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Mar 24, 2023

19 best down jackets of 2022 highly recommended by experts

Heading out onto the snowy slopes, into the backcountry or even just

Heading out onto the snowy slopes, into the backcountry or even just walking your dog around the neighborhood requires a warm and reliable down coat — especially in winter weather. The best down jackets not only keep you warm but also dry, comfortable and protected from the elements no matter the season.

That's why we talked to down jacket experts Ashleigh McClary, a gear expert and senior account manager at Backcountry, and Emily Pennington, a journalist, photographer and author of the upcoming book "Feral," to get their insights on what to consider when buying a down jacket. Whether you’re looking for 100% goose down or a synthetic option that will still keep you warm, you won't go wrong with any one of these options.

There's a lot to consider when buying an insulated coat, including everything from packability and warmth to durability and price point.

One big differentiator between jackets are their insulation. There are two main options: down and synthetic. If your highest priority is warmth, you won't find anything warmer than a down jacket, says McClary. Down is the best insulator material for keeping you warm in cold weather, thanks to its loft — or fluffiness — that traps in heat escaping from your body. McClary says it's important to look for a high loft and high-performance down — upward of 600 to 800 fill rating — if you’re concerned about staying warm.

"A really good, everyday warm jacket is going to keep you regulated and not overheated," says McClary. "The standard jacket I recommend no matter if its fall, spring or winter is usually an 850-fill down hoodie. Down keeps you warm based on your body temperature and it's my go-to type of jacket because it works in so many temperatures."

Having a down jacket close by to layer up after (or during) your adventure for warmth is key before going on outdoors, says Pennington. "Buyers should consider the three-step layering system," she says, "understanding that they’ll likely need a base layer, an insulated layer and a wind or rain shell on top if they are skiing or going somewhere very cold to hike."

The downside of down jackets is that they’re not waterproof or water-resistant unless treated with what's known as durable water repellant (or DWR). If you’re looking for a foolproof water-resistant jacket for hiking in rainy climates or unpredictable weather, McClary suggests considering a jacket with synthetic down insulation since they’re able to maintain their insulating properties even when wet. Or, use the layering system like Pennington suggests to keep your insulated layer protected from the elements.

Best rain jackets of 2022

We talked to outdoor experts for their most recommended down jackets that will keep you comfortable and warm in all types of conditions. Here are the 19 best down jackets to wear on your next adventure.