The Best Down Jackets for Women of 2024-2025 | GearJunkie Tested

Some cold-weather gear doesn’t fit squarely in a single season. Down jackets for women are one of those year-round staples that’s essential come winter but functional year-round. Also known as your beloved puffy or puffer, these functional women’s down jackets provide top-level warmth while packing down pretty small.

Options such as the Jones Women’s Re-Up Down Recycled Hoodie or Rab Women’s Mythic Alpine Down Jacket are light, packable, durable and super warm for any adventure from ice climbing to backcountry skiing. Other designs like the Rab Valiance Waterproof Down Jacket are less packable but fully waterproof and a stout option for hunting, fishing, or taking care of the horses. Alternatively, leaner choices — for instance, the Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody — are a great all-around functional layer for camping, road trips, or running errands around town, especially during winter days with broad temperature swings.

Though we mostly focus on jackets with natural down fill in this guide, there are also some synthetic fill options that are very warm and packable. To understand how these two types of insulation differ, as well as other details about construction, read the Buyer’s Guide or jump to the Price & Value summary. Still weighing your options? Consult our Comparison Chart to see how down jackets for women stack up. Otherwise, take a look at our awarded goods for the 2024-2025 season. This collection of layers features functional hip-length puffy jackets. If you’re interested in lengthier jackets and parkas for everyday use, read our Women’s Winter Jackets buyer’s guide.

Editor’s Note: We updated our Best Down Jackets for Women buyer’s guide on November 1, 2024, with the freshly field-tested Marmot Women’s Guides Down Hoody, Mammut Albula IN Hooded Jacket Women, Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 Down Jacket, and the awarded Decathlon Forclaz Women’s MT100 Hooded Down Puffer Jacket, as well as a sweep of revamped and new sections like Washing & Care and Fit & Size.

We focus on the full recipe, but the Rab Women’s Mythic Alpine Down Jacket ($390) is frankly one of the most stunning down layers we’ve ever tested. This down jacket for ladies is gorgeous, articulated, easy to move in, and practical while delivering massive standards.

The Mythic series offers a queen of warmth-to-weight ratios. Inside the Alpine, there’s a whopping 900-fill goose down, the highest in our guide and the highest available on the market. That fill is certified RDS and treated with a Nikwax fluorocarbon-free hydrophobic finish, which absorbs 40% less moisture than untreated down — and the resilience during a snowstorm is noticeable. We didn’t see damp patches appear on the surface, which was likewise treated with a fluorocarbon-free DWR coat.

We love the baffling design, especially on the puffy hood and around the torso, where the stitch-through baffles are tailored sizes (they aren’t cookie-cutter) to better balance the warmth and loft. While skiing inbounds during a blizzard, we found the hood works fine over a helmet. We also dig the super streamlined reinforcement in the bill to help catch moisture and prevent a sloppy cap.

Among our favorite details, the inside of the collar is generously coated with wide fleece on both sides. Our face says namaste. On the exterior, the 10-denier fabric is strong, light, soft, and 100% recycled — as is the interior lining. The face is treated with a fluorocarbon-free DWR to help keep moisture at bay, which we found delivers. Though a small detail, the cuff elastication is lean, malleable, and easy to enter to exit, making quick pull-ons that much smoother.

This Women’s Mythic Alpine Down Jacket does a solid number to block wind and retain warmth — and is stamped at a median price point while looking really good. This design proves you can pay attention to small details while building out a jacket for bigger missions. One drawback for some ladies: the extra-small size option is only available in black. Though it’s less durable and not as warm, a leaner option with a broad size range is the Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody, which offers up XXS to XXL: The design is a solid everyday layer.

For frugal folks who also like travel and activities that require a pack, give the Decathlon Forclaz Women’s MT100 Hooded Down Puffer Jacket ($100) a shot for packability and the wallet-friendly tag.

Decathlon designed this jacket with 800-fill power natural down that’s RDS-certified. For the affordability, the natural down is a major plus, and the down is also ethically sourced. Especially along the arms, the rows of baffles are relatively narrow, allowing the down to be evenly distributed throughout the jacket’s surface. We found that this jacket held true to its temperature rating of 23°F and warmer — making it ideal for use in milder winter climates and outdoor activities spent on the snow.

Our favorite aspect of this design is its packability. Within a few seconds, the Forclaz MT100 can be packed into its own pocket, which acts as a small stuff sack. This system, which makes the jacket condensed and firm, is great when you need to easily find the puffer in a loaded duffel. And at around 275 grams, the MT100 didn’t weigh us down at all on the skin track or trail.

The zippered hand pockets are spacious enough for a phone, keys, gloves, and more. That said, the zippers on the pockets and center-front could be enhanced. We found that getting the jacket zipped up was a bit finicky which can be frustrating when you’re quickly throwing layers back on at the summit.

It can be a significant challenge finding a down jacket for women at a base cost that’s also made with a multifaceted experience in mind. This is where the Forclaz comes into play with its loft, travel-friendly design, and low entry. For budget-conscious women wanting a layer that provides decent insulation and easily packs down, give this down jacket a shot. Another fairly economic option is the Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 Down Jacket, which has an on par down fill but includes stretch side panels for breathability, DWR for moisture resistance and a windproof face — but it does cost more than double this Decathlon.

Read Review: Budget and Travel Friendly: Decathlon Forclaz MT100 Hooded Down Puffer Jacket Review

Who knew that a 100% recycled down jacket would be so comfortable and tenacious? Welcome the Jones Women’s Re-Up Down Recycled Hoodie ($300) to the party. We’ve been throwing this piece over and under our shell on backcountry tours, snowmobile rides, and resort laps: It doesn’t get much better.

The Re-Up sets a new industry benchmark with a first-ever combo of a 100% recycled exterior fabric — a 20-denier nylon — and 100% recycled down stuff inside: a cozy 750 fill. There’s more. The jacket is garnished with recycled zippers and recycled polyester pull cords, too, which run smooth, don’t get jammed, and are just as durable in our experience.

Whether we’re wearing this layer for jaunts or jibs, we love the high mark of five pockets, which exceeds the storage capacity in most other down jackets of this caliber. There are two zippered hand pockets, a streamlined exterior chest pocket, and two wide dump pockets that are great for warming skins on cold days.

Size up if you prefer a super oversized down jacket over your shell, but we’ve also been zipping our regular size over our shell (which pokes out a bit at the lower hem) and there’s ample stretch. We’ve never felt hugged too tight, and the articulated frame looks good.

While we like the shape of the insulated hood and appreciate the sliding elastic toggle for tightening up around the dome, we do wish there was a buttery fleece liner on the inside of the chin guard. The material isn’t rough but it’s more comfortable to have a textile that absorbs moisture and offers warmth.

We’ve worn this down jacket in snowstorms and while the material starts to look damp, the water resistance performs and the heat still radiated. That said, be aware that this isn’t a waterproof option, so if it’s really dumping — throw it on under your shell. Launched in 2022-2023, the jacket received a notable hike of baffling to boost warmth. Now, as best things should, the 2024-2025 version remains unchanged. From a core snowboard brand, the Women’s Re-Up Down Recycled Hoodie is functional, eye-catching, steadfast and super sustainable down jacket. This piece can stand against a beating while being tagged at an average price, making it one of our favorite down jackets for women.

With a contoured silhouette that reaches the hips and snugs up beneath the chin, this 800-fill Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody ($329) is an excellent everyday jacket and, for several winters in a row, remains toward the top of our list as an all-around comfortable layer. Especially if you don’t need a longer parka or the highest degree of oven action. The design withstands wind, resists moisture, and is lightweight for its level of warmth.

Plus, Patagonia keeps improving the environmental standards for this product year after year. For all of those reasons, it tops our list of favorites as a cold-weather ally. The 100% recycled ripstop 20-denier polyester shell and liner is made from NetPlus yarn, which is created from fishing nets to reduce ocean plastic pollution. Patagonia supports manufacturers through essential services provided via the Mamata organization. And the insulation is ethically sourced Advanced Global Traceable Down, to name a few of those eco-star traits.

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. We stayed dry throughout thanks to the shell’s PFC-free DWR finish, which blocks precipitation. Heavier amounts of water noticeably dampen the exterior, though it rebounds and maintains warmth. 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 everyday down jacket with great style and protection for the winter season. It’s awesome to pull on after cardio activity, like a winter run.

The reason the Down Sweater Hoody tops our list as one of the best down jacket for ladies? It’s durable over time, and we found it just slightly warmer than our runner-up choice. Plus, the size run spans from XXS to XXL.

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 Stretchdown Hoody ($300) 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.

With ample flex, the Stretchdown performed memorably well on commuter rides and snowy hikes in a range of temperatures from 10 to 35 degrees plus windchill at 10,000 feet. With a 700-fill, the jacket remains 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.

We love the hood, which is of course very stretchy, and it’s also spacious enough for a climbing helmet. However, when the jacket is fully zipped up, the hood’s elasticity slightly pulls back the front collar, so the lower face is exposed from time to time. Still, given the warmth and stretch, the Stretchdown Hoody would be a great choice cold climbing-based endeavors. Our other favorite climbing down jacket is the Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody, which is extremely stretchy, lightweight, waterproof, and durable no matter how rough the rock is. But it costs $100 more.

If you need a unicorn-workhorse layer for winter conditions and a layer that blocks all the wild weather from snow to wind to rain, invest in the Rab Women’s Valiance Waterproof Down Jacket ($415) — a completely windproof and waterproof down jacket. The 700-fill down insulation is hydrophobic, meaning it’s treated to withstand moist, wet, and damp conditions, retain its loft, and dry fast. This is as waterproof as a down jacket can get while being stuffed with natural fill versus synthetic. And it works.

Also key: That hydrophobic treatment is free of toxic fluorocarbons. The interior liner and exterior face are made of 100% recycled material. And the jacket was recently upgraded with 100% recycled down. Plus, Rab is a Fair Wear partner to raise and protect labor standards for factory workers. The company is also climate-neutral certified. We dig.

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

The fixed hood also has a rigid brim for blocking the elements. The collar is tall in the front, which we appreciate for keeping our lower face cozy. Also, the cuffs have wide Velcro straps for adjustability. The Valiance is a great choice for women who will be outside in cold, rugged, and wetter- or rougher-than-average winter conditions.

Designed with bright colors and a looser silhouette, we can’t help but mention the Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket ($295) in our guide for the best down jackets for women. Ideal for more casual use like hiking, camping, or those hot chocolate-fueled strolls around town, this down jacket is both warm and thoughtfully designed. We also can’t overlook the fact that this jacket delivers the broadest size range of any down jackets we’ve tested for women: XXS to XL, as well as four plus sizes from 1X to 4X.

We wore this jacket on several early morning dog walks in 20-degree weather and while car camping on a crisp night in Sedona, Ariz. We loved that the jacket allowed us plenty of mobility and breathability without getting too hot or cold. The array of festive colors is a major plus, too (it paired perfectly with bright pink sunglasses).

The durability of the Fuego is certainly worth noting. Made with 20-denier ripstop nylon with DWR treatment, this down coat keeps its feathers locked in and repels water, snow, and sleet.

Our one complaint? The interior pocket on the hips might be unpleasant for stashing items like your phone, keys, or wallet because it is adjacent to the zippered hand pocket. However, the jacket easily compresses into the convenient stuff pocket located on the interior making it ideal for travel.

If you are looking for a stylish down jacket that allows a generous amount of room for layering, or you are traveling abroad to a milder winter climate, consider the colorful and spunky Fuego Hooded Down Jacket. The versatility makes this design one of our favorites for an everyday down jacket.

Despite having a 100% synthetic fill, the Mammut Albula IN Hooded Jacket ($229) still rocked elbow-nudging warmth and technical details. From days spent on the skin track to fireside hangouts under the stars, this jacket proved to be durable, water-repellent, and packable throughout the winter season.

The Albula IN is an eco-friendly design that’s Bluesign certified and utilizes Thermore Ecodown: a synthetic fill manufactured with recycled PET bottles. As one of the only down alternatives in our collection, we found it easier to care for and wash compared to a down fill layer. And for the average climate and conditions, the jacket packs plenty of warmth. Plus, repurposing trash into attractive apparel is a major plus in our eyes.

In terms of warmth and water resistance, the Albula left a mark. We walked our dog several miles in blizzards and biting wind and stayed exceptionally cozy. The 100% polyester outer is treated with a PFC-free Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment, so snowflakes and rain had a tough time penetrating the face. The material quickly dried once we were back home.

We loved that when the jacket was zipped up, the collar sat high enough to cover our chin and mouth from any blowing snow or harsh gusts. The interior liner is buttery soft, making this jacket one of the most comfortable we’ve tried.

The silhouette is slightly tapered without sacrificing room for base and midlayers. A sweatshirt or long sleeve paired well with this down jacket, without being restrictive for most activities like downhill skiing. We threw the Albula on under our ski shell for resort days and had no issues making jump turns or staying warm on the chairlift.

Overall, the Albula IN Hooded Jacket is a powerhouse synthetic puffer made with recycled materials and provides enough boom for most outdoor activities. This jacket is a pretty good contender for active women who need a packable, lightweight jacket for snow-paired adventures but don’t want to risk down, which can lose loft and warmth if it gets wet.

Read Review: Trash Into Treasure: Mammut Albula IN Hooded Jacket Review

With a retro aesthetic that doesn’t lack any warmth, the Marmot Women’s Guides Down Hoody ($275) quickly became one of our favorites for the winter season. We donned this super lofty garment during some pretty intense winter weather in the high country of Colorado. And while it isn’t designed for use in heavy moisture — because it lacks water resistance or proofing — it was one of the warmest jackets we’ve tried out and is totally windproof, too. It’s also partially loaded with an innovative plant-derived insulation.

Aside from a wind-blocking textile face, that warmth can be attributed to the 700-fill 80% recycled down. The other 20% of the insulating power comes from the tropical kapok or ceiba tree, which produces seed pods with fine fibers that are used for textile development. Being from a plant, the fibers are natural, biodegradable, and hypoallergenic.

And while the Guides Down Hoody was substantially warm during temps around 10 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the lack of water resistance (and the slightly boxy cut) refrained us from using this jacket during any technical activities like ice climbing, downhill skiing, or snowshoeing. After a few minutes in snow or rain, we found that the outer fabric of the coat was easily soaked and stained. With even just a light DWR treatment, this down jacket would be rightly tuned for a greater swath of activity.

Capping it off, we recommend this cold-weather jacket for daily casual wear around town. It is easy to style with that modern, cropped silhouette, and the fun colorways add some festivity to an outfit. As long as it’s not snowing or raining, the adjustable crop on this jacket can be a nice layer for belaying at the crag where you want to keep your jacket above and separate from your harness. We do wish this jacket was offered in extended sizes for plus-size folks, though, as it is only available in XS to XL.

The Marmot Guides jacket for ladies is windproof, warm, and eco-friendly for spending time outside in town and some trail activity, as long as there’s no precipitation. The revolutionary use of plant-based insulation derived from the kapok tree impressed us alongside the jacket’s edgy style.

Read Review: Zip Into Comfort: Marmot Women’s Guides Down Hoody Review

This light, packable, 850-fill, lofty down jacket is exemplary for belaying and rock climbing in the fall and spring as well as alpine climbing in the summer. We also love it for hiking, backcountry skiing, and splitboarding. The Arc’teryx Cerium Insulated Hoodie ($400) is one of the best down jackets for mobility and we’re surprised how tough the face material is against even the roughest rock or layered with a harness.

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. Its insulated hood 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.

This Cerium Hoody gets top marks for range of motion, and for the supple yet durable exterior fabric. This stout, ultralight down jacket is perfect for that super active climber, skier, or biker looking for zero restriction and insulation while they are adventuring. Another option for a climbing is the wonderfully stretchy Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Hoody, which costs $100 less — but it has a lower fill power, is less durable and is less articulated compared to the premium Cerium.

On a tight budget? This REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket ($129) is for anyone in search of a comfortable, straightforward down jacket that won’t break the bank. It packs down easily into its own pocket and quickly regains its shape after unpacking. Offering more size options for more bodies, you can choose from XS to XL, as well as extended sizes from 1X to 3X. The array of vibrant color options isn’t an afterthought, either.

That 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 interior 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 that the feathers did leak more than expected. But as a DWR-treated jacket with a 650-fill at just over $100, it’s easily one of our budget-friendly picks.

The 650 Down Jacket is great for someone looking to purchase a jacket for a short trip to the mountains or as a gift for that friend needing a warmer layer in a milder winter zone. The accessible aspects of this jacket – both for its low price and the plus size options — make this fair-quality piece stands out.

We love that Outdoor Research makes a burly, wind-blocking down jacket in a broad size run from XS to XXL. 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 just over $200, the Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie ($279) 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 have 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, the Coldfront Down Hoodie is one of the best women’s down jackets for the price. Note: Be sure to size down if you prefer a more athletic fit.

Despite being lightweight and cloud-like, the Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 Down Jacket ($249) is a powerhouse in terms of warmth and durability. This hoodless jacket quickly became our go-to as a skiing midlayer because it fits well under a non-insulated ski shell. The stretchy side panels on the MicroTherm allow for plenty of mobility while taking turns and allow some air circulation without compromising warmth. The most recent update to this piece? It now has a 100% recycled polyester shell that’s Bluesign-certified (excluding the polyester-spandex side panels). You can even opt for the variation with a hood.

In terms of warmth, the MicroTherm 2.0 Down Jacket insulates well even while not being bulky or heavy. We tested this jacket out in all sorts of blustery Colorado weather ranging from 15 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit while ski touring, hiking, and walking the dog. The 800-fill power goose down insulation combined with the MicroTherm construction — what Eddie Bauer calls its design of small baffles — worked extremely well to provide plenty of heat during cold weather, plus protection against dampness thanks to the DWR treatment on the face. Another factor bumping up comfort in the elements is the windproof 20-denier grade of the shell, making this piece highly wind resistant, which we verified during a long ski tour in Colorado’s high country.

Unlike most down jackets, the Microtherm 2.0 has four size run options, including petite, regular, tall, and plus. And each fit provides an array of sizes. Furthermore, the hem has an adjustable drawcord, which helps folks tailor this jacket just a little bit more. Despite having a tapered silhouette, this jacket is still stretchy and roomy enough to throw a base and midlayer on under.

Our one qualm with this puffy is with the main zipper on the front. The jacket could benefit from a stronger, higher quality metal and an improved pull tab. But that would also drive up the cost.

After plenty of test rounds, we found that the MicroTherm 2.0 is an affordable, lightweight down jacket made for activity-filled days throughout the winter season. We appreciate this coat for its plentiful size options, malleable feel, and breathable side panels. From chilly days filled with adventure to nightly walks around town, this jacket is a good choice, especially for budget-conscious shoppers.

This Marmot Women’s Highlander Jacket ($250) is a great slimmer-fitting contender for everyday warmth without shattering the wallet. While it’s not built to combat 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 of the Highlander, consider sizing up if you’d like to pull on bulkier midlayers.

Checking the boxes as a great layer, the Women’s Highlander Jacket is for those looking for something to use in drier, milder winter climates for everyday use with the occasional bigger excursions out in the elements.

Scroll right to view all of the columns: Price, Weight, Fill, Waterproof, Best Use.

Our GearJunkie team has tested and reviewed dozens of women’s down jackets in a range of cold-weather conditions across the country.

Leading the tests for women’s down jackets is GearJunkie Senior Editor Morgan Tilton. Raised in the mountains, she remembers buying her first insulated jacket as a teen — it was pretty life-altering. A lifelong skier and snowboarder, Tilton experiences winter conditions at least 6 months of the year, doesn’t go backcountry skiing without one, and always has a down jacket on hand throughout summer for camping out and road trips.

Contributor Meghan LaHatte has lived on Colorado’s Western Slope for more than half a decade. With long and grueling winters, she knows the importance of a powerful down jacket. LaHatte’s tests include chilly dog walks, camping in the desert, and transitioning into her ski boots at the resort.

Our primary down jacket tests have been in Colorado’s Gunnison Valley — one of the coldest, snowiest destinations in the United States — as well as in Telluride and Aspen, Colorado. We’ve also tested down jackets throughout the state and on trips nationwide and overseas.

We pull on our down jackets for everything a day entails: bike rides in town, blizzard commutes, pulling on ski boots at the lot, spectating ski races, volunteering at the nordic center, dog walks, and shoveling. We also wear these functional down jackets for outdoor action and sports including camping, farming, hunting, backcountry skiing, mountaineering, ice climbing, snowmobiling, and rock climbing.

LaHatte allowed each jacket an average of 25 hours of testing time — from 30 minutes of walking her puppy to 4+ hours of alpine skiing, she tested each layer in situations that require prolonged insulation and comfort. Her most recent test period was from January to May to see how each coat lasted through the winter and into spring across snow, thunderstorms, and sunshine speckled afternoons.

As we test, we examine the fine details of each down jacket, including the warmth, packability, overall fit and ease of entry, style, zippers and zip pills, packability, durability, stretch, seams, liner, cuffs, zipper, hood, collar, material, and pockets. We also consider the functionality, weather protection — including wind and precipitation — and sustainability.

We also strongly consider the most popular, highly acclaimed, and size-inclusive down jackets for women across a range of price points.

First off — if you’re looking for a fashion-forward insulated jacket with length and high warmth, read our Women’s Winter Jackets buyer’s guide. That list includes durable parka-style silhouettes that are oriented for more casual use and mild activity. They aren’t the most compressible designs.

Here, our favorite down jackets for women are all fairly technical and packable. Each product offers excellent warmth while being hip-length. Side by side, how these down jackets differ from one to the next is the degree of windproofness, water resistance, insulation, durability, packability, and style. Those factors all influence the price.

Down insulation is made from goose or duck plumage, a natural undercoat beneath feathers. This traditional fill is known for being lightweight and compressible while maintaining warmth due to intricate clusters that capture air and body heat.

You may be wondering if you even need a down jacket. Down is incredibly insulating and warm. It’s also very light. The downsides of down are a loss of insulation when wet and an inability to dry fast. In the long run, it also requires special cleaning.

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.

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 and the Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody. And in a very unique approach, some jackets use sustainably sourced wool for insulation instead of down or synthetic fill.

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 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:

The other thing to consider when selecting the best down jacket for you is 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.

Most of the brands we reached out to were unable to provide the fill weight for each jacket, but here are some of our favorite products fill weights from the greatest fill weight to the lowest fill weight:

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 to the environment. Jackets can also have sealed seams to block moisture.

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. If serious rain is in the forecast, though, it’s best to pair these jackets with a solid raincoat.

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:

Aside from the insulation type and other construction elements, it is important to consider the material types of a down jacket. Many outdoor companies implement different fabric types for the interior and exterior fabrics. These materials tend to have varying degrees of softness, stiffness, noise levels, and coatings. We’ll dive into some specifics below.

The interior liner of a down jacket serves many purposes: providing extra comfort, insulation, and moisture management. Some common materials used in these interior elements are nylon, polyester, and other down-proof fabrics.

Interior fabrics are consistently less robust than those used for the exterior. They are much softer and more malleable. Because they are exposed to fewer elements and abrasion, they can afford to be silky smooth and thinner. If your down jacket’s liner was composed of stiffer materials it certainly would be less comfortable.

Exterior fabrics make up the outer face of a down jacket. The layer serves one of the most important purposes when it comes to construction: It protects the insulation and user from elements like rain, snow, wind, and sleet. You’ll notice that exterior fabrics typically have different feels, looks, stitching, and sound.

Much like interior fabrics, a down jacket’s shell materials are typically made from nylon and polyester. However, they are often treated with finishes like DWR (durable water repellent) or other coatings to make them hydrophobic- and stain-resistant.

If you find that your down jacket’s shell sounds crunchy, the noise may be due to a couple of factors. The shell material could be made with a stiffer nylon fabric and when given added treatments, it can be a bit noisy or scratchy. Typically down jackets made with premium materials are less noisy due to their finer construction, softer hand feel, and flexibility.

Overall, materials can make or break a down jacket, but you can trust all of the jackets we’ve listed here are well-constructed, durable, and built to last.

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. The collar on the Mammut Albula IN Hooded Jacket sits nice and high, providing plenty of protection for the chin and mouth during relentless weather.

Occasional hood designs are non-insulated or feature a rigid brim to help keep moisture away from the face.

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. The thick elastic cuffs on the Mammut Albula IN Hooded Jacket are among our favorites for comfort, protection, and rebound.

Very few down jackets feature wrist gaiters with thumbholes for extra hand warmth but some do.

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. It’s always a plus when these interior pockets are made with buttery soft materials, so that your hands stay comfortable while tucked inside. The Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie has some ultrasoft polyester-lined pockets that kept our hands cozy while facing the cold.

Some down jackets even have an interior self-stow pocket for easy packing and compressibility. Simply flip the pocket or pouch inside out, and then roll or press the jacket into the pocket. Typically there will be a closure — a zipper, button, or drawstring — that you can use to secure your coat inside of itself. This feature especially stood out in the Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 Down Jacket and Decathlon Forclaz Women’s MT100 Hooded Down Puffer Jacket.

Women’s down jackets are generally either trim with a streamlined fit or roomier, puffier, and boxier with a more relaxed silhouette. Many materials offer at least some flexibility, while others, such as the Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Hoody, have ample stretch for a wide range of motion.

Size-wise, each manufacturer has its own charts. Be sure to take your personal measurements and match them up. Everyone’s body is unique, so check the exchange and return policy before you buy.

Straight sizes refer to sizes small to large, which are constructed from a specific size block. You’ll often see straight sizes numerically listed from 6 to 14. As the sizes go up, the length changes, but the ratio remains the same. After building prototypes, the brand then checks that each size matches a fit model in that size: That step is the same for extended sizes and plus sizes.

Extended sizes are the applications of XS, XXS, XL, and XXL (as well as 0-2, 16-20) that go beyond the small-to-large spectrum.

Apparel designers take the pattern of a straight size block — typically the medium, in the middle of the lineup — and adjust the dimensions for smaller or larger bodies. Each silhouette will be proportional and similar in shape to the next size up or down. For example, the waist-to-hip ratio is the same for the Mammut Albula IN Hooded Jacket in all sizes from XS to XL.

Extended Sizes in Women’s Down Jackets:

*Products with an asterisk have extended sizes and plus sizes

Plus sizes are built from an entirely separate size block, which has different ratios than the size block used for straight sizes. This size run is designed to accommodate a fuller bicep, waist, and bust. The sections — like the torso or arms — don’t get longer or taller as they go up in size. Plus sizes are typically labeled 2X, 3X, 4X, etc.

Some companies provide more size inclusivity with broader offerings, and a handful of brands now offer plus sizes. Cotopaxi has the most impressive size range for women’s down jackets from XXS to XL, and 1X to 4X. REI Co-op offers XS to XL and 1X to 3X. The extended sizes ring includes Outdoor Research with a size run of XS to XXL. Eddie Bauer — including the Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 Down Jacket — offers a size range of XS to XXL including regular, petite, tall, and plus options.

Plus Sizes in Women’s Down Jackets:

*Products with an asterisk have extended sizes and plus sizes

Some down jackets have somewhat customizable fits and lengths, making it quick and easy to tailor the coat to your needs. This usually takes the form of pull cords, toggles, Velcro, and buttons located at the waist and collar. Having a customizable waist is great for when you want to tighten the fit for more insulation or create a shorter crop to accommodate a harness while belaying.

In terms of adjustability, the Marmot Women’s Guides Down Hoody has a pull cord at the hem to create a looser or cropped fit. The Jones Women’s Re-Up Down Recycled Hoodie also has an elastic, adjustable waistband to help seal in more warmth when the temps drop.

A down jacket’s weight and compressibility is an important variable for pack space, carry weight, cargo space, and storage. Our favorite women’s winter jackets are longer, bulkier, and heavier.

These down layers are meant to be packable and have a high warmth-to-weight ratio. The weight range starts at the 275 g Decathlon Forclaz Women’s MT100 Hooded Down Puffer Jacket or 290 g Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody and climbs to the 590 g Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie and Rab Valiance Waterproof Down Jacket, which is 682 g. The majority of our favorite down jackets sit around 300 to 400 g.

Like a sleeping bag, some down jackets come with a stuff sack to assist with compressibility and packing. This accessory helps protect and secure your down jacket in a carry-on, backpack, or duffel. The Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody includes an interior stuff sack with a latch to attach a carabiner or your keys.

While it can be super convenient to put your down jacket in a stuff sack, we wouldn’t recommend it for long-term storage. This can cause damage to the down and lessen its lifetime of loftiness and insulation abilities.

When thinking about compressibility, it’s important to recognize that weight and compressibility typically do not correlate. An insulated jacket’s ability to compress is usually dependent on its insulation and material types. Even if a natural down jacket is heavier than a synthetic, it will still probably compress a bit better because of down’s natural loftiness. A higher fill power will compress better than a lower fill power.

The temperature rating of a down jacket refers to the range of temperatures that the down jacket is designed to perform in. In other words, keep the wearer warm. It’s important to note that there is no universal measuring tool for temperature ratings. Many companies utilize various sliding scales, tools, and labels to help consumers understand the performance range.

Some manufacturers use a specific number or degree to describe their down jacket’s temperature rating. For example, the Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 has a digitized temperature rating of -5°F. Meaning, the jacket can be comfortably worn in temperatures as low as -5 when doing moderate activities. However, specific degree temperature ratings should be treated more as a guideline than a hard and fast rule – everyone tends to have various personal preferences and regulate their body temperatures differently. Wind chill is also a factor, as is sweat.

Other companies have specific conditions listed or sliding scales to reflect their temperature ratings. An example of this is The North Face, which has a “warm” sliding scale of 1 to 3. Three is the warmest offering from the brand.

Temperature ratings can also be a good guideline for how you should layer with your down jacket. Jackets with higher temperature ratings can function well with lighter layers underneath, meaning less bulk. However, they may be toastier on warmer fall and spring days. Alternatively, jackets with lower temperature ratings might require a thicker base layer or more midlayers on chillier days, but should be comfortable when the temps are milder.

If you’re looking for a down jacket with a specific temperature rating, it’s best to consult the manufacturer’s specifications and consider factors beyond just the temperature rating, such as the jacket’s fill power, insulation amount, and overall design too.

If you live in a windy climate or are planning on traveling to a gusty place like Chicago, it’s important to purchase a down jacket that has windproofness or wind resistance.

Windproofness is achieved through a down jacket’s exterior materials and coatings. Tightly woven nylon and polyester shells create a barrier that protects the user from wind. Denser fabrics and windproof coatings are ideal if you’ll be higher up in the alpine or in the midwest where the wind can be highly unpredictable.

One of the best-insulated jackets for wind resistance in this guide is the Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody, thanks to its special nylon shell. We wore it in some cold slams without feeling any wind penetrate its surface. Also, the Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 Down Jacket is almost windproof thanks to the windproof (and recycled) 20-denier ripstop polyester shell.

Down jackets are built to be toasty warm, so breathability seems like an oxymoron. It can be hard to find one that’s breathable without sacrificing the insulation. With modern textiles and designs, brands are creating hybrid puffers that are a tad more breathable and suitable for more active use.

Breathable down jackets are ones that utilize mesh zones near the waist, armpits, and back. These sections of fabric allow air to travel to those parts of the body that typically generate the most heat and moisture. The Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 Down Jacket has these vents in the armpits, making it a breathable option.

Another way that designers can add a bit of breathability to a down jacket is with two-way zippers. This also allows for a more customizable fit, because you can keep either your upper or lower torso insulated. This application is highly useful for climbers belaying at the crag or needing to cool off at the summit of an alpine climb. We loved the two-way zippers on the Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Hoody that could be adjusted for maximum airflow.

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.

We felt that the Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket came to just the right length at the hips without limiting any sort of movement or sacrificing warmth.

Down jackets typically use a single one-way zipper in the front and zippered exterior hand pockets. To help snug up the fit, the best hip-length down jackets for women 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.

Some down jackets have a two-way front zipper, which helps with harness compatibility.

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.

The Jones Women’s Re-Up Down Recycled Hoodie sets a benchmark. As the first-ever down jacket made of 100% upcycled down, 100% recycled materials, and PFC-free DWR, this jacket is not only well-made but also highly sustainable. Furthermore, it’s designed with bluesign-approved materials. Even the zippers and pull cords on this jacket are recycled.

Some jackets also guarantee Fair Trade sewing, Bluesign, climate neutral, or OEKO-TEX Certified fabrics.

Some jackets are created with PFC-free DWR treatments for the exterior or down. PFC stands for perfluorinated compounds, which have been found to be quite harmful to the environment and wildlife exposed to waterways in which these chemicals are deposited. PFC-free products include the Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Hoody, which employs a fluorine-free water resistance treatment on the down fill. The Rab Valiance Waterproof Down Jacket likewise has a Nikwax fluorocarbon-free hydrophobic finish on its down fill.

ExpeDRY, an insulation from ALLIED Feather + Down, uses FUZE technology: a chemical-free alternative to hydrophobic-treated down. FUZE is as cool as it sounds — it bonds gold particles to the down feather clusters, which speeds up the water molecule evaporation process, so it dries faster. It also helps to prevent mold and bacteria growth — and therefore, odors — and it’s permanent, so it’ll last for the product’s lifespan. According to ALLIED, ExpeDRY makes the down dry 4X faster compared to untreated down.

Other designs are made with recycled materials or implement recycled down or a recycled interior fabric liner. The Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody has a 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 on the tops of shoulders and wrist cuffs.

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 are 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.

Patagonia is one brand that meets the Global Traceable Down Standard and also has a Recycled Down program, which reuses bedding, pillows, and other feather-based products, keeping them out of landfills. The Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody utilizes recycled materials and 100% virgin goose down that meets the Global Down Standard, for instance.

However, new programs can help you understand where your jacket’s down is sourced from. The ALLIED Feather & Down TrackMyDown program allows users to trace their down products back to the origin of the fill.

Winner of a 2019 ISPO Gold Award, the TrackMyDown program provides detailed information on the source of your jacket’s down feathers, including the country of origin, the supplier, and the farms where the birds were raised. Customers can also view information on the quality of their down, including the fill power and the cleanliness of the material. Simply type in your lot number (found on your down jacket’s hang tag) and press enter.

Down alternatives include synthetic fill, plant-based textiles, and animal-derived materials from sheep and alpacas.

Synthetic fill is made from plastic-based materials like polyester, from petroleum-derived products. These fibers are shaped and woven to mimic a natural down cluster with similar insulating abilities. While synthetic insulation is typically more affordable and better performing in moisture-high environments, there are some negative environmental impacts.

Because synthetic insulation is plastic-based, these products will not break down in a landfill and shed microplastics over time. Microplastics are ever increasing in our modern world and have been found in both humans’ and animals’ organs, bloodstreams, and feces.

One great option is the Mammut Albula IN Hooded Jacket, which utilizes Thermore Ecodown insulation made from recycled PET bottles.

Insulation is typically down or synthetic but the Marmot Women’s Guides Down Hoody introduced a twist: natural insulation derived from ceiba, also known as kapok, trees. Found in the southern hemisphere, these trees drop their seed pods that are full of fibers, which are harvested and manufactured into a textile. The Guides Down Hoody is made with a 80% recycled down and 20% ceiba blend.

Made with a wool-based down, some jackets from Ortovox utilize wool from sheep that provides warmth when wet — similar to a synthetic, but without the use of harmful plastics.

A down jacket’s material and insulation type influences its care. We always recommend consulting the care tag found inside the jacket or reaching out to the manufacturer for guidance before throwing it in the washer.

Regardless of insulation or exterior fabric, if you have a small stain on your jacket, we recommend attempting a spot clean of it before a total wash. To remove a stain — whether from dirt, chain lube, or a muddy dog paw — simply take a damp washcloth with mild soap and gently tap the affected area. This should remove any small stains without dampening the entire coat. Spot cleaning will also dry fast and can be done in a jiff, so there isn’t much need to wait for your jacket to dry before it can be worn again.

For jackets with down or synthetic fill, we recommend washing them once a month if heavily used or every three months if moderately worn. Doing so will keep the jacket looking and smelling fresh.

To wash a down jacket, find yourself a front-loading washer. Top-loaders have an agitator that tends to cause damage to winter coats.

After you’ve emptied and zipped all the pockets, put the jacket in the washer, and set the cycle to gentle with cold water. Add a minimal amount of down-friendly detergent (we love Nikwax) and let the machine do its magic. Remember — normal detergents, softeners, and bleach will damage natural down by stripping the feathers of the oils that give them their loftiness.

For synthetic fill jackets, we recommend using a gentle non-biological detergent or pure soap.

After its wash, throw your coat in the dryer on the lowest setting with some wool or tennis balls. Once it’s dried, give it a few shakes to fluff up the loft and you’re good to go.

To make the most of your down jacket’s powerful insulation, it’s good to dial in a layering system. The best down jackets should be roomy enough that you can properly layer beneath to help keep you warm and comfortable.

The key to layering is to find a balance between warmth and mobility. Too many layers can restrict your movement and make you feel stiff, while too few layers can leave you feeling chilly.

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep your skin dry and warm. Choose a fabric like merino wool or fleece that fits snugly to your body. This layer should be close-fitting but not so tight that it restricts any movement. The more breathable the layer, the better. Avoid any cotton materials, which do not dry well once wet. Your down jacket should be doing the bulk of the warming work, so make sure you don’t overdo it.

If you want extra warmth, you can always add an insulating puffy vest or midlayer sweater over your base layer and beneath the down jacket.

Your down jacket can be pulled on as your outer layer or as insulation beneath a shell jacket. If precipitation is in the forecast — like rain, snow, or sleet — then you’ll want to add a waterproof jacket on top.

Our most economical pick in this guide is the REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket ($129). 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 jackets 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.

A huge variety of warm down jackets exist between those two price marks. Most of our favorite down jackets are in the $200-300 range: Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie ($279), Marmot Women’s Highlander Jacket ($225), and the Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket ($295). Also the Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Hoody ($300), and our favorite budget pick, the Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 ($249).

At full price, the most expensive down jackets on our list are among the warmest and offer the most coverage against the elements. Those typically sit in the $300 range like the Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody ($329). Reaching an even higher price are the Rab Valiance Jacket ($395), and the Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody ($400).

After you learn the different types of winter jackets, you might need to get one of each! This guide focuses on warm, functional, well-made choices for being outside during everyday commutes, errands, and casual activity. They’ll protect you on your bike ride to the post office, walking the dogs, or going to and from the Nordic center or gym.

Here’s how winter jackets as a whole are each a bit different:

The best down jacket to buy is based on how technical you want your down jacket to be and how warm or water-resistant you need it to be. Take a close look at the product details for each down jacket in our guide to see if it’s a good fit for your intended use.

In general and for everyday casual use in cold conditions, a few of the best women’s down jackets that reigned supreme in our testing include the Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody, Jones Women’s Re-Up Down Recycled Hoodie, and Rab Women’s Mythic Alpine Down Jacket)

Generally, a down puffy is a perfect layer to add to your backpacking pack, whether it’s for day hiking or backpacking — unless you expect a ton of moisture then consider a synthetic option. We loved how easily the Decathlon Forclaz Women’s MT100 Hooded Down Puffer Jacket could be packed into a backpack thanks to the included stuff sack and being lightweight.

If you’re buying a puffy specifically for backpacking, you’ll also want to make sure it works with your other layers, is comfortable to wear with a pack, and can pack down small.

Down jackets are designed to be insulating and warm. However, you should still leave a little room for layering. That being said, you don’t want a jacket to be too big. If so, the airspace between your body, the inside of the jacket, and the insulation is wasted space and you’ll lose heat.

If a jacket is too small, you won’t have as good of a range of motion — essential, especially when engaging in high-output activities in the cold — or be able to layer much beneath.

We recommend checking each brand’s sizing guide (which is unique to each and very single brand) to ensure that you get the best-fitting jacket possible.

The highest fill power, 900, is also going to be the warmest. The majority of down jackets we tested (and a good reflection of what’s on the market) were 650-fill to 800-fill.

Our down jackets range in price from $129, the 650-fill REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket, to the 700-fill Rab Valiance Waterproof Down Jacket ($415). For a dependable, long-lasting, and comfortable jacket that blocks the elements and keeps us safe, that price range isn’t too bad even at the high end.

Fill power ratings range from 400 to 900 and even greater. Most of the jackets on this list are in the 650- to 800-fill range, with a few clocking in above or below. Generally, the quality increases with the fill number:

The 900-fill down is probably overkill, unless you’re traveling to arctic or high alpine environments in winter.

The higher the fill power, the higher the price will be. You’ll want to weigh price but also usage. Do you frequent cold places and need a quality jacket? Do you run cold? Then consider investing in a higher-fill down option, like 700-fill Rab Valiance Waterproof Down Jacket or 800-fill Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody.

Also consider that not all down jackets are the same level of windproofness or water resistance, which can influence your overall warmth depending on the conditions where you’ll be. Some jackets are also loftier than others and better for stationary activities like standing at the sled hill versus dynamic heat-producing activities like alpine climbing.

That said, if you’re deciding between two jackets and one is much higher in price, always check the fill power. Most well-made down jackets we own are between 650- and 700-down fill. As we mentioned, the amount of fill power you need depends on where you’ll be adventuring — how cold it will be — and whether or not the activity is sedentary. But it doesn’t hurt to have an 800-fill for your coldest adventures.

Yes! Down jackets are a great insulating piece to wear under your ski shell while you’re shredding the mountain.

For skiing and snowboarding, we recommend wearing a lighter-weight down jacket with a mid-level down fill (think a 600-700 down fill). This way you don’t get too cold, and can easily stow it away in your pack if temps warm up.

We recommend the Marmot Women’s Highlander Jacket to pair under your ski or snowboard shell due to its lightweight materials and athletic fit.

To guarantee the longevity and quality of your down jacket, it’s important to know how to properly store it when it’s not in use. Whether you’re heading somewhere tropical for a few weeks, packing up your winter garb, or getting ready for a big move, here are some tips on how to store your down jacket properly.

When storing your down jacket, we recommend placing it in an uncompressed breathable storage bag or hanging it on a wide hanger in a dry, well-ventilated room. Make sure you don’t compress your down jacket for long periods of time as this can cause it to lose its loftiness and insulation properties. To even further improve your jacket’s lifespan, try fluffing out the jacket by giving it a few shakes periodically.

We get it, it happens. You’re out on a hike in the winter and snag your sleeve on a branch or maybe your cat thought your brand new down jacket was a scratching post. Don’t fret, because down jackets are easy to repair if the rip isn’t too large.

Simply head to your local gear store and grab a down jacket repair kit. Typically these kits include a special jacket tape that goes right over the hole, or a patch and small bottle of clear fabric glue. Make sure you clean the area of the coat of any dirt, oils or debris that could prevent the adhesive from working to its best potential.

If the rip is out of your repair limits, check the manufacturer’s warranty policy. Many companies like Patagonia and Cotopaxi will assess the damage of your jacket and fix or replace it for little to no extra cost.

From skiing to cold-weather runs, here are our favorite women’s fleece jackets for 2024. Top picks include Patagonia, Arc’teryx, REI, The North Face, and more.

We hit the slopes to find the best women’s ski bibs. Whether you snowboard or ski at the resort or in the backcountry, we’ve got you covered.