Down jackets have been getting some side-eye from the hiking community, but for me, they’re pretty fantastic, especially when the winter wonderland calls.
Yes, down jackets have their limitations, waterproofing being the main culprit. But with a little know-how and the right conditions, your down jacket can be the perfect companion for a cold-weather hike.
Let’s figure out how to make the most of this underrated gear.
Can You Hike in a Down Jacket?
You absolutely can hike in your down jacket because it provides excellent warmth and insulation, usually better than most hiking jackets.
They’re unique but definitely not cut out for every situation. Here’s my personal take: I’ll only zip up my down jacket on the trails when facing sub-zero temperatures or on cool, early mornings.
The reason? Down jackets keep you cozy but can quickly turn into a sweat fest if the sun decides to show up.
But it’s not the end of my requirements. The trail must also be either flat as a pancake or heading downhill. Avoid wearing a down jacket uphill as you’ll warm up rather quickly.
Down Jackets As an Active Layer
I’ve bumped into hikers who swear that down jackets are not the best choice to be used as an active layer. However, we’re not all cut from the same cloth, are we?
Speaking from personal experience, being on the thinner side means I don’t overheat easily and hardly break a sweat. If you’re part of this “less sweat” club like me, a down jacket might do the job just fine as an active layer.
Should You Hike in a Down Jacket?
I can’t give a yes or no answer here. It’s all about knowing your body and the conditions.
If you’re someone who heats up fast or sweats a lot, you might want to think twice before reaching for a down jacket.
On the flip side, if you’re like me and your body thermostat tends to run on the cooler side, then yes, hiking in a down jacket could work out just fine – with a few caveats.
Next time you’re gearing up for a hike and contemplating that down jacket, ask yourself: “Is it chilly enough? Is the trail more of a leisurely stroll?”
Your answers will guide you to a comfortable and enjoyable hike.
Does Rain Ruin Down Jackets?
Hiking in the rain while wearing a down jacket doesn’t mean the end of your jacket – just possibly the end of being warm for a bit.
When the feathers inside get wet, they tend to clump up. This clumping action means they lose their loft, which is basically their superpower for trapping warmth.
What’s the solution?
Don’t wear a down jacket during rain without protection. Bring a good rain shell and keep your down jacket as dry as possible. Down jackets can survive a light drizzle here and there. They only give up when they’re soaked for a long time.
Why Are Down Jackets Not Waterproof?
Down jackets are not waterproof because down breathes better without waterproof coating acting as a closing material from the outside.
Down is not the most breathable option on its own, but when you treat it with a waterproof material on the outside, it becomes even less breathable. What’s even worse, it becomes much heavier, which is pretty much the opposite of what you want when you’re trying to enjoy your hike.
Are There Any Waterproof Down Jackets?
While not 100% waterproof, you can find jackets with water-resistant hydrophobic down. These are down jackets that have been treated to repel water.
Before you ask, yes, they do work… to a point. Chris Mills from Gizmodo did this crazy experiment where he jumped into a frozen lake wearing one. He claims that anything sold as hydrophobic down can indeed retain adequate insulation when wet.
In fact, to be marketed as “hydrophobic” or “water repellent”, the down has to withstand at least 40 minutes of being shaken in a jar full of water. Impressive!
The Trade-Off
These jackets, while they fend off water better than their non-hydrophobic counterparts, come with a trade-off. They tend to be 1 or even 2 lbs heavier. That extra weight makes them less than ideal for hiking.
Suddenly, that hydrophobic down jacket starts to feel more like a fashion statement than a practical piece of outdoor gear.
My Take
So, why aren’t down jackets waterproof? It boils down to a choice between breathability and water resistance.
And while there are options out there for those who really can’t stand the thought of getting a bit damp, remember, every choice comes with its own set of pros and cons.
Personally, I’ll stick to my non-waterproof down jacket and throw on a rain shell if the weather turns sour. It’s a little extra weight, but it’s worth it for the added breathability and comfort. Plus, who doesn’t love an excuse to wear a stylish rain jacket?
Are Down Jackets Good for Winter Hiking?
Down jackets provide excellent insulation and are good for winter hiking if you don’t plan on being in wet conditions for extended periods of time. If you know you will be facing wet or snowy weather, it may be better to opt for a waterproof jacket or layer with a rain shell on top.
Now, let’s talk numbers because, in the world of hiking, details matter. When the mercury dips to a chilly -10°F, you’re going to want something in the ballpark of 800-850 Fill Power. It’s the sweet spot for insulation that keeps you warm without weighing you down.
If you’re wondering where to start looking for your next winter warrior, Arc’teryx jackets, like the Cerium Down Hoodie, are my go-to. Not only do they fit like they were made just for you, but they also stand up to the rigors of the trail. They look pretty sharp too.
Conclusion
Can you hike in a down jacket? The short answer: absolutely, but with a little know-how under your belt.
Down jackets have faced criticism from the hiking community, but that’s mainly because not everyone is aware of their strengths and how to leverage them.
It’s like having a superpower but only using it to open jars. Sure, it works, but are you really making the most of it?
But just like any superhero has their kryptonite, down’s Achilles’ heel is water. Yet, with the right conditions and a bit of savvy, think layering with a waterproof shell or checking the forecast, you can make these fluffy champions work for you.
Lukas Heller
Hey there! I’m Lukas, co-founder of BigfootHiking.com, alongside my adventurous wife Martha. Originally from Germany, I landed in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2015, where I’ve been scouting out new trails ever since (though they’re getting scarce!). By day, I’m a software developer, but my heart belongs to hiking – I’m always plotting our next trip. When I’m not coding or on the trails, you’ll find me hanging out with our Pit Bull, Zeus.
