How To Choose an Insulated Jacket - Alpkit

Choosing an insulated jacket is easy with our guide. We cover everything from down vs. synthetic insulation to fill power and how to pick the right one.

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Let's get straight down to it. In this article we cover everything you need to know in order to choose the best insulated jacket.

You could be bivvying out on an icy North face in full winter conditions or bouldering on a crisp autumn evening. You could be striking camp on a frosty morning or downing an espresso as you take a break from the saddle.

The one thing common to all is that insulated jackets are designed to trap air and keep you warm. This is what makes an insulated jacket an essential part of your outdoor wardrobe.

The "best" insulated jacket for you will depend on your personal needs; the environment you plan to use it in along with your planned activities.

How to choose an insulated jacket

What are insulated jackets and why do you need one?

Insulated jackets are jackets filled with either natural down or man-made synthetic insulation. They work by creating &#;loft&#;, a deep fluffy structure that creates tiny pockets of air between the feathers or fibres. Still air is a fantastic insulator, which is why insulated jackets are so much warmer than other outdoor layers.

The main purpose of insulated jackets is to trap the heat generated by your body and keep you warm.

Down jackets

Down jackets are filled with the light fluffy feathers found under the breast and underbelly of ducks and geese. Because they&#;re so fluffy, these down &#;filaments&#; create loads of insulating loft for very little weight.

Despite innovations in synthetic insulation, down is still the best insulator we have. It provides an high degree of insulation for its weight, (warmth-to-weight ratio). It is highly compressible, squashing down small and rebounding back into shape again without getting damaged. These properties are essential when you&#;re trying to pack light or you are short of pack space.

The down we use in our down jackets is ethically sourced and certified by the Responsible Down Standard. It meets the highest standards of animal welfare.

What do fill power and fill weight mean?

Fill power (FP) measures the volume of air that 20g of down occupies under strict scientific conditions*. It is a measurement of how much loft the down creates (how fluffy it is). It is a great indicator of down quality.

(*In case you were wondering, the number represents how many cubic centimetres a gram of down lofts to. 750FP means that 1g of down lofts to 750cm³). Higher fill power down has a better warmth-to-weight ratio. For example 100g of 800FP down will be warmer than 100g of 650FP down.

Just to confuse things slightly, there are 2 lab tests to measure fill power. The 'US' method will give a slightly higher figure than the same down tested by the 'EU' method. For example 800 (US) would be roughly 750 (EU).

Fill weight is a measure of how many grams of down is inside your jacket. The warmth of your insulated jacket depends on both the fill power and the fill weight. A jacket with a lower fill power can be warmer simply because it has more down stuffed into it. The downside is that it will feel bulkier and less compressible.

As useful as these figures are, there are other factors that will affect how well the jacket insulates you. Construction and fit are two we shall cover shortly.

Which is warmer, duck or goose down?

Down comes in two varieties: duck and goose. As geese have larger feathers, they generally produce higher fill power down which is more expensive. The best quality duck down is around 650FP whereas the highest quality goose down can sometimes reach 900FP.

Because duck down has a lower fill power you would need more of it to match a goose down filled jacket. The resulting jacket would be heavier, less compressible and bulkier to wear.

What do box wall and stitch-through construction mean?

Box wall and stitch-through are different types of baffle construction. Down jackets are made with lots of baffles, separate compartments that hold the down in place and stop it migrating.

Stitch-through means exactly what it sounds like: each baffle has been stitched all the way through the jacket fabric (like in the picture above). Stitch-through construction is the lightest and the most compressible, but it can create cold spots along the lines of the stitching.

Box wall construction uses a divider of fabric between each baffle which means each baffle is shaped like a&#; well, box. Box wall construction allows the down to loft better, but the extra fabric does add weight and makes your jacket slightly less compressible.

What is hydrophobic down?

Down is naturally hydrophobic, however when down gets wet, the filaments absorb water, clump together, and lose their warmth-trapping structure. Down also takes a long time to dry out and usually needs to be tumble dried to de-clump it.

To boost downs natural performance it can be treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating. The benefits are that hydrophobic down repels water and body moisture for longer and dries quicker.

The DownTek&#; PFC-Free Water Repellent Down we use stays dry 13.5x longer than untreated down.

Synthetic insulation

Synthetic jackets are filled with polyester fibres that are designed to replicate the properties of down. Like down, synthetic insulation is warm, lightweight and compressible.

Unlike down, the polyester fibres don&#;t absorb water so synthetic insulation keeps its warmth-trapping properties even when wet. This makes synthetic jackets ideal for wet climates, or for active use when you&#;re likely to get extremely sweaty!

Synthetic insulation can be manufactured in many forms; from carpets of fibres to individual &#;filaments&#; designed to mimic down. Each type has its pros and cons.

How is synthetic insulation measured?

Most brands measure synthetic insulation by grams per square metre &#; you will see this listed as either gsm or g/m². This measurement can only be used to compare jackets that use the same type of insulation.

What is PrimaLoft®?

PrimaLoft® is a brand of synthetic insulation. It was first developed in the s to provide a water-resistant alternative to down for military jackets and sleeping bags. Their fibres are specially treated to make them water repellent for even better wet weather performance. PrimaLoft® Gold provides the same amount of warmth-to-weight as 550FP down.

PrimaLoft® became the market leader for synthetic insulation in the s. Even today people often refer to all synthetic insulation as &#;primaloft&#; (in much the same way we call vacuum cleaners 'hoovers'). We exclusively use PrimaLoft® fill for our jackets as they provide the highest quality of synthetic insulation available.

A Guide To PrimaLoft® Insulation

PrimaLoft® group their insulation into three broad categories based on how insulating it is:

&#; PrimaLoft® Black &#; A standard of fill for everyday wear, only really used in fashion clothing
&#; PrimaLoft® Silver &#; Excellent quality but good value insulation used in outdoor clothing
&#; PrimaLoft® Gold &#; The highest quality of synthetic insulation available, used in performance outdoor clothing

We use the following types of PrimaLoft® insulation in our jackets:

&#; Silver Eco &#; Insulation using 100% recycled content (Heiko)
&#; Silver ThermoPlume® &#; Synthetic plumes designed to mimic the loft and compressibility of down feathers. Treated with space-age Cross Core Technology&#;, an &#;aerogel&#; that increses its insulation. (Talini)
&#; Silver Hi-Loft Ultra &#; Incredibly lofty and hardwearing insulation that retains its loft well, even after repeated compressions. 70% recycled. (0Hiro)
&#; Gold P.U.R.E.&#; &#; 100% recycled insulation using a brand new manufacturing method that reduces carbon emissions by 70%. (Sierra)
&#; Gold Active &#; A mat insulation that can be combined with more open, air permeable fabrics for better breathability. 45% recycled. (Katabatic)

What is &#;active insulation&#;?

Active insulation is a type of synthetic insulation that can be combined with more breathable or stretchy fabrics. It is manufactured as a sheet which means it can be used to make breathable insulated jackets like our Katabatic . Well suited to aerobic activity, it allows sweat and excess heat to escape.

Which is better, down or synthetic insulation?

Generally speaking, down jackets are better for dry, cold environments and synthetic jackets are better for damp, cold environments.

Down Jackets Pros Cons The best warmth-to-weight ratio Loses all its warmth when wet More compressible than synthetics Harder to look after in the damp Lasts for years with good care Takes a long time to dry out Natural, renewable and biodegradable More expensive Synthetic Jackets Pros Cons Keeps its insulation when wet Not as warm as down at the top end Water repellent and fast-drying Heavier for the same warmth as down Very easy to wash and care for Less compressible than down Cheaper than down Can lose loft after repeated heavy use

How to choose an insulated jacket

Warmth-to-Weight Ratio

Ask yourself what your priority is: weight or durability? If you're planning on backpacking or doing anything where weight is a concern, you'll want a jacket that provides the most warmth for the least weight. Hardwearing fabrics like the 0Hiro&#;s nylon 6,6 are useful if your jacket is going to take a beating. Otherwise, you can probably get away with a lightweight nylon ripstop. Water resistance is always useful which is why all our insulated jackets are treated with a PFC-free durable water repellent.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website PPF ELEMETNS.

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Waterproof

If you plan to use the jacket in wet weather, consider a model with a water-resistant or waterproof shell. Jackets with down insulation may have a water-resistant treatment to help protect the down.

Fit

Are you going to wear your insulated jacket over other layers, or do you need it to fit under your shell as a midlayer? Jackets designed for moving in tend to have zoned insulation (more insulation in the body and less in the arms) and narrower baffles.

Baffles

Narrower, smaller baffles like those on the Filoment and Talini are easier to move in but they don&#;t provide as much loft and warmth as larger baffles (like those found on the Fantom). Micro baffles usually use a stitch-through construction which creates more cold spots.

Hood

An insulated hood provides vital extra warmth in the very coldest conditions. However, they do add extra weight and faff to your jacket which may be unnecessary if you&#;re intending to use it as a midlayer under your shell. Helmet-compatible hoods are useful if you&#;re going to be using your insulated jacket for climbing or mountaineering.

Zips

Two-way zips are useful for climbing and mountaineering as they make it easier to get to your belay device without your jacket getting in the way.

Sustainability

When buying natural down make sure that it is ethically sourced and certified by the Responsible Down Standard as meeting the highest standards of animal welfare.

If going down the synthetic route look for recycled materials, we have much more on this in our Sustainability Report.

How to Choose a Puffer Jacket for Your Body Type?

Just like with any other clothing item, it&#;s important to consider your body type when picking a puffer jacket to secure a flattering fit.

For example, if you have a rectangular or pear-shaped body, opt for a puffer jacket that enhances your bust to balance out your slimmer upper body. If you have an apple or curvy body shape, choose a longer-length puffer jacket to balance out the weight of your upper body.

For those with an hourglass figure, a puffer vest can work well when layered with a sweater. By learning how to choose a puffer jacket for your body type, you can sweeten your natural features and feel assured and comfortable in your outfit.

What Size Puffer Jacket Should I Buy?

Determining the right size for your puffer jacket is crucial to achieve comfort and style. To answer the common question, &#;What size puffer jacket should I buy?&#; consider your body measurements and the intended fit. Check the sizing chart provided by ApparelnBags to match your measurements with the appropriate size. Keep in mind that puffer jackets often come in various styles, so choose a size that allows for layering if required. It&#;s essential to strike a balance between a snug fit and sufficient room for movement. When in doubt, opt for a larger size rather than a fitted one for a more comfortable and versatile wearing experience.

What Color Puffer Jacket Should I Get?

If you&#;re purchasing a puffer jacket for the first time and you are thinking about what color puffer jacket should I get for a minimalist aesthetic, consider opting for a dark color such as charcoal, navy, or black, as they can easily match with any outfit. Maroon and brown are also versatile color options.

On the other hand, if you want to make a statement and draw attention to your look, brighter colors like green, red, or orange can do the trick. These colors are eye-catching and bold. It&#;s important to note that;

Avoid Sheen Finish

When selecting a puffer jacket, color can be an important consideration for many people. Some prefer simpler colors in monochrome or darker tones, while others opt for brighter and bolder colors. Regardless of your color choice, avoiding a sheen finish is crucial. These puffer jackets with a shiny finish can draw unwanted attention to your upper body and don&#;t do much for your overall style.

Instead, opt for colors with a stylish matte finish that will enhance your look. If you have a shiny puffer jacket, choose a neutral and subtle color. You can always add some extra style with accessories like an embroidered scarf or a winter hat. Remember, the goal is to stay stylish and comfortable in your puffer jacket.

Avoid Jackets with Small, Filled Puffs

Steer clear of puffer jacket with small, compacted puffs as they tend to create a bulky appearance. Although puffer jackets do provide warmth and comfort, they are not the most flattering garment to wear, lacking slimming qualities in your wardrobe. If you like the look of rectangular patches, then puffer jackets with compressed hi-tech filling could be a good choice. Puffer jacket with square quilting are also more universally flattering than those with rectangular puffs.

Take Good Care of Layers

Despite being a simple concept, it is often overlooked. Any bulky layering can make your puffer jacket appear even bulkier, even if it is already thick. For instance, wearing a normal-sized coat with a slim fit and adding layers, such as a chunky cardigan, a polo shirt, and a dress shirt, can result in an overall chunky look. While warmth is undoubtedly essential, the jacket itself provides plenty of it, so consider layering with a V-neck cardigan, which will reduce overall bulk.

Balance Out the Look

Since a jacket can add extra bulk to your upper torso, it&#;s important to create balance by incorporating slim-fit pieces in your lower torso. You might consider wearing skinny jeans and a pair of stylish pumps, or complete your look with knee-high boots. Another helpful technique is adding texture to your ensemble to create visual interest and divert attention away from the puffer jacket.

Different Types of Puffer Jackets

Puffer jackets come in a diverse array of styles, each catering to your individual preferences and requirements. Understanding the different types of puffer jackets can help you choose the perfect one for your lifestyle. Let&#;s have a look.

A down jacket is insulated with ducks or geese&#;s soft and warm feathers. The loft or fluffiness of the down creates numerous tiny air pockets that trap warm air and retain heat, making the wearer exceptionally warm in cold winter weather. The down jackets can be pricier than those made with synthetic materials.

Our feathers and down are by-products of the food industry that would otherwise go to waste and are obtained from humanely treated birds. We work with a consolidated group of suppliers who ensure ethical sourcing from farms that practice good animal husbandry, as defined by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE).

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Synthetic-filled puffer jackets use insulation materials like polyester or PrimaLoft instead of natural down. These jackets are known for their ability to retain warmth even when wet, making them suitable for damp conditions. They are often more budget-friendly and cruelty-free, appealing to those conscious of ethical considerations.

Pros of Synthetic-Filled Puffer Jackets

• Synthetic puffer jackets are generally more budget-friendly
• Retains warmth even in wet conditions, making them ideal for rainy or humid climates.

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Hybrid Puffer Jackets

Hybrid puffer jackets blend various materials to create a versatile and functional garment. These puffer jackets typically feature a combination of traditional insulation, such as down or synthetic fill, with strategically placed fleece or softshell panels. The incorporation of material enhances the jacket&#;s flexibility, providing an improved range of motion for the wearer. This design is particularly advantageous for individuals engaged in active pursuits, as it allows for unrestricted movement.

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Pros of Hybrid Puffer Jackets

• Inclusion of different materials enhances flexibility
• Improved range of motion.
• Offer better breathability, making them suitable for activities

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Do Puffer Jackets Keep You Warm?

Yes, puffer jackets are made to keep you warm in cold weather conditions. The insulation in puffer jackets, whether down or synthetic, traps and retains body heat, providing effective insulation against the cold. The loftiness of the insulation creates pockets of warm air, acting as a barrier against chilly temperatures. Puffer jackets are particularly effective in snow as they offer both insulation and protection against the cold, damp conditions. The design and materials used make them suitable for various winter activities, ensuring that you stay warm and comfortable in snowy weather.

Different Warmth Levels of Puffer Jackets

Puffer jackets come with different temperature ratings that are based on laboratory tests. For instance, a jacket with a -30 degrees rating is designed to keep the wearer warm in temperatures as low as -30 degrees. These ratings are only a guide, as several factors can affect a jacket&#;s performance and comfort, including health, physical activity, exposure time, correct layers, weather conditions, and perspiration.

Furthermore, unlike most puffer jackets found on the high street, many of the puffer jackets available from ApparelnBags are treated with Durable Water Repellent (DWR) to make them water-resistant. This treatment causes droplets to bead and roll off the fabric, keeping the wearer dry during limited exposure to rain.

When selecting a puffer jacket, its features can play a crucial role in your decision-making process. Let&#;s take a closer look at some of the features to consider:

Hoods

A hood can provide added warmth but can also add bulk to the jacket. It can also come in handy in case of rain. It is essential to keep in mind that most jackets only have a DWR coating and are not suitable for heavy rain. The Seasons Padded jacket and the Snow Padded jackets are examples of padded jackets with hoods available at ApparelnBags.

Pockets

Cuffed Sleeves

Cuffed sleeves are hemmed fabric with elastic that keeps the jacket close to your skin and helps to retain warmth. Most ApparelnBags puffer jackets, such as the Link Padded puffer jacket and the Sky Extreme puffer jacket, feature cuffed sleeves.

For more custom down jacketsinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.