABILITY
Another characteristic you should keep in mind when shopping for down jackets is their packed size. Some jackets are more compressible than others and you should always take into account how much space these jackets occupy in your luggage, especially if you plan to go backpacking for many days in a row.
Compared to synthetic materials, down has the advantage of offering unparalleled compressibility. Even the jackets with higher fill power can become tiny when packed down, although the thickness of the shell, pockets, and zippers can make a difference. Some jackets come with a stuff sack that will help you reduce the size of the packed jacket to a minimum.
FILL POWER
Fill power refers to the insulating quality of the down and usually ranges between 500 and 900. The measure is calculated based on the space occupied by one ounce of down feathers and indicates how effective it is in trapping body heat. A higher fill power means that the jacket will perform better in colder climates. Mid-range jackets usually provide a fill power of 550 to 650, while technical clothing used in extreme environments can go up to 800 or more.
WATERPROOFING
Most down jackets are treated to be fully waterproof, so it’s hard to go wrong here. The outer shell of the jacket is usually made with a synthetic material that is covered with DWR (Durable Water Repellent). DWR protects from moisture, rain, and snow.
Down stops protecting from the cold when it gets wet, which is why many brands treat the insulating material as well. Hydrophobic down has been made resistant to water before being inserted into the jacket, thus providing an extra layer of protection. Check out our guide on How to Layer Clothes for Cold Weather for more information.
HOOD
Some jackets come with a hood while others don’t. The clear advantage of the hood is that it offers additional protection to neck and head against both the cold and the rain. On the other hand, the hood can significantly increase the bulk of the jacket, reducing its packability and increasing its total weight.
FEATURES EXPLAINED
RIPSTOP FABRIC
A type of reinforced synthetic fabric, usually nylon, designed to be more durable and resist ripping.
DWR TREATMENT
Durable Water Repellent. A coating added to the outer shell of the jacket to make them water-resistant.
SHELL
The outer layer of the jacket.
FILL POWER
A number ranging from 500 to 900, indicating the quality of the down. Down with higher fill power offers more insulation.
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