The temptation with down jackets is to get the warmest one you possibly can. If you happen to’re spending the winter in northern Wisconsin, as I did whereas testing these, that is not a nasty concept. However in the event you’re simply searching for a little bit further heat throughout shoulder season journeys, and even high-altitude summer season backpacking, you do not want an 800-fill-power, massively overstuffed winter parka.

We do recommend sticking with jackets which have a down fill power rating of no less than 500 for mild use, however there isn’t any motive to spend on a jacket with 900 fill-power down except you are going to be out in below-freezing temps (otherwise you’re a perpetually cold person). If you happen to primarily spend your time in much less excessive climates, get a lighter jacket.

Additionally keep in mind that within the case of backpacking, you’ll need to remember how packable a jacket is and the way a lot weight it provides to your pack. Sadly, the lightest jackets do are typically larger fill energy, since you possibly can entice extra heat with much less down, however once more, be real looking concerning the temperatures you are going to be in and you will get away with a less expensive jacket.