Are down jackets good for winter?
Down jackets are a good choice for winter due to their effective insulating properties. Down jackets use the soft feathers found near the skin of ducks or geese to trap air close to the body, keeping you warm in cold weather. Down jackets are lightweight and compressible.
Down jackets have long been a firm favourite with outdoor adventurers due to their incredible warmth-to-weight ratio. The use of down as insulation not only provides impressive warmth but remains lightweight and can be packed down into small spaces, making them ideal for life on the go.
To choose the level of insulation you need, look for fill power and weight. Fill power is a measurement of the amount of space that one ounce of down will occupy. Higher fill powers mean that the down has a greater loft and will trap more air in between the feathers. This will provide higher levels of insulation for less material.
The premium Summit Series range from The North Face generally uses around 600-800 fill.. This is the highest quality commercial down available. These heavy-duty jackets can perform in extreme cold and are designed for the harsh conditions of the mountainside.
The North Face also created the Responsible Down Standard (RDS), which certifies a commitment to the ethical treatment of animals throughout the feather supply chain.
What is a warm jacket for winter?
A warm jacket for winter will provide a high level of insulation, along with resistance to wind chill. Down or synthetic alternatives are effective at keeping you warm, while the fabric used for the outer shell will provide protection from the elements.
Staying warm in winter weather requires more than just thermal insulation. Your jacket also needs to combat wind and rain. The outer fabric of the coat will determine the wind and water resistance of your jacket.
The North Face WindWall™ fabrics have been developed to defeat wind chill without sacrificing breathability. By reducing the flow of air past the body, thermal energy transfer decreases, keeping you warm in cold winds.
Waterproof fabrics tend to be less breathable so consider the level of rain you are likely to encounter. Water-resistant fabrics with moisture repellent coatings will be able to withstand light showers. For heavy downpours, it is recommended to use a separate rain shell that can be worn over your other clothing.
Down loses its insulating properties when it gets wet, so it is important to choose the right jacket for the conditions.
The North Face THERMOBALL™ technology was engineered to maintain insulation even when it becomes wet. Thermoball insulation recreates the properties of down feathers by using small clusters of synthetic fibres. These clusters retain their shape when they become damp, continuing to provide warmth in all conditions.
The Women’s Thermoball™ Eco Hooded Jacket from The North Face is a great all-rounder, made from 100% recycled materials. With zipped pockets and an attached hood, this warm coat packs down into its own pocket for easy storage in your bag.
Related: All you need to know about insulation
What's the best jacket for winter?
The best jacket for winter will have the right combination of insulation, breathability and weather resistance for your needs. Consider your regular activities to ensure your winter jacket will not restrict movement. Think through the other clothes you will be wearing to choose an effective combination of layers.
The best winter jacket for you will be the coat that meets your specific needs. Use the following checklist to help you go through the key features.
Insulation - Think about the temperatures you are likely to encounter to decide on the level of insulation you need
Weight - Consider how the weight and size of the coat will affect your activities
Waterproof - A water-resistant coating can handle light rain but choose a waterproof shell for heavy downpours
Breathability - Look for breathable fabrics that will allow moisture to escape when you start to sweat
Combinations - Choose a jacket that will combine effectively with your other layers
The North Face Men’s Mountain Light Futurelight™ Triclimate Jacket is the ultimate versatile winter jacket. It comprises a waterproof outer shell and inner, down-filled jacket. The two can be worn separately or together, allowing you to adapt to changing weather conditions.
Related: Which The North Face jacket should I choose for warmth?
