When we step out into the snow, it is all too easy for us featherless creatures to start feeling like snowmen. Fortunately, down coats exist, allowing us to spend more time in the cold outdoors in comfort.

Down and synthetic coats are compact, packable, and extremely effective in retaining body heat. For these reasons, they have become our favorite items of trekking and everyday use clothes.

Weight and packability should be the top considerations when purchasing a down jacket. It is critical to keep weight to a minimum when partaking in activities such as trekking and backpacking.

If you want a coat that packs down tiny and weights as little as possible, you may have to sacrifice certain frills. Choose a jacket that is less puffy yet has a higher absorption capacity.

During the cooler months, consider somewhat burlier choices with more insulating filling. Based on how cold it gets, you might even want to invest in a winter parka.

You should also think about the jacket’s durability. If you are prone to mishaps or frequently walk into particularly tough terrain, you may want to choose a jacket made of a more robust fabric.

Many down coats are constructed from lightweight nylon, rayon, or Pertex fibers. Even the toughest down coats can tear or develop holes, so have tape on hand for in-field repairs.

What about waterproofing? Modern down jackets are frequently built with tightly woven surface treatments that resist water when caught in light rain.

Most down coats are not hydrophobic enough to withstand heavy rain on their own and will ultimately absorb water. It is normally advised to get a down jacket that is suited to your preferred rain shell.

1. Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer

The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer is ideal for quick and light trips.

A unique spec of this jacket is its tremendous weight. It also has a sleek, layerable style, which is a great advantage. If you pair it with a lightweight pullover or a rain vest, you will be ready for the chilly shoulder-season weather.

Even if The Ghost Whisperer is a premium down jacket, it is very well worth the money. If you spend a lot of time outside and are ready to pay extra for even better performance, the Ghost Whisperer provides everything you need.

Pros:

• Perfect warmth-to-weight ratio
• Excellent weather resistance
• Lightweight
• Compressible

Cons:

• Lacks hood adjustment
• Slim design
• Expensive

2. Patagonia Down Sweater

The Patagonia Down Sweater is a cozy jacket for anyone that wants an attractive and functional jacket for everyday usage. It is also given at a reasonable price considering the quality.

The Down Sweater is not the most technological jacket on this list since it weighs slightly more

than our top lightweight options. Yet, the same characteristics that make it bulkier also make it more robust in the long run.

Pros:

• Stylish design
• Durable
• Layers with ease
• Hood and hem adjustments
• Great value for money

Cons:

• Bulky design

3. REI Stormhenge Down Hybrid Jacket

The REI Stormhenge is a one-of-a-kind choice that provides warmth and weather protection. The Stonehenge offers decent warmth and is convenient for everyday outside wear in frigid, rainy weather by users.

They like how it includes pit zips for dumping extra body heat while moving and a two-way opening for quick access to a pulley loop for mountaineering.

The Stonehenge is ideal for people who prefer an insulated, rain-proof jacket to numerous layers in the backcountry. Plus, the pockets are lined with fleece.

Pros:

• Warm enough
• Hood and hem adjustments
• Wind and waterproof
• Includes 2-way zipper
• Affordable

Cons:

• Heavy
• Less versatile

4. MontBell Plasma 1000

Because of its minimal weight, the MontBell Plasma 1000 is among our go-to garments for ultralight travels. The Plasma is the most powerful insulator on this list, thanks to its filling with the best grade down attainable.

This jacket weighs almost the same as some of the other lightweight coats, but it feels significantly warmer. In our opinion, the major disadvantage of Plasma is its high price.

However, it is well worth the cost if you are a hiker or serious traveler searching for top-of-the-line lightweight warmth for months of journeys.

Pros:

• Ultralight
• Extremely compressible
• Hood and hem adjustments
• Weather-resistant
• Layers easily

Cons:

• Less durable
• On the expensive side
• Omits chest pocket

5. REI Magma 850 REI

Try out the REI Magma 850 if you are seeking a great deal. Its insulation, comfort, and performance are comparable to similar coats that are $100 more expensive.

The Magma shines most during summer vacations, but it also layers beautifully throughout cooler seasons. The biggest disadvantage is that it is only accessible on a seasonal basis in the autumn.

If your model of the Magma is out of stock, be ready to strike when new inventory becomes available, as it tends to sell out quickly. Nonetheless, it is a fantastic buy and one of our favorite coats on the street.

Pros:

• Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
• Layers easily
• Highly compressible
• Weather-resistant

Cons:

• Bulky
• Less durable
• Slim design