While we are still waiting for heavy snowfall on the plains, higher ground, particularly in the Southern Alps, is covered in white. Time to get your insulated jacket out! If you do not have one yet, here are a few tips to help you choose the right one.
Animal down or synthetic fill?
The first question to ask is the choice of down jacket insulation: animal down or synthetic fill? While natural down requires goose or duck feathers, synthetic insulation can be recycled or even plant-based.
Animal down: the origin of down jackets
The first animal feather fills appeared in the 14th century, initially in bedding. It wasn't until the late 1930s that goose down was used in the first down jacket. According to an article in Le Monde, American outdoor pioneer Eddie Bauer developed a quilting technique to distribute down evenly across the garment after multiple attempts.
The down jacket first appealed to the military, hunters, and anglers. It was later introduced at the 1968 Winter Olympics, which propelled it into the spotlight. It was subsequently adapted to suit urbanites and fashion designers. Today, however, newer alternatives have emerged that better align with respect for nature and wildlife.
Ethical down: a textile revolution
When developing its Cimaloft® insulation, made from 33% plant-based fibres and 67% recycled polyester, outdoor brand Cimalp chose an insulated jacket guaranteed to contain no animal down. By creating insulation from both plant-based and synthetic fibres, the French brand demonstrates its commitment to animal welfare.
As well as being ethical, synthetic insulation retains warmth in wet conditions, whereas natural down loses its loft.
A down jacket tailored to your activity
The second key factor to consider before buying a winter down jacket is what you plan to use it for.
Activities with long waiting times in the cold
A romantic stroll in the woods, a family getaway to Canada or Lapland, or an ice-climbing session with friends. If you're looking for a down jacket for static outdoor activities or those requiring moderate effort, go for an ultra-warm down jacket!
You can get cold very quickly, depending on the weather. That is when the right durable technical gear matters, such as the Himalayan insulated jacket. Its generous cut, high collar and helmet-compatible hood keep you warm during long stops. Its Cimaloft synthetic insulation retains warmth even when wet, whether on a bivvy or an expedition. It does, however, weigh over a kilo and does not pack down small, so leave room in your pack.
High-intensity sports in cold weather
If you train hard in summer and winter, stay warm in a breathable insulated jacket, even if the cold does not faze you. For long winter hikes, the Morzine lightweight insulated jacket for women or the Meije for men is ideal. Highly packable, it stows easily in its built-in pocket, so you can take it anywhere, whatever the weather.
It’s the ideal garment for mountain outings as well as everyday wear. All that's left is to decide: hooded or non-hooded down jacket?
The Swiss Army knife of down jackets
There is also a sleeveless option among insulated jackets. It allows extra airflow during exercise. Whether you are mountaineering, Nordic walking, cross-country skiing, ski touring, snowshoeing or winter hiking, a sleeveless insulated jacket will soon become an essential item in your pack.
For example, Cimalp's Velan and Arves models, also filled with ethical Cimaloft insulation, have elasticated armholes and a hem adjustable with elastic drawcords for effective protection against the cold. The front zip, high collar and zip guard provide comfort around the chin.
And now, here are some video tips on caring for your insulated jacket to help it last.
