Even if heavy snowfall has yet to arrive in the lowlands, the heights of the Southern Alps in particular have been blanketed in white. It's time to get your down jacket out! And if you don't yet have one, here are a few tips for choosing the right down jacket for you.
Animal down or synthetic?
The first question to consider is the choice of filling for the down jacket: animal feathers or synthetic feathers? While feather filling requires the use of goose or duck down, the latter can be of recycled or even natural origin.
Animal down, the origin of the down jacket
The first animal feather fillings appeared in the 14th century, initially in bedding. It was not until the late 1930s that goose down was used in the first down jacket. According to an article in Le Monde, it was after several attempts that American Eddie Bauer developed a quilting technical for distributing the down evenly across the entire surface of the garment.
The down jacket first attracted the interest of the military, hunters and fishermen. It was then introduced at the 1968 Winter Olympics, which brought it to fame. It was subsequently adapted to appeal to city dwellers and fashion designers. Today, however, alternatives have emerged that are more in line with the principle of respect for nature and wildlife.
Ethical down: a textile revolution
Outdoor brand Cimalp has chosen a down jacket guaranteed free of animal down in the development of its Cimaloft® filling, made up of 33% plant-based fibres and 67% recycled polyester. By launching a down that is both organic and synthetic, the French brand demonstrates its commitment to animal welfare.
On top of being ethical, synthetic insulation is just as effective!
A down jacket suited to your activity
The 2nd criterion to consider before buying a down jacket for winter is how you intend to use it.
From activities to waiting in the cold
A romantic forest walk, a family getaway to Canada or Lapland, an ice climbing session with friends. If you're looking for a down jacket for static outdoor activities or activities that don't require intense effort, go for an ultra-warm down jacket!
Indeed, you can cool down very quickly depending on the surrounding weather conditions. Having the right technical and durable equipment is essential in such situations, as exemplified by the Himalayan down jacket. Its longer cut and exceptional loft provide protection against wind and snow. In addition to being windproof, it has hydrophobic properties thanks to its high-performance natural and recycled down. And it remains highly compactable.
Intense sport in cold weather
For dedicated athletes, summer and winter alike, even if the cold doesn't faze you, stay warm with an insulating, breathable down jacket! For long winter hikes, the lightweight women's down jacket Morzine or Meije for men is perfect. Ultra-compactable, it packs easily into its integrated pocket, letting you take it anywhere and in any weather.
It's the ideal garment for days in the mountains as well as everyday wear. All that's left to decide is: down jacket with or without a hood?
The Swiss Army knife of the down jacket
Among down jackets, there is also the sleeveless option! They allow for additional airflow during exertion. Whether for mountaineering, nordic walking, cross-country skiing or ski touring, snowshoeing or winter hiking, this sleeveless down jacket will quickly become an essential pack staple.
For example, the Velan and Arves models from Cimalp, also featuring Cimaloft ethical down, have elasticated armholes and an adjustable hem with elastic drawcords for effective protection against the cold. The front zip with stand-up collar and zip guard offers optimal comfort at chin level.
And now, for caring for your down jacket properly and ensuring its longevity, here are a few tips in video!
