How To Choose A Puffer Jacket?

November 08, 2024
Posted by Yehuayan

As the weather gets colder, it’s time to prepare a stylish and warm down jacket for your winter travels. Down jackets are a must-have in every wardrobe. Wearing them is like having a big, warm hug, but they are also light and easy to carry. But how do you find the perfect one? Here are some things to look out for when choosing a down jacket.

Type of down filling

Down keeps you warm by trapping body heat and preventing it from escaping into the cool surrounding air. The performance of down fillings is measured by their “fill power”. A higher fill power (e.g. 700-900) indicates higher quality and better warmth. Natural down offers the best warmth-to-weight ratio and compresses well, making down jackets light and easy to carry. Down loses its warmth when it gets wet, however.

Synthetic down still keeps you warm, even when wet, and is quicker drying than feather down. However, if you’re headed to extreme cold, it can’t quite compete with feather down when it comes to insulation value and warmth-to-weight ratio. For synthetic down jackets, check the grammage (e.g. 100g/m²), which reflects the thermal performance. Thicker filling means better warmth, but also adds bulk to the garment.

Version and Different styles

Slim fit is perfect for wearing under a coat if you’re looking for a more minimalist look. Regular fit offers more room to layer more clothes underneath, making it more versatile. You can also consider the length, as some down jackets are shorter while others are longer to provide more coverage and warmth.

Durability

Down jackets aren’t cheap, nor are they something we’ll buy often, so durability is important. Try to choose down jackets made from ripstop nylon or polyester fabrics, which offer strength and tear resistance. Many down jackets come with a water-repellent coating, such as DWR (durable water repellent). This feature is crucial in wet climates.

Double Closure

Look for jackets with zippers, preferably with a flap that extends beneath or over the zipper for additional protection from precipitation. A jacket that merely buttons or snaps, or has a cheaply made, exposed zipper, will let in cold air and moisture.

Additional Features

A removable hood gives you the freedom to adjust your outfit to suit the weather and occasion. Wear it for warmth in cold, windy weather, and remove it when the weather is nicer or you want a simpler look. Plus, a removable hood makes cleaning and maintenance easier because you can handle the hood separately. Pay attention to collar height; taller collars offer better protection from the cold. Equipped with hand warmer pockets, chest pocket and inner pockets to keep your belongings safe and your hands warm.

Price

If you need a high-performance down jacket, it is worth investing in a high-quality product; but if you just want daily warmth, you can choose a more cost-effective model. A high price does not always mean high quality, and vice versa. You should measure whether the down jacket is worth the money based on its materials, functions, design and brand. Don’t just pursue high or low prices, the key is to find a down jacket that suits your needs.