INSULATED JACKETS + VESTS FOR SKIING

Down insulation uses natural duck or goose feathers that trap air to provide exceptional warmth at low weight. Synthetic insulation (like Primaloft or Coreloft) uses polyester fibres engineered to mimic down’s loft but retains heat better when wet, making it ideal for wetter ski conditions.

Fill power measures the loft, or fluffiness, of the down. It is expressed in cubic inches per ounce - ranging from 400 to 900. Higher fill power (700+) means warmer, lighter, and more compressible insulation suitable for cold alpine environments.

A higher down-to-feather ratio, such as 90/10, indicates greater warmth, lighter weight, and better compressibility. Feathers add structure but reduce insulation efficiency, so premium ski jackets typically use high-ratio down fills.

Hydrophobic down, like HyperDRY™ or Nikwax-treated down, is coated to repel moisture and maintain loft in damp conditions. It dries faster than untreated down but still requires a water-resistant or waterproof shell in persistent wet snow.

Box baffle construction separates the inner and outer layers with fabric walls, preventing cold spots and maximising insulation, ideal for extreme cold. Stitched-through construction is lighter and more compact, used in midlayer down jackets or vests.

Hybrid jackets combine down insulation in the core for warmth with synthetic fill in moisture-prone areas like the shoulders and sleeves. This design balances warmth, weather resistance, and breathability for active skiing.

Most insulated jackets use nylon or polyester shells with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings. Premium models often use Pertex Quantum Pro or Diamond Fuse fabrics for abrasion resistance, windproofing, and weather durability at minimal weight.

Down’s high warmth-to-weight ratio and compressibility make it ideal for sub-zero, dry alpine climates. However, because it loses performance when wet, it’s often paired with waterproof shells or worn under hardshell ski jackets.

Many brands use traceable certifications such as RDS (Responsible Down Standard) or DOWN CODEX®, which ensure the down is sourced from animals treated humanely and without live-plucking practices.

Use a gentle detergent specifically for down, tumble dry with dryer balls to restore loft, and store it uncompressed. Proper maintenance preserves fill power, loft, and warmth for many ski seasons.