Packable Down Jacket for Travellers

The packable down jackets come in a variety of styles from down seaters to heavier winter weight styles.

A great down jacket is essential to just about any active winter wardrobe. A warm insulated jacket offers the most warmth for the amount of coverage you get, is easily compressed, and can fit stuffed in a tight carry on bag.

No matter the price range you will be a to find a good amount of options for your next winter destination.

Searching for a down jacket out there can become overwhelming, that’s why we have put together a comprehensive buying guide. Below is our take on the down jackets for travel focusing on warmth, weight, shell fabrics and more.

Packable Down Jackets For Women – Comparison Table

Jacket Image	Jacket Name	Weight	Fill	Our Rating	Jacket Link
	Patagonia Downtown Loft	736 grams	600 grams	4.9 / 5	View Jacket
	Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer	192 grams	800 grams	4.8 / 5	View Jacket
	Rab Neutrino Endurance	585 grams	800 grams	4.7 / 5	View Jacket
	Arcteryx Cerium LT	275 grams	850 grams	4.6 / 5	View Jacket
	Michael Kors Packable	N/A	N/A	4.5 / 5	View Jacket
	Uniqlo Ultra Light	N/A	N/A	4.4 / 5	View Jacket

What to Look for in a Packable Down Jacket

The last thing you want is to do is end up at your destination cold, that’s why we recommend finding a down jacket suited for your particular travels.
Comparing all the jackets available on the market can be a handful.

You want your down jacket to be lightweight, functional, and most of all comfortable. It’s already hard enough to pack light as is, no need for your jacket to add even more bulk to an already tight travel bag.

During travel you never know what type of climate changes you may face, so you want your jacket to be portable for your day bag as well as carry on.

Warmth

When considering the warmth of your down jacket you must certainly think of how it is insulated. An awesome insulator is goose down, used most commonly in a variety of household goods like blankets and pillows. The down clusters traps heat while still maintaining breathability, the fill hinders any damage that might occur while stuffed away in your luggage.

Down only makes up a bit of the material needed to insulate a jacket leaving room for another type of filler, allowing the jacket to remain mostly lightweight as compared to fleece or synthetic fabrics. Fill power is just as important to maintaining warmth as the insulation. Fill power is needed to maintain warmth levels since not as much down is needed in more lightweight jackets.

Jackets receive warmth ratings, a higher rating means it is likely lightweight due to less down and uses less space to keep you warm. Your average rating is somewhere between 400 to 600 with more higher end jackets ranking in at just around 800. Jackets with at least a 550 rating are going to function well because they are lighter in weight and pack on the warmth.

Size: Getting The Right Fit

An ill fitting jacket will cause you issues. A jacket that is too loose will allow cool air to flow in. Too tight of a fit will prevent you from being able to add extra layers if need be. Removing or adding layers is very important when traveling considering you don’t know what changes in weather might occur. Try on your jacket with another layer like a sweater as this will ensure you are comfortable with or without the need of another layer.

Packable down jackets are unique in a sense because you don’t have to have a bulky fit to maintain warmth or compromise your comfort in any way while traveling.

A Durable Fabric: Wear & Tear

Harsh winter climate and everyday usage of your packable down jacket can cause some damage over time. Ripstop fabrics are commonly used to prevent ripping and tearing of the outer shell. This unique fabrication uses woven technology that prevents tiny tears from spreading to the entire jacket.

Of course there can be a downside to ripstop fabrics that cause the moisture to trap close to the body. Frequent sun exposure over time is also known to loosen the durability to its outer shell.The alternative would be to opt for a slightly thicker fabricated jacket that isn’t too heavy, jackets rated around 750 can provide thickness that will last years down the line without sacrificing its performance in the long run.

Down Retention

Over time even the most high quality down jackets will lose some down. You should never expect to lose a large amount of down which is a sign of a bad quality down jacket. To keep your down in place companies like to opt for a down proof coating, this can prevent the jacket from spilling down over time.

With jackets that are lightweight it is a crucial aspect to include a down bag because the thinner the fabric the more likely it is leak down. Jackets will stay as good as new once down proof coating is affixed to the back panel of the jacket and inner down is used to bind any extra layers of fabric. Maintaining the down fabric in the utmost condition will ensure its longevity and prevent you from having to purchase a jacket every year.

Quality Accessories

On the higher end of the jacket spectrum you are likely to come across more luxurious accessories. The ability to customize those options to your liking will come at the higher price point as well. Depending on your lifestyle you may want the option to add on extras such as cuffs, different inner linings, and more ventilation.

One detail that companies typically cannot skimp on is the zippers. Nobody wants to fumble around with zippers that break and don’t zip after a few wears. Lightweight jackets are unfortunately more prone to breakage because they have smaller teeth, making them hard to zip up and own.

When you invest in a nice down jacket you will notice that the zipper teeth are much larger, this is to ensure that your zipper will not break over time. Typically the YKK brand of zipper will last and is known to be reliable in the quality down jacket department.

Fill Power

The standard rating in the down jacket community includes ratings to determine the fill power that you can get form any jacket. This rating is a range from 500 to about 800 fill. 500 to 600 fill is where you would typically find more budget friendly options. Lower rated fill power jackets may not offer as much warmth for more seasoned outdoors peoples but would be perfect for the winter night out on the town.

You want to look for a fill power in the 800 range if you plan to do more hardcore outdoors activities such as skiing or hiking. You will likely pay more for this type of jacket but you won’t be disappointed in its premium performance for your outdoors activities.

Fill Weight

As opposed to fill power fill weight is a metric used to determine how much fill in ounces that a jacket may have. Obviously, the heavier the jacket the wearmer the jacket may be. Finding a balance between fill weight and power is important because you don’t want to wind up with a jacket that is too heavy and won’t pack into your luggage or worse keeps you too warm.

Overall Weight

Fill weight only makes up the weight of what the jacket is filled with. Many companies use add on materials that may make your jacket heavier. Zippers and hardware contribute to the jackets overall weight. Consider this when choosing the perfect down jacket. The best jacket will remain lightweight as well as offer a good fill and remain packable.

Shell Fabric

A popular option found in packable down jackets is a nylon shell. Nylon is great for withstanding harsh weather like rain and wind. Shell fabric is measured by the weight of the thread used during the manufacturing process. This is referred to as a jackets denier which is short will determine how durable your jackets is to the elements.

Comfort

Depending on what outdoors activities you are into will determine what your needs are form your jacket. Just because a jacket is warm does not mean it will provide you the level of comfort that you are looking for from a packable down jacket.

You want the jacket to move with the body. Stay away from stiff jackets that constrict.Choosing the ideal fit for your body type as well as wise layering options will contribute to your overall comfort.

Shell Fabric (Denier)

As mentioned before denier is the process that measures the weight of your thread. Denier is determined using a range system form 7D to 40D. The lower end of the spectrum describes lightweight luxurious jackets. Around 20 denier is where you will find your typical down jacket, though 20D is more commonly found it does provide a good balance between weight and overall durability.

Compressibility

One of the main proponents of a packable down jacket is compressibility. This just describes how well a jacket can be packed away. You want a down jacket that can occupy the least amount of space in your luggage. Jackets that are large in size and puffy will give you the michelin man look, this look is to be avoided for travel because they lack the ability to compress and occupy too much space for travel versatility.

Hydrophobic Down and DWR Treatment

For those who plan to spend the winter trekking through all the elements, waterproof jackets will be your best friend. Unfortunately, down feather jackets are not the best at keeping you warm once wet. If you find yourself in wet situations when traveling opt for synthetic materials. These materials are better because they don’t clump like down feathers leaving you feeling dry.

These synthetic materials are treated with DWR. DWR is a when manufacturers add a special polymer to ensure the fill of a jacket is able to block out water. By having a waterproof shell you can easily transform your typical down jacket to keep you warm as well dry.

Hood or No Hood

Depending on your needs a hood is absolutely a necessity. Hoods keep you warm and block any unnecessary drafts flowing in through your neck hole. Layering your hood under your down jacket will give you the option of easily having a hood for your outdoor activities and taking it off if not needed for lighter activities.

Packable Down Jackets For Women

Gearing up for your winter travels you never know what weather extremes are in store for you. Preparing for a range of weather scenarios will benefit you during your trip.

Knowing what to pack is key and in any winter traveling scenario and having a high-quality packable down jacket will not only save you space in your luggage but it will keep you warm throughout your entire travels.


Down jackets offer you extra warmth without all the bulk. The insulation made of goose feathers are what provides the warmth but because feathers are so lightweight they can be packed together to keep warm air in.

Rab Neutrino Endurance Jacket

This stylish parka is made especially for the ladies. The design is form fitting with a range of colorways that will keep you seen while out on the trails. It does not bulk you up leaving your shape in tack. The outer shell is made of Pertex endurance material, goose down, and an 800 fill. The hood provides extra warmth with the ability to fit a helmet if needed.

Specifications of Rab Neutrino Endurance Jacket

• Weight: 585g
  
  
• Fill Power: 800
  
  
• Fill Weight: 254g Denier
  
  
• Packable: Yes
  
  
• Pockets: Yes
  
  
• Hood: Yes
  
  
• Closure: Zipper

What is the Rab Neutrino Endurance Jacket Best Suited For? 

This jacket is best suitable for outdoor sightseeing as the jacket can only provide you with average warmth.

Our Favorite Features

• Helmet Compatible: Though the jacket is best for sightseeing I like it because of its hood versatility you could take it out on a late winter ski trip and still fit a helmet underneath.
  
  
• High Fill Power: The 254g of European goose down provides nice warmth in temperatures below 0.
  
  
• Hydrophobic: The waterproof layer is free from Rab Fluorocarbon keeping you free from toxins as well as dry. The jacket also provides water resistant facings at the cuff and hems. There is no need to worry about staying dry if you happen to get some snow or light rain on your arms.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Wide variety of colorways
• Not overly bulky
• Leaves your figure in tack

Cons

• Offers moderate warmth
• Zipper issues on previous models

For just under $300 this jacket is very stylish and offers women the shape they typically can lack in down jackets. I love the blue color this jacket comes in.

The fill could be better compared to other jackets on the market, but with that said it it will still provide you with plenty of warmth given that you will be lightly using the jacket for hiking and walking.

Patagonia Downtown Loft Down Jacket

This parka style jacket comes in 3 different color options. You could spend all day out in the cold but if you plan to venture out and do some more intense mountaineering activities this jackets fill power only comes in at 600. A great mid level choice if you don’t plan on experiencing an intense winter.

• Weight: 1lb 10oz
  
  
• Fill Power: 600
  
  
• Fill Weight: 746 g
  
  
• Packable: Yes
  
  
• Pockets: Yes
  
  
• Hood: Yes
  
  
• Closure: Zipper

What is the Patagonia Downtown Loft Down Jacket Best Suited For?

Due to the lightweight nature of this jacket it is recommended for casual use, if you plan to be out in the extreme cold for a while you may look into more dense jackets. I personally recommend to use for light hiking trip abroad.

Our Favorite Benefits

• Compressibility: Though the fill power of this jacket comes right in 600 its awesome for packing up on the go for some light winter trekking. You could pack this jacket in your carry on backpack and still have enough space for all your other stuff.
  
  
• Wind Resistant: This jacket features a wind flap, this is so essential for when then draft picks up and you want to keep the cool air out and away from your body.
  
  
• Hood Versatility: The hood can be zippered away into the neck shawl of this jacket. The zipper closure is hidden. This feature is great if you want to have a more stylish slim fitted look while still having the option of a hood.

Pros and Cons

Downtown Pros

• Slim fit with versatile features
• Lightweight and perfect for on the go

Downtown Cons

• Could potentially leave you cold in extreme  temperatures
• May not last for years with a fill power at just around 600

This jacket would suit the novice hiker very well. With a price point at a little over $300 you wont feel like you have to invest so much in a jacket that you could get use out of even when you are not traveling. Great for casual winter nights out in the town where you still want to remain warm yet stylish.

Arcteryx Cerium LT Hoody Jacket

The versatility of this jacket is unmatched. Lightweight in nature so that it can be worn as a midlayer or as a stand alone jacket. Nicely suited for cool and dry conditions where you will experience exceptional warmth given that it barely weighs anything. The moisture resistant outer fabric contours with the body leaving you dry and comfortable.

Specifications

• Weight: 9.7 oz
  
  
• Fill Power: 850
  
  
• Packable: Yes
  
  
• Pockets: Yes
  
  
• Hood: Yes
  
  
• Closure: Zipper

What is the Arcteryx Cerium LT Hoody Jacket Best Suited For? Best suited for mountain hiking and extreme outdoor activity.

Our Favorite Features

• Insulated Stormhood: Since this jacket is suited for super cold winter activity it’s only right that the hood remain insulated and warm. WIth adjustable drawstrings you a sure to get a snug fit to keep cool air at bay.
  
  
• Versatility: Though this jacket does perform great as a stand alone it is so lightweight that it can be used as a layering option. Coming in at hip length it is sure to cover what you need but giving you the option to layer just provides more ortental for you to remain dry and warm.
  
  
• Warmth to Weight Ratio: The synthetic insulation is strategically place so that you are not being weighed down by unnecessary weight. This is why the jacket is a able to remain so lightweight yet provide the maximum warmth needed for a full day out on the mountain.

Pros and Cons

Arcteryx Cerium Pros

• Keeps you warm in harsh weather
• Functionality of wear
• Very Lightweight

Arcteryx Cerium Cons

• May not perform as well in precipitation
• Runs fairly small

Extremely affordable jacket that provides versatility and function for long hikes or activity out in harsh winter weather conditions. You are sure to remain warm and comfortable due to 850 euro goose down. Not only is it super light you can use it as a layering option as well as your outer layer. You may need to size up as this jacket is known to run small.

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Jacket

This jacket weighs in at less than 8 ounces and is a full featured down jacket. The mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer is unique because it can be compacted into its own pocket for even greater portability potential. All the essentials such as moisture resistance and warmth are found in this jacket.

Specifications of the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Jacket

• Weight: 6.8 oz
  
  
• Fill Power: 800
  
  
• Fill Weight: 24g
  
  
• Packable: Yes
  
  
• Pockets: Yes
  
  
• Hood: No
  
  
• Closure: Zipper

What is the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Jacket Best Suited For?
This jacket is awesome for traveling because its ability to be stowed away once at your destination can be used in cold weather hiking.

Our Favorite Features

• Compact: One very unique feature about this jacket is its ability to be stowed into one of its pockets. This is seriously a game changer for those that need the compatibility when they travel and hike frequently.
  
  
• Full Functioning: You won’t be disappointed with how warm you are able to stay with this jacket as, the inner cuffs bind and seal out cold air while the insulation resist moisture and maintains warmth.
  
  
• Weightless: Weighing in at about 6 oz this jacket is ultra lightweight because of this those that love this jacket say they can use it as a layering piece or their outer later.

Ghost Whisperer Pros

• Travel friendly
• Maintains warmth
• Profesional travellers love it

Ghost Whisperer Cons

• Size discrepancies
• May be only good for short term use

This jacket is considered an investment but as someone who finds themselves hiking in the winter mountains frequently throughout the season may have to bite the cost of this about $300 jacket. Those that have taken the plunge really enjoy the packability of this jacket and report that it able to withstand the harsh cold weather.

The Michael Kors Down Packable Jacket

This jacket is a very chic and stylish option for the ladies who want to look a little more put together. The packable jacket sports a hood and handy pockets at the front of the coat. Available in 5 unique color ways providing a fashion statement throughout the winter season.

Specifications of the Michael Kors Down Packable Jacket

• Weight:
  
  
• Fill Power:
  
  
• Fill Weight:
  
  
• Denier:
  
  
• Packable: Yes
  
  
• Pockets: Yes
  
  
• Hood: Yes
  
  
• Closure: Zipper

What is the Michael Kors Down Packable Jacket Best Suited For? Use this jacket if you need to look stylish during cold winter days.

Specifications of the Michael Kors Down Packable Jacket

• Looks Great: This jacket is available in a range of colors that will keep you looking good this winter. Trust that you will receive ta ton of compliments as you can style this jacket over your work clothes and can be worn for nights out on the town.
  
  
• Lightweight: This jacket is is considered a puffer coat but at the same time it is not bulky at all. You can pack it away on you winter trips where you winter trips where you want be doing too much outdoor activities. Can also be worn in not so cold weather because it is so light.
  
  
• Awesome Fit: You will not only look great butt you will feel great as well. You will stay warm enough on a night out but remain comfy. This jacket is soft to the touch and will fit your silhouette without all the extra bilk.

Pros and Cons of the Michael Kors Packable Down Jacket

Micharl Kors Pros

• Nice colorway availability
• Looks good on most body types
• Very affordable

Michael Kors Cons

• May not last as long as some shedding can occur
• Too thin for winter sport performance

Final Thoughts of the Michael Kors Packable Down Jacket

You do not have to spend a lot on a good looking down coat. Available at a little under $150 you won’t regret your purchase as long as you only need the jacket for light use. You will stay warm and comfy on chilly nights out and you won’t have to worry about bulk while maintaining a stylish look.

Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket

This thin and light jacket offered from Uniqlo is a fast fashion pick that still may provide buyers with some warmth provided they will wear it casually. This down coat is available in neutral colors and can be packed away in its own carry on bag making it ideal for travel.

Specifications of the Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket

• Weight:
  
  
• Fill Power:
  
  
• Fill Weight:
  
  
• Denier:
  
  
• Packable: Yes
  
  
• Pockets: Yes
  
  
• Hood: No
  
  
• Closure: Zipper

What is the Jacket Best Suited For? This jacket was made strictly for casual use and should not be used for extended periods of time out in the harsh elements. Plan to use out for nights out on the town or for business travel to a cold destination.

Key Features of the Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket

• Low Price Point: You won’t have to spend a ton of money to test out a nice and warm down jacket that will keep you warm throughout your winter travels. This practical travel pick is a winter essential that can be used by most women who don’t plan to do a ton of winter activity bit need to stay warm during chilly nights out.
  
  
• Ultra Light Down Jacket: This super lightweight jacket is perfect for travel and for layering other more expensive coats that you may have in your wardrobe. Ideal for layering under coats and or on top of hoodies.
  
  
• Compact Size: Can be folded into its convenient traveling pouch, you wouldn’t want to forget it on your next trip. Not to mention users love the packability and warmth that this jacket provides.

Pros and Cons of the Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket

Uniqlo Ultra Light Pros

• Super travel friendly
• Great entry level down option

Uniqlo Ultra Light Cons

• Not good for wear outside of casual use
• May leak down feathers

Final Thoughts of the Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket

This fast fashion down coat is sure to save you a ton of money at just around 60 dollars. It is great for casual use and many love it for its awesome convenience when it comes to travel. Unfortunately, the jacket will probably only maintain its quality with light use. Not suitable for those whose needs go beyond just a coat they wear for a cool night out.Get This Jacket

The Packable Down Jackets For Men

Men need versatile down jackets that are suitable for a range of activities in their active lifestyle. For backpacking and cool winter hikes men are going to want a jacket that is great at insulation and remain durable through all the snow sports and cool winter hikes.

Packable Down Jackets

Jacket Image	Jacket Name	Weight	Fill	Our Rating	Jacket Link
	Patagonia Down Jacket	371 grams	800 grams	4.9 / 5	View Jacket
	Mens Rab Microlight	436 grams	750 grams	4.8 / 5	View Jacket
	Arc’teryx Cerium LT Mens Jacket	306 grams	850 grams	4.7 / 5	View Jacket
	Marmot Quasar	292 grams	800 grams	4.6 / 5	View Jacket
	Outdoor Research Transcendent	436 grams	650 grams	4.5 / 5	View Jacket
	Mountain hardware Ghost Whisperer	221 grams	800 grams	4.4 / 5	View Jacket

Packable Down Jackets

Mens Patagonia Down Jacket

The patagonia down jacket fully functions as a packable down jacket for portability in snow sporting. It can serve as a mid layer or your outer layer just depending on what your winter activity consist of.

The design coupled with high level wind and water resistance makes this jacket the perfect pick for anything from wearing on a night out to hiking trips.

Specifications of the Mens Patagonia Down Jacket

Weight: 13.1 oz


Fill Power: 800


Denier: 20D/30D polyester Ripstop


Packable: Yes


Pockets: Yes


Hood: No


Closure: Zipper

What is the Mens Patagonia Down Jacket Best Suited For? This jacket is going to suit well as a mid layer down jacket providing trusted warmth in cold temperatures.

Key Features of the Mens Patagonia Down Jacket

• Versatile Fit: You won’t have to worry about this jacket being too tight, the jacket should be nice and fitted with more space in body area than the sleeves. Can be worn as a mid layer or it can fit a thinner under layer. Feel confident with decent range of motion for days where you will be more active.
  
  
• High Quality Insulation: The zippers are heavy and add to the weight of this jacket this is done to prevent any moisture and air from penetrating through. Warm insulated pockets also add to warmth value. Elastic cuffs and pull cord hem can be pulled in to keep precipitation out.
  
  
• Travel Friendly: Lightweight down jacket that serves well when traveling. The pockets act as a zip pouch for easy and convenient stowing.

Pros and Cons of the Mens Patagonia Down Jacket

Patagonia Down Pros

• Provided incredible warmth
• Honest company practices
• Durable polyester outer shell

Patagonia Down Cons

• Could lose quality within a few months of use
• May take up more space than needed one packed away

Final Thoughts of the Mens Patagonia Down Jacket

For around $200 – $300 you can feel confident that you are receiving a high quality jacket. You will be able to maintain warmth throughout the season. Buying from a trusted athletic brand like Patagonia you can be sure you will be getting your money’s worth.

Mens Rab Microlight Jacket

A little lesser known brand such as Rab is gaining hype due to its quality high performance down jackets. With this model you can expect durable quality and effective features that will come handy during your winter activities.

Specifications of the Mens Rab Microlight Jacket

• Weight: 15.4 oz
  
  
• Fill Power: 750 grams
  
  
• Fill Weight: 5oz
  
  
• Packable: Yes
  
  
• Pockets: Yes
  
  
• Hood: Yes
  
  
• Closure: Zipper

What is the Rab Microlight Jacket Best Suited For? This jacket will perform well in wet conditions.

Key Features of the Mens Rab Microlight Jacket

• Waterproof Outer Layer: This jacket utilizes the use of nylon ripstop fabric combined with pertex microlight on the outer layer this will keep wind gust out and warmth in. It is really does perform well with keeping you dry.
  
  
• Easily Packable: Though in comparison this jacket is a little heavier than competing brands it still boasts as a lightweight option you may just want to stay away from prolonged backpack use if you are gonna be tight on space.
  
  
• Durable Performance: You can get a lot of wear out of this jacket without fear that it will start to fall apart. Wash it if need be and wear it frequently. Compress it into your bag any way that you would like.

Pros and Cons of the Rab Microlight Jacket

Rab Microlight Pros

• Will keep you dry
• Durable in nature

Rab Microlight Cons

• Big when packed down
• Fit issues

Final Thoughts of the Mens Rab Microlight Jacket

Coming in at just around $200 which may be an investment for some, you won’t regret its ability to keep away moisture and withstand the harsh winters during your camping and hiking trips.

Arc’teryx Cerium LT Mens Jacket

With a brand like Arc’teryx you can be sure you are getting a carefully crafted jacket with full functioning features that will last you for years. You will be getting a lightweight jacket that does not skimp out on durability, weight, and warmth.

Specifications of the Arc’teryx Cerium LT

• Weight: 10.8 oz
  
  
• Fill Power: 850
  
  
• Denier: 20D/10D ripstop nylon
  
  
• Packable: Yes
  
  
• Pockets: Yes
  
  
• Hood: Yes
  
  
• Closure: Zipper

What is the Arc’teryx Cerium LT Jacket Best Suited For? Great mid or outer layer for backpacking and other winter activities with extremely cold temps.

Key Features of the Arc’teryx Cerium LT

• Strategic Down Use: Putting the down in all the right places was key with this jacket.The use of synthetic insulation helps the jacket to retain warmth while wet and dry. Down is placed along the shoulders, collars, sleeves where you need it most.
  
  
• Warmth Factor: Not at all bulky and lightweight, due to the goose down you will maintain warmth while out in the mountains especially if conditions are cold and dry.
  
  
• Specialised Construction: Three part sleeve allows you free range of motion. Binding finished will keep you jacket from splitting hems. You will be able to really use this jacket due to its strong fabrics that stand the test of time.

Pros and Cons of the Arc’teryx Cerium LT

Arc’teryx Cerium Pros

• Strategic placement of down helps maintain warmth
• Works great as mid layer option
• Moisture wicking coating

Arc’teryx Cerium Cons

• Expensive option
• Feathers may shed with time

Final Thoughts of the Arc’teryx Cerium LT

Though this is an investment piece you can be sure that you will have a reliable jacket that performs well. The use of waterproofing and extra care to detail make this an easy option that will last throughout many seasons of use.

Mens Marmot Quasar Jacket

This dapper down jacket is perfect for men who like a little extra style while out during the winter season. Available in unique colors such as bright lime and grey strom. This jacket will keep you incredibly warm in mild cool weather. Its unique construction makes this jacket not only functional but will last you quite a while.

Specifications of the Marmot Quasar Jacket

• Weight: 10.3 oz
  
  
• Fill Power: 800
  
  
• Fill Weight: 2.3 oz
  
  
• Denier: 20D
  
  
• Packable: Yes
  
  
• Pockets: Yes
  
  
• Hood: No
  
  
• Closure: Zippers

What is the Marmot Quasar Jacket Best Suited For? Awesome jacket to sport in mild cool temperatures around 30 degrees.

Key Features of the Marmot Quasar Jacket

• Uncommon Fabric Construction: The fabric of this jacket is done super well. The creators of the marmot quasar have weaved together two lightweight fabrics to restrict cold air flow and potential loss of down. The result is the down stays in place and overall less cold spots.
  
  
• Mobile Design: This jacket was designed to be functional and perfect for on the go. It features a single pocket for small items so that you are not able to remain free form the bulk. Also can be packed away into the pockets.
  
  
• Stylish: Not many men down jackets have a unique design that men can stand out in. You will receive quite a few compliments in this jacket. Available in cool colors that are sure keep you looking cool this winter.

Pros and Cons of the Marmot Quasar Jacket

Marmot Quasar Pros

• Incredible mobile design
• Available in colors that pop
• Consistent construction

Marmot Quasar Cons

• May run small
• A little pricey

Final Thoughts of the Marmot Quasar Jacket

Since you are going to be spending around $250 for this jacket it may not be the best option for what you get. The construction and style is good but some customers complain of poor sizing that the jacket may be a little too thin for their liking. Keep shopping if you need more warmth and features in your down this year.

Outdoor Research Transcendent Jacket

This is a thrifty pick from outdoor research. You can trust that this jacket will pack in the features, its warm, compressible, and super lightweight. Stay comfortable in this pack and when you are out and cold this winter easily pack it away when its not needed.

Specifications of the Outdoor Research Transcendent Jacket

Weight: 15.4 oz


Fill Power: 650


Fill Weight: 7.8 oz


Denier: 20D


Packable: Yes


Pockets: Yes


Hood: Yes


Closure: Zipper

What is the Outdoor Research Transcendent Jacket Best Suited For? Outdoor professionals say this well as an affordable layering option that provides ample warmth.

Key Features of the Outdoor Research Transcendent

• High Fabric Performance: If you plan to be out in light rain and snow this jacket will perform great. The fabric boasts to be water and wind resistant. 100% polyester shell and nylon lining help to keep you cozy during multi day treks.
  
  
• Functional Details: Outdoor research was sure to pay close attention to the details that matter. You can be sure the elastic cuffs, drawstring hem and single separating front zipper are going to keep any harsh weather out. Even securely clip your keys to your jacket so that they are always on your body.
  
  
• Perfect Layering Choice: You will be so comfortably warm in this jacket even at temps below 30 degrees and if that’s not good enough for you it is a great layering option since it is so lightweight and breathable.

Pros and Cons of the Outdoor Research Transcendent

Outdoor Research Transcendent Pros

• Good performance in wind and rainy conditions
• Will keep you warm as outer layer or mid layer

Outdoor Research Transcendent Cons

• Unclear sourcing of responsible down

Final Thoughts of the Outdoor Research Transcendent

You simply cannot go wrong with this jacket its serves perfectly as a midlayer and to your winter outerwear. You get what you pay for at a little under $200 spent. Expect to get a lot if use out of this jacket. The durable outer layer is shed proof and should last multiple seasons to come.

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Jacket

The warmth to weight ratio of this jacket is one of the best out there. This lightweight option provides more than enough features and will guarantee to keep you nice and toasty. Coming in as a super featherweight at only 7.8 ounces no jacket really can come close to the packability this jacket will give you.

Specifications of the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer

• Weight: 7.8 oz
  
  
• Fill Power: 800
  
  
• Fill Weight: 24g
  
  
• Denier: 7D/10D Ripstop
  
  
• Packable: Yes
  
  
• Pockets: Yes
  
  
• Hood: Yes
  
  
• Closure: Zipper

What is the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Jacket Best Suited For? Jacket is perfect for staying warm during very cold winter destinations.

Key Features of the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer

• Provides Warmth: This jacket features 800 fill power which is awesome for its weight class of just under 8 oz. The zipper acts as the perfect closure for keeping all the warm air inside.
  
  
• Wind and Water Repellent: The fabric of this jacket features a naturally tight weave as its down fabric which makes it so that it is very capable at repelling water and keeping wind out. Mountain hardware has also went as far as infusing the down fibers with permanent water repellency that will keep you warm even if you happen to get a little moisture on your jacket.
  
  
• True Fit: The special alpine fit will give you a trim look that fits snug but not too tight on the body. Use this kacker a layering option under a shell if you wish but could still definitely be worn alone. Knit cuffs are present to bind snuggly to your arms maintaining a it’s great insulation.

Pros and Cons of the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer

Ghost Whisperer Pros

• Weights just 7.8 ounces for great packability
• Repels water and wind like none other
• Will keep you incredibly warm

Ghost Whisperer Cons

• Durability of the zipper is inconsistent
• On the higher end as far as price goes

Final Thoughts of the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer

This jacket will cost you around $400 and could potentially not last you very long. The upside is that if you do choose to invest in this jacket you will most definitely be able to take it with your during your winter travels. You can trust that you will have an option that will provide warmth and keep moisture out.

What Is The Difference Between Traditional And Hydrophobic Down

Hydrophobic down is a very recent addition to down coats that have been added within the last few decades. It is designed to be able to withstand the elements of harsh winter weather better than traditional down coats. They are also made to be able to resist water better due to certain technologies that have arose over the years. Traditional down coats have never really been able to withstand getting wet simply because they lacked current technologies we now have access to.

How Do You Clean a Down Jacket?

Every jacket will be different since they are made of different materials and have different finishes. Be sure that you are aware of what your particular jacket requires of you when it is time to get it cleaned. A lot of the newer styles are machine washable. To ensure that your jacket will last a while turn your coat inside out while laundering.

Some state that you should air dry or dry without heat. Drying your down in high heat can cause all types of issues like pilling and the loss of down over time.
It is always a good idea to handle your down coat with as much care if you want it to last throughout multiple seasons.

Are Down Jackets Waterproof?

Typically most jackets these days will offer some amount of waterproofing to it jackets. Depending on the material will determine how it will perform. Some only offer water resistant which means it won’t actually dry itself once really wet. It’s always best to check your jacket’s specs because not all down jackets are made to be waterproof.

What is Down Quality?

Down quality or power refers to how packed the jacked is with a certain type of fill. You will typically find that jackets are packed with some type of goose down. The power of the fill is how you remain warm, Depending on the company this can be done really well or really bad depending on if the down was packed correctly.

Last Words About Jackets

There you have it. Everything we know about jackets and our picks. We hope that this guide helps you keep warm and your bag lightweight. Where is your next winter travel adventure too?

Safe Travels!