Best Down Jackets of 2022

It's tough to beat a great down jacket, whether it’s for casual use or tearing around the backcountry. This cozy insulation type offers the best warmth-to-weight ratio on the market and packs down smaller than synthetics for easy storage. Below are the best down jackets of 2022, including leading down sweaters, ultralight models, and winter-weight designs for cold weather. For more background information on warmth, weight, denier and more, see our down jacket comparison table and buying advice below the picks. Of note: This article includes picks for both men and women, but we’ve also written a dedicated round-up on the best women’s down jackets.
 

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Our Team's Down Jacket Picks

• Best Overall Down Jacket: Patagonia Down Sweater
• Best Ultralight Down Jacket: Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 Hoody
• Best Budget Down Jacket: REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket 2.0
• Best Heavyweight Down Jacket: Rab Neutrino Pro
• Best Down Jacket for Everyday Use: Patagonia Silent Down Jacket

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Best Overall Down Jacket

1. Patagonia Down Sweater ($229)

Category: Lightweight
Weight: 13.1 oz.
Fill: 3.4 oz. of 800-fill-power down
What we like: Extremely versatile and looks great.
What we don't: A bit heavy for backcountry use.

The down jacket market ranges from performance to casual and everything in between, but you won’t find a more versatile option than the Patagonia Down Sweater. With 3.4 ounces of 800-fill-power down, the jacket is light and packable enough for backpacking and travel yet offers enough warmth to use as a midlayer for skiing. In addition, it looks great for everyday use—few outdoor companies can match Patagonia in crossover appeal. And we can't help but love the build quality. Of all of the brands we've tested, Patagonia jackets consistently last longer and end up winning us over with their longevity.

What are the shortcomings of the Down Sweater? At just over 13 ounces, it's a far cry from ultralight and you can shave significant weight with a number of the more backcountry-centric options below. Moreover, the fit isn’t as tailored as some of the performance designs on this list (the upside is that layering either over top or underneath is easy, which isn't the case with some technical pieces). Lastly, Patagonia products don't come cheap, although again, we love the sleek styling and you should get a very healthy lifespan out of this jacket... Read in-depth review
See the Men's Patagonia Down Sweater  See the Women's Patagonia Down Sweater

 

Best Ultralight Down Jacket

2. Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 Hoody ($325)

Category: Ultralight
Weight: 8.8 oz.
Fill: 3 oz. of 800-fill-power down
What we like: Incredible warmth for the weight and good feature set.
What we don’t: Fit is a bit boxy; non-elasticized cuffs don’t do a great job at sealing out the cold.

A couple seasons ago, Mountain Hardwear revamped one of the original ultralight down jackets: its popular Ghost Whisperer. Now the “2,” the latest model features a small increase in weight (about 1 oz. for the men’s hoody) but comes with a number of notable upgrades. To start, there’s a little more 800-fill down stuffed inside, and the recycled shell is a bit thicker, which translate to modest increases in warmth and durability. But the jacket stays true to its roots with excellent packability and a simply phenomenal warmth-to-weight ratio, while including important features like zippered hand pockets, a hem adjustment, and decent wind and water resistance. For fast-and-light missions, the Ghost Whisperer/2 remains a go-to choice.

Unfortunately, two elements that have not changed with the Ghost Whisperer/2 are its fit and cuff design. Unlike the tailored cut that you get from Arc’teryx Cerium LT or Feathered Friends Eos, the Mountain Hardwear is boxy and awkwardly large in the torso. It still layers reasonably well under a shell, but we’re surprised they haven’t given it a better performance fit considering its intended use. Further, the cuffs are loose and don’t provide a very solid seal, which can let cold air sneak through unless you throw on a pair of gloves. Despite these nitpicks, the rebooted Ghost Whisperer is very light, warm, and a favorite among serious outdoor adventurers... Read in-depth review
See the Men's MH Ghost Whisperer  See the Women's MH Ghost Whisperer

 

 Best Budget Down Jacket

3. REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket 2.0 ($100)

Category: Lightweight
Weight: 11 oz.
Fill: 4.2 oz. of 650-fill-power down
What we like: Fantastic price for a well-rounded, lightweight design.
What we don’t: No hem adjustment (men's version).

REI’s original 650 Down Jacket was our top budget pick for years, and their latest “2.0” sticks to the winning formula. The jacket is reasonably light at 11 ounces, provides solid warmth with over 4 ounces of 650-fill-power down, and stuffs into its own hand pocket. REI honed in the design for the newer version by adding recycled shell fabric, box-like baffling, and a nice variety of good-looking colorways. Importantly, they didn’t change the price by much (it went up by 45 cents), which easily undercuts competitors like the Outdoor Research Coldfront below by over $100. For daily use, travel, light adventuring, and as a midlayer for resort skiing, you just won’t find a better deal.

Budget-oriented products almost always come with compromises, and REI’s Down Jacket 2.0 does fall short for serious performance use. The 650-fill down isn’t quite as warm or compressible as the 800-fill Patagonia Down Sweater above, and the standard nylon shell isn’t as durable as the ripstop constructions you get on more expensive alternatives. In addition, the REI lacks a hem adjustment, which is limiting for dialing in fit (the hem is fairly stretchy, however). But circling back to value, the 650 Down Jacket’s combination of warmth, build quality, and price are simply unmatched (we even dedicated an article to breaking down why we think the REI is the best cheap down jacket currently on the market)... Read in-depth review
See the Men's REI 650 Down Jacket  See the Women's REI 650 Down Jacket

 

 Best Heavyweight Down Jacket for the Cold

4. Rab Neutrino Pro ($375)

Category: Heavyweight
Weight: 1 lb. 5.3 oz.
Fill: 7.5 oz. of 800-fill-power down
What we like: Tons of premium down at a reasonable price point.
What we don’t: Heavy and bulky; not versatile for year-round use.

For cold-weather climbing, frigid nights of winter camping, or as an extra layer during ski transitions, there’s no match for the security of a heavyweight down jacket. These jackets are epitomized by their sleeping-bag-like loft, tall and protective collars, and longer cut. Because they’re meant to be worn as an outer layer (you’d be hard-pressed to squeeze a hardshell overtop such a lofty piece), heavyweight down jackets also feature a durable, water-resistant shell and handy extras like internal stash pockets, which are great for storing skins or keeping your climbing shoes warm. It doesn’t get much better for all-out warmth, and our current favorite is the Rab Neutrino Pro.

One of the most noteworthy features of the Neutrino Pro is its Pertex Quantum Pro shell, which is impressively hardwearing and weather resistant despite its thin, lightweight build. This tough exterior makes the Rab fully capable as a belay jacket or outer layer in below-freezing conditions, although we wouldn’t test its limits in a rainstorm. And with 7.5 ounces of 800-fill-power down (for the men’s medium), you get about twice the warmth of most jackets here, which is a steal considering the Neutrino Pro’s $375 price tag. It’s true that the Neutrino Pro is undeniably heavy and bulky, and its chart-topping warmth means it’s not a versatile piece for summer hiking or backpacking. But for sleeping-bag-like loft and warmth on a cold winter day, it fits the bill... Read in-depth review
See the Men's Rab Neutrino Pro  See the Women's Rab Neutrino Pro

 

Best Down Jacket for Everyday Use

5. Patagonia Silent Down Jacket ($279)

Category: Lightweight
Weight: 1 lb. 4.7 ounces
Fill: 3.9 oz. of 700-fill-power down
What we like: Extremely soft and cozy design that excels for everyday wear.
What we don’t: Not a backcountry-ready piece.

Most of the down jackets here are intended for backcountry use, but there’s a time and place for a dedicated everyday jacket that prioritizes comfort and looks over all-out performance. Enter the Silent Down, which has a decidedly casual slant. With this jacket, you get a healthy amount of 700-fill-power down, a truly luxurious polyester shell and lining (70% recycled), and very clean styling that is a far cry from the more technical-looking models here. In addition, the shell minimizes the “swish-swish” sound common among down pieces (hence the name), and the hood can be zipped into the collar when not in use (a handy feature when layering under a shell). For everyday winter and shoulder-season wear, the Silent Down is another strong option from Patagonia.

As we touched on above, the main limitation of the Silent Down is its casually focused build. The soft fabric prioritizes stretchiness and a plush hand feel over packability, and its taffeta construction doesn’t inspire a lot of confidence around sharp equipment (it seems pretty easy to tear). Further, the jacket is on the heavy end of the spectrum at well over 1 pound, and it doesn’t include a stuff sack or pocket. But these are easy tradeoffs considering its intended use, and the Silent Down strikes us as the kind of jacket you’ll want to grab every day for months on end (we certainly did). For a similar casual option with even more down fill for frigid temperatures, check out Patagonia’s Jackson Glacier or the parka-length version of Mountain Hardwear’s Stretchdown below… Read in-depth review
See the Men's Patagonia Silent Down  See the Women's Patagonia Silent Down

 

Best of the Rest

6. Arc'teryx Cerium LT Hoody ($379)

Category: Light/ultralight
Weight: 10.8 oz.
Fill: 3.6 oz. of 850-fill-power down; 80g & 100g Coreloft
What we like: Serious performance chops; premium look and feel.
What we don’t: Expensive and slim fit isn't for everyone.

Oh, the beauty of Arc’teryx products. They generally cost the most, look the best, and perform well enough for seasoned adventurers to put them through the wringer on a consistent basis. The Cerium LT Hoody is the company’s leading lightweight down jacket and one sleek piece of gear. With a total weight of 10.8 ounces, a nearly complete feature set, a silky interior and exterior, and a very clean design overall, the Cerium LT plays and looks the part. We also like the use of Down Composite Mapping, which includes synthetic insulation in areas prone to getting wet. While most jackets on this list are strictly down, Arc’teryx has created a really nice balance of lightweight warmth and functionality.

The most common knock against Arc’teryx products is price. At $379, the Cerium LT is a full $150 more than our top-ranked Down Sweater, which will get the job done for all but the most discerning users. In addition, the fit is on the slim/athletic side, which can be great for performance use but won’t work for everyone and limits how much you can layer underneath. And if you're going to hand over this much cash, it's worth considering the Feathered Friends Eos below, which has more down, a higher fill power at 900, and weighs slightly less. But all gripes aside, the Cerium is an exceptionally well-built piece of gear, looks great (we frequently get compliments when wearing it around town), and can more than handle its own in the backcountry... Read in-depth review
See the Men's Arc'teryx Cerium LT  See the Women's Arc'teryx Cerium LT

 

7. Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie ($229)

Category: Midweight
Weight: 1 lb. 4.7 oz. 
Fill: 5.3 oz. of 700-fill-power down & 150g VerticalX ECO
What we like: Comfy, classy, and well-priced for what you get.
What we don’t: Doesn’t pack down nearly as small as more premium options.

Outdoor Research jackets aren’t always the highest-quality or most technical on the market, but they are some of the best values. The new Coldfront Down Hoodie carries the torch: at $229, it’s a considerable step down in price from the more premium options on this list but doesn’t fall too far behind in terms of performance. Warmth is quite impressive with 5.3 ounces of 700-fill down, plus you get more weather-ready VerticalX ECO synthetic insulation at the shoulders and cuffs. We also love the soft-yet-rugged shell and nice touches like fleece-lined handwarmer pockets, snug-fitting cuff gaiters with thumb loops, and classy branding on the sleeve. For everyday use and casual winter adventuring, the Coldfront is a very well-rounded option.

It’s worth noting that the Coldfront replaces Outdoor Research’s well-loved Transcendent but differs in a few key ways. Most notably, OR upped the fill power from 650 to 700 and added 1.1 ounces more down, but the addition of synthetic fill and a more durable shell (30D vs. the Transcendent’s 20D) increased total weight by more than 4 ounces, which is significant. That said, neither jacket is a true performance piece, so this doesn’t necessarily change the equation for us, and we appreciate the Coldfront’s tougher exterior for both front- and backcountry use. It doesn’t pack down as small as the higher-fill-power options above and below, but considering the price and warmth, it’s all most people need in a down jacket.
See the Men's Outdoor Research Coldfront  See the Women's Outdoor Research Coldfront

 

8. Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Hoody ($290)

Category: Light/midweight
Weight: 1 lb. 4.5 oz.
Fill: 4.3 oz. of 700-fill-power down
What we like: Super comfortable and one of the best-looking jackets on this list. 
What we don’t: Pricey for a casual piece.

Mountain Hardwear launched its Stretchdown line a handful of years ago, epitomized by soft and stretchy shells and welded seams (rather than stitched baffles). The goal here was to combine the insulation of down with the range of motion, durability, and comfort of a softshell—and we’d say Mountain Hardwear pulled it off pretty well. The jacket’s knit fabric is very tough, and the stretchiness gives it a plush feel that you typically don’t get from a down piece. Tack on some clean styling—even the logo is understated—and the Stretchdown is a practical and good-looking jacket for everyday use.

But like the Patagonia Silent Down above, the performance chops of the Stretchdown are limited: The 700-fill-power down has less loft than the true backcountry pieces on this list, and the jacket is bulky and heavy for the amount of warmth you get. Further, $275 is no small price for a casual item (you can save with the REI 650 above or Cotopaxi below), and some will appreciate the even more casual appearance of the Silent Down. Finally, we have noticed that the Stretchdown’s fabric has a tendency to hold stains, and the elastic in our cuffs has grown tired over time. But we have a soft spot for this jacket (no pun intended), which receives compliments almost every time we go out. It’s also worth noting that Mountain Hardwear offers a number of versions of the Stretchdown, including a heavyweight parka (one of our tester’s go-to jackets for everyday winter use).
See the Men's Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown  See the Women's Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown

 

9. Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoodie ($279)

Category: Light/midweight
Weight: 15.4 oz.
Fill: 3.9 oz. of 800-fill down
What we like: Waterproof fabric on the hood and shoulders; particularly abrasion resistant.
What we don’t: Shell is fairly crinkly; heavy for a performance-oriented jacket.

For all their inherent strengths, down jackets aren’t perfect: Namely, they perform poorly in wet weather and their thin fabrics are often lacking in durability. But with the Helium Down Hoodie, Outdoor Research addresses both of these concerns in one fell swoop. The Helium uses Pertex’s Diamond Fuse technology throughout the shell, which improves abrasion resistance without adding weight. On top of that, you get waterproof Pertex Shield—the same fabric used in OR’s popular Helium Rain jacket—on the hood and shoulders for protection from rain and melting snow. The result is a sub-1-pound down jacket that is both impressively durable and relatively capable in wet weather.

But while the Helium Down’s partially waterproof shell is a nice touch, you won’t find us relying on it for much more than a light rain or snow. In terms of the competition, the Cerium LT above is significantly lighter, and the use of synthetic Coreloft in the hood and shoulders (which insulates even when wet) lends similar wet-weather assurance. In addition, we’ve found the crinkly Diamond Fuse shell makes the OR jacket a little less cozy than an alternative like the Cerium, and the jacket is known to run small for its size. Nitpicks aside, the Helium’s solid weatherproofing and durability make it an intriguing standalone piece, earning it a spot on our list.
See the Men's Outdoor Research Helium Down  See the Women's OR Helium Down

 

10. Feathered Friends Eos ($389)

Category: Light/ultralight
Weight: 10.8 oz.
Fill: 3.7 oz. of 900-fill-power down
What we like: Superb build quality and warmth-to-weight ratio.
What we don’t: Expensive and streamlined styling isn't for everyone.

Feathered Friends doesn’t do splashy marketing campaigns like other gear brands, but this down specialist gets a whole lot of respect among the alpine community (if you’re in Seattle, the store is across from the REI flagship and makes for a fun visit). Here’s what you get from Feathered Friends: premium construction (including some of the highest-fill-power down on the market), local manufacturing in Seattle or Vancouver, and a decently competitive price given that they only sell their products in-house. Their performance-oriented lineup of jackets ranges from lightweight designs to heavyweight expedition-grade parkas, and the Eos stands out as the most approachable option for the masses. With an impressive 3.7 ounces of 900-fill down in a 10.8-ounce build, it offers more warmth for the weight than just about any jacket here.

So why isn’t the Eos ranked higher? For one, the jacket is built for performance, and the streamlined fit and feature set aren’t quite as appealing for daily wear as competitors like the Arc’teryx Cerium LT or Patagonia Down Sweater above (that said, a recent update tacks on an exterior zip pocket and adjustable hood, making the Eos more functional than ever). Second, the jacket is pricey at $389, which puts it in the same price range as mid and heavyweight offerings like the Rab Neutrino Pro and OR Super Alpine. And a final consideration is availability: Even in normal years (Covid notwithstanding), there can be a delay before the jacket ships out. But if you’re willing to wait, the Eos is one of the best performing down jackets on the market for weight-conscious climbers, skiers, and more... Read in-depth review
See the Men's Feathered Friends Eos  See the Women's Feathered Friends Eos

 

11. Norrøna Falketind Down750 Hood ($299)

Category: Lightweight
Weight: 15.7 oz.
Fill: 3.5 oz. of 750-fill-power down; synthetic
What we like: Thoughtful design boosts weather resistance and durability.
What we don’t: Heavy and limited storage.

Norrøna might not be on everyone’s radar, but the Norwegian company has a serious lineup of outerwear built for performance use. Their Falketind Down750 is a lightweight down jacket that has served us well both as a cold-weather midlayer (worn underneath a hardshell) and standalone piece in milder conditions. A number of features set it apart from other jackets here, including body-mapped insulation—the down fill is centered largely around the core, while synthetic fill is used in exposed areas for added durability and weather protection—and fabric reinforcements (45D) at the shoulders and lower arms for abrasion resistance. We wore the Falketind Down750 for a winter of travel (including a 16-day trek in Nepal and backcountry skiing in BC), and it proved itself a capable companion in fall and winter conditions.

That said, we do have a few minor gripes with the Falketind Down750’s design. First off, both of our handwarmer pockets have stitching on the inside that reduces the usable area by a sizable margin (we undid the stitches in one pocket but our handiwork resulted in a damaged zipper). Second, the jacket lacks interior storage (we appreciate dump pockets for storing skins or climbing shoes), and the hand pockets’ low placement makes them inaccessible under our backpack’s hip belt. Finally, the Norrøna is heavier than much of the lightweight competition (you can get comparable warmth for almost 5 oz. less with the Eos above), although many will consider this a fair trade for the added water resistance and durability. Added up, the Falketind Down750 is a hardwearing and thoughtfully designed down jacket with the top-notch build quality we’ve come to expect from Norrøna... Read in-depth review
See the Men's Norrøna Falketind Down750  See the Women's Norrøna Falketind Down750

 

12. Outdoor Research Super Alpine Down Parka ($399)

Category: Heavyweight
Weight: 1 lb. 13.1 oz. 
Fill: 8.1 oz. of 800-fill-power down
What we like: Parka-length coverage, water-resistant shell, and lots of loft.
What we don’t: Heavier than the Neutrino Pro without noticeably more insulation.

The Rab Neutrino Pro above is our favorite heavyweight down jacket for cold-weather adventuring, but just about every outdoor brand has a like-minded offering. Outdoor Research’s Super Alpine fits a similar bill, but ups the ante with a half-ounce more down and a thicker Pertex Quantum Pro shell (30D vs. the Rab’s 20D). Notably, it also features a 3-inch longer center back length (33.5 vs. 30.3 in.), which translates to more coverage, especially when sitting in snow. For ice climbing, winter camping, or mountaineering, the Super Alpine is another solid option and a great value at $399.

But while the Super Alpine provides a bump in protection compared to the Neutrino Pro, you’ll have to ask yourself if it’s worth the extra half-pound of weight (not to mention some additional bulk). Keep in mind that the OR doesn’t nessarily offer more warmth in the core area—the down is more spread out than the Rab’s given the longer hem—but the tougher shell and additional coverage will be a boon for some. And if you’re looking for even more insulation (for high-altitude mountaineering, for example), it’s also worth checking out souped-up parkas like the Patagonia Grade VII ($899) and Arc’teryx Alpha Parka ($999), both of which are warmer and lighter than the Super Alpine. But the OR is a well-rounded heavyweight parka that won’t break the bank, and all the performance most winter adventurers need.
See the Men's Outdoor Research Super Alpine  See the Women's Outdoor Research Super Alpine

 

13. Rab Cubit Stretch Down Hoody ($300)

Category: Midweight
Weight: 1 lb. 3.9 oz.
Fill: 6.1 oz. of 700-fill-power down
What we like: Warm, stylish, and a real standout in terms of comfort.
What we don’t: Pricey and falls short of true performance pieces in weight and packability.

Stretch-woven shells are a new trend in down jackets, and Rab recently threw their hat into the ring with the Cubit Stretch Down Hoody. Like the Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown above, the Cubit features a soft and pliable shell by way of Pertex’s 3D Weave Technology, along with welded baffles to keep insulation in place without the need for stitches. And it ups the ante in terms of warmth, with 6.1 ounces of 700-fill down compared to the Stretchdown’s 4.3 ounces. In fact, the first time we put on the Cubit, we were struck by its loft, which felt on par with a jacket like the OR Coldfront above. And as we’ve come to expect from Rab, build quality is excellent with a high attention to detail.

A strong argument can be made for the Rab Cubit over the Stretchdown. You get a bit more performance with the Rab, including a weather-resistant Pertex shell with durable water repellent finish, hydrophobic down, and more warmth for less weight overall. The jacket’s shortcomings are similar: the Cubit’s bulk and heft take it out of the running for weight-conscious missions, and $300 is expensive for a casual down jacket. But while we’ve found the quality of Rab’s outerwear to be superior to that of Mountain Hardwear, the Stretchdown’s design and colorway options are particularly special and eye-catching, which is what most people are looking for in an everyday piece. But the Rab is nevertheless a warm, comfortable, and durable down jacket, great for use around town and casual backcountry outings (we love to wear it to the crag)... Read in-depth review
See the Men's Rab Cubit Stretch Down Hoody  See the Women's Cubit Stretch Down Hoody

 

14. Fjallraven Expedition Pack Down Hoodie ($275)

Category: Lightweight
Weight: 1 lb. 1.3 oz.
Fill: 3.9 oz. of 700-fill-power down & synthetic
What we like: High-end look and feel; athletic fit.
What we don’t: Heavier than the lightweight competition.

Swedish brand Fjallraven does a nice job of marrying premium design with performance, as evidenced by their Expedition Pack down jacket. We’ll start by noting that you don’t get the 800-fill-power down or higher that brands like Arc’teryx or Patagonia offer, but for casual use and done-in-a-day adventures, it’s a quality option. The jacket has a healthy amount of 700-fill down for warmth, synthetic insulation in the shoulders for extra weather resistance and toughness, a terrific hood, and an athletic fit that is less baggy than many options on this list. All in all, we like the premium looks and versatility of the Expedition Pack.

In terms of competitors, the Fjallraven offers a similar level of warmth as of our top picks like the Patagonia Down Sweater and Arc’teryx Cerium LT above, but it’s not quite as light or packable, limiting its backcountry appeal. This said, we appreciate the durability of Fjallraven products in general, and the synthetic insulation in the shoulders makes wearing a pack for extended periods more feasible (it’s a nice option for hiking and snowshoeing). And there’s no denying the Expedition Pack’s coziness, attention to detail, and good looks, which are a testament to the brand’s overall expertise. Finally, for those interested in using the Expedition Pack as a midlayer, Fjallraven makes a non-hooded version for $250... Read in-depth review 
See the Men's Fjallraven Expedition Pack  See the Women's Expedition Pack

 

15. Mountain Equipment Lightline Eco ($325)

Category: Heavyweight
Weight: 1 lb. 12.9 oz.
Fill: 10.4 oz. of 700-fill-power down
What we like: Super warm and tough, looks good, and a great value.
What we don't: Lower fill power than the more premium options.

There is a lot to like about the Lightline Eco jacket from Mountain Equipment. First, it has the highest fill weight on this list at 10.4 ounces of 700-fill down, which makes it a great option for seriously cold conditions (and earns it a spot in our round-up of best winter jackets). Second, it offers excellent protection from the elements with a windproof and water-resistant Drilite shell that's also the thickest here at 50 denier. Third, we really like the Lightline’s clean looks—it’s a nice choice for everything from technical use to everyday wear in cold climates. And last but not least, it’s a great value at $325, especially considering many jackets with a fraction of the down cost more.

How does the Mountain Equipment Lightline Eco compare to other cold-weather jackets on this list? The 700-fill duck down is respectable but falls short of being ultra-premium, and therefore the jacket doesn’t offer quite as much warmth for the weight as an option like the 800-fill Rab Neutrino Pro above. It also won’t compress down quite as easily for its size (the burly shell fabric plays a big role here), although 700-fill down still does pretty well in this regard. All told, if you’re willing to sacrifice a little on fill power, the Lightline is warm, versatile, looks great, and won’t break the bank. And while availability is currently limited, we expect to see Mountain Equipment release more size and colorway options in late summer.
See the Men's Mountain Equipment Lightline Eco

 

16. Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket ($280)

Category: Midweight
Weight: 1 lb. 1 oz.
Fill: 5 oz. of 750-fill-power down
What we like: A nice level of warmth with a water-resistant build.
What we don’t: A tad heavy for the backcountry. 

Rab’s popular Microlight Alpine Jacket pays tribute to the brand’s climbing heritage. To start, it's built to handle wind and light moisture thanks to a tough Pertex Quantum shell, DWR coating, and hydrophobic down. Further, we found the rigid structure of the jacket’s wire-brimmed hood has a hardshell-like feel, offering great all-around coverage and protection. You’ll still want to don a waterproof layer if the skies open up, but the Microlight Alpine stands out as one of the more weather-resistant midweight down jackets we’ve tested.

Packing 5 ounces of 750-fill-power down in a men’s large, the Rab is warmer than competitors like Patagonia’s Down Sweater Hoody (3.7 ounces of 800-fill down) and Feathered Friends’ Eos (3.7 ounces of 900-fill down). But like the Feathered Friends, it can’t match the Patagonia in terms of everyday appeal. The jacket’s slim fit is polarizing (especially in the men's version), and the European-style left-hand zipper takes some getting used to. And for hauling in a pack, it’s on the heavy side at 1 pound 1 ounces, but that extra weight does come with a boost in insulation. Overall, we think the Rab’s combination of warmth, weather resistance, and reasonable $280 price make it a well-rounded backcountry piece... Read in-depth review
See the Men's Rab Microlight Alpine  See the Women's Rab Microlight Alpine

 

 17. Arc’teryx Thorium AR ($325)

Category: Midweight
Weight: 1 lb 1.3 oz.
Fill: 4.6 oz. of 700-fill-power down; 80g & 140g Coreloft
What we like: Thicker shell fabric than the Cerium LT above and a bit more warmth. 
What we don’t: Decently heavy for a down jacket. 

The Arc’teryx Cerium LT above is an ultralight backcountry piece with a thin 10-denier shell, but that doesn’t come without sacrifices. For a bit less of a specialized down jacket from Arc’teryx, the Thorium AR is considerably more durable with a 30-denier shell, has more down (although it uses 700-fill-power down instead of 850), and costs $50 less. For all types of outdoor activities including everyday use around town, the Thorium arguably is the more versatile option and one that you won’t have to worry about as much.

The most notable downsides of the Thorium AR come with the increased weight and size. At just over 1 pound, it’s less attractive for uses like backpacking and climbing when every ounce counts, and it won’t pack down as small as the Cerium. Also, keep in mind that Arc’teryx jackets have a very athletic fit in general, and given that the Thorium often is used as a midlayer, you may want to size up if you are on the fence. But with a touch more warmth than the Cerium LT and a more hardwearing build for less money, there is a lot to like about the Thorium... Read in-depth review
See the Men's Arc'teryx Thorium AR  See the Women's Arc'teryx Thorium AR

 

18. Cotopaxi Fuego ($275)

Category: Lightweight
Weight: 14 oz.
Fill: 800-fill-power down
What we like: Retro styling with premium down fill.
What we don’t: Materials aren't very soft; not everyone likes the striped colorways.

Many down jacket brands keep their styling fairly close to the cuff, but Cotopaxi stands out with its fun, retro designs. The Utah brand’s leading down jacket is the Fuego, which gets you premium 800-fill down (we were unable to track down the fill weight from the company), along with a versatile 20-denier shell that is reasonably tough while keep weight down. Of course, the retro styling is what stands out most and Cotopaxi currently is offering the jacket in nine colorways, all but one with the signature multi-colored baffles on the front. Throw in responsibly sourced down and the fact that Cotopaxi is a certified B Corp, and the Fuego is an easy jacket to get behind.

In terms of competitors, Patagonia’s Down Sweater uses the same 800-fill down and has a slightly thicker 20 x 30-denier shell but is 1 ounce heavier and costs $279 (without fill weight, it’s difficult to make a more exacting comparison). The biggest reason we rank the Cotopaxi here is material quality: the Fuego has a noticeably plasticky and slippery feel, especially when held up against pricier options like the Patagonia, which is much softer by comparison. But the Cotopaxi Fuego hits a nice balance of performance chops, casual appeal, and value, which is why we've included it on our list... Read in-depth review
See the Men's Cotopaxi Fuego  See the Women's Cotopaxi Fuego

 

19. Montbell Plasma 1000 Down Jacket ($329)

Category: Ultralight
Weight: 4.8 oz.
Fill: 1.6 oz. of 1,000-fill-power down
What we like: Incredible warmth-to-weight ratio—the best on the market.
What we don't: Super thin shell fabric is lacking in durability.

Among serious alpinists, you won’t find an outdoor brand with more street cred than Montbell. This Japan-based company makes gear for those who depend on it, and doesn’t spend much on paid athletes or splashy marketing campaigns. But the proof is in the pudding: Montbell makes some of the most well-respected ultralight insulation on the market, and their most unique offering is the Plasma 1000. With ultra-premium 1,000-fill-power down (that is not a misprint) along with a paper-thin 7-denier shell, it’s by far the lightest down jacket on this list at an incredible 4.8 ounces all-in.

Why isn’t the Montbell Plasma 1000 ranked higher? First, the 1.6 ounces of down fill is pretty meager—it may work for warm-weather backpacking on a route like the Appalachian Trail, but on its own, may not provide enough insulation even for summer nights in the mountains. Second, the 7-denier shell is extremely thin and requires extra care to prevent holes and snags. Last but not least, the fit of the jacket felt quite short on us. It’s listed as having a 27-inch length down the center back, but certainly didn’t feel that way in person (the medium was way too short while the large was too baggy). Nevertheless, the Plasma is an impressive technological feat, and for the right person, a fun jacket to have in your quiver.
See the Men's Montbell Plasma 1000  See the Women's Montbell Plasma 1000

 

Down Jacket Comparison Table

Jacket	Price	Weight	Category	Fill Power	Fill Weight	Denier	Packable
Patagonia Down Sweater	$229	13.1 oz.	Lightweight	800	3.4 oz.	20Dx30D	Chest pocket
MH Ghost Whisperer/2	$325	8.8 oz.	Ultralight	800	3 oz.	10Dx10D	Hand pocket
REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket	$100	11 oz.	Lightweight	650	4.2 oz.	20D	Hand pocket
Rab Neutrino Pro	$375	1 lb. 5.3 oz.	Heavyweight	800	7.5 oz.	20D	Stuff sack
Patagonia Silent Down	$279	1 lb. 4.7 oz.	Lightweight	700	3.9 oz.	Unavail.	No
Arc'teryx Cerium LT Hoody	$379	10.8 oz.	Light/ultralight	850	3.6 oz.	10D	Stuff sack
Outdoor Research Coldfront	$229	1 lb. 4.7 oz.	Midweight	700	5.3 oz.	30D	Hand pocket
MTN Hardwear Stretchdown	$290	1 lb. 4.5 oz.	Light/midweight	700	4.3 oz.	Unavail.	No
OR Helium Down	$279	15.4 oz.	Light/midweight	800	3.9 oz.	15Dx30D	Hand pocket
Feathered Friends Eos	$389	10.8 oz.	Light/ultralight	900	3.7 oz.	12Dx20D	Stuff sack
Norrøna Falketind Down750	$299	15.7 oz.	Lightweight	750	3.5 oz.	20&45D	Hand pocket
OR Super Alpine	$399	1 lb. 13.1 oz.	Heavyweight	800	8.1 oz.	30D	Stuff sack
Rab Cubit Stretch Down	$300	1 lb. 3.9 oz.	Midweight	700	6.1 oz.	Unavail.	No
Fjallraven Expedition Pack	$275	1 lb. 1.3 oz.	Lightweight	700	3.9 oz.	Unavail.	Pocket
MTN Equipment Lightline	$325	1 lb. 12.9 oz.	Heavyweight	700	10.4 oz.	50D	No
Rab Microlight Alpine	$280	1 lb. 1 oz.	Midweight	750	5 oz.	30D	Stuff sack
Arc'teryx Thorium AR	$325	1 lb. 1.3 oz.	Midweight	700	4.6 oz.	30D	Stuff sack
Cotopaxi Fuego	$275	14 oz.	Lightweight	800	Unavail.	20D	Pocket
Montbell Plasma 1000	$329	4.8 oz.	Ultralight	1,000	1.6 oz.	7D	Stuff sack

 

Down Jacket Buying Advice

• Down Jacket Categories
• Warmth
  • ​Fill Power
  • Fill Weight
  • Our Estimated Temperature Scale
• ​Weight
• Shell Fabric Durability (Denier)
• Compressibility and Packed Size
• Hydrophobic Down and DWR
• Fit
• Hood or No Hood?
• Women's-Specific Down Jackets
• What About Synthetic Jackets?

Down Jacket Categories

Lightweight
The lightweight down jacket category is the industry’s most popular and what most folks are in the market for. Warmth and wearability are top priorities, and you won’t find technical features like helmet-compatible hoods, slim fits, and ultralight shells. But they perform well for everyday use, travel, light adventuring, and layering for winter sports. The temperature range for these jackets depends on factors like layering and exertion, but we find that lightweight models are typically suitable for approximately 35 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (more on this in “Our Estimated Temperature Scale” below). Leading models include the Patagonia Down Sweater, REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket 2.0, and Cotopaxi Fuego.

Ultralight
Ultralight down jackets are focused pieces designed for backpacking, climbing, backcountry skiing, and other outdoor pursuits where every ounce matters. These down jackets generally have similar fill weights as lightweight down sweaters, but are ultralight due their use of premium down (fill power), thin shell fabrics (denier), and minimalist zippers and pockets. Interestingly, we frequently see this category of down jacket worn as daily layers around cities, including the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 and Arc'teryx Cerium LT (which lands in between the light and ultralight styles). They are high-quality jackets in general, and if you are willing to take a little extra care to avoid damaging the shell, they offer a great combination of warmth relative to their weight and athletic fit that's easy to layer.

Midweight and Heavyweight
Down jackets in mid and heavyweight categories represent a significant step up in warmth from lightweight and ultralight models, and are intended for serious winter conditions and uses like alpine climbing and mountaineering. Most notably, you’ll see the fill weights go up from the 3- to 4-ounce range (Patagonia Down Sweater) to 10.4 ounces (Mountain Equipment Lightline Eco) or more. They also are far puffier than the other categories with more down, and as a result take up quite a bit more space in your pack. Because of this, we only bring them along if the extra warmth is absolutely necessary. We’ve included a number of our favorite mid and heavyweight options in this article, but for a deeper dive into the market, see our round-up on the best winter jackets.

Warmth

It all starts with that lofty and premium warmth that can only be found in a down-filled product. Down insulation functions so effectively because the loose clusters of feathers are great at trapping body heat. But unlike down sleeping bags, which have an official EN rating system that tests and measures their warmth on a concrete scale, down jackets are more like the Wild West. Below is information that should help you fill in the gaps.

Fill Power
Fill power (600-fill, 700-fill, 800-fill, etc.) is how the quality of down is measured, and the higher the fill the better the down. The number is calculated based on how much space one ounce of down clusters takes up in a cylindrical tube. This is known as the amount of loft, and the more loft a jacket has, the more body heat it traps and the warmer you will be. Put another way, achieving the same amount of warmth with a lower fill power requires more down, adding weight and bulk to achieve the same comfort goals.

For jackets, 550 to 650-fill down is what you’ll find on most entry and mid-level models, which is perfectly respectable for daily wear but falls short for performance use. Premium down is 800-fill and above, which is what Arc’teryx, Patagonia, and Mountain Hardwear use for their high-end down jackets. At this level of quality, you reap the highly touted benefits of down insulation: lightweight and ultra-compressible warmth. Some high-end climbing brands like Feathered Friends and Montbell use 900-fill down, but that high of a number is a rarity and 800-fill is considered premium. In 2013, Patagonia experimented with a 1,000-fill down jacket, the Encapsil, but hasn’t yet brought it back to market, and Montbell currently offers the 1,000-fill Plasma Down Jacket and Parka with thin 7D shells.

Fill Weight
Fill power gets the most press, but fill weight is perhaps the most important factor in determining a down jacket’s warmth. Fill weight is the actual amount of down stuffed into a jacket, measured in ounces. For example, if Jacket A has 6 ounces of 800-fill down and Jacket B has 3 ounces of 800-fill down, you can expect that Jacket A will be significantly warmer (we estimate that it would increase comfort levels in low output activities by approximately 10-20 degrees). Lower fill power down offers less warmth per ounce, so to compare apples to apples you should use similar fill powers.

We find it interesting that fill weight is much less publicized than fill power, which leads to a lot of confusion for shoppers who associate higher fill power as always meaning more warmth. Apparently the fill power numbers are far sexier, and as a result, we sometimes have to call the manufacturers to track down fill weight as it’s not always listed (for more information, see our article: Down Fill and Insulation Explained). 

Our Estimated Temperature Scale
It’s tough to pinpoint an exact temperature range in which you will feel comfortable wearing a down jacket (there’s a reason no one has attempted to create a standardized rating system). Factors like fit, layering, your levels of exertion and circulation, and wind all play a role.

Generally, we think of down sweaters and ultralights—which usually have between 2 and 4 ounces of fill weight—as providing solid warmth in conditions ranging from around 35 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (2 to 15 degrees Celsius) with low levels of exertion, such as puttering around a campsite. More fill will help you move toward the bottom end of the range and less will push you toward the middle. A cozy baselayer can buy you an extra 5 to 15 degrees depending on its thickness and quality. These types of jackets are very popular for three-season alpine use and in cities for everything but the heart of winter. 

When the mercury drops below freezing, you will be more comfortable wearing a true midweight or heavyweight down jacket for winter. The fill weight of these jackets should be 4 ounces at the absolute minimum and often is in the range of 5 to 6 ounces or more (the Outdoor Research Super Alpine Down Parka, for instance, has more at 8.1 oz.). For bitter cold and climbing the highest peaks, an even heavier down parka may be in order.

Weight

For uses like backpacking, climbing, mountaineering, ski touring, or whenever you have to lug around your own gear, the total weight of your down jacket should play a significant role in your buying decision. Jackets like the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 (8.8 oz.) and Feathered Friends Eos (10.6 oz.) weigh very little for the warmth they provide and compress down extremely small in your pack. As a result of all the fun tech, they also cost considerably more than your typical down sweater. On the other hand, if you just need a layer for around town and occasional outdoor uses like downhill skiing, you'll be completely fine with a somewhat heavier and more affordable build like the 1-pound-4.7-ounce Outdoor Research Coldfront. Finally, winter-ready jackets will obviously be the heaviest options, including the 1-pound-15.8-ounce REI Stormhenge Down Hybrid.

“Ultralight” is a buzzword of sorts that you will inevitably run into when shopping for a down jacket, and it’s worth noting there aren’t hard-and-fast rules as to what qualifies. We keep a close eye on the ratio of fill weight to total weight to see what lengths the manufacturer went to trim weight (the shell denier is a good hint too, and more on that below). At the extreme end of the spectrum is Montbell's Plasma 1000, which packs 1.6 ounces of down inside a superlight 4.8-ounce package. When gear companies really prioritize cutting weight, you’ll see changes to zippers, a trim fit, and a lack of pockets. Some even opt for a pullover style to cut out half of the zipper. No matter what the manufacturer names a jacket, keep a close eye on fill weight and total weight to make your own determination.

Shell Fabric Durability (Denier) 

Denier (D) is the measurement of the weight of a thread, and the lower the number the lighter the weight. A lower denier rating means the material is less durable and more prone to tears or punctures. Much of the difference in weight of an ultralight jacket is trimmed by using a lower denier fabric for the shell. Other factors like premium down (it provides the most warmth for the least amount of weight) and ultralight zippers play a role as well, but the shell fabric is most important.

Almost every jacket on this list is made with reasonably lightweight shell fabrics. The thinnest jacket is the Montbell Plasma 1000 , which has a very fragile 7D shell, and the thickest (at least among those that report this spec) is the Mountain Equipment Lightline Eco, which has a 50D shell. 10D is pretty standard for ultralights, and a more substantial 20D is what you’ll often find in an average down sweater. Don’t underestimate the importance of denier: even the difference from 10D to 20D can play a significant role in the total weight and potential lifespan of your jacket. If ounces matter and you intend to use the jacket in the backcountry, treat yourself to an ultralight. If most of your use will be in the city, a down sweater is sturdier and should save you money in the process.

Aside from denier, there are a few more factors to keep in mind when judging a jacket's durability. First off is any technology present in the shell material. Pertex's Quantum Pro (as seen in the Rab Neutrino Pro) is one of our favorite fabric techs, and known to be particularly abrasion resistant—we've tested jackets with 10-denier Quantum Pro shells and found them to be remarkably tough and hard-wearing. Pertex's Diamond Fuse (seen in the OR Helium Down) is also impressive. A second factor is the presence of stretch in the material. Spearheaded by designs like the Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Hoody, we're seeing more and more down jackets use stretch-woven shells, which lend comfort, mobility, and a good deal of tear resistance.

Compressibility and Packed Size

Down enthusiasts love its compressibility and for good reason. An ultralight jacket like the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 can be stuffed into its own pocket and end up much smaller than a Nalgene bottle. The tiny packed size means you have little reason to leave it behind, and can fit it easily into either a daypack or overnight backpacking pack.

Keep in mind that the higher the fill power the more easily it will compress. This is noticeable when you get into premium levels of down (800-fill and above), which pack down to seemingly impossible sizes yet bounce back after only a few minutes out of the bag (as long as you don’t store it compressed too long). Fabric thickness also plays an important role, and thinner denier fabrics logically pack down smaller. Along with warmth for the weight, compressibility is an area where down dominates the vast majority of synthetic-insulated jackets.

Hydrophobic Down and DWR Treatment

Down feathers unfortunately lose much of their ability to insulate when wet, turning into a clumpy and soggy mess. This makes them a serious liability in wet conditions or if you’re sweating heavily, which is why some prefer a synthetic jacket that continues to insulate when wet.

Nowadays, a lot of gear manufacturers treat down to make it more water resistant. They do this by adding a polymer to the down before filling the jacket, and the result is that it resists water better and you don’t have to worry as much about light precipitation. Even though it still doesn’t match the wet weather performance of synthetics, we love the hydrophobic down movement. If you’re headed out in a wet area like the Pacific Northwest or New Zealand, a jacket with hydrophobic down like the Ghost Whisperer/2 (and a waterproof shell) is a smart choice.

Another way that gear manufacturers fight moisture is a DWR (durable water repellant) treatment on the outside on the jacket. This treatment helps prevent water droplets from forming and entering your jacket—essentially the water has a harder time staying on the fabric and beads up and rolls off instead. Neither a DWR finish nor hydrophobic down will keep your down completely dry, but they make nice lines of defense against light to moderate precipitation. 
 

Fit 

Fit is jacket-specific, but there are two main considerations here. First, down sweaters have a more casual fit than ultralight or performance jackets, including boxier torsos, arms, and hoods (when available). Fit also varies significantly by brand. From our experience, Arc’teryx jackets like the Cerium LT Hoody fit the slimmest of all, which we refer to simply as the “Arc’teryx fit.” Guides and ultra-athletic folks who frequently use the gear are a key contingent for Arc’teryx, which helps explain the fit. We also like the athletic cuts on layers from Mountain Equipment and Rab. Brands like Patagonia, Outdoor Research, and Mountain Hardwear often have more accommodating shapes that balance everyday comfort with performance. And finally, we’ve found that REI Co-op and Marmot fall on the roomier end of the spectrum, and we occasionally need to size down (including with our REI 650 Down Jacket 2.0).

Hood or No Hood?

Most down jackets on this list are offered in hooded and non-hooded versions. The non-hooded version is slightly cheaper and weighs less, but you don’t get the advantage of the extra warmth and comfort. For casual use or as a midlayer for skiing, many people opt for a down vest or go without the hood and carry a separate beanie instead. For backpacking and climbing, many people get the hood and don’t regret it. You’ll notice that in our picks above, we listed down sweaters in the non-hooded versions (when available), which are the most commonly purchased, and the ultralights with hoods, also the most common for that variety of jacket. For a deeper dive into the topic, see our article: Does Your Down Jacket Need a Hood?.

Women’s-Specific Down Jackets

This article is unisex in nature and we have both men and women gear testers getting outdoors in all seasons and types of conditions (and you’ll notice that whenever possible, product buttons are provided for both the men’s and women’s versions). In addition, we have created a round-up of the best women’s-specific down jackets covering that category in particular. Many of the models are the same but the names and colorways sometimes vary. On occasion, a specific design feature or the fit will differ. And there are products that are only available for women or vice versa. Regardless, we hope that it’s helpful for those who prefer to see how the women's-specific designs stack up.

What About Synthetic Jackets?

There is a lot to be said for synthetic insulated jackets, which insulate better than down when wet, are more breathable, and cheaper. However, down still has no replacement (at least for now). The warmth-to-weight ratio is unparalleled, as are compressibility and comfort. We’ve tested a number of synthetic jackets like the Arc’teryx Atom LT and Patagonia Micro Puff, both are which are very comfortable and reasonably light, but the warmth just isn’t the same. We often reach for synthetics for everyday use and light outdoor activities in the fall and spring, but they take up too much space in our packs for extended backcountry trips and most don’t provide quite enough warmth for truly cold days. Optimally you would have both, but if you’re only in the market for a single jacket, there’s simply no better insulator than down. For a more detailed explanation of this topic, see our article on down vs. synthetic insulation.
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