As we move into Fall in the northern hemisphere, it’s time to unpack the thermals and get out your winter gear. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There’s recently been some buzz surrounding synthetic insulated jackets, such as the Patagonia Nano-Air Hoodie or the Arc’tyrex Atom, Arc’tyrex Proton LT and whether these are a suitable replacement for winter down or fleece jackets and parkas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
We explore the different types of winter jackets, to help you find the best winter jacket for extreme cold. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The biggest difference we can see between synthetic insulated jackets and down jackets is the engineering. As technology improves, lighter synthetic jackets are becoming more popular than down jackets especially when wearing for physical activity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For activities such as hiking, trekking, snow boarding or any aerobic activity, a synthetic insulated jacket is more likely to breathe. This means you’re less likely to overheat when wearing. Synthetic insulation can also be treated for water and odor resistance for improved performance in outdoor settings and activities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Synthetic insulation is rated in grams per meter squared (g\/m). For example, a synthetic jacket that is 80g\/m weighs 80 grams for every 1 meter by 1 meter piece of fabric.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Down is a byproduct of ducks, geese or other waterfowl usually in the food raising process. Whilst down has always been considered the best insulator for warmth, moisture is its big weakness. When down gets wet it clumps together. This causes it to lose its ability to trap body heat and can be slow to dry. Moisture can affect down from both the inside and outside of the jacket – inside from sweat, outside from rain or snow etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Down is rated by a fill power system. It is measured in cubic inches based on the volume it occupies, which is converted to the fill system number. Down jackets typically range from 450 – 900 in terms of fill power. In short, the higher the number the more efficient the insulation (the warmer you’ll be) and the better quality the down. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
With improvements in technology, down is now becoming a more versatile product for damp or humid conditions. By treating the individual feathers with a nanomolecular coating (also known as a hydrophobic coating) this creates a water resistant down. The coating allows the feather to resist moisture without adding any additional weight to the feather or affecting its ability to loft. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fleece, when combined with other fabrics, can provide effective protection against the cold and wind. The main disadvantage with fleece is it doesn’t compress down well, and won’t flatten and fluff back up like a down or synthetic jacket will. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fleece comes in various weights and is a popular choice for any outdoor activity where you don’t need to pack it down, or when you’re looking to purchase a winter jacket at a minimal cost. Fleece can also be washed easily. Check out this 5 star rated waterproof fleece jacket on Amazon:<\/p>\n\n\n\n