What is a down jacket?

A down jacket is a jacket lined with down, often from goose or duck. Down's good thermal insulation makes it a popular filling for jackets in cold climates. There are a variety of winter and down jackets, ranging from short and thin to thick and long jackets that keep you warm and cozy. How warm your down jacket should be depends entirely on how cold it is outside and the level of activity you will use it for. If you are out and about actively moving, skiing or climbing, a thinner lightweight jacket is enough, preferably with a stretch for a comfortable fit that follows your movements. At colder temperatures and for activities with lower intensity, we recommend jackets with thicker insulation. We have warm jackets in both down and synthetic materials. Look at our guide on insulating clothing to learn more about the benefits of different types of insulation. Match our down jackets with a warm and comfortable beanie.