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Best Down Jackets for Women of 2023
This post was last updated on December 06, 2023.
Looking for the Men's version of this post? We've got you covered: Best Down Jackets for Men of 2023

When it comes to braving the great outdoors, a good down jacket is as essential as a great pair of hiking boots. Tucked in around your torso, the right one gives you that warm, cozy feeling, making you feel as though you're sipping hot cocoa by a roaring fire even when you're halfway up a freezing, wind-blasted mountain. Out of all the outdoor gear we've tested, the Arc'teryx Cerium LT Hoody for women stands out as the perfect blend of comfort, durability and warmth, making it our number one choice in the down jacket department.
This awesome jacket rises to the top, thanks to the ratio of warmth to weight it offers. It's like wearing a cloud that can stand up to serious outdoor trials. Tuck it down into your backpack and you will barely notice it is there due mainly to its impressive compressibility and packability. As for durability, this jacket performs terrifically, barely showing signs of wear and tear even after heavy usage. Plus, its superb down quality and fill power ensures a high loft and unbeatable insulation, while the fit is, in one word, perfection.
We understand that different women have different needs when it comes to outdoor exploration. With that in mind, we've also got a few run-up recommendations and have identified the best down jackets in terms of use for mountaineering, winter hiking and camping, ultralight and budget needs. Check out our picks and boost your outdoors game. If you're also looking for other outdoor attire, we got you covered. Check these related posts: Best Winter Jackets for Women, Best Ski Jackets for Women, and Best Hiking Pants for Women.
Our Top Recommendations
Our Top Pick

Arc'teryx Cerium LT Hoody
The Arc'teryx Cerium LT Hoody tops our list due to its rave reviews for its unbeatable lightweight warmth and durable water-repellant finish, keeping adventurers cozy and dry in a variety of weather conditions.
Runner Up #1

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2
The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 nails the runner-up spot as our top pick because many women rave about its exceptional lightweight, yet ultra-warm design and the ability to easily pack it down into a tiny bundle, making it a godsend for space-saving backpackers.
Runner Up #2

Patagonia Down Sweater
The Patagonia Down Sweater snags the top spot because women love its unrivaled warmth-to-weight ratio and water-resistant finish, making it an invaluable ally against cold, damp outdoor conditions.
What you should look for
(and what we test for)
Warmth
When choosing a women's down jacket for hiking, camping, or climbing, ensure that it provides ample warmth without making you too hot; look for features like high fill power down, thermal mapping, or heat-reflecting liners.
Fit and Comfort
The jacket should offer a comfortable fit to allow full mobility for climbing or pitching a tent, and it's worth checking if the jacket comes with adjustable cuffs, hem or hood for personalized fitting.
Weather Resistance
Consider opting for a jacket with a water resistant outer shell or down treated with a durable water repellent to keep you dry in unexpected weather conditions.
Weight and Packability
The weight and packability of the down jacket should be a major consideration - it needs to be light enough to carry long distances and compressible enough to fit in your backpack.
Arc'teryx Cerium LT Hoody
$400.00The Best Women's Down Jacket
Based on our research and testing, we think the Arc'teryx Cerium LT Hoody is the best Women's Down Jacket on the market right now, for anyone looking to play hard outside.

Reasons to Buy
- Incredibly warm and cozy
- High quality down and materials
- Good fit with a flattering cut
- Compact and highly packable
- Smooth and effortless zipper operation
Reasons to Avoid
- A bit pricey
- Can run slightly small
- Delicate fabric might not stand up to extreme wear and tear
The Important Specs
- Fit:: Trim fit with Hip length
- Hood:: Insulated, helmet-compatible StormHood
- Pockets:: Two hand pockets with zippers, internal chest pocket with zip
- Material:: Arato 10 nylon shell
- Down Fill:: 850 fill European grey goose down
Review Roundup
If you're looking for a superior down jacket that doesn't skimp on quality, performance, or style, the Arc'teryx Cerium LT Hoody for women should be high on your list. This jacket is brilliant blend of comfort, warmth, and weight, making it ideal for cold weather backpacking trips or chilly evening wanderings in the city.
Engineered with both 850-fill down and Coreloft synthetic insulation, it whips up a warm barrier against the cold. So, even though it’s super lightweight, it's not a pushover when it comes to keeping you toasty. The strategic placement of high quality down at the core and synthetic padding in areas prone to moisture like the hood, cuff and underarm is simply icing on the cake.
Weight is always an important factor, and the Cerium LT Hoody really delivers here. It's one of the lightest jackets in its class, tipping the scales at just under 10 ounces, but it still offers a considerable amount of warmth. That's a big plus on those cold days when you want to minimize your load yet stay snug and warm.
The fit of this Arc'teryx jacket is also worth mentioning. It's tailored to a woman's silhouette and grants generous freedom of movement. The adjustable, helmet-compatible hood gives it a bit of versatility too.
The biggest downside to this jacket is probably the price. It's a bit more expensive compared to other brands, but those who have experienced the quality of Arc'teryx often deem it to be worth every penny. Some users were a bit disappointed with the durability in high-wear areas, but this seems to be an infrequent gripe.
Looking at online reviews, the Cerium LT Hoody is very well received. Customers love its lightweight nature and warmth, even in wet conditions, thanks to its smart combo of down and synthetic insulation. They also rave about its cut and fit, describing it as both flattering and functional.
A handful of users have had issues with the zippers, but this seems more like an occasional glitch rather than a common problem. Some also wished for a bit more durability in areas prone to wear and tear. However, the overwhelming majority of reviews are positive, emphasizing the jacket's warmth, lightness, and stellar combination of down and synthetic fabrics.
Compressibility & Packability
The Cerium LT Hoody shines in its ability to compress to a minuscule size without losing its loft when you unpack it. It stuffs into its own stuff sack quickly and with minimal effort. This makes it an ideal companion for backpacking trips where space is at premium yet comfort cannot be compromised.
Down Quality & Fill Power
With a high-quality 850 fill European grey goose down, the Cerium LT Hoody offers superior insulation. This coupled with strategically placed synthetic Coreloft insulation ensures you remain warm even in damp conditions.
Durability
While this jacket is not designed to handle extreme wear and tear, it's constructed with a lightweight yet durable Arato 10 nylon shell that offers decent resistance against the usual rigors of outdoor adventures. However, those planning extreme expeditions should note that the delicate fabric can actually be a limitation.
Fit
Featuring a trim fit with hip length, the Cerium LT Hoody offers a more flattering cut than most traditional down jackets. The tailored fit not only provides a stylish aesthetic, but also aids in retaining body heat and allows easy layering.
Value
Sure, the Cerium LT Hoody comes with a bit of a steep price tag, but with its multitude of impressive features and superior functionality, you're getting a premium product designed to provide years of reliable service. For those who need a lightweight, compressible, and high-performing down jacket, it could be a worthy investment.
Warmth-to-Weight Ratio
A lot can be said about the warmth-to-weight ratio of the Arc'teryx Cerium LT Hoody. Its combination of 850-fill down and Coreloft synthetic insulation in moisture-prone areas like the armpits and collar creates a jacket that offers an enviable balance of warmth and weight. Despite being extremely lightweight, it never compromises on the toasty warmth one would expect from a superior quality down jacket.
Weather Resistance
While down jackets are not known for their weather resistance, Arc'teryx equipped the Cerium LT with a DWR finish that can handle light drizzles and snow flurries. Furthermore, the strategic Coreloft synthetic insulation placement helps to keep you warm if the down gets soaked.
Prices
Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2
$330.00Runner Up
Based on our research and testing, we think the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 is a great choice if you're looking for a women's down jacket to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.

Reasons to Buy
- Amazingly warm considering its thin profile
- Superbly compressible and packable
- Decent durability for such a lightweight product
- High down quality and fill power
- Flattering and comfortable fit
- Resistant to light moisture
Reasons to Avoid
- Performance decreases in heavy rain or snow
- Slightly more expensive than other models on the market
- While durable, can snag easily on sharp objects such as branches
The Important Specs
- Features: Has deep pockets, insulated hood and adjustable hem
- Material: 10D recycled ripstop nylon shell
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Insulation: 800-fill goose down
- Certification: Responsible Down Standard (RDS)
Review Roundup
For those campers, climbers, and backpackers out there who are seeking a jacket that serves all their needs, look no further than the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2. This down jacket is a gem in the market due to its many admirable features.
First and foremost, the jacket is feather-light, making it an ideal choice if you're planning a long hike or a camping adventure. It won't weigh you down and you'll barely feel it on, making your outdoor explorer's backpack easier to carry.
Besides, the warmth it provides is remarkable. The Ghost Whisperer/2 uses 800-fill RDS-certified, down-filled insulation to keep you cozy in conditions that would have most other jackets struggling. Despite being super lightweight, it doesn't compromise on keeping you snug.
For those wondering how compact the jacket is, well, it packets down smaller than a loaf of bread. It can be squeezed into a corner of your bag, meaning it will hardly take any space. Not forgetting, it comes with its own pocket-stow system, making it more convenient.
Water resistance is another area where the jacket scores high. The Ghost Whisperer/2 comes with a DWR finish which helps keep water at bay until you can find some shelter. Perfect for those unexpected drizzles during your hike or climb.
Peeping into online reviews, customers praise its durability. The ripstop nylon shell withstands rough conditions and doesn't tear easily. But, they also mention, it's not invincible. Sharp edges and prickly underbrush can snag the fabric. So, best to take care while navigating through tricky terrain.
A common theme in consumer reviews is comfort. With its snug fit and soft fabric, the Ghost Whisperer/2 has won the hearts of many women. It's designed to move with you, which makes climbing and backpacking a breeze.
However, not all is rosy. Some users highlight that the sizing tends to run on the smaller side. So, it might be beneficial to order a larger size than you usually would.
Lastly, with its premium features, comes a premium price tag. Several customers noted that while the jacket is high in cost compared to other down jackets, the quality and durability justify the investment.
Compressibility & Packability
Another strong point of the Whisperer/2 is its compressibility. It can be effortlessly stuffed into backpacks without taking up much space, a vital trait for any backpacking gear. Users also noticed it quickly regains its shape after being unpacked, a testimony to the high quality of the down used.
Down Quality & Fill Power
The 800-fill goose down insulation provides remarkable insulation relative to the jacket's weight. Online reviews indicated users were pleased by the heat retention and the jacket meets the Responsible Down Standard, ensuring ethical sourcing.
Durability
While very lightweight, the jacket is fairly durable, with users noticing the ripstop nylon shell can handle most wear and tear situations. Snags can happen, however, usually when the jacket comes into contact with sharp objects.
Fit
The Whisperer/2 creates a nice balance between performance and aesthetics. It has a notably sleek, flattering cut without compromising on comfort and mobility. Testimonials from plus size users also praise the comfort of this jacket.
Value
Despite being a bit costlier than some of its competitors, most purchasers expressed satisfaction about the value for money of the jacket. The price reflects its high-quality materials, thoughtful design, and the brand's reputation for making long-lasting products.
Warmth-to-Weight Ratio
Given its thinness, users are consistently impressed by the Ghost Whisperer/2's ability to trap heat. This is largely due to its high fill power down insulation, which pairs fantastically with the jacket's lightweight design, making it both practical for long treks and comfortable in cold weathers.
Weather Resistance
The jacket's DWR treatment keeps gentle rain at bay, and it dries out quickly when damp. However, in heavier rain or snow, a shell is recommended to keep the down dry and functioning at full capacity.
Prices
Patagonia Down Sweater
$279.00Runner Up
Based on our research and testing, we think the Patagonia Down Sweater is a great choice if you're looking for a women's down jacket to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.

Reasons to Buy
- Superior warmth and comfort
- Impressive compressibility
- High durability
- Excellent weather resistance
- Good fit
Reasons to Avoid
- A bit on the pricey side
- May be too warm for milder climates
- Not the lightest on the market
The Important Specs
- Lining: Recycled Polyester
- Materials: 100% recycled polyester, 800-fill-power Traceable Down
- Insulation: 800 Fill Power Down
- Shell Fabric: 20x30D 100% Recycled Polyester Ripstop
- Certifications: Certified as bluesign approved
Review Roundup
The Patagonia Down Sweater is one of those items that truly delivers on its promise. It's a compact and lightweight layer, making it a great choice for those who love to move fast and light without sacrificing warmth. Designed with a 100% recycled polyester shell, this down sweater offers not only warmth but also a thoughtful nod to the environment.
Talk to any owner of the Patagonia Down Sweater, and one of the first things they'll likely mention is its packing convenience. With its ability to stuff neatly into its own pocket, this piece is ideal for those sparse packing adventures where every inch of space matters.
When it comes to keeping the cold out, the Patagonia Down Sweater truly shines. Filled with 800-fill-power Advanced Global Traceable Down, it offers reliable warmth in chilly conditions. If you're someone who easily feels the chill, reviewers say this layer could be your new best friend during those early morning hikes or evening trips to the climbing crag.
Weather resistance is another strong suit. With its durable water repellent (DWR) finish, the jacket can handle light rain or snow with ease. While it's not fully waterproof, for many users in various climates, this layer provides just the right amount of protection against the elements.
Need to store some essentials on the go? Reviewers love the zippered handwarmer pockets, perfect for stashing those small essentials or just keeping your fingers toasty. Plus, there's an internal zippered chest pocket, ideal for keeping your phone or wallet safe and protected.
In terms of fit, many buyers reported that it sits nicely without being too tight or too baggy. The contoured fit and drop-tail hem make it look as good as it feels. Reviewers appreciated the adjustable hem, which keeps the heat in and the drafts out.
However, it's not all sunshine and daisies. While many reviewers found the Patagonia Down Sweater perfect for their needs, some mentioned that it could be a bit more durable. A handful of users reported that the jacket was prone to tearing after a few seasons, especially under tough adventures. But keep in mind, Patagonia has an excellent warranty service and focuses on repairing their products to extend their life.
Compressibility & Packability
When it comes to compressibility, this down sweater shines. It comes with a stuff sack, and when packed, it takes minimal space, freeing up room for other essential gear. Ideal for the backpacker where every inch of pack space matters.
Down Quality & Fill Power
With 800-fill-power Traceable Down, the sweater provides stellar insulation. This high-quality down ensures the jacket is comfortable and warm, even under harsh winter conditions. Moreover, it's responsible - the down is sourced from birds that haven't been live-plucked or force-fed.
Durability
Durability is another strong suit of the Patagonia Down Sweater. Its ripstop polyester shell can stand up to a fair amount of abuse, making it a reliable choice for rugged outdoor adventure.
Fit
The Patagonia Down Sweater is noted for its contoured fit that’s perfect for both active adventures and casual wear. It’s not too snug, ensuring enough room for layering without feeling bulky.
Value
While it might seem a bit costly upfront, users have commended its overall value for money. Given its superior warmth, durability, and packability, the Patagonia Down Sweater proves to be a sound investment for those who find themselves frequently braving cold weather.
Warmth-to-Weight Ratio
While not the absolute lightest on the market, the Patagonia Down Sweater offers an impressive warmth-to-weight ratio. Thanks to its 800-fill-power down, it provides substantial warmth for most winter conditions in a relatively lightweight package.
Weather Resistance
The polyester shell of this jacket is treated with DWR finish, enhancing its ability to repel light rain and snow. While it's not fully waterproof, it will keep you dry in light precipitation and dries quickly.
Prices
REI Co-op Down Sweater Jacket
Best Budget Women's Down Jacket
Based on our research and testing, we think the REI Co-op Down Sweater Jacket is a great pick if you're looking for a women's down jacket that is more budget friendly, without sacrificing too much in quality.

Reasons to Buy
- Fairly lightweight and ensues good warmth
- Affordable for a down jacket
- Recycled nylon shell promotes sustainability
- Excellent fit
Reasons to Avoid
- Might not be as durable as higher-end jackets
- Weather resistance is average
- May not be warm enough for extreme cold temperatures
The Important Specs
- Materials: Filling is 75% down cluster and rest is feather
- Fill Power: 650
- Shell Fabric: Recycled ripstop nylon
- Insulation Type: Down
Review Roundup
The REI Co-op Down Sweater Jacket is certainly a standout in the budget category. If you're seeking a down jacket that offers impressive warmth without burning a hole in your pocket, then this product might just hit the spot.
Customers really love its lightweight and compact design. It's easy to pack, even in a backpack crammed with your other camping gear. You won't even notice that it's there until the temperature drops, and it's time to pull it out for some much-needed warmth.
The jacket is filled with responsibly sourced duck down, offering a warmth-to-weight ratio that's hard to match, especially at this price point. Several users praised this feature, saying they've worn it comfortably in colder climates, making it an essential gear for fall or winter camping.
The water-repellent finish is another feature that get a nod from customers. Some report that even in light rain or snow, the jacket retains its insulation. But remember, it's not fully waterproof, so if it starts pouring you'll need an additional raincoat or shelter.
A few customers have also mentioned its breathability. For a down jacket, it does a good job at allowing air to circulate so you don't get too sweaty. It strikes a nice balance between warmth and ventilation, which is crucial as weather conditions during outdoor adventures can fluctuate rapidly.
The jacket's fashion-forward design and variety of colours also earned positive remarks. Customers commented that it's not just a piece of outdoor gear but also a stylish part of their everyday winter wardrobe.
However, no product is without its flaws and the REI Co-op Down Sweater Jacket is no exception. One common feedback was about the zipper quality - a few users have had issues with it being a bit finicky at times. Sometimes it catches on the fabric, a minor frustration when you're out and about. Some have also remarked that the sizing runs a bit small, so considering a size up might be a good idea.
Despite these minor issues, the overall impressions from users are overwhelmingly positive. To sum it up in the words of one customer, 'For the price, you can't beat the warmth and comfort of this jacket.'
Compressibility & Packability
The REI Co-op Down Sweater Jacket compacts down pretty well according to reviews. Several users have mentioned how easy it was to stuff the jacket into their backpacks during hikes and camping trips.
Down Quality & Fill Power
The jacket uses 650 fill power down, a solid entry-level fill power. Users have been generally satisfied with the warmth it provides, although for severe cold, you might want something heavier.
Durability
The mixed reviews about the durability of this down jacket is apparent. While some users were satisfied with how long it lasted, others were less impressed and felt that higher-end jackets outperformed in this regard.
Fit
Users have largely enjoyed the fit of the REI Co-op Down Jacket, noting that it’s roomy enough to add layers underneath but fashionable enough to wear on its own.
Value
The main draw of this jacket is its value, offering good quality and performance for its price range. The majority of customers found it a superb deal with good value for their buck.
Warmth-to-Weight Ratio
Feedback from users indicates that they're pretty happy with the warmth-to-weight ratio. They noted that while there are more insulating jackets out there, this one balances reasonable warmth with a fairly lightweight feel.
Weather Resistance
Most reviewers suggest that the jacket stands up to light rain and snow reasonably well, but it's not the jacket to pick if you need something for harsh weather conditions.
Prices
No prices found. Check back later!
Patagonia Ultralight Down Jacket
Best Ultralight Women's Down Jacket
Based on our research and testing, we think the Patagonia Ultralight Down Jacket is a solid choice for those looking for a lightweight women's down jacket option to go play hard outside with.

Reasons to Buy
- Incredible warmth for its weight
- Super-compressible, fits into small pack spaces
- Made to withstand the seasons, tough and durable
- Filled with high-quality, sustainable down
- Perfect fit for most female bodies
- Offers good resistance to light rain and snow
- Great value for the price
Reasons to Avoid
- Not suitable for heavy rain conditions
- May be snug on broader body shapes
- Higher price point than some competitors
The Important Specs
- Pockets: Two hand pockets, one internal chest pocket, and a stuff sack pocket
- Insulation: 800-Fill-Power 100% Traced, Sustainable Down
- Outer Material: 10D Pertex Quantum Shell
Review Roundup
If minimalism is your mantra and you're looking for a jacket that can brave the chill and shave off pounds from your backpack, Patagonia Ultralight Down Jacket could be your gal. It's a slick, sleek number that bundles up the warmth while keeping your packing light.
The Patagonia Ultralight Down Jacket is a bit of a wisp at first glance. But don't let the slim silhouette fool you. This bad boy packs quite a punch, retaining heat with its high-quality, 800-fill power Advanced Global Traceable Down insulation.
Many users rave about the jacket's elegant form that ensures mobility, making it an excellent choice whether you're rambling up a rugged crag or sipping a latte on a frosty morning.
The shell of the jacket is made of a ripstop nylon fabric. Testimonials suggest it can withstand a decent amount of abuse from the elements and the occasional scrape against rockfaces without unraveling at the seams. However, do keep in mind that it is designed to be ultralight, so it may not be the best frontline defense against aggressive thorny bushes.
Water-repellency seems pretty impressive too. Reviewers have indicated that the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish keeps a light drizzle at bay, but it’s not designed to be a raincoat. If you're planning to trek through a downpour, you might want to pack a waterproof shell for backup.
The jacket's compressibility is a noted winner among users, allowing it to be stowed away into one internal stuff-sack pocket. For overnight hikers and backpackers needing to optimize each square inch of their pack, this feature comes in handy.
An issue flagged by a handful of customers is the absence of a two-way zipper. Navigating around a harness or a backpack hip belt while keeping the jacket closed can get a little awkward, so bear that in mind if you're into technical climbs or treks.
Lastly, for sustainability buffs out there, the Patagonia Ultralight Down Jacket steals the show, as it is a part of Patagonia's commitment to environmentally friendly and ethically sourced products.
Compressibility & Packability
This jacket is a marvel in compressibility. It packs down so tiny that it won't hog unnecessary room in your pack. The jacket neatly stashes into its own pocket, transforming into a convenient grab-and-go pillow!
Down Quality & Fill Power
Containing 800-fill power goose down that's traceable and ethically sourced, the jacket effortlessly combines warmth, lightness and packability. The quality of the down is top notch and the feathers remain evenly distributed across all chambers.
Durability
Crafted from ripstop nylon, the Patagonia Ultralight Down Jacket can survive many a scrape and snag. Its durability, coupled with its responsibly sourced down, ensures the product not only lasts a long time but also contributes to sustainability.
Fit
The jacket is equipped with a slim fit, contouring to the body closely for maximum heat retention. However, it may feel snug for women with broader body shapes. The arm length is generous and the hem long enough to provide decent coverage.
Value
Though a slightly higher price point compared to some rivals, the overall quality, sustainability practices, and performance of this jacket make it fantastic value for money.
Warmth-to-Weight Ratio
The Patagonia Ultralight Down Jacket provides substantial warmth for its weight. The high-density down offer a phenomenal warmth-to-weight ratio, making this item a fantastic choice for lightweight backpacking or climbing in cold conditions.
Weather Resistance
Though not built for heavy downpours, the Patagonia Ultralight's water-resistant fabric sheds light rain and snow effortlessly. Its compact down also helps retain warmth even when damp.
Prices
No prices found. Check back later!
Rab Neutrino Pro
$400.00Best Women's Down Jacket for Mountaineering
Based on our research and testing, we think the Rab Neutrino Pro is a solid choice if you want a women's down jacket that's really well suited to Mountaineering.

Reasons to Buy
- Superb warmth
- Excellent weather resistance
- High-quality down fill
- Tough and durable
Reasons to Avoid
- Pricey
- May be overly warm for mild conditions
- Bulkier than some alternatives
The Important Specs
- Hood: Helmet-compatible down-filled hood
- Pockets: Hand pockets and internal security pocket
- Insulation: 800-fill-power hydrophobic goose down
- Shell Material: Pertex Quantum Pro
Review Roundup
Rab Neutrino Pro lives up to its reputation as a top-tier mountaineering down jacket. High praise abounds for its exceptional durability and warmth. This is due to its high-quality 800-fill power European goose down, coupled with a Pertex Quantum Pro outer shell that helps to trap heat and keep you toasty when the temperatures drop.
A key aspect contributing to Rab's fan-following is its excellent fit. Wearers generally agree that it has a trim and flattering cut, without compromising on mobility. Its stitch-through baffle designing assures the optimal distribution of down, preventing cold spots. Many women love how it accommodates layers without feeling bulky or constricting.
Another feature that seems to generate buzz is the hood. It's helmet-compatible, which makes it a favorite among climbers and mountaineers. Yet, it cinches down snugly when not worn with a helmet, hence you won't have to worry about it flapping around in the winds.
A notable area of criticism is the lack of pit zips, making the jacket less breathable during strenuous uphill climbs. In addition, while many find the hand warmer pockets to be a great touch, some wish they were positioned higher for easier access when wearing a backpack or a climbing harness.
While Rab Neutrino Pro isn't the lightest on the market, most users accept the extra weight considering the increased warmth it offers. The jacket's functionality is enhanced with its sizable inner pocket, workable with gloved hands, and its stuff sack for easy packing.
The Neutrino Pro, despite its high-end price tag, seems to win over many with its blend of warmth, durability, and stylish trim-fitting design. It's a hit among those tackling colder climates or high-altitude adventures who require dependable insulation. However, for those focusing on highly aerobic or wetter activities, they might struggle with breathability limitations and the lack of pit-zip ventilation.
Compressibility & Packability
Fortunately, despite its hearty warmth, the Rab Neutrino Pro manages to compress down nicely. It stows away into its pocket which can then be effortlessly stashed into your pack. However, due to the increased fill power that drives its heat retention, it isn't the most packable option available on the market.
Down Quality & Fill Power
At 800 fill power, the down used in the Rab Neutrino Pro is top-notch. Moreover, the down is treated to be water-resistant, making it perform even better in damp conditions than regular down. This jacket truly shines when it comes to insulation, offering exceptional warmth even in frosty conditions.
Durability
Built with a Pertex Quantum Pro outer layer, the Rab Neutrino Pro is designed to endure. It resists tears and wears, making it a reliable companion on mountainous adventures. This jacket can definitely handle quite a bit of rough and tumble.
Fit
Comfort-wise, Rab Neutrino Pro offers generous, but not sloppy, sizing. It's designed to accommodate layering underneath without restricting mobility. Buyers often comment that it manages to provide a flattering, feminine fit while still being practical and functional.
Value
While this jacket is on the pricier end of the spectrum, users generally agree that it's well worth the investment for those often braving harsh conditions. Its top-of-the-line insulation, robust build, and superb performance are seen as reflecting good value, despite the steeper price tag.
Warmth-to-Weight Ratio
The Rab Neutrino Pro is a real heavyweight in the warmth department. Its 800-fill-power goose down gives it exceptional insulative properties, meaning it traps your body heat effectively and keeps the cold out. Yet, its weight remains fairly manageable - light enough for long treks but hefty enough to keep you toasty in frosty conditions.
Weather Resistance
The Rab Neutrino Pro scores high in weather resistance, performing well in both wet and windy conditions. The Pertex Quantum Pro shell material, coupled with hydrophobic down insulation, helps it shrug off light showers and retain warmth when wet. However, in sustained heavy rain, like any down jacket, its performance may decrease.
Prices
Arc'teryx Thorium AR Hoody
$500.00Best Women's Down Jacket for Winter Hiking & Camping
Based on our research and testing, we think the Arc'teryx Thorium AR Hoody is a solid choice if you want a women's down jacket that's really well suited to Winter Hiking & Camping.

Reasons to Buy
- Provides ample heat retention
- High quality make and material
- Remarkable weather resistance
- Practical and sleek design
- Excellent durability
Reasons to Avoid
- A bit on the expensive side
- Some find the fit a bit snug
- Bulkier than some alternatives
- Zippers can be sticky
- Few color options
The Important Specs
- Hooded: Yes
- Material: Arato 30-100% nylon
- Insulation Type: 750-fill European grey goose down
- Water Resistant?: Yes
Review Roundup
The Arc'teryx Thorium AR Hoody is a high-quality down jacket that tackles the winter cold head-on. It's instantly apparent that this hoody is packed with features that make it stand out in the Winter Hiking & Camping niche. From the water-resistant fabric to the cozy, synthetic insulation in moisture-prone areas, it screamed 'practical design' from the get-go.
This jacket's fabric proves to be tough enough to withstand demanding outdoor adventures, providing the right amount of warmth without adding unnecessary bulk. It surely seems like Arc'teryx did their homework when they placed their moisture-insensitive synthetic insulation in areas where you're likely to sweat - perfect for those tricky hikes on chilly days.
Despite its rugged design, it is surprisingly lightweight. Buyers find themselves at ease tackling longer hikes without feeling weighed down. They also appreciate the jacket's ample pockets for stashing essentials, plus the internal pocket that doubles up as a stuff sack for easy storage and portability.
Moving on to fit and comfort, many customers have remarked how well it fits, offering sufficient flexibility for layering underneath. They pitched the Arc'teryx Thorium AR Hoody as a comfortable and flattering wear, noting how it doesn't compromise mobility or style.
In terms of potential drawbacks, some users felt the zippers could be a little sturdier and smoother to operate. A few also pointed out that the hood is not helmet-compatible, making it less than ideal for climbing journey. Meanwhile, others highlighted the high price point, but most agreed that the jacket's quality and durability justify the cost.
In customer reviews, the Arc'teryx Thorium AR Hoody is often praised for its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio and its impressive ability to repel wind and light rain. The even distribution of down and synthetic insulation also got a shout-out from many buyers. They particularly liked how this hoody stayed warm even when exposed to moisture.
Considered by many to be a reliable companion for winter escapades, the jacket's compactness when packed, the heap of warmth it provides, and the comfortable fit were some of the crucial details that made this product a stand-out. While it has a few imperfections as pointed out by some users, it ultimately appears to tick all the boxes for a versatile, durable, and highly functional winter jacket.
Compressibility & Packability
Although not the most compressible down jacket out there, it still comfortably folds up for easy storage in a backpack. Its slightly heftier nature may take up a bit more space, but it is a small trade-off for the amount of warmth it provides.
Down Quality & Fill Power
This jacket makes use of premium 750-fill European grey goose down, which is known for its exceptional warmth and insulation properties. The high fill power ensures excellent warmth even in frosty conditions.
Durability
One of the selling points of the Thorium AR Hoody is its sturdy build. The shell is made from durable Arato 30 nylon, a tough and abrasion-resistant material that ensures this jacket will be a long-lasting companion on your outdoor trips.
Fit
While the fit varies with everybody, some feedback from buyers suggests that the Thorium AR Hoody offers a cozy, slightly tailored fit. Some have reported it as a bit snug around the torso, but overall, it generally promises a comfortable wearing experience.
Value
The Arc'teryx Thorium AR Hoody may be a bit more expensive than other options, but when it comes to performance and durability, it's a true bang for your buck. Invest in this jacket, and you're investing in a reliable cold-weather friend.
Warmth-to-Weight Ratio
Despite being a bit bulkier than some alternatives on the market, the Arc'teryx Thorium AR Hoody delivers a high warmth-to-weight ratio. Its 750-fill power down insulation works as a great heat retainer, making it a standout for its class.
Weather Resistance
This is where the Thorium AR Hoody really shines. With its water-resistant shell and down composite mapping, it offers hearty resistance against the cold, wet, and windy weather, making it a favorite among winter hikers and campers.
Prices
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