The Greatest Down Jackets for Ladies in 2022-2023

We found the best women’s down jackets for every budget and activity. Whether you’re looking for a versatile hoodie, a high-end technical jacket, or a budget-friendly puffy, we have you covered.

Down jackets are a winter staple but are functional year-round in certain climates. They provide top-level warmth while packing down fairly small. But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to choose.

Our group of testers donned dozens of the best down jackets in salty elements at work and exploring the outdoors. We tested these outer layers while running errands around town, shoveling snow, camping, rock climbing, hunting, and more.

And while there isn’t a perfect jacket for every single activity, we’ve found a variety of the best down jackets to keep you warm all season. This collection of down layers focuses on a variety of functional hip-length puffy jackets.

If you’re interested in longer-length jackets and parkas, read our women’s winter jackets buyer’s guide. Otherwise, keep scrolling or jump to our favorites below:

The Best Down Jackets for Women in 2022-2023

Best Overall Women’s Down Jacket: Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody

With a leaner-looking fill and contoured silhouette that reaches the hips, this 800-fill Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody ($329) is an excellent every day casual jacket if you don’t need a longer parka or the highest degree of heat retention. The design withstands wind, resists moisture, and is lightweight for its level of warmth.

Throughout several winter seasons, we’ve used this jacket on chilly cruiser rides around town and walks on crisp bluebird days during 5-degree lows. We’ve worn it in blizzard conditions in Colorado’s Front Range, Elk, and Sangre de Cristo mountains as well. We stayed dry throughout thanks to the shell’s DWR finish, which resists moisture.

Heavier amounts of water noticeably dampen the exterior, though it rebounds. This jacket easily withstood bitter gusts, and the simple elastic cuffs are comfortable and help stomp out wind. When fully zippered, the reinforced neck rise doesn’t slouch, which protects the lower half of the face. But the hood shape is a little too snug to comfortably wear over a helmet.

For any cold day or night, this is an excellent every day down jacket with great style and protection for the winter season. It’s awesome to pull on after cardio activity, like a winter run. We also loved it for backcountry travel. And it maintains loft and warmth even with snowfall and some moisture.

The reason the Down Sweater tops our list as the best down jacket? It’s durable over time, and we found it just slightly warmer than our runner-up choice.

Specs:

• Weight: 371 g
• Fill: 800
• Center back length: 23.5″
• Waterproof: No. Water-resistant shell and liner with DWR finish
• Climate: Dry to mildly wet winter conditions
• Key features: Ethically sourced Advanced Global Traceable Down, 100% recycled ripstop polyester shell and liner, interior chest pocket doubles as a stuff sack with clip-in loop for a carabiner, 2 zippered hand pockets, Bluesign approved fabric, fixed hood
• Favorite use: Everyday use, around town

Pros:

• Nice amount of stretch for movement
• Lightweight
• Really soft liner inside chin guard

Cons:

• Not waterproof
• DWR finish is not fluorocarbon-free

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Runner-Up Best Women’s Down Jacket: Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 Down Jacket

The Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 ($259) is versatile, warm, lightweight, waterproof, durable, and so much more. This jacket is quality, featuring 800-fill goose down, a “super” DWR, stretch panels, and it’s tested to a temp rating down to -5 degrees F.

In testing, we definitely found it warm. And there’s room to comfortably fit a baselayer and light midlayer beneath, too.

Eddie Bauer markets it as its premium ultralight jacket, and we’d agree. The fill power is premium, and so is the quality of the fabric and design. The exterior fabric is a strong 20-denier ripstop polyester that’s windproof and 50% recycled.

We do want to note this jacket is ultralight, and in order to shave weight, Eddie Bauer gave it an active fit. Depending on your frame, the shape of this jacket may be narrow in the hips, so consider sizing up.

What our staff testers and online reviewers from Alaska to Wisconsin liked most about the Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 jacket is that it’s warm and lightweight and versatile — for everything from skiing to daily wear to travel. It kept us warm in fall, winter, and spring (and stood up well to that wear). A chilly 40-degree fall morning, a 10-degree ski day, or even a dash through a blizzard — the MicroTherm can handle all sorts of cold.

The last feature that swayed this jacket toward the top of our list? The array of clean, elegant color choices. This jacket rocks.

Specs:

• Weight: 289 g
• Fill: 800
• Center back length: Unavailable
• Waterproof: No. Features a DWR treatment to repel water off surface
• Climate: Dry to mildly wet winter conditions
• Key features: 2 interior stash pockets (for goggles or gloves), fixed hood, packs into it’s chest pocket and has carabiner clip-in loop, zippered chest pocket, hand pockets with zip closures, Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certified, 50% recycled ripstop polyester shell
• Favorite use: General wear, hiking, camping

Pros:

• Great fit
• Stretch side panels increase overall range of motion, comfort, and breathability

Cons:

• Not waterproof
• Some ladies might be looking for a bulkier, cozier option for everyday use

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Best Budget Down Jacket for Women: REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket 2.0

The REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket ($100) is for anyone in search of a comfortable and straightforward down jacket that won’t break the bank. It packs down easily into its own pocket and quickly regains its shape after unpacking.

The DWR coating protects from light moisture. It even withstood an accidental spill — the coffee just sat on top and rolled off with a quick shake — no stain, no absorption. The jacket never got soggy, and the wind never bit us. The zipper’s storm flap actually works.

We appreciate the tall collar for style and protection against a cold breeze. But we sometimes wish a hood was attached, too.

One con is the feathers did leak more than expected. But as a DWR-treated jacket with a 650-fill at less than $100, it’s easily our budget pick.

Specs:

• Weight: 306 g
• Fill: 650
• Center back length: 26.5″
• Waterproof: No. DWR-treated to repel moisture off surface
• Climate: Dry to mildly wet winter conditions
• Key features: 2 zippered hand pockets, recycled nylon taffeta shell fabric, Bluesign certified nylon taffeta liner, RDS certified
• Favorite use: Everyday, camping, hiking

Pros:

• Includes plus sizes in 1X, 2X, and 3X
• Wind-resistant

Cons:

• No hood
• Those feathers sneak out of the seams

Check Price at REI

Best Stretch Down Jacket for Women: Mountain Hardwear Super/DS Stretchdown Hooded Jacket

This is the most flexible down jacket we’ve ever worn, which makes it super comfortable for everyday outdoor tasks and recreation. The Mountain Hardwear Super/DS Stretchdown ($275) is the first-ever jacket with stitch-free baffle construction and is made from a single fabric, eliminating the need for glue and stitching.

It’s one continuous channel of down wrapped into a woven construction that’s super stretchy — amazing. When we leaned over our bike’s handlebars, there was no seam restriction on our upper back, arms, or shoulders. Our ability to fully reach feels like we’re not wearing a jacket at all.

The jacket performed well on commuter rides, nippy walks, and snowy hikes in a range of temperatures from 10 to 35 degrees plus windchill at 10,000 feet.

The 700-fill jacket is lightweight and packs down to the size of a small travel pillow. Most impressively, water droplets roll off the surface with no signs of absorption or loss of loft.

Its hood is stretchy and spacious enough for a climbing helmet. However, when fully zippered, the hood’s elastic slightly pulls back the front collar, so the lower face is exposed from time to time. Still, given the warmth and stretch, the Super/DS jacket would be our first pick for cold climbing-based endeavors.

Specs:

• Weight: 426.5 g
• Fill: 700
• Center back length: 25.5″
• Waterproof: No. But the Q.Shield goose down resists moisture
• Climate: Dry to mildly wet winter conditions
• Key features: Fabrication removes need for sticking and glue, chest pocket, 2 zippered hand pockets, fixed hood, RDS certified down, fluorine-free water resistance treatment on down
• Favorite use: Climbing, biking, shoveling snow, everyday use

Pros:

• Excellent freedom of movement thanks to stitch-free design
• Durable face fabric is pliable and soft

Cons:

• Not waterproof
• Hood is streamlined which could be a drawback for some

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Best Super Warm Women’s Down Jacket: KUIU Super Down Ultra Hooded Jacket

If you need an extremely tenacious, dependable down jacket for hiking through the woods and remote wilderness, the KUIU Super Down Ultra Hooded Jacket ($319) is the one for the job.

The down insulation is unbelievably lightweight at only 193 g but also carries the most warmth on our list with more than 850 fill power. The fill and face fabric are treated for moisture resistance while walking through vegetation covered in dew, beneath a light rain, or standing still in the snowfall.

Hunters need to be totally silent out there. So KUIU selected a Toray fabric that’s quiet thanks to a heat treatment process that keeps the feathers inside while eliminating a traditional interior liner, which is noisy. Also, a one-of-a-kind baffle structure helps the down stay put, keeping the jacket’s warmth consistent throughout.

Specs:

• Weight: 193 g
• Fill: 850+
• Center back length: Unavailable
• Waterproof: No. But the down and face fabric are DWR-treated to prevent moisture absorption
• Climate: Dry to moderately wet winter conditions
• Key features: DWR-treated down, left hand pocket doubles as stuff sack, fixed hood, YKK zippers, adjustable hood with drawstring along hem and in center back for overall tightening
• Favorite use: Hunting in the mountains, backpacking, backcountry skiing, skiing (especially while going slower and teaching the kiddos)

Pros:

• Extremely warm
• Very quiet fabric

Cons:

• Pricier choice
• DWR treatment is not eco-friendly

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Best Waterproof Down Jacket for Women: Rab Valiance Waterproof Down Jacket

If you need a workhorse layer for winter conditions and a layer that blocks all the wild weather from snow to wind to rain, invest in the Rab Valiance ($385). The 800-fill down insulation is hydrophobic, meaning it’s treated to withstand moist, wet, and damp conditions, retain it’s loft, and dry fast.

While down fill can’t be waterproof (it’s feathers — it won’t ever replace a full-on rain jacket) this is as waterproof as a down jacket can get while being stuffed with natural fill versus synthetic.

We most liked this layer for when we had to work on the trailer, truck, and snowmobile in freezing conditions because we could count on the face fabric to not tear while also staying super cozy while being intermittently stagnant. The exterior fabric is 30-denier Pertex Shield, which is waterproof and highly breathable.

The fixed hood also has a rigid brim for blocking the elements and the collar is tall in the front, both of which we appreciate. Also, the cuffs have wide Velcro straps for adjustability.

The Valiance is a great choice for women that will be outside in cold, rugged, and wetter-than-average winter conditions.

Specs:

• Weight: 615 g
• Fill: 800
• Center back length: 28″
• Waterproof: Yes. Goose down features Nikwax fluorocarbon-free hydrophobic finish. Inner and outer fabric is treated for waterproofness and features fully taped seams. Plus there’s synthetic insulation in the hood and around the cuffs.
• Climate: Dry to the wettest coastal winter conditions
• Key features: Fully taped seams, helmet compatible and insulated fixed hood, YKK front zipper, 2 YKK zippers on hand pockets, YKK zipper on internal chest pocket, RDS certified down, drawstring cord for hood rim and back-of-hood for overall snugness, Velcro wrist cuffs
• Favorite use: Working on the snowmobile and trailer, cold campouts, traveling outside in blizzard or gusty conditions

Pros:

• Extremely warm
• Super durable face fabric
• Blocks wind like a superstar

Cons:

• Not as athletic-fitting as other down jackets
• Pricier option

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Best Women’s Down Jacket for Plus Sizes: Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie

We love that Outdoor Research makes a burly, wind-blocking down jacket in a huge size run from XS to XXXL. With 700-fill insulation, a slightly longer silhouette, and an overall roomy design for layering, it’s a great choice for many body types. And at only $229, the Coldfront Down Hoodie isn’t a bad price, either.

One of the coolest (er, warmest) features of the design is the addition of synthetic fill in the tops of the shoulders and around the wrist cuffs, where the majority of moisture is expected to hit in a snowstorm. Plus, the eco-friendly insulation is nearly all recycled. The exterior fabric and liner also has 30-denier toughness.

We absolutely love the softly lined hand pockets, which feature brushed tricot fabric. The hood is a bit spacious, but it works. For the sizing options and cozy features, it’s one of the best women’s down jackets for the price.

Note: be sure to size down if you prefer a more athletic fit.

Specs:

• Weight: 600 g
• Fill: 700 (plus synthetic fill in the tops of the shoulders)
• Center back length: 29.5″
• Waterproof: No. Water-resistant
• Climate: Dry to mildly wet winter conditions
• Key features: Bluesign approved materials, 53% recycled polyester shell and lining, 85% recycled polyester insulation in tops of shoulders and wrist cuffs, wrist gaiters with thumb loops, fixed hood, RDS certified
• Favorite use: Sailing, ski touring, resort skiing, everyday use

Pros:

• Size range is from XS to XXXL
• Wind- and water-resistant
• Lofty

Cons:

• Heavier jacket
• Slightly longer design compared to our other options — a con for some
• Not a streamlined-looking silhouette

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Ortovox Swisswool Zinal Jacket

For another warm natural fill that’s not down, consider the windproof and highly scuff-resistant Ortovox Swisswool Zinal Jacket ($370), which utilizes wool as the fill. After testing out this design, we can say it’s super durable and functional, has unique design features, and kept us cozy and protected in winter conditions.

The wool fill is sustainably derived from black sheep of the Swiss Alps. The jacket uses various weights of wool for tailored warmth — the front and upper sleeve area is a bit warmer compared to the lighter fit in the hood and lower sleeves. Merino inserts are in the chin, collar, and back area. Thanks to the wool, the jacket is fairly breathable for its level of warmth.

The wrist gaiters of the Swisswool are super slender and comfortable — not too tight — and don’t have thumbholes, which is fine. The cuffs are adjustable with a wide Velcro strap.

Spacious for all kinds of items and compatible with backpacks, the hand pockets are 10 x 6 inches wide. That Pertex Quantum face fabric is simply robust.

We also love the soft, breathable fabric that lines the inner collar, which generously reaches 6 inches in height.

Specs:

• Weight: 558 g
• Fill: Wool
• Center back length: 27″
• Waterproof: No. Water-repellent
• Climate: Dry to mildly wet winter conditions
• Key features: PFC-free, Fair Wear certified, climate neutral, two-way front zipper, wrist gaiters, one interior chest pocket, 2 large exterior hand pockets, extra zippered pocket on arm for ski pass or keys, insulated fixed hood, drawstring cord on back of hood snugs up the fit
• Favorite use: Everyday use, freeride skiing, and snowboarding

Pros:

• Windproof
• Four pockets
• Natural down alternative

Cons:

• Not the most packable
• Pricier choice

Check Price at Ortovox

Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket

The Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket ($275) reworked the fit so it’s roomier around the bust, waist, and hips, making this a very comfortable casual grab in cold weather.

With a 20-denier ripstop nylon face fabric and liner, the jacket is fairly strong for everyday use. A DWR coating helps keep moisture away. The jacket is fairly lightweight and packable, too.

Whether we were venturing around the Pacific Northwest (and wearing this beneath a rain coat) or traveling to Santiago, Chile, this was a comfortable, stylish down jacket that was ideal for layering with other midlayer or outerlayers.

Specs:

• Weight: 397 g
• Fill: 800
• Center back length: 23″
• Waterproof: No. Treated with DWR
• Climate: Dry to mildly wet winter conditions
• Key features: 2 interior stash pockets, 2 zippered hand pockets, jacket stuffs into its own pocket, fixed hood
• Favorite use: Casual, layering beneath a rain coat

Pros:

• Fun color options
• Sheds light precipitation

Cons:

• Little too boxy for some
• Won’t keep you warm enough at a bus stop in Chicago

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Marmot Women’s Highlander Jacket

The Marmot Women’s Highlander Jacket ($225) is a great slimmer-fitting contender for everyday warmth without shattering the wallet. While it’s not built to combat for heavy moisture, this jacket is a great layer to pair beneath a waterproof rain or ski shell.

From adventuring in the mountains of Alaska, winter surfing in the Pacific Northwest, and trekking the Camino de Santiago, we found this layer to be packable and dependable in the cold and wind.

Once you drop down to super low temperatures and windchill, consider a beefier jacket or layering wool or fleece beneath. Due to the athletic design, consider sizing up if you’d like to pull on bulkier midlayers.

Specs:

• Weight: 377 g
• Fill: 700
• Center back length: 26″
• Waterproof: No. But the down is treated for water resistance
• Climate: Dry to mildly wet winter conditions
• Key features: 2 zippered hand pockets
• Favorite use: Everyday, camping, hiking, layering beneath ski shell

Pros:

• Wind resistance
• Multiple interior chest pockets

Cons:

• Not waterproof
• Shoulder and bust area can be snug with layers beneath

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Mammut Whitehorn IN Jacket

There’s a lot to like about the Whitehorn IN Jacket ($239) from Mammut. First, let’s talk about an unusual standout feature — it’s reversible. You basically get two warm and comfortable looks for the price of one. Plus, you can feel good knowing it’s top-of-class for sustainability.

The outer is protected with a PFC-free DWR coating to repel moisture and keep you dry. We had no problem in light, wet snow, but be sure to bring a shell for any wetter conditions. With a combo of 650-fill recycled down and strategically placed recycled synthetic Ajungilak insulation along the shoulders, we stayed plenty warm during 10- to 20-degree days.

This jacket doesn’t pack down super small, so it’s not a favorite choice for lightweight backcountry outings. But anyone looking for a warm, comfortable, sustainable puffy will appreciate the Whitehorn IN for everyday winter use.

Consider sizing up if you prefer more room to move and layer.

Specs:

• Weight: 454 g
• Fill: 650 (plus strategically placed synthetic insulation along shoulders)
• Center back length: Unavailable
• Waterproof: No. Water-repellent exterior fabric
• Climate: Dry to mildly wet winter conditions
• Key features: Zippered chest pocket, 2 interior side pockets with snap buttons, 2 zippered exterior side pockets, 100% recycled down, synthetic fill in shoulders is recycled, Bluesign approved, PFC-free DWR treatment, Fair Wear certified, collar only (no hood)
• Favorite use: Casual winter days, around-town errands, general travel

Pros:

• Reversible design
• Strong 50-denier fabric

Cons:

• Doesn’t pack down the smallest
• No hood

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Arc’teryx Cerium SL Hoody

This light, packable, 850-fill, lofty down jacket ($359) is exemplary for belaying, rock climbing, and hiking in the fall and spring as well as alpine climbing in the summer. We also love it for backcountry skiing and splitboarding. The Arc’teryx Cerium SL Hoody is easy to move in.

When we used this jacket for backcountry ice climbing in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains in 10-degree temperatures, our routes included multipitch and mixed (rock and ice), vertical and overhanging frozen faces, and chimney moves.

The jacket proved extremely protective, warm, and tenacious while facing the grind. It even kept us warm while we belayed and we didn’t overheat on the climb. It’s super lightweight for the level of insulation.

The insulated hood’s kept us warm even with wind, which we didn’t feel through the fabric. We also really liked the elastic cuffs on the sleeves —we can easily tuck our hands to warm them.

But we wouldn’t recommend this jacket for wet winter conditions, as heavy snowfall dampened the outer layer. It might be breathable, but with high-end 850 fill, it’s very warm so it’s not a layer for cooling off. And there are no interior pockets.

It gets top marks for range of motion, and for the supple yet durable exterior fabric.

Specs:

• Weight: 205 g
• Fill: 850 (plus synthetic insulation in spots where moisture builds)
• Center back length: 25.5″
• Waterproof: No. Moisture-resistant outer fabric treated with DWR
• Climate: Dry to mildly wet winter conditions
• Key features: Synthetic insulation placed where moisture accumulates, down insulated and fixed hood that fits over helmet, includes stuff sack, 2 hand pockets that are zippered, minimal zippers reduce bulk (yet have never broken in several years)
• Favorite use: Ice, alpine, and rock climbing. Backcountry skiing, splitboarding, ski mountaineering

Pros:

• Ultralight technical design
• Highly compressible

Cons:

• Not waterproof
• No interior pockets
• Feathers can sometimes sneak out

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The North Face 1996 Nuptse Down Jacket

Designed for full warmth with a nod to The North Face’s retro style, this goose-down jacket is one of our favorites in the height of winter. The Nuptse Down Jacket ($280-320) has 700-fill down, a DWR finish for protection in wet weather, and a cinch at the hem to keep heat in. Wide baffles, oversized logos, and a more relaxed fit complete the style.

We loved a lot of things about this down puffy, namely, its warmth, packability, and adjustable cuffs with a wide Velcro closure. Most jackets we tested simply had stretch cuffs. This jacket’s adjustability is great for creating a seal around your winter gloves or mittens.

A nylon taffeta lining is paired with the ripstop nylon exterior, which is durable and soft. The stowable hood also packs into the high-reaching insulated collar, and the entire 1996 Nuptse jacket compresses down to zip into its own pocket.

Specs:

• Weight: 685 g
• Fill: 700
• Center back length: 23.75″
• Waterproof: No. Features DWR treatment on face fabric
• Climate: Dry to mildly wet winter conditions
• Key features: RDS-certified, stowable (non-insulated) hood, 2 zippered hand pockets, jacket stows in right-hand pocket
• Favorite use: Everyday casual wear

Pros:

• Hood can be stashed into collar (it’s not removable)
• Classic wide baffle and aesthetic

Cons:

• Fit is not as athletic as other jackets
• DWR treatment and fabric are not recycled or chemical-free
• Easily stains so be careful

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Why You Should Trust Us

Our GearJunkie team has tested and reviewed dozens of women’s down jackets in a range of cold-weather conditions across the country. For this guide, we examined the fine details of each down jacket, including comfort, functionality, protection from the elements, ease of use, and style. We also strongly considered the most popular, highly acclaimed, well-made, and size-inclusive women’s down jackets across price points.

Throughout the West and Rocky Mountains, we’ve cruised on our bikes, walked in blizzards, sat on park benches, cheered on cross-country ski races, and shoveled our rigs out of powder piles. We used these down jackets farming, hunting, camping, backpacking, backcountry skiing, splitboarding, and rock climbing. We also tested down jackets in Colorado’s Gunnison Valley — one of the coldest, snowiest destinations in the United States.

While a single jacket likely won’t meet all of a person’s needs, this comprehensive list provides options with unique specialties and/or supreme versatility. We’re confident these are the best women’s down jackets of the year.

Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is made from polyester fibers and is designed to imitate down clusters and properties with a few key differences. If you compare two equal-weight jackets, down is warmer than this alternative. But synthetic insulation retains warmth even when wet. It’s also easier to wash and usually comes at a lower price point.

• Pros of down: excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, comfort, compressibility, lightweight, high inherent warmth
• Cons of down: inability to insulate when wet, more difficult to wash, pricier

Some down jacket designs have a hybrid fill — they integrate synthetic fill into areas where moisture tends to collect like over the shoulders and around the wrist cuffs. That includes the Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie, Arc’teryx Cerium SL Hoody, and the Whitehorn IN Jacket. And in a very unique approach, the Ortovox Swisswool Zinal Jacket uses sustainably sourced wool for insulation instead of down.

Within synthetic jackets, active insulation is another progressive subcategory to know. These technical garments are designed to dump extra heat and dry fast, so you don’t have to remove the jacket during vigorous activity. But these layers also need to be durable, warm, and wind-resistant. They ultimately won’t be as warm as a straightforward down jacket. It’s a tricky balance.

Down Fill

Down fill power measures the loft and quality of the down. To calculate fill, a one-ounce sample of down is compressed in a cylinder. Generally speaking, the higher the number, the higher the quality and warmer the jacket — though the fill power isn’t the only variable affecting a jacket’s warmth.

But the higher the fill quality, the less down is needed to create the same warmth. This is because it’s able to trap more air and warmth within the jacket. Higher fill power — around 800 to 900 — is more compressible, loftier, more lightweight, and pricier.

Fill power ratings range from 400 to 900 and even greater. Most of the jackets on this list are in the 800-fill range, with a few clocking in above or below. Generally, the quality increases with the fill number:

• 400-500: fair quality
• 600: good quality
• 700: great quality
• 800: excellent quality
• 900 and above: highest quality

The other thing to consider is fill weight.

Fill Power vs. Fill Weight

A down jacket’s fill power is the down’s quality and amount of loft. You’ll see jackets labeled as 600-fill or 800-fill, for instance. The fill weight, which is measured in ounces, reflects the density or amount of that down stuffed inside the jacket. (Note: fill weight differs from the jacket’s overall weight.)

So when two 700-fill jackets have different weights, we know the heavier one is warmer.

On the other hand, if two down jackets weigh the same with different fill power (such as two 15-ounce jackets with 650 fill and 800 fill), the higher fill jacket is going to be less bulky, lighter, and more compressible.

It’s also trickier to compare jackets with differing fill power. But in general, the lower the fill power, the less loft and warmth are provided.

Water Resistance & Hydrophobic Down

Down does not perform well when wet. And this is one of the places synthetic jackets tend to win out. To catch up, there has been a growing use of hydrophobic down, which has evolved over the past decade.

Essentially, the down feathers are coated in a water-resistant polymer. It still doesn’t match the water resistance of synthetics. But for light precipitation, hydrophobic down can’t be beat.

The face fabric of some down jackets is treated with DWR to help block light moisture, too, which can be eco-friendly formulas or chemicals that are toxic for the environment. Jackets can also have sealed seams to block moisture.

Waterproofness

Many down jackets are not waterproof, but some offer a degree of water resistance, which works fine in dryer winter climates — where the snow water equivalent (read: the amount of liquid water in the snow) is lower.

There are four general snow climates: coastal, transitional, intermountain, and continental. Generally, the closer you are to the coast, the more precipitation you’ll experience and the water content will be higher in the snow — it’ll be wetter and heavier!

In contrast, the snow in continental climates is dryer, lighter, and accumulates less compared to the coast. That includes most of the Rocky Mountains, such as in Colorado. Intermountain regions and ranges show characteristics of both and transitional areas are similar to the coast but with less rain and snow.

Examples according to the Utah Avalanche Center:

• Coastal (wettest): California, Washington, Oregon, coastal Alaska, and coastal British Columbia
• Transitional (moderately wet): Areas and targeted locations in Montana, northern Idaho, and Oregon
• Intermountain (mildly wet): Utah’s Wasatch Range, most of Idaho, Montana, and portions of Northeast Oregon and Southwest Colorado
• Continental (mostly dry): Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, interior Alaska, and interior British Columbia

Collar & Hood

An ergonomic collar and hood are significant features for protecting your face, head, ears, neck, and hair against sun, snow, sleet, hail, wind, or rain. Pulling up a hood can help the body retain heat in chilly conditions while shielding you from the elements.

Jacket collars vary in height and ideally have an interior chin guard that feels comfortable against the face, a key component on a windy day. Hoods on down jackets are typically insulated and fixed rather than removable or non-insulated, which you’ll see on lifestyle parka designs. Certain designs have an elastic cinch in the back to snug up the overall fit or one along the hood’s hem.

Occasional hood designs are non-insulated or feature a rigid brim to help keep moisture away from the face. The North Face Nuptse Down Jacket has both, as well as a unique packable (non-removable) hood — it rolls down and stuffs into the collar.

Sleeve Cuffs & Pockets

On most women’s down jackets, the sleeve cuffs have a streamlined elastic wrist cuff that stretches when you slide your hands through, meaning it’s easier to pull the jacket on before you put on your gloves. A handful have a wide velcro strap to tighten down the closure once you pull the jacket on.

The cut of cuffs is typically straight across at the wrist, so the arm length is functional and not cumbersome.

Very few down jackets feature wrist gaiters with thumbholes for extra hand warmth, but the Ortovox Swisswool Zinal Jacket does.

Most jackets include two exterior hand pockets with zip closures. Often, there is at least one interior chest pocket with a zip closure, which can be great for chambering a credit card, ID, or key.

Fit & Size

Women’s down jackets are generally either trim with a streamlined fit or they can be roomier, puffier, and boxier with a more relaxed silhouette. Many materials offer a bit of flexibility or a ton of stretch for a wide range of movement. Not many down jackets look like a marshmallow these days — even the thickest jackets have articulation and style.

Both options can be comfortable. A roomier jacket is better if you plan to wear a bunch of layers beneath your jacket. You can still add layers beneath a fitted style but you might want to consider sizing up, because often the arm, shoulder, or chest areas can get too snug with a midlayer or two beneath.

Size-wise, each manufacturer has its own size charts. Be sure to take your personal measurements and match them up with the size charts, which can differ across brands.

Some companies provide more size inclusivity with broader offerings. That includes Outdoor Research with a size run of XS to XXXL. The North Face has sizes XS to XXL, and Eddie Bauer offers a size range of XS to XXL including regular, petite, tall, and plus options. Everyone’s body is unique, so check the exchange and return policy before you buy.

Weight & Compressibility

A down jacket’s weight and compressibility can be an important variable for cargo space and airline travel as well as storage and closet space. Otherwise, a jacket used for everyday errands and social events will generally weigh more than a lightweight technical down jacket made for athletic pursuits. Having a lightweight design for an everyday jacket is typically less of a priority because the comfort, ergonomics, and high warmth factors are the most important.

The longer a jacket is, the more it will weigh and the more space it will take up. The heavier a jacket is, the warmer it will be (read more about fill weight above). If you don’t need a warm winter jacket built for arctic conditions and need one for milder winter temperatures that hover above or around freezing, then the jacket will most likely weigh less.

The lightest down jackets range from the 850+ KUIU Super Down Ultra Hooded Jacket at a mere 193 g and the 205g Arc’teryx Cerium SL Hoody to the 600g Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie and Rab Valiance Waterproof Down Jacket, which is 615 g. The majority of our favorite down jackets sit around 300 to 400 g.

Ultimately, don’t compromise a jacket’s safety or comfort features and adequate warmth to drop grams.

Length & Zippers

The length of women’s down jackets typically reaches the hips but can reach a bit further, below the hips, which affects the overall warmth and protection from the elements.

Down jackets typically use a single one-way zipper in the front and zippered exterior hand pockets. To help snug up the fit, the hip-length jackets usually have a streamlined drawstring cord that can be easily tightened and loosened, which can help prevent gusts or snowflakes from scurrying up into the jacket.

The Ortovox Swisswool Zinal Jacket is among the few down jackets with a two-way front zipper, which helps with harness compatibility.

Eco-Friendly & Recycled Materials

Beyond responsibly sourced down, like the ethically-sourced Advanced Global Traceable Down in the Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody, down jackets have an opportunity to include a bunch of eco-friendly design traits.

Some jackets are created with PFC-free DWR treatments for the exterior or down. That includes the Super/DS Stretchdown, which employs a fluorine-free water resistance treatment on down fill. The Rab Valiance Waterproof Down Jacket likewise features a Nikwax fluorocarbon-free hydrophobic finish on its down fill.

Other designs are made with recycled materials from recycled down to recycled polyester or implement recycled down or a recycled interior fabric liner. The Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody has 100% recycled ripstop polyester shell and liner. The Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 implements a 20-denier ripstop polyester that’s windproof and 50% recycled. The REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket uses a recycled nylon taffeta shell fabric. In its hybrid design, the Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie even uses 85% recycled polyester insulation in tops of shoulders and wrist cuffs.

Some jackets also guarantee Fair Trade sewing or Bluesign or climate neutral or Oeko-Tex Certified fabrics.

Price

Our budget pick in this guide is the REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket ($70).

At full price, the most expensive down jackets on our list are among the warmest and offers the most coverage against the elements. Those typically sit in the $300 range like the Rab Valiance Waterproof Down Jacket ($385), wool-filled Ortovox Swisswool Zinal Jacket ($370), KUIU Super Down Ultra Hooded Jacket ($319), and Arc’teryx Cerium SL Hoody ($359).

A huge variety of warm down jackets exist between those two price marks. Most of our favorite down jackets are in the $100 range: Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 ($172), Super/DS Stretchdown ($137), Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie ($172), Whitehorn IN Jacket ($168), Marmot Women’s Highlander Jacket ($158), and the Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket ($165).

A handful are in the $200 zone, including The North Face Nuptse Down Jacket ($280) and Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody ($279).

As fill power and fill weight increase, the warmth increases, and you’ll see the price of a jacket go up. That’s one reason why super lightweight, durable, technical cold-weather jacket are pricy. Jackets that are more expensive also feature more technical design features, materials that are more robust against a range of weather conditions and materials, as well as high-end sustainable materials.

Down Standards

Outdoor industry brands have made an effort to source down ethically without animal cruelty and create transparency in the global supply chain. Various certifications exist, but the most common is the Responsible Down Standard and Global Traceable Down Standard. Without meeting such standards, animal abuse can become part of the supply chain. Synthetic choices can set some folks at ease.

Animal materials aside, synthetics can sometimes be a safer choice overall for wearers in wet or mixed weather. Active insulation is best for high-output action. If it’s cold and dry, down is optimal despite a higher cost. The above are a handful of the best down jackets to keep you covered in the cold.

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