~~Sizes<\/strong> W XXS-XL \/ M and M XS-XXL<\/li>~~

~~Weight<\/strong> 435g (women\u2019s size S)<\/li>~~

~~Fill power<\/strong> 700<\/li>~~

~~Down type<\/strong> 90% goose, 10% feather<\/li>~~

Packable<\/strong> Yes, inside the inner pocket<\/li><\/ul>
Instant cosiness, a decent hood and strong eco-credentials, there\u2019s plenty to love about the Fj\u00e4llr\u00e4ven Expedition Pack Down Hoodie. On test, this design proved to be one of the better-fitting models, plus the two-way zip improves range of movement. A great option for hill walkers looking to stay warm on chilly hikes.<\/p>
Thanks to a soft fabric and comfortable fit, this is a jacket you\u2019ll keep reaching back for. It\u2019s suitable for pretty much anything apart from the coldest and wettest days!<\/p>
Such desirable down jacket qualities come at a cost, but if you\u2019re willing to pay for a premium design, you\u2019ll not be disappointed.<\/p>
Pros:<\/strong> Looks good, strong eco credentials, warm and well-fittingCons: <\/strong>Price may be prohibitive for many, limited water resistance<\/p>
More details in our full review of the Fj\u00e4llr\u00e4ven Expedition Pack Down Hoodie<\/a>.<\/p>
RAB Neutrino Pro Down Jacket<\/h3><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
Best for extreme cold<\/h4>

<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
$\"Blue$ <\/figure>
Sizes<\/strong> W8-16\/M<\/li>
Weight<\/strong> 502g (women\u2019s UK10)<\/li>
Fill power<\/strong> 800<\/li>
Down type<\/strong> 800FP European Goose Down with Nikwax Fluorocarbon-Free Hydrophobic Finish<\/li>
Pockets<\/strong> 3<\/li><\/ul>
For serious and reliable insulation, the RAB Neutrino Pro Down Jacket is the way to go. Quite the investment, and perhaps bulkier than other designs, but you\u2019re looking at a sleeping bag in jacket form here.This jacket is light to wear, despite being the \u2018pouffiest\u2019 on test, and there\u2019s enough room for a fleece underneath. While it\u2019s likely to make your chilly morning dog walks all the more enjoyable, the Rab Neutrino Pro really comes into its own in the mountains, or on walks in the peaks. Another bonus is the waterproofing. The 800 fill power down is European Goose Down with a Nikwax Fluorocarbon-Free Hydrophobic finish which means the down doesn\u2019t clump when wet. Pros: <\/strong>Warmth and insulation, comfort, water-resistanceCons:<\/strong> Bulkier, an investment<\/p>
Read our full RAB Neutrino Pro Down Jacket review<\/a> for more details. <\/p>
<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
Arc\u2019teryx Cerium Hoody<\/h3>
Best for warmth on winter adventures<\/h4>

<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
$\"Black$ <\/figure>
Sizes<\/strong> W XXS-XXL, M XS-XXXLWeight <\/strong>290gFill power<\/strong> 850Down type<\/strong> Goose down as well as synthetic downPackable <\/strong>Stuff bag included inside inner pocket, attached via cord<\/p>
A great addition to your winter layering system, the Arc\u2019teryx Cerium Hoody is a warm and classy-feeling jacket. The generous stuff bag was appreciated on test, and we liked the jacket\u2019s \u2018stashable\u2019 nature. A great option for a ramble in the hills as you can pack it away with ease.<\/p>
As for the shape, this jacket won\u2019t suit curvier women. It felt snug on the hips, and we\u2019d like to see Arc\u2019Teryx offer a more female-friendly fit, but if you\u2019re a fan of a close-fitting feel, it could work for you.<\/p>
Pros:<\/strong> Warmth, good quality, easily stashable, clever mix of insulating materialsCons: <\/strong>Shape won\u2019t suit curvier women, no storm flap, zip feels flimsy<\/p>
Read our Arc\u2019teryx Cerium Hoody review<\/a>. <\/p>
<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
Adidas Techrock Down Hooded Jacket<\/h3>
Best for changeable conditions<\/h4>

Buy now from Adidas (\u00a3300.00)<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
$\"red$ <\/figure>
Sizes<\/strong> W XS-XL, M XS-2XL<\/li>
Fill power <\/strong>800<\/li>
Down type<\/strong> 90% goose down, 10% feathers. Bluesign certified Allied down.<\/li>
Packable<\/strong> yes, into one of the zipped pockets or one of the inner pockets<\/li><\/ul>
The Adidas Techrock Down Hooded Jacket was a hit on test. Soft, comfortable and flexible, with great attention to detail, this high-quality down jacket is a great match for mountain climbers. The hood would work well with a helmet, and there\u2019s a toggle at the back for an even snugger fit.<\/p>
You\u2019ll want this jacket to hand if you\u2019re out in changeable conditions as it feels tough enough for mountains yet light enough to stash away. Plus, we\u2019re big fans of the style. You\u2019ll want to wear this jacket again and again.<\/p>
Pros:<\/strong> Superbly showerproof, warm, great fitCons:<\/strong> No inner zipped pocket<\/p>
Head to our full Adidas Techrock Down Hooded Jacket review<\/a>. <\/p>
Mountain Warehouse Featherweight II Extreme RDS Down Jacket<\/h3>
Best for casual hikes and warmer weather<\/h4>

<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
$\"Black$ <\/figure>
Sizes<\/strong> W UK 8-22<\/li>
Fill power<\/strong> 600<\/li>
Down type<\/strong> 90% grey duck down and 10% grey duck feathers<\/li>
Face fabric<\/strong> 100% polyamide<\/li>
Pockets<\/strong> 4 pockets (2 zipped)<\/li>
Packable<\/strong> Yes, included stuff bag<\/li><\/ul>
At the more budget-friendly end of the scale is the Mountain Warehouse Featherweight II Extreme RDS down jacket. While it lacks the whistles and bells of some of the other jackets on test, this is a good option for an extra layer if premium features aren\u2019t required.<\/p>
With a 600 CUIN fill power, it wasn\u2019t the warmest on test, but its lightweight and packable nature is sure to come in handy.<\/p>
The fit was a little restrictive, so we\u2019d recommend sizing up if you\u2019re looking to layer up. This means it\u2019s not the best option for active hikes and mountain climbing, but for irregular hikes in spring and autumn, or even cooler summer mornings, it\u2019ll do the job nicely.<\/p>
Pros: <\/strong>Price, water resistance, very packableCons:<\/strong> Only in black, no hood option, not as sustainable as others<\/p>
For more details, read our full review of the Mountain Warehouse Featherweight II Extreme RDS Down Jacket<\/a>.<\/p>
<\/div><\/div><\/div>
Patagonia Down Sweater<\/h3>
Best for long winter walks<\/h4>

<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
$\"Green$ <\/figure>
Sizes<\/strong> W XS-XL<\/li>
Weight<\/strong> 292g<\/li>
Fill power<\/strong> 800<\/li>
Down type<\/strong> 100% Responsible Down Standard down certified by Control Union (RDS)<\/li>
Pockets<\/strong> 5<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>
Patagonia\u2019s Down Sweater is lightweight, warm and as usually the case with the retailer\u2019s gear, stylish.Overall the jacket is a nice fit, and there\u2019s room for adjustment thanks to the hem\u2019s cord and toggle.If you\u2019re worried about wear and tear, the jacket comes with some sticky fabric patches so you can fix up on the go. A really nice touch from Patagonia, and a nod to the brand\u2019s focus on sustainability.<\/p>
Pros:<\/strong> Looks great, warmth, light weightCons:<\/strong> No hood (on this model), snug on the hips<\/p>
For more details, read our full Patagonia Down Sweater review<\/a>.<\/p>
<\/div><\/div><\/div>
Berghaus Tephra 2.0 Hooded Insulated Jacket<\/h3>
Best for hiking<\/h4>

<\/div><\/div><\/div>
$\"Blue$ <\/figure>
Sizes <\/strong>W UK8-20, M<\/li>
Weight<\/strong> 388g (UK10)<\/li>
Fill power <\/strong>700<\/li>
Down type<\/strong> 80% down and 20% duck feather<\/li>
Packable?<\/strong> No<\/li><\/ul>
The Berghaus Tephra 2.0 Hooded Insulated Jacket was new for 2023, and it\u2019s more affordable than some of the other designs on test.<\/p>
Offering a super fit and the benefit of stretchy lycra panels for additional flexibility, this jacket will suit active hikers, and even trail runners if it\u2019s particularly chilly. The fleece panels, while great for movement, felt clammy when wet, so this jacket is best left for dry days.<\/p>
You can\u2019t adjust the hood which may put some walkers off, but overall we\u2019d say this jacket is good value and great to move in. Plus, we liked the fact you can easily push the sleeves up \u2013 useful for campsite cooking!<\/p>
Pros<\/strong>: Flexible and great to move in, good waterproofing on facing fabricCons<\/strong>: Fleece panels absorb water, no stash option<\/p>
Interested? Read our Berghaus Tephra 2.0 Hooded Insulated Jacket review<\/a>.<\/p>
<\/div><\/div><\/div>
Hagl\u00f6fs L.I.M Hood<\/h3>
Best for packing and stashing<\/h4>

Buy now<\/strong> from Cotswold Outdoor (\u00a3250.00)<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
$\"Black$ <\/figure>
Sizes <\/strong>W XS-XXL, M S-XXL<\/li>
Weight<\/strong> 314g<\/li>
Down type<\/strong> Synthetic fibre cluster insulation<\/li>
Packable<\/strong> Yes, into inner \u2018upside down\u2019 pocket<\/li><\/ul>
The noticeably slimmer style of the Hagl\u00f6fs L.I.M Hood won\u2019t suit those who enjoy a voluminous down design, but this vegan-friendly jacket has plenty going for it. The impressively light jacket is a breeze to pack away (thanks to the nifty inner stuff pocket) so it\u2019s a winner if you\u2019re travelling fast and light.<\/p>
You may miss the cosiness provided by down, but this jacket is a nice mid layer option. Synthetic jackets tend to dry more quickly too, and as their less bulky, you\u2019re less likely to snag the material. This is a costly jacket though considering it\u2019s not as warm \u2013 something to consider if you\u2019re happy to purchase a down design.<\/p>
Pros:<\/strong> Vegan-friendly synthetic insulation, light and packableCons:<\/strong> Lacks cosiness of down, snug fit<\/p>
If you want to know more, read our full length Hagl\u00f6fs L.I.M Hood review<\/a>.<\/p>
How we tested <\/h3>
These jackets were tested in early autumn. On warmer days at the start of autumn we wore them for early morning walks and during weekend trips away in our campervan, when a good jacket was a must for early morning brew-ups and evenings by the campfire!<\/p>
As an outdoor swimmer, popping them on after a chilly swim gave a good idea of how quickly they warmed us up too. We also rated them on how well they packed into a backpack as well as how practical elements such as hood, zipper type and pockets made them.<\/p>
Into October the weather became colder and wetter, so we tried them again for longer walks and gauged their ability to cope with chillier days and light showers. We also tried layering them under a water-resistant layer to see if they could add warmth without too much bulk.<\/p>
Check out the best walking shoes, tried and tested by our team<\/a> for more expert reviews.<\/em><\/p>
What to look for in a down jacket <\/h2>
Think about warmth, flexibility, budget and sustainability when shopping for a down jacket, as well as your choice of outdoor pursuit. <\/p>
Here, we tried out eight down jackets from leading brands to see which is best for you. These tests were done by a female tester trying out women\u2019s jackets, but in most cases an equivalent men\u2019s jacket is also available and we indicate sizing here too.<\/p>
Some jackets also come in multiple options such as: sweater (no hood), hoody (with hood) and longline (down to knee-length), so even if the one we reviewed here isn\u2019t quite right, follow the links to buy other options.<\/p>
What is down?<\/h2>
First up \u2013 what is a down jacket? Put simply, these are \u2018puffer\u2019 type jackets (as opposed to flat jackets, such as most waterproofs) which are filled with down \u2013 usually from geese \u2013 for warmth. Down is a natural product sourced from birds, though some brands now offer synthetic fill options for those concerned about use of animal products. Down feathers are the smaller \u2018insulating\u2019 feathers which sit underneath a bird\u2019s longer \u2018flight\u2019 feathers.<\/p>
Down jackets will usually be overstitched giving them that familiar panelled look, this is to keep the feathers evenly distributed in the jacket to make sure the warmth stays consistent (ie you don\u2019t want all the down sinking to the bottom of the jacket!). There are various ways of doing this though, such as sewn, offset and box. Each affects warmth, but comes at a cost.<\/p>
The types of down and what they mean<\/h2>
Different types of down are available so if you are concerned about quality of warmth and\/or animal welfare, then it\u2019s worth doing your research and luckily, many of the jackets included in our test have transparency around supply chain and are working to improve the use of feathers in garment construction.<\/p>
Natural down, usually goose feathers, is the most commonly used and with good reason. Feathers work well in jackets the same way they do in nature \u2013 the small fibres on each feather work to trap warmth which, when used in large quantities, mean a very light product can be very warm. Many jackets will use a mix of down feathers and larger feathers.<\/p>
When choosing, look at a company\u2019s traceability around down. For example Fjallraven have a \u2018Down Promise\u2019 whereby they source their down as a by-product from the food industry and feathers are sourced from birds destined for the table, with no live plucking. They monitor their chain to make sure birds are cared for under a high welfare conduct.<\/p>
Other brands, such as Patagonia, subscribe to the Responsible Down Standard (RDS) which certifies products that contain feathers and down from certified farms. It ensures that the feathers and the duvet used in the padded products derive from geese and ducks raised in compliance with the principles and criteria of animal welfare.<\/p>
If you are vegan or want a jacket free of animal products, then look for a jacket with a \u2018synthetic fill\u2019. These will use layers of fabric, usually polyester, which mimic the warmth and feel of down. The jacket from Hagl\u00f6fs in our test uses a synthetic fill, though many brands featured will have jackets with different fills available.<\/p>
What is a jacket\u2019s \u2018fill power\u2019?<\/h2>
Wondering what \u2018fill power\u2019 is when you look at down jackets? Put simply, this figure \u2013 usually between around 600-800 \u2013 is measured in CUIN, which stands for cubic inches. With regards to fill power, this figure tells you how many cubic inches of down you get in one ounce of the down inside the jacket. So if the fill power is 700, that\u2019s 700 cubic inches of down per ounce.<\/p>
When comparing jackets, fill power is one factor that affects warmth \u2013 but a jacket\u2019s toastiness will also be dependent on construction, facing fabrics and lining as well as added elements such as storm flaps over zips and some kind of elasticity at cuffs, collar and hem to prevent draughts.<\/p>
It\u2019s important to remember that fill power refers to quality not quantity \u2013 it tells you how good a type of down is at trapping air, in other words you get a warmer product for less weight<\/p>
The benefits of natural down<\/h2>
Renowned for its lightweight nature and superb warmth, down is a popular choice for good reason. So if you\u2019re planning a trip somewhere cold and dry, then (provided you\u2019re happy choosing down) a down-filled jacket will be a stellar option for keeping you toasty but also being very packable, as these jackets tend to squidge up the most, too.<\/p>
The downsides of natural down<\/h2>
Down is superb in dry conditions, but not so good once it starts raining. Down, being a natural product, tends to clump together when wet and then loses its ability to store warmth. Many jackets will have some kind of hydrophobic treatment on the facings (or even on the down too) which can withstand light rain, but once the heavens really open it is unlikely they\u2019ll be completely impermeable.<\/p>
These jackets can also be a faff to care for. You\u2019ll need to wash and dry them carefully and reproof where appropriate to keep them performing as well as when new. With this in mind, you may wish to choose a darker colour that won\u2019t show up grubby marks if you tend to explore muddy places! That said though, we do like a bright colour for visibility when out in the wilds.<\/p>
What should I choose for active use?<\/h2>
There are a few features you should look for if you\u2019re planning on being quite active in your jacket \u2013 think fell or hill walking, heading up mountains or for use in slightly warmer conditions.<\/p>
A slightly thinner-weight and lighter jacket will be easier to move in (so less \u2018pouffy!) and the construction here will help \u2013 a simple sew-through construction where the jacket has sections sewn into it will be more breathable than a more chunky box-type construction where sections are built into the jacket to maximise warmth.<\/p>
You may also want to look for stretchy panels on the sides for added movement as well as a 2-way zipper. These are handy as you can do the jacket up then pull the zip back up a little from the bottom, allowing you more freedom of movement through the hips and legs.<\/p>
Finally, elastication at the cuffs of the sleeves is helpful here as they make it easier to push your sleeves up when you get warmer.<\/p>
What should I choose for sedentary use?<\/h2>
If you are not going to be moving as much or are visiting very cold conditions, then look for a warmer jacket with a higher CUIN as well as a construction which minimises draughts \u2013 such as a layered\/offset or box construction.<\/p>
You will also most likely want a hood, as well as cords\/elastic which allow you to draw the coat close to your body and around your face to again minimise draughts.<\/p>
Is it worth having a hood?<\/h2>
Whether you choose a hood or not is up to personal preference. As these jacket tend to be about warmth rather than waterproofing, a hood is more useful if you need to keep your head warm so consider whether you would usually wear a hat in colder whether.<\/p>
That said, a hood can be a useful extra layer and can be worn over a knitted hat to add warmth and stop draughts around the neck \u2013 so long as you\u2019re not a bobble hat wearer!<\/p>
Look for a hood that can be adjusted and secured in windy weather.<\/p>
Is it a good idea to get a down jacket with waterproof fabric?<\/h2>
Some element of waterproofing can be helpful for light showers, but we would usually recommend layering if you can \u2013 so using a down jacket as a layer for warmth and then adding a fully-waterproof jacket over the top if the heavens open.<\/p>
Look for jackets with a DWR (durable water repellent) coating which is hydrophobic and causes water to bead and run off the fabric. You may wish to look for PFC (perfluorinated compound) -free treatment though, as although commonly used, PFC chemicals can be damaging when they enter the water and therefore the food chain.<\/p>
How can I check if my jacket is sustainable?<\/h2>
Check the brand\u2019s website to see which materials they use and how they manage their supply chain. Most jackets will be made from polyester\/nylon so check what the fabric is made from \u2013 post-consumer plastic bottles and ghost fishing nets are a common and more sustainable source.<\/p>
Some of the bigger brands here will have their own schemes which contribute to environmental and sustainability concerns, such as Patagonia\u2019s 1% for the Planet scheme. It\u2019s also worth seeing if they manage their supply chain in such a way that gives workers a fair wage and working conditions.<\/p>
Sustainability also starts at home though \u2013 so think about your needs. It\u2019s better to pay a little more for a jacket that will last you many years. Look at brands that also offer a repair scheme too, such as Finisterre and Patagonia. Some even come with patches of fabric in case you need to repair them.<\/p>
How do I know if my jacket is ethical?<\/h2>
Ethics and sustainability come hand-in-hand with many of the issues concerned, but where down jackets are concerned you will want to think about how your down has been sourced. Of course for vegans or those who feel strongly about the use of animal products synthetic down will be the choice.<\/p>
Down is a fantastic fabric though with many benefits. Checking where the down in your jacket comes from though can be very reassuring \u2013 some brands will subscribe to the RDS (responsibly sourced down) scheme which checks standards for the birds kept for down and helps brands avoid cruel practises such as force-feeding and live plucking.<\/p>
Fjallraven also has its own down supply chain processes which ensures the birds are well looked-after and that any down used is a by-product of the food industry.<\/p>
For more hiking gear reviews, read our roundup of the best walking boots, tried and tested. <\/a><\/em><\/p> <\/body><\/html>\n
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Fj\u00e4llr\u00e4ven Expedition Pack Down Hoodie<\/h3>

Arc\u2019teryx Cerium Hoody<\/h3>

Adidas Techrock Down Hooded Jacket<\/h3>

Patagonia Down Sweater<\/h3>

Berghaus Tephra 2.0 Hooded Insulated Jacket<\/h3>

Hagl\u00f6fs L.I.M Hood<\/h3>