As the chill of winter takes hold, there’s nothing quite like wrapping yourself in the cloud-like warmth of thousands of bird feathers to stay warm. But not all down jackets are created equal, and choosing the the best women's down jackets can feel like wading through a puff of often rather expensive options - some of which are all name and no game. Which ones, for example, are just fashionable? Which ones will actually keep you warm? Which ones offer great value for money?
Whether you’re planning an alpine adventure, braving the daily commute, or just trying to stay toasty during a dog walk, we’ve sifted through the insulation jargon, fill power specs, and weatherproof features to help you find the perfect fit. From featherlight designs to winter warriors built for the coldest days, there’s a jacket for everyone, and this guide is here to make your choice that much easier.
How we tested the best women's down jackets
These down jackets were tested by the female LFTO testing contingent, headed up by digital writer Fliss Freeborn, but including reviews from Ellie Clewlow and recommendations from the wider Trail and Country Walking team.
We have tested these jackets over the course of this cold, dry winter period in 2024, over lots of different terrain. From windswept upland areas, to densely covered forest, to freezing morning dog walks, these jackets have been put to the test with a multitude of layers and conditions. We've rated them on warmth, weight, fit and durability. Let's get into some details.
This is the replacement for Rab’s older Axion Pro jacket. It’s a similar mid-size baffled puffer, with a Pertex Quantum Pro ripstop nylon shell and 700FP hydrophobic down fill (both fully recycled).
It’s basically a more technical upgrade on the popular Rab Microlight jacket (below). So, you get a helmet-compatible hood, a two-way main zip and fully adjustable cuffs, all features that mountaineers will appreciate.
The hood cinches in well over a bare head or beanie and has a wired peak. There are also cosy microfleece-lined hand pockets and a zipped outer chest pocket. A fairly high fill weight ensures it’s warm enough for all-season use in the UK, even in the depths of winter.
Obviously, the bigger baffles add a little bulk compared to a lighter down jacket, but chevron-shaped baffles in the chest and torso help to slim the jacket’s overall silhouette. The fit offers good coverage in the arms and body, with a scooped rear hem.
There’s enough room to wear a couple of layers underneath, whilst still just about fitting under a waterproof too. This makes it a versatile all-season insulator – you could wear it as a standalone jacket in milder conditions, or under a shell in very cold weather.
It feels cosy and luxurious but still protective enough for the mountains, though the 20-denier ripstop nylon shell shouldn’t be treated too harshly. As a stitch-through jacket, there are occasional cold spots at the seams.
We also noticed a little bit of down leakage here over the course of testing. Otherwise, overall warmth is excellent. It is also more resistant to damp than most down puffers, thanks to a water-repellent shell and lining, plus that hydrophobic down fill.
Don’t expect miracles – it won’t withstand a sustained downpour but can cope with intermittent drizzle and claggy conditions. And if it does get damp, it dries far more quickly than untreated down, and also clumps less. Rest assured, this is definitely worth the £250 price tag.
Pros
- Warm
- Good coverage
- Cosy and luxurious feel
- Recycled down
Cons
- Slight down leakage
| Price | £250/ $316.60 |
| Fabric | 20D Recycled Pertex Quantum Pro, Fluorocarbon-Free Hydrophobic Finish |
| Insulation | 700FP Recycled Down with Nikwax |
| Men's sizes | XS - 2XL |
| Women's sizes | XS - XL |
| Weight | 564g |
The Fjällräven Women's Expedition Pack Down Hoody is a lovely and warm midweight jacket that feels very well made. Filled with 700-fill power ethically sourced down, it provides outstanding insulation while remaining compressible enough to stow in any daybag or even large running pack for overnight adventures. The outer shell is made from durable, recycled polyamide, balancing sustainability and resilience against wear and tear.
The adjustable hood - which is large enough to go over a helmet - feels very insulating, being able to be cinched in with the slightly analogue cotton drawstring. Why it's not made of elastic in the same way the bottom drawstring is, we'll never know. It works just fine, though.
Elastic cuffs offer a snug fit that seals in warmth, and the two zipped hand pockets and inside storage pocket add functionality. Designed with Fjällräven's signature attention to detail, this jacket is ideal for cold-weather hikes, travel, or layering in harsher conditions.
Its eco-conscious materials add an extra layer of appeal: sustainability is built into every stitch. While it might lean toward the premium end of the price scale, you’re investing in a piece that lasts, reducing waste in the long run. In essence, this is a jacket built for those who demand quality from their gear and know the value of buying once, buying well. For adventurers and townies alike, it’s a rugged companion with timeless charm.
Pros
- Very warm
- Well-made
- Hood is compatible with helmets
Cons
- Price is higher than others
- Not quite as flattering fit as others
| Price | £255.81/$323.96 |
| Fabric | 100% polyamide |
| Insulation | Down insulation, goose down |
| Men's sizes | XS - 2XL |
| Women's sizes | XXS - XL |
| Weight | 435g |
The Patagonia Women's Down Sweater Hooded Jacket is, in short, a rather nice lightweight insulating layer, which would make a fin addition to any - if not most - outdoor wardrobes.
It's triumph of thoughtful design and eco-consciousness, made with 100% recycled NetPlus® shell fabric sourced from discarded fishing nets, and responsibly sourced down insulation. Patagonia - yet again - proves you can stay toasty while treading lightly on the planet. It’s a jacket that wraps you in warmth and a touch of smug satisfaction. After all, sustainability never looked so good, especially in the fetching faded sage green we've chosen.
The fit is relaxed, perfect for layering on icy days or as a standalone piece when the chill is less intense. It feels impossibly lightweight, almost floating on your shoulders, but packs serious heat thanks to 800-fill power down. The hood (adjustable and helmet-compatible) seals out draughts without fuss: a win for climbers, skiers, or anyone who values extreme-sport functionality. don't wear it kayaking, though - it's made of down after all.
While the price point edges higher than some, we think this reflects Patagonia’s commitment to quality and environmental stewardship. This isn’t just outerwear; it’s a conscious choice in a world leaning towards fast fashion. The design, which is pretty timeless, also means you won't be replacing it after only a couple of years. This is a jacket to love and treasure for a very long time.
In short, the Down Sweater Hooded Jacket is for those who love adventure but hate waste. Warm, durable, and unapologetically green, it’s a wardrobe staple for anyone with a penchant for the great outdoors and a soft spot for sustainability.
Pros
- Made with material sourced from old fishing nets
- Very lightweight
- Warm
- Stylish
Cons
- On the pricier end
| Price | £210/$265.94 |
| Fabric | NetPlus® 100% postconsumer recycled nylon ripstop |
| Insulation | 800-fill-power 100% Responsible Down Standard down |
| Men's sizes | XS-XL |
| Women's sizes | XS-XL |
| Weight | 343g |
The Helium Utility Down Hood Jacket Women is a brilliant example of ultralight performance. Its standout feature is the unique baffle arrangement, crafted to enhance heat retention while reducing bulk, creating a sleek, modern aesthetic that sets it apart from traditional down jackets. This design not only looks dynamic but also optimises warmth distribution, ensuring you stay cosy without unnecessary weight.
Despite its incredible 700 FP insulation (with a 90/10 ratio of down to feathers for extra loft) and full length coverage, this jacket is astonishingly lightweight. It comes in on our scales at just 380g, making it ideal for those who prioritise packability and freedom of movement.
Whether it’s stashed in your pack or worn during active pursuits, it feels like you're not wearing much - until you realise how effectively it wards off the cold. The blend of functionality and thoughtful design makes it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts who value both form and function.
The fit is also pretty flattering, with a similar side baffle construction to Rab's microlight. However, we'd definitely advise sizing down, as we've found it to run pretty large, with a small fitting a UK 10-12 rather than a usual UK8-10.
If you’re searching for a jacket that excels at ultralight performance, the Helium Utility Down is a must-have for lightweight layering that doesn’t compromise on warmth or packability.
Pros
- Innovative baffle design
- Superior warmth to weight ratio
- Large, helmet compatible hood
Cons
- Overkill for casual hikers
| Price | £240/$303.64 |
| Fabric | 100% Polyamide Recycled |
| Insulation | 90% Duck down, 10% Feather |
| Men's sizes | XS - 2XL |
| Women's sizes | XS - 2XL |
| Weight | 380g |
The Rab Women's Microlight Alpine Jacket is a classic for a reason, offering a blend of practicality, warmth and style. Sure, it might be what your mum wears to Waitrose from October to March, but for good reason.
Firstly, it’s nice and light at 413g but with that, very warm - a kind of technical wizardry that Rab seems to nail when it comes to lightweight jackets. The 750FP R.D.S. certified European goose down insulation doesn't look all that bulky but it packs serious heat-trapping ability, making it ideal for crisp winter walks or chilly alpine ascents. Plus, for what it offers, it’s good value at an RRP of £210 in comparison to other jackets which tip over the £250 mark.
What really sets this jacket apart for the others, however is its fit. Its slim and flattering shape is due to separately stitched side panels which really hug the feminine figure beautifully. This is useful in terms of heat regulation too, as it means you're not needlessly heating empty space in the sides, and larger chested women will cope better with this design too.
The Rab Microlight works just as well on the trail as it does in town, and it stuffs down to a fraction of its size, slotting easily into a backpack for when the sun makes a surprise appearance. It also comes in a range of exciting colours, including two-tone options for a more outdoorsey look, or plainer colours for everyday wear. The lightweight construction doesn’t mean it’s flimsy, either, with the Pertex Quantum fabric feeling both durable and proving highly water resistant. It feels robust enough to tackle the elements head-on, resisting wind with ease too.
The one gripe? If you’re a climber, you might find yourself cursing the hood when you try to pop a helmet underneath—it’s just a bit snug for that. But for most other activities, it’s practically perfect. If you’re in the market for warmth, packability, and style, this one’s hard to beat.
Pros
- Great fit
- Versatile and lightweight
- Sustainable
- Good value
Cons
- Hood not compatible for climbing helmet
| Price | £178.50/$225.83 |
| Fabric | 100% Recycled Pertex Quantum 30D nylon |
| Insulation | 100% Recycled GRS-certified 700FP down. Nikwax hydrophobic water-resistant down finish |
| Men's sizes | XS - 2XL |
| Women's sizes | UK 8 -18 |
| Weight | 413g |
Check out the men's version here
The Passenger Northstar Down Recycled Jacket is a great example of thoughtful design and cosy functionality, perfect for light outdoor adventures, or just braving the morning commute.
The big headline here is its eco-friendly construction: it's crafted from 100% recycled materials, including responsibly sourced, 100% recycled down insulation. It's so important for outdoor gear to be good for the planet, and Passenger have definitely made strides with this ethos, following in the footsteps of industry leaders like Patagonia.
Performance wise, we've found Northstar to be more than warm enough for the vast majority of active excursions, but it's definitely not quite a duvet jacket - don't expect miraculous cosiness.
Instead, it's great as an everyday jacket for the shoulder seasons. The baffles are very practical, ensuring an even distribution of warmth, while the high collar and adjustable hood keep out the worst of the weather. It’s also highly packable, folding into its own pocket for easy stashing in a backpack—a win for anyone tight on space.
The colour-way deserves a mention here: rich navy with pear green accents is bold but not brash; a perfect nod to retro outdoor aesthetics, thought it is available in black if you're wanting to play it safe.
Fit-wise, it’s relaxed without being baggy, making it an ideal layering piece. The durable water-repellent finish is a bonus for light rain, though it’s not full-on waterproof.
A jacket like this shines for crisp hikes, beach strolls, or pub trips when you want to look effortlessly put together, but it's not the most technical of fits or fill power, so keep this one for less intense outdoor adventures (especially considering the cuffs on the artic colourway are a very brave light green).
In short, the Northstar is for those who value retro-styled outdoor gear, which is also good for the planet.
Pros
- 100% recycled
- Versatile from town to trail
- Interesting colourway
Cons
- Not as technical as other jackets
- Light coloured cuffs get grubby easily
| Price | £179.95 $225.83 |
| Fabric | 100% Recycled Polyester with a "PFC-FREE" water resistant coating |
| Insulation | 80% Down, 20% Feather - responsibly sourced down fill |
| Men's sizes | XS - 2XL |
| Women's sizes | XS - XL |
| Weight | 424g |
Check out the men's version here
The Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket is a vibrant ode to sustainability and functionality, ideal for those who want an everyday lightweight jacket that doesn't compromise on ethics. Its 800-fill RDS-certified goose down provides good warmth in cold conditions, all while being responsibly sourced—a big win for eco-conscious adventurers.
Cotopaxi’s signature colour-blocked design makes this jacket more than versatile enough for going from town to trail. Like the passenger number, we think it just teeters over the balance between style and technical performance, leaning toward the more casual end of the down jacket scale. That said, there are many features which help it excel on more wild excursions, including elastic cuffs, a scuba hood, and an adjustable drawcord hem.
The lightweight ripstop nylon shell, finished with a PFA-free DWR treatment, shrugs off light rain, making it a versatile layer for various climates. It's also fantastically lightweight and packable, and while it won't keep you as toasty as some of the other options on the hill, it feels barely there and weighs in at just 347g. Do be warned, however, that our tester found it reasonably short in the torso in comparison to other jackets.
Overall, however, Cotopaxi's fun, eco-friendly design makes this jacket a truly versatile option for a good quality, lightweight insulating layer.
Pros
- Sustainable design
- Eye-catching block-colours
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not as technical as other jackets
- Less coverage than other jackets
| Price | £240/$303.64 |
| Fabric | 100% 20D ripstop nylon with C0 DWR finish (37gsm) |
| Insulation | 800-fill responsibly sourced down |
| Men's sizes | XS - 2XL |
| Women's sizes | XS - XL |
| Weight | 347g |
What is fill power, and why does it matter?
Fill power is a measure of the loft, or fluffiness, of down, and it's a key indicator of its insulating ability. Essentially, fill power refers to the volume (in cubic inches) that one ounce of down occupies when fully expanded. The higher the fill power, the more air the down traps, which translates to better insulation and warmth.
For example, high fill power, such as 700 or above, provides excellent insulation with less material, making it ideal for lightweight and high-performance gear like jackets, sleeping bags, or comforters. This higher warmth-to-weight ratio is particularly beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone looking to stay warm without adding bulk.
Lower fill power, such as 500 or 600, still offers reliable insulation but requires more down to achieve the same warmth. This can lead to a slightly heavier or bulkier product, though it may still compress well for storage and transport. These lower-fill-power products are often more budget-friendly while providing sufficient warmth for less extreme conditions.
Choosing the right fill power depends on your needs—whether it's the ultimate lightweight warmth for backpacking or a cosy, affordable option for everyday use.
Are down jackets waterproof?
Most down jackets are water-resistant rather than fully waterproof. They often come with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating to shed light rain or snow, but heavy downpours can cause the down to clump and lose its warmth. If you’re facing wet weather, layering with a waterproof shell is your only bet.
When not in use in a pack, down should also be stored in a waterproof stuff sack to ensure it stays dry. Down simply doesn't work when wet, which is why so many jackets come with water resistant coatings or treated down. When not in use at home, down should never be stored compressed as it'll lose its loft as become less insulating.
What’s the difference between down and synthetic insulation?
Down insulation is sourced from the soft, fluffy underlayer of ducks or geese and is renowned for its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio. Its natural structure is highly efficient at trapping air, which helps to retain body heat, making it an ideal choice for cold-weather conditions.
Down has a remarkable capacity for compressibility, allowing jackets, sleeping bags, and other gear to be squished into compact spaces for easy transportation. Products made with down are also incredibly lightweight, which is a significant advantage for activities like backpacking or mountaineering where every gram matters.
However, as mentioned above, down does have a notable drawback: it loses much of its insulating ability when wet, as the clusters clump together and fail to trap heat effectively. While some products now feature water-resistant treatments on down, prolonged exposure to moisture is never going to be a good idea when it comes to feathers.
In contrast, synthetic insulation is made from polyester fibers designed to mimic down’s insulating properties while addressing its limitations. Synthetic materials excel in wet conditions, retaining their ability to provide warmth even when damp, which makes them particularly suitable for environments with high humidity or frequent rain (looking at you, Scotland).
Additionally, synthetic insulation tends to be more affordable and easier to care for, as it dries faster and requires less maintenance than down. On the downside (ha), synthetic insulation is generally heavier and less compressible, which can be a disadvantage for those prioritising packability and weight.
How do I care for my down jacket?
Proper care is essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of your jacket, especially when it comes to down or insulated gear. To begin with, washing your jacket periodically helps to remove dirt, oils, and debris that can accumulate over time and compromise its insulating properties.
When cleaning a jacket, it's important to use a front-loading washing machine, as top-loading machines with agitators can be harsh on delicate materials and risk damaging the insulation or fabric. For down jackets, a down-specific detergent is recommended because regular detergents can strip the natural oils from the down clusters, reducing their ability to loft and trap heat effectively.
Drying your jacket correctly is just as important as washing it. Tumble drying on a low heat setting is the safest option, as high heat can damage the fabric or insulation. To restore the jacket’s fluffiness and ensure the insulation is evenly distributed, add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls.
These help break up clumps of insulation and ensure it regains its loft and warmth. This step can take some time, as it’s essential to dry the jacket thoroughly to prevent mould or mildew from forming. Never, ever store your DJ wet.
It’s also hella important to read the care label on your jacket for specific instructions. Some jackets, especially those with waterproof or water-resistant coatings (DWR), may require gentler handling, such as hand washing or air drying, to preserve the integrity of the outer shell. If your jacket has stains or problem areas, pre-treating these spots with a mild cleaner can help before putting it in the wash. For heavily soiled jackets, professional cleaning services might be your best bet.
Is ethical down even a thing?
Yes! Many brands now use Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certified down, which ensures the feathers are sourced ethically, without live-plucking or force-feeding Ethical down is usually obtained as a byproduct of the food industry, meaning it comes from birds that were raised for their meat and not specifically for their feathers. This minimises waste and ensures that the down is not the sole reason for raising the animals.
If sustainability matters to you, look for jackets with this certification; if animal rights are very important to you, choose synthetic, as even ethical down sometimes comes with problems.
How should a down jacket fit?
Firstly, it should be worn on your torso rather than anywhere else. Your jacket should feel snug but not restrictive, with enough room for layering underneath. If it’s too tight, you’ll compress the down and reduce its insulating power (and giving you smelly armpits right off the bat).
Sleeves and hems should sit comfortably to keep out drafts, while still allowing freedom of movement.
About the author
LFTO writer Fliss Freeborn loves an insulated jacket. She just cannot get enough of being cosy, mainly because she lives in Scotland in the world's coldest ground floor victorian terrace.