The Best Down Jackets of 2025

The specs can seem overwhelming, and there is a near-infinite range to choose from. Fortunately, every year, jackets get better and better; more sustainable materials, lighter, and more durable. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer looking for an upgrade or you’re just getting started, we’ve curated a list of our best picks for down jackets in 2025. 

Before we get started, let’s get the lowdown on down. 

Down is normally made from goose feathers, although sometimes brands use duck down. Due to its insulation-to-weight-to-packability ratio of down, down is the popular choice, especially for people who are conscious of space. Down “fill power” or “loft” is rated on a scale of approximately 400-1000. A higher loft means better insulation and better packability. Down fill weight refers to how much down is used in a product. More down equals more warmth, but bulkier. Generally, your expensive backpacking jackets will have a higher loft and lower fill weight, so they can be warm and compressible. Every day, warm down jackets can be bulkier, so they may have a lower loft and higher fill weight to reach the same warmth. 

1. Best All Around:

Patagonia Down Sweater

My personal go-to jacket. This has been with me on all my backpacking and climbing trips, and has not failed me. It is super packable and lightweight, and in my view, has the best value for money compared to some other brands. It comes in a range of colours for men’s, women’s and children’s styles, and can be bought in a sweater or hoodie style. 

 

 

Why It’s the Best:
With quality and sustainability remaining at the forefront of Patagonia’s manufacturing, this jacket does not disappoint. The shell and lining are made of 100% post-consumer recycled nylon ripstop made from recycled fishing nets. The down is 800-fill power 100% Responsible Down Standard certified by Control Union. With a high zip and DWR–finish for windproofing, this jacket will keep you toasty. Each jacket comes with a repair patch for quick fixes on the go.

 

 

2. Best Travel:

Patagonia Silent Down Jacket

An essential day travel jacket. For anyone continually annoyed by the squeakiness of some down jacket shells, this is the softest, stretchiest down jacket around. It has a flattering, hip-length cut and goes well with all your winter outfits. This jacket will keep you warm on all of your travels without the need for peeling off layers once you go into a restaurant. For a men’s fit, the Reversible Fleece Silent Down Jacket is a great choice. 

 

 

Why It’s the Best:
Stretchy 70% recycled polyester face fabric, with 100% recycled goose and duck down. The stand-up collar will keep you warm, and the snap placket over the zip provides warmth against the wind. An interior pocket can keep your valuables safe. 

 

 

 

3. Best Expedition:

Mont Icicle Hyd-XT Down Unisex Jacket

A staple from Mont, and a staple for mountaineers, is now even better. This jacket has regularly been a first choice for mountaineers or adventurers in extreme cold weather conditions, or if you cannot be bothered with the layers on your next mid-winter trip to Scandinavia or Japan.  

 

Why It’s the Best:
The new update has even more down (350g of 800+ loft water-resistant, Responsible Down Certified down), and synthetic PrimaLoft Sport 60 in the shoulders to prevent cold spots. The Hydronaute XT shell is highly water-resistant and breathable. This, alongside the water-resistant down, means the jacket can withstand much more weather than your regular insulating down jacket, whilst still keeping you warm. Reinforcement on the elbows and shoulders, the articulated fit and removable hood make this a perfect choice for your next gnarly adventure. 

 

 

4. Best Alpine:

Rab Electron Pro Down Alpine jacket
I couldn’t talk about expeditions without mentioning this jacket. Not as intense as the Mont Icicle, but a great jacket for winter mountain adventures. This is designed as more of an insulating layer to wear with a shell over the top. It’s an ultra-warm jacket without the bulk, and its design means that climbers and hikers can have mobility in the right places.

 

 

Why It’s the Best:
The outer material is Pertex Quantum Pro, so it can deflect wind and snow. The down is 800 loft, so it has good packability for its warmth. A great choice for climbers with its helmet-compatible hood, two-way zip and high zippered pockets. 

 

 

 

 

5. Honourable Mention:

The North Face Breithorn Mountaineering Jacket
The North Face’s Summit Series have regularly proven to be of outstanding quality in all conditions. This jacket falls into a similar niche as the Rab Electron Pro. It is a flexible, insulating mid our outer layer that will hold up to a climber’s standards of mobility. 

Why It’s the Best:
The 800 loft down is water-resistant, so is highly compressible and very warm. Raglan sleeves and underarm gussets provide excellent mobility. Two large internal drop-in pockets provide secure storage, and the whole jacket can pack down into the left pocket for storage. 

Whether you’re a hiker, climber, or traveller, everyone needs a good down jacket. They can be an investment, but you’ll notice if it isn't up to scratch. Every adventurer hates the feeling of being worried if their gear can handle the task, but these jackets won’t let you down. Check out our full range online, or come into a Wild Earth store for expert recommendations from our staff.