Best down jackets for men UK 2023
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The British winter is with us, and the country’s compact summer and the often extreme conditions of its Munros, Wainwrights and 3000s mean that a puffer jacket is required for all four seasons.
Given their high cost and indispensability, hikers, campers and baggers should give more consideration to this piece of equipment than most kit items.
What to look for in a down jacket?
Other than warmth and weight, buyers should study the product breathability and packability, along with its performance in wet conditions.
If plotting a hike in changeable conditions you may be constantly peeling off and re-adding layers. This is where packability is important - ideally you should be able to fold the jacket down to a size small enough to fit in your rucksack with ease, without completely sacrificing its warming properties.
What do you do outdoors?
Outdoorsy types should also consider how active they are going to be. Those planning to be constantly on the move might want to opt for a zoned-fill jacket with synthetic panels to ensure greater breathability. Campers who may be sitting outdoors in cold conditions, however will want to prioritise warmth, opting for a weightier jacket with higher fill power should be a top priority.
You should also consider whether your jacket needs to be water repellent. If using your jacket as a mid-layer under a waterproof jacket this would be less of a priority. On the other hand if you’re looking to utilise the jacket as an outer-layer you might want to opt for a jacket with water-resistant, synthetic down that can protect itself during a light rain shower.
How much will it cost me?
Sadly, there’s no getting round the fact that a jacket up to the task will set you back a few quid due to the premium cost of down..
Decathlon offers admirable efforts for under £50, but for a quality jacket you are looking at between £150 and £200, with premium coats designed for freezing conditions costing closer to £500.
Best down jackets at a glance
- Best all-rounder: Black Diamond Access Down Hoody
- Simply the best down jacket we tried: Arcteryx Cerium SV Hoody
- Best for layering: Columbia Men’s Alpine Crux Down Jacket
- Best for cyclists: Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket
- Best featherweight down jacket: Patagonia Micro Puff Hoody
- Best for breathability: North Face Retro Himalayan Jacket
Insulation: Animal down; Weight: 441g; Size range: S-XL; Colour options: 4
Living up to its billing of a “do-it-all” down jacket, this midweight item would be suitable for a trip to the shops or the slopes.
We tested this puffer out when Scotland was experiencing freezing conditions caused by winds from Siberia and Scandinavia and were never at risk of catching a cold due to the 700-fill goose down insulation.
The jacket’s water-resistance was a surprise plus, the DWR (durable waterproof repellent) treated down holding up well in snowy and sleety conditions.
Despite being one of the heavier jackets we trialled, the Access Down hoody’s compressibility made it an easy fit for our small backpack.
This convenience paired with its ability in all weathers make the Black Diamond a superb option for lightweight days in the hills.